Renault has launched a global recall involving more than 160,000 Kangoo vans due to a safety issue with the rear swing doors. Nissan is also affected: roughly 28,000 Townstar models (largely identical in design) must be brought in for inspection. The problem? Exposed door latches that pose a potential injury risk. Below we lay out exactly which models are involved, how serious the danger is, and what owners must do.
What’s the problem: exposed latches in rear swing doors
In certain Kangoo versions equipped with dual rear swing doors, protective covers are missing, leaving the door latches uncovered. When the doors are opened or handled carelessly, the protruding parts can cause cuts or other injuries.
The German Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA) describes this as an “increased risk of injury from protruding stop parts.”
This issue applies only to swing-door configurations, not to models fitted with a single rear hatch or tailgate.
Scope of recall: numbers and production period
Renault Kangoo: 162,680 vehicles manufactured between May 2020 and May 2025 globally. In Germany, 11,896 units are affected.
Nissan Townstar: 28,115 vehicles globally, of which 4,413 are in Germany.
The recall is registered in Germany under KBA code 15233R (Renault: 0EUB) and for Nissan under 15526R (manufacturer code PN5CD).
These figures show the scale and seriousness of the safety campaign.
How the recall is handled
The remedy is simple and swift: workshops will install a protective cover over the exposed door latches. The fix takes just a few minutes and is performed free of charge to the owner.
So far, there are no confirmed reports of actual injuries or material damage linked to the defect — this is a precautionary recall.
The KBA is overseeing the recall process in Germany, ensuring compliance and follow-ups.
What about the Mercedes Citan?
Because the Mercedes Citan is built on the same platform as the Kangoo and Townstar, questions have arisen whether it is also affected. As of now, no recall has been officially announced for the Citan, and the KBA has no records of such a campaign. Owners should still stay alert in case new developments emerge.
What owners should do
- Check whether your vehicle is part of the recall (VIN lookup)
- Schedule an appointment with an authorized Renault or Nissan service center
- Have the protective cover installed promptly — the procedure is brief
- Avoid using the rear doors roughly until the fix is applied
- Even though no injuries have been confirmed, it’s in every owner’s best interest to act quickly, given the risk.
Conclusion
This recall underscores how even small missing parts—like a protective cap—can create significant safety concerns. With over 160,000 Kangoo and 28,000 Townstar vehicles impacted, Renault and Nissan are taking proactive steps to prevent avoidable injuries. Owners should follow the recall instructions immediately to ensure safe use of their rear doors.
