What is happening with the Ford class action?

There isn’t a single Ford-wide class action; multiple lawsuits are active across different issues and jurisdictions, with some settlements already reached and others ongoing.

This article explains the current state of Ford-related class actions, the main issues driving litigation, notable recent outcomes, and practical steps for owners who think they might be affected. Information comes from court filings, settlement notices, and Ford’s public statements to provide a clear snapshot of where things stand.

Key areas driving Ford class actions

The following categories have generated the most attention in Ford-related class actions within the United States.

• Transmission defects, notably involving Ford’s PowerShift 6-speed automated manual transmissions used in several older models. Plaintiffs have alleged shift problems, hesitations, rough engagement, and associated safety concerns.


• Infotainment and software systems, particularly the MyFordTouch/Sync platforms, with accusations that the systems were unreliable or faulty, leading to safety or usability concerns and dealership repairs that owners say were insufficient.


• Consumer-protection and recall-related issues, including claims that Ford delayed notices or misrepresented safety or defect information, potentially affecting owners’ decisions to repair or replace components.

The above categories illuminate the broad pattern of claims: vehicle reliability and safety concerns that span technology, driveline hardware, and how information about defects is communicated to customers. Outcomes vary by case, model year, and jurisdiction.

Recent developments and current status

Litigation in this area tends to move through courts at different paces depending on the issue and the jurisdiction. Some cases have advanced to class certification or reached settlements or court-approved resolutions, while others remain in discovery or motion phases. Because settlements and decisions can change, affected owners should monitor official court dockets, plaintiffs’ law firm updates, and Ford’s statements for the latest information.

MyFordTouch/infotainment class actions

These cases center on the reliability of Ford’s early-era infotainment systems and the remedies offered to owners. Plaintiffs have asserted that the systems failed prematurely, leading to repeated repairs or replacements and substantial inconvenience. Courts have issued various rulings on certification and settlement terms in different jurisdictions, and some cases have moved toward settlements intended to provide restitution or service options for affected owners.

• Issues commonly cited include touchscreen responsiveness, software updates, and integration with vehicle controls that may affect safety-critical functions.


• Settlement outcomes have, in several instances, included reimbursements, extended warranties, or credit toward future service.


• Affected model years often span the early 2010s to mid-2010s, depending on the specific legal action and jurisdiction.

As with other consumer actions, the status of these actions depends on court rulings, the terms of any settlements, and whether class members opt in or out of any agreed arrangements.

PowerShift transmission class actions

Claims about Ford’s PowerShift transmissions focus on transmission performance, reliability, and related safety concerns. Plaintiffs have argued that the design or manufacturing of these transmissions led to costly repairs, degraded drivability, or safety risks. Courts and settlements have addressed repair remedies, concessions, or restitution in some cases, while others remain active in litigation.

• Allegations often involve hesitation, shuddering, or slipping during gear changes and the impact on overall vehicle performance.


• Some proceedings have explored whether owners are entitled to recalls, extended warranties, or refunds for repair costs.


• Model years affected in various suits include vehicles equipped with the PowerShift transmission, with outcomes varying by jurisdiction.

Owners should note that resolution in one jurisdiction does not automatically resolve identical issues in another, and settlements, if any, may depend on the specific model, year, and condition of the vehicle.

What owners can do

The following steps help owners understand their rights and whether they might be eligible to participate in any Ford-related class action settlement or litigation.

1. Check whether your vehicle model and year are referenced in active or recent class-action notices, settlement agreements, or court filings.


2. Review official settlement or court notices promptly for deadlines, claim forms, and required documentation.


3. Contact Ford customer service or your local dealer to document issues and obtain service records related to the alleged defect.


4. Consider consulting an attorney who specializes in consumer class actions to assess eligibility and potential options, including opt-in/opt-out decisions.


5. Monitor reputable legal-news outlets and court dockets (for example, federal and state court databases) for updates on specific Ford-related actions that may affect you.

Staying informed helps owners determine whether they have a potential claim and how to participate if a settlement or certification opportunity arises.

Ford’s response and industry context

Ford has generally issued statements asserting that the vast majority of its products meet safety and quality standards and that it defends itself vigorously against claims it believes are unfounded. In many cases, the company emphasizes ongoing product improvements, recalls managed in coordination with regulators, and a commitment to customer service. The broader automotive industry frequently experiences class actions tied to long-standing production platforms, regulatory requirements, and evolving consumer expectations around transparency and remedy programs.

Summary and outlook

Ford-related class actions illustrate how consumer litigation can intersect with recalls, product design, and technology upgrades. While some proceedings have yielded settlements or remedies for affected owners, others continue to progress through courts. The landscape remains dynamic, with new filings possible as models change and as regulators and lawmakers reassess recall and safety practices. For anyone affected, timely review of counsel notices, court filings, and Ford communications is essential to understand current rights and potential remedies.

In a rapidly evolving area like this, the latest, jurisdiction-specific information is crucial. Owners and observers should rely on court dockets, official settlement documents, and credible legal-news reporting to track developments as they unfold.

What is the average payout per person for a class action lawsuit?

There is no reliable average payout per person for a class action lawsuit because it varies dramatically based on factors like the type of harm, the total settlement amount, the number of people involved, and attorney fees. While some cases result in very small payouts (cents to dollars), others can be hundreds or thousands of dollars, and some severe cases have resulted in individual payouts of $5,100 to $10,000 or more. 
Factors that influence the payout amount

• Size of the class: With more claimants, the total settlement money is divided among more people, resulting in a smaller individual share. 
• Total settlement amount: Cases involving more severe harm or larger-scale corporate misconduct can result in a higher total settlement fund. 
• Type of harm: The severity of the harm plays a significant role. Health-related harms, physical injuries, or large-scale corporate misconduct often lead to higher payouts compared to cases involving less direct financial loss. 
• Attorney fees: A portion of the total settlement is paid to the attorneys, which reduces the amount available for individual class members. 

Examples of varying payouts

• Low payouts: In large-scale consumer cases, individual payouts can be very small, sometimes just cents or a few dollars, especially when a very large number of people are involved. 
• Higher payouts:
  • Volkswagen emissions settlement: Eligible car owners received between $5,100 and $10,000 each. 
  • Juul settlement: Qualifying claimants received up to $9,000 per person. 
  • Severe injury cases: For severe injuries like permanent disability, payouts can reach millions of dollars. 

What is the payout for the Ford class action?

The payout is forecast to exceed $200 million to current and former owners of Ford Fiesta, Focus and EcoSport models fitted with the PowerShift transmission and sold between 1 January 2011 and 20 December 2024.

How do I join the Ford class action lawsuit?

To join a Ford class action lawsuit, first verify your eligibility by checking the specific criteria for that case, such as your vehicle's model year and the defect it has. Then, contact the law firm representing the class or the settlement administrator directly to receive instructions on how to file a claim, which will likely involve providing documentation like repair records and proof of purchase. 
Steps to join a Ford class action lawsuit

• Determine if you're eligible: Review the specific class action's criteria to ensure your vehicle and situation qualify. This often involves the specific vehicle model, model year, and a documented problem. 
• Find the right firm: Identify the law firm that represents the class for the specific lawsuit you are interested in. Many law firms specializing in class action or automotive litigation advertise these cases online or are listed on settlement websites. 
• Contact the firm or settlement administrator: Reach out to the law firm or the settlement administrator as directed in the lawsuit notice. They will be able to provide specific instructions on how to formally join. 
• Gather and submit documents: Collect and be prepared to submit evidence to prove your eligibility and claim. This can include repair orders, receipts, and other relevant paperwork. 
• File the claim: Follow the instructions to file a claim. For some cases, this can be done online or through a downloadable form on the official settlement website. Be sure to do this before the deadline, as class actions have specific opt-in periods. 

This video explains how to join a Ford class action lawsuit: 1mCounty Office LawYouTube · Jul 22, 2024

What is the current class action for Ford?

There are currently two class action lawsuits against Ford Motor Co. related to EcoBoost Engines. These lawsuits both concern defective EcoBoost engines that contain critical defects which cause coolant, which is vital to engine safety, functionality, and longevity, to leak into the engine's cylinders.