What is the class action lawsuit against Dodge?
There isn't a single overarching Dodge class action. Instead, multiple consumer class actions have been filed against Dodge-branded vehicles (FCA US LLC, now part of Stellantis) over the years, addressing a range of alleged defects, misrepresentations, or recalls. The outcomes and scope vary by case, model year, and defect.
As of 2024–2025, plaintiffs have pursued claims related to transmission problems, safety recalls, and disclosure issues, among others. The actions are filed in different courts and may be settled, dismissed, or continued on a case-by-case basis, so the status can change over time.
Overview of Dodge-related class actions
Below is a snapshot of the main categories of claims that have appeared in Dodge-related class actions in the United States. The categories reflect patterns across multiple lawsuits rather than a single, ongoing action.
What a class action covers in auto-defect cases
A class action allows many individual owners or lessees with similar claims to pursue relief together. In Dodge cases, plaintiffs typically allege defective design, manufacturing defects, improper disclosures, or recalls that were not adequately addressed. The relief sought can include monetary damages, refunds, or required repairs.
- Transmission and driveline defects alleged to cause shuddering, slipping, or failure to shift properly in certain Dodge models.
- Safety and airbag-related claims tied to recalls and alleged failures to fix or disclose safety defects.
- Engine or fuel-system concerns and emissions-related claims raised by owners of select vehicles.
- Warranty and consumer-protection claims alleging misrepresentation or improper disclosure about defect risks or reliability.
Note that the existence of a class action depends on the facts of each case, including model year and the precise defect, and not every Dodge owner with a problem becomes part of a class.
Current status and outcomes
Outcomes in Dodge-related class actions vary widely. Some matters have resulted in settlements or court-approved notices that cover certain model years or issues, while others remain pending or have been dismissed. Because settlements and docket activity proceed case by case and jurisdiction by jurisdiction, owners should monitor official notices and consult an attorney for the latest status.
How to determine if you might be eligible to join or pursue a claim
Owners seeking to understand eligibility should start with the basics: confirm whether their vehicle is affected by a known recall, review any class-action notices, and obtain legal guidance on potential remedies. The steps below outline a general approach.
- Check recall and service information for your vehicle's VIN through official channels (NHTSA, Stellantis recall pages, or your dealer).
- Search for any current or recently settled Dodge-related class actions to see if your model year and issue are included in a settlement or notice.
- Consult with a consumer-protection or class-action attorney to determine eligibility and potential remedies (refunds, repairs, or settlements).
- Gather documentation such as service records, invoices, and communications about the defect and any related repairs.
- Follow deadlines and notice requirements, as class actions typically have notice and filing deadlines that can affect eligibility.
Acquiring legal advice is essential because settlement terms, eligibility requirements, and deadlines vary across cases and jurisdictions.
Summary
There is no single Dodge class action, but multiple consumer lawsuits have addressed various defects and misrepresentations across Dodge-branded vehicles. If you own a Dodge, verify recall status, monitor court dockets or settlement notices, and speak to an attorney to understand if you might be part of a class or have a separate claim. Staying informed helps ensure you protect your rights and potential remedies.
How do I know if I qualify for a class action lawsuit?
If you experience harm from a defective product or discriminatory action, and you discover you are not alone, you may qualify for a class action lawsuit. This type of lawsuit is so named because one group, or class, joins efforts to hold the same defendant accountable for their negligence.
Which Dodge trucks are being recalled?
2022 Dodge Durango, Ram 2500 and 3500 Recall
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2022 Dodge Durango and Ram 2500 and 3500 vehicles. Due to a software malfunction, the ABS control module may disable the electronic stability control system.
Is there a class action lawsuit against Dodge Ram?
Yes, there are several class action lawsuits against Ram trucks and their parent company, FCA, for various issues, including alleged emissions-cheating "defeat devices," defective power steering, and a safety defect with the eTorque system. Other lawsuits have involved anti-lock braking systems and engine damage.
Current or recent class action lawsuits
- Emissions "defeat devices": Lawsuits allege that certain Dodge Ram diesel trucks were equipped with "defeat devices" that concealed excessive emissions, violating consumer protection laws.
- eTorque safety defect: A class action was filed in April 2024 regarding a defect in the eTorque system that could cause trucks to stall, shift to park, or engage the emergency brake unexpectedly, reports Beasley Allen Law Firm.
- Power Steering defect: A lawsuit claims that 2013-2024 Ram 1500 models have a defective electric power steering system that can lead to a loss of steering assistance.
- ABS and HCU defect: A proposed settlement was reached in a class action concerning alleged defects in the anti-lock braking system (ABS) module and brake hydraulic control unit (HCU) of certain 2017-2018 Ram 2500 and 3500 trucks, notes fcarambrakesettlement.com.
- Hurricane Engine: Sauder Schelkopf is investigating a potential class action concerning 2025 Ram 1500 trucks with Hurricane engines.
What to do
- Check for eligibility: If you own a Ram truck, check if your vehicle model and year are included in any of the active lawsuits or settlements.
- Consult a lawyer: Contact the law firm handling the specific class action to learn more about your rights and how to file a claim.
- Search for settlements: Visit sites like ClassAction.org for updates on active class action lawsuits and settlements, and to find contact information for the law firms involved.
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.
