What is the Dodge Dart lawsuit?
The Dodge Dart lawsuit is not a single court case but a collection of consumer lawsuits and regulatory actions brought against FCA US LLC related to the Dodge Dart, the compact sedan sold mainly during the 2013–2016 period.
In more detail, the Dodge Dart was produced from 2012 to 2016 as part of FCA’s lineup, and various owners say they experienced recurring defects or safety-related issues. Over the years, plaintiffs have pursued class-action, lemon-law, and warranty claims, while regulators have initiated recalls and investigations tied to the model. The overall topic encompasses multiple lawsuits and regulatory actions rather than one definitive lawsuit or verdict.
Background: The Dodge Dart and the litigation landscape
The Dodge Dart was introduced in 2012 as a compact sedan built on a shared platform with other FCA models. Following its production run, owners and lessees reported a range of problems—some alleged to affect safety or reliability—and pursued legal remedies. The resulting litigation spans different jurisdictions and claim types, reflecting typical patterns in consumer-action cases against automakers.
- Defect and reliability claims alleging recurrent issues in engines, transmissions, electrical systems, or other components that could affect drivability and safety.
- Safety- and recall-related claims, including allegations that FCA failed to address known problems promptly or adequately after being notified by regulators or customers.
- Lemon-law and warranty claims asserting repeated unsuccessful repairs and seeking replacement vehicles, refunds, or compensation.
Not every claim proceeds to trial; many are resolved through settlements, individual negotiations, or regulatory actions. The landscape of Dodge Dart litigation reflects the broader pattern of consumer suits against automakers when vehicles exhibit alleged systemic defects.
What kinds of claims have been raised
Legal actions involving the Dodge Dart typically fall into a few broad categories. Below is an overview of the common claim types and what they aim to remedy.
- Class-action lawsuits filed by groups of owners alleging similar defects across Dodge Dart model years, seeking damages, repairs, or restitution on behalf of all affected buyers.
- Lemon-law and warranty claims brought in state courts, arguing that repeated repair attempts failed to fix substantial defects covered under the vehicle’s warranty.
- Regulatory actions and recalls coordinated by agencies such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or other state and federal bodies, sometimes paired with civil settlements or commitments from FCA to implement fixes.
These claim types reflect how consumer-protection, warranty, and regulatory frameworks interact in automotive litigation, with outcomes ranging from settlements to court rulings and mandated recalls.
Notable cases and outcomes
Because the Dodge Dart docket comprises multiple cases across different jurisdictions, outcomes have varied. Some suits have been settled out of court, sometimes with undisclosed terms or compensation to affected owners. Others have been dismissed or are proceeding on narrower issues, depending on the facts alleged and the jurisdiction’s standards for proof of defect. In addition, recall campaigns tied to Dodge Dart models have been implemented by FCA US, sometimes prompted by regulator findings or industry-wide safety concerns.
Readers should note that a single verdict does not define all Dodge Dart litigation; the legal landscape includes a mix of settlements, dismissals, and ongoing actions, each shaped by specific allegations, evidence, and local law.
Summary
The Dodge Dart lawsuit refers to a spectrum of consumer lawsuits, lemon-law and warranty claims, and regulatory actions tied to the Dodge Dart compact car (primarily model years around 2013–2016). Rather than one case, it comprises multiple actions in various jurisdictions, with outcomes ranging from settlements to ongoing litigation and regulatory recalls. For anyone facing potential claims, consulting a lawyer who specializes in automotive or consumer-protection law is advisable to understand rights and remedies relevant to their situation.
What is the recall on the Dodge Dart?
Dodge is recalling nearly 300,000 Dart sedans from the 2013 through 2016 model years because of a defect that could cause them to roll away even when drivers think they've shifted into Park. The problem is caused by a faulty shifter cable that may detach from the transmission.
How much money do you usually get from a class action lawsuit?
There is no standard average settlement amount because it depends on numerous factors, including the specifics of the case, the number of claimants involved, and the settlement benefits awarded to each participant.
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.
Is it worth joining a class action lawsuit?
Joining a class action can provide several benefits. It allows you to share legal costs with other plaintiffs, making it more affordable than an individual lawsuit. Additionally, a class action can lead to more substantial settlements or judgments due to the collective strength of the plaintiffs.
