What is the lawsuit against Dodge?
Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA), the parent company of Dodge, is facing a lawsuit over allegations that it installed illegal software to bypass emissions controls on some of its diesel-powered vehicles. The lawsuit, filed by the U.S. Department of Justice, claims that Dodge knowingly violated the Clean Air Act by equipping certain Dodge Ram and Jeep Grand Cherokee models with "defeat devices" that allowed the vehicles to pass emissions tests while emitting higher levels of pollutants on the road.
The Allegations Against Dodge
According to the lawsuit, Dodge installed software in the electronic control modules of certain diesel-powered vehicles that could detect when the vehicles were undergoing emissions testing. When the testing was detected, the software would activate full emissions control systems, allowing the vehicles to pass the tests. However, when the vehicles were driven under normal conditions, the software would deactivate the emissions controls, resulting in higher levels of nitrogen oxides (NOx) being released into the atmosphere.
The lawsuit alleges that Dodge knew about the defeat devices and intentionally concealed their existence from regulators and consumers. The Department of Justice claims that Dodge's actions violated the Clean Air Act, which prohibits the manufacture, sale, or installation of any device that bypasses, defeats, or renders inoperative any emissions control system.
Potential Consequences for Dodge
- Significant financial penalties: The Clean Air Act allows for civil penalties of up to $37,500 per vehicle, which could result in billions of dollars in fines for Dodge.
- Recalls and vehicle modifications: Dodge may be required to recall the affected vehicles and modify them to bring them into compliance with emissions regulations.
- Damage to brand reputation: The allegations of emissions cheating could severely damage Dodge's reputation and erode consumer trust in the brand.
The lawsuit against Dodge is part of a broader crackdown on emissions cheating in the automotive industry. In recent years, several other automakers, including Volkswagen and Fiat Chrysler, have faced similar allegations and have been forced to pay hefty fines and recall millions of vehicles.
What is the current Dodge Ram recall?
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Ram 1500 vehicles. The turn signal self-canceling feature may not function properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective devices, and Associated Equipment."
What is the 2024 Ram lawsuit?
Ludwig et al. v. FCA US LLC
A proposed class action lawsuit alleges 2013-2024 model year Ram 1500 pickup trucks are equipped with defective electric power steering (EPS) units that can prematurely fail without warning, potentially leaving drivers unable to control their vehicles during operation.
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 and the number of claimants involved. Numerous factors affect settlement amounts, from the type of employment law violations in question to the harm suffered.
Is there a class action lawsuit against Dodge?
Drivers in the engine defect class action lawsuit claim that the Cummins diesel engines in certain Dodge Ram trucks are defective. The selective catalytic reduction system in these engines allegedly fails to perform as advertised resulting in emissions-related defects.
Am I eligible for class action lawsuit?
Similar Harm or Injury: The foundational requirement for a class action suit is experiencing harm similar to others in the group. This could involve a defective product, such as a faulty car part causing accidents, or receiving misleading information about a financial product leading to losses.
What is the recall on Dodge trucks in 2024?
Vehicles recalled: Ram 1500 pickup trucks manufactured between Oct. 31, 2017, and Feb. 14, 2024. The problem: A software error in the ABS control module may disable the vehicles' ESC.
What is the Dodge 3.6 lawsuit?
The 108-page lawsuit in Delaware says the internal defect in the 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine affects its rocker arms, lifters and related valve train components, including the engine control module (ECM) software that controls the precise timing and function of the lifters.
Who gets paid the most in a class action lawsuit?
Lead plaintiffs
Contrary to popular belief, class action settlements are not divided among class members evenly. Lead plaintiffs receive the most money in class action lawsuits. They typically have the worst injuries and the highest damages.
What are the risks of joining a class action lawsuit?
Considering joining a class action lawsuit? While it can empower you in seeking justice, be aware of potential drawbacks like legal uncertainties, loss of personal control, lower individual compensation, and the often lengthy legal proceedings.
Are Ram trucks going to be discontinued?
To the dismay of some, the tried and true RAM 1500 Classic will be discontinued after the 2024 model year. Read on to learn why the Classic got the axe, and what RAM has in store in the future!
