The Chrysler Pacifica Class Action Settlement and Why You Should Opt Out
Call Nita Lemon Law Today for Advice and Representation
Fiat Chrysler Automobiles US LLC (Chrysler), the company that makes the Chrysler Pacifica, has agreed to settle a class action lawsuit based on allegations that thousands of Chrysler Pacificas were built with a defect that could cause the vehicles to suddenly lose power and stall without any warning. If you bought or leased a 2017-2021 Chrysler Pacifica, you are likely covered by the class action.
If you bought or leased a 2017-2021 Chrysler Pacifica and you do not opt-out by November 9, you are bound by the settlement, and you cannot bring your own separate Lemon Law or auto fraud claims.
The settlement does not give you the full compensation you might be able to obtain by bringing your own claims. Call a seasoned Lemon Law and auto fraud attorney at Nita Lemon Law Firm to find out what rights you may have and, if you want to pursue your own claims, how to opt out of the settlement and protect your rights.
What Is the Chrysler Pacifica Class Action?
The Chrysler Pacifica lawsuit is a class action based on defects in certain Chrysler Pacifica vehicles. The lawsuit generally alleges that certain Chrysler Pacificas with model years 2017-2021 were built with severe engine and transmission defects.
Specifically, vehicles that are equipped with a 3.6-liter V6 engine and a 9-speed automatic transmission are at serious risk of suddenly losing power, shutting off, or stalling without warning. If you’re driving a car that suddenly loses power in the middle of the freeway, you’re at extreme risk of a catastrophic accident. At the least, drivers are entitled to a vehicle that actually works without the risk of sudden complete failure.
Lawyers brought a class action against Chrysler in light of the defective vehicles. A class action is a collective action in which the court appoints “representatives” of the “class” of potential plaintiffs. Those lead plaintiffs, by way of their attorneys, fight the case and, typically, negotiate a settlement. The settlement proceeds then get paid to all of the class members. In this instance, the “class” covers more or less everyone who bought or leased a 2017-2021 Chrysler Pacifica.
Am I Covered by the Settlement? What Will I Get?
The Chrysler Pacifica class action lawsuit has reached a settlement. If you bought or leased a covered 2017-2021 Chrysler Pacifica, you are automatically a member of the class. The settlement is “opt-out,” meaning you are included in the settlement unless you take steps to get yourself out.
Per the terms of the settlement, class members benefit from an expanded warranty that includes the Crankshaft Position Sensor, one of the defective parts. Class members may also be eligible for reimbursement for crankshaft repairs, as well as the right to participate in “binding arbitration” to determine whether Chrysler must repurchase or replace your vehicle.
Should I Opt Out of the Settlement?
In a word: Yes.
You can and should opt out of the settlement.
The Chrysler class action is structured such that if you do nothing, you’ll be automatically included in the settlement. Per the settlement, you might get your crankshaft repaired, and if you’re lucky, you might get a repurchase or replacement. You will not be able to argue for any additional amounts based on your history with the faulty Chryslers. You will not be able to fight for the costs of repairs, rental cars, missed work, or other consequences of the defective vehicle. You will have a much more limited capacity to negotiate for the value of your buyback and for your claims generally.
If you opt out, however, and you hire a trustworthy Lemon Law attorney like Nita Lemon Law Firm, your auto fraud lawyer can pursue your claim individually. You can fight your own case and have a real shot at getting back the money you actually lost as a result of the defective Chrysler vehicle.
You Only Have Until November 9, 2022, to Opt Out
If you are interested in pursuing your individual Lemon Law claim (and you should be), you need to act fast. Call an experienced Lemon Law attorney to find out how you can opt out of the paltry class action settlement and maximize your available recovery. A zealous Lemon Law and auto fraud attorney at Nita Lemon Law Firm will evaluate your case, help you understand your rights, and work with you to pursue your individual Lemon Law claims against Chrysler.
Call Today if You Bought or Leased a 2017-2021 Chrysler Pacifica to Protect Your Rights
For a free consultation regarding your Chrysler Pacifica and whether you might benefit from California’s Lemon Law, call Nita Lemon Law at 213-232-5055 or toll-free statewide at 877-921-5256 to discuss your case with a dedicated and professional California Lemon Law attorney.
