GMC Truck Transmissions Causing Headaches

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Numerous transmission problems have been reported by owners of GMC Trucks – specifically the model years 2015–2017 GMC Canyon and Chevrolet Colorado trucks, to be specific. We at the California Lemon Law Expert office have spoken with consumers who have had vehicles which exhibited problems with sudden (and unsafe) downshifts, sudden and unexpected acceleration, delays in shifting, and other problems.

The biggest concern is of course for the driver and occupant safety. Shifting problems can cause a severe safety concern, since the vehicle may be towing, or on the freeway while merging (or avoiding) nearby traffic.

Typically, an owner will return to the dealership, where the transmission is then usually ‘reprogrammed’ or (yeah, my favorite) ‘software updated’ to attempt to correct the problem. We see numerous failed attempts to correct these transmission problems.

This problem was widespread enough to where the issue eventually turned in to a filed proposed class action lawsuit, but apparently GM has succeeded in convincing the court not to proceed. General Motors filed a motion to dismiss the truck lawsuit and apparently have succeeded in convincing the judge a nationwide class action could not proceed. Even though General Motors breached implied warranties, it is up to that particular state law in determining further action and remedy for the plaintiff. Further, the judge did allow a claim for breach of express warranty, and because that claim survived, so did a claim concerning the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act.

Do you know the difference between Magnuson-Moss, Song-Beverly, and Guns n’ Roses? (Hint: One is Federal, one is California’s Lemon Law, and one is on tour right now). When your warranted vehicle is showing problems, do you care? Of course not, you need the problem fixed – at THEIR expense, not yours.  They are the ones who provide the warranty, after all. Call us for a free, no charge consultation at 916-672-8443.

Please remember: if you have a vehicle AND it is under the manufacturer’s warranty, you are entitled to fair treatment and getting the problem fixed in a timely manner. In many cases, the manufacturer will repurchase your vehicle, and may even have to pay civil penalties and or reimbursement of your expenses. It helps to understand your rights as a consumer, and the California Lemon Law expert is here to help you or someone you may know who is in this situation. If your vehicle is not functioning properly and is under warranty, you have rights under the law that you need to thoroughly understand. Call us today for a free, no charge consultation at 916-672-8443.

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FORD CLASS ACTION UPDATE: FORD FOCUS AND FIESTA POWERSHIFT TRANSMISSION SETTLEMENT

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We at The CaliforiaLemonLawExpert.com  are assisting consumers who purchased or leased a 2011 through 2016 Ford Fiesta and 2012 through 2016 Ford Focus equipped with Ford’s Dual Clutch or “PowerShift” Transmission.

The lawsuit, entitled Vargas, et al. v. Ford Motor Company (Case No. CV12-08388 AB (FFMx)), has been resolved by a proposed settlement that has achieved preliminary approval by the United States District Court for the Central District of California (“the Settlement”).

If you are a current or former owner/lessee of a 2011-2016 Ford Fiesta or a 2012-2016 Ford Focus with a PowerShift Transmission (the “Class Vehicles”), you may be entitled to obtain benefits provided by the Settlement and the Orders of the Court.

What are your rights?
You may be entitled to receive money or other benefits that the Settlement provides. If you did not opt out of the Class, you are bound by the settlement results and can no longer sue Ford directly for the same legal claims alleged in the lawsuit.

What benefits does the Settlement provide?

  • If your Class Vehicle’s transmission is malfunctioning, you may be entitled to a repair or a repurchase of your vehicle, through an expedited binding arbitration program.
  • If an authorized Ford dealer performed three or more transmission Software Flashes on your vehicle while you owned or leased it, you may be entitled to up to $600 in cash payments.
  • If an authorized Ford dealer replaced three or more qualifying hardware parts in your PowerShift Transmission while you owned or leased the vehicle, you may be entitled to up to $2,325 in cash payments or up to $4,650 in Vehicle Discount Certificates.
  • If you paid for a repair to you PowerShift Transmission that you think should have been covered by warranty, you may be entitled to reimbursement.
  • If your vehicle was manufactured after June 5, 2013, and two or more clutch replacements were performed on your vehicle under warranty and you had to pay for a clutch replacement after warranty, you may be entitled to reimbursement.

How can we help?
Patrea Bullock and the CaliforniaLemonLawExpert.com can and will submit your claim.  We will advocate for you and work with you and Ford to make sure that you receive all compensation to which you are entitled.

What is the cost to you?
There is zero cost for you to have the CaliforniaLemonLawExpert.com  advocating for your rights ; the manufacturer is responsible for the fees.  Therefore, there’s no reason to hesitate in obtaining our help to ensure you receive your entitlement.

For more information about the case and the Settlement, please contact us at (916) 672-8443 and we will be happy to discuss your situation.

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Do you own a Honda or Acura?

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Takata Airbags Recalls

The following list of Honda and Acura  cars have been recalled in the US to replace passenger-side Takata front airbags:

2010-2012 Acura RL

2010-2014 Acura TSX

2011-2014 Acura TSX Wagon

2010-2013 Acura ZDX

2010-2012 Honda Accord

2010-2015 Honda Crosstour

2010-2011 Honda Civic

2010-2011 Honda CR-V

2010-2011 Honda Element

2014 Honda FCX Clarity

2010-2013 Honda Fit

2014 Honda Fit EV

2010-2014 Honda Insight

2010-2015 Honda Pilot

2010-2014 Honda Ridgeline

 

In 2016 the government recalled Takata airbags because the inflators did not contain a desiccant (a drying agent)  to absorb moisture.  The fourth phase of scheduled Takata airbag recalls incudes the cars mentioned in the above list.  https://www.carcomplaints.com/news/topic/takata

Honda is issuing the recall now instead of waiting until December due to the progress they have made with existing recall repairs.  Honda states that the owners who had their driver-side airbag inflators replaced will need to bring their cars back to have the passenger front inflators replaced.  The recall notices will be mailed in November.  You can contact Honda at 888-234-2138 if you own one of these vehicles.

 

 

Please remember : if you have a vehicle AND it is under the manufacturer’s warranty, you are entitled to fair treatment and getting the problem fixed in a timely manner. In many cases, the manufacturer will repurchase your vehicle, and may even have to pay civil penalties and or reimbursement of your expenses. It helps to understand your rights as a consumer, and the California Lemon Law expert is here to help you or someone you may know who is in this situation. If your vehicle is not functioning properly and is under warranty, you have rights under the law that you need to thoroughly understand. Call us today for a free, no charge consultation at 916-672-8443.

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CAR BUYER’S BILL OF RIGHTS

The Car Buyer’s Bill of Rights gives you certain protections when you buy a new or used vehicle from a licensed California dealer:

  • Buyer Disclosures. No charges may be added to your contract without full disclosure and your consent. Dealers must give you an itemized price list for optional “add-on” items such as service contracts, insurance, anti-theft devices, or other products.
  • Credit Score Disclosures. If you are obtaining financing from the dealer, the dealer must provide you with your credit score and a written explanation of how it is used.
  • Limit on Markups. When a dealer obtains financing on your behalf, it sometimes adds a hidden markup to increase the interest rate on your loan. The law caps the amount of compensation a dealer can receive from the lender.
  • Certified Used Cars. Used cars advertised as “certified” must meet specific requirements. Dealers must perform a complete vehicle inspection and give you a copy of the inspection report.
  • Right to Cancel Used Car Purchase. When buying a used car or vehicle, you have the right to buy a two-day cancellation option (there are certain limited exceptions to this right). A cancellation option allows you to test drive the vehicle or have it checked out by a mechanic, with the right to a full refund within two days – for any reason. Dealers can charge you a nonrefundable fee for the contract cancellation option. If you are buying a motorcycle, off-highway vehicle, or higher priced used vehicle this cancellation option may not apply.

For more information about the Car Buyer’s Bill of Rights, visit the DMV website.

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MOTOR VEHICLE WARRANTIES, SERVICE CONTRACTS AND YOUR LEMON LAW RIGHTS!

Most new vehicles come with an express manufacturer’s warranty that gives you certain rights if the vehicle does not perform as promised. These warranties are included in the price of your new car. Car dealers may also sell service contracts—sometimes called extended warranties—for both new and used vehicles. Some service contracts offer good protection at a reasonable price, while others have exclusions that make them almost worthless. Because warranty law is complex, you should consult with a lawyer or other expert who can best advise you of your rights under the particular circumstances of your case. For more information about vehicle warranties and service contracts check out the California Department of Insurance’s “Guide to Automobile Service Contracts.”

CALIFORNIA LEMON LAW

The California Lemon Law (Civ. Code, § 1793.22) protects you when your vehicle is defective and cannot be repaired after a “reasonable” number of attempts. In such instances, the manufacturer must either replace or repurchase the vehicle—whichever you prefer.

  • The Lemon Law applies to most vehicles purchased or leased in California that are still under a manufacturer’s new car warranty. Members of the Armed Forces, who are stationed in or are residents of California, are protected by the Lemon Law even if their vehicles were purchased or registered outside of California.
  • The Lemon Law also applies to used vehicles when they are still under a manufacturer’s new car warranty. Any remaining time left on the warranty protects the car’s new owner.
  • Lemon vehicles that arebought

    back by dealers and then resold must be identified as a “lemon law buyback” and have a “lemon” sticker on their door. When lemon buybacks are not properly disclosed and sold “as is,” the buyer may still have rights under the Lemon Law. For additional information, see Lemon Law Buyback Vehicles.

There are certain guidelines for determining when a “reasonable” number of repair attempts have been made before you may be entitled to a refund or replacement vehicle. For additional information, see the Department of Consumer Affairs publication entitled Lemon-aid for Consumers.

Even when the Lemon Law does not apply in your case, other state and federal laws may protect you. These include laws that prohibit deceptive practices and require vehicles to meet minimum safety standards. For complete advice concerning your legal rights, you should consult your own attorney.

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Best and Worst Auto Makers Re: Recalls

Welcome back to our Blog. This week, we’d like to examine those particular automobile manufacturers which stand out in either highest or lowest number of safety recalls. In this study, we are not focusing on any one particular manufacturer; rather, the industry as a whole. What follows is a recap and executive summary of information presented by the research done by Woburn, MA based automotive research firm iSeeCars, and subsequently presented on www.boston.com.

According to iSeeCars, the industry average during this 31-year period was 1,115 vehicles recalled per 1,000 vehicles sold. (Some vehicles were recalled for multiple reasons). For the report, NHTSA’s recall data for each manufacturer from January 1985 to September 2016 was reviewed, then a ‘recall rate’ was derived by dividing the total number of vehicles affected by the number of new vehicles sold during the same period.

The iSeeCars report had mixed news for German automaker Volkswagen Group. The good news is that Volkswagen’s luxury car brand, Porsche, saw the lowest recall rate during a 31-year review of recall activity by the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA). The bad news is Volkswagen’s non-luxury brand had the highest recall rate during the same period. Porsche had 531 recalls per 1,000 new vehicles sold between 1985 and 2016, while Volkswagen had 1,805 recalls per 1,000 vehicles sold during that same period. The report does not include recalls related to Volkswagen’s emissions cheating scandal, which will likely worsen Volkswagen’s rating.

The report also had some bad news for Tesla, a relative newcomer among automakers. Tesla had the highest rate of ‘severe’ (those problems that could cause death, injury, collisions, fire, or accidents) recalls. However, the report also had several bright spots for Tesla. iSeeCars found that the electric automaker was the most proactive of all companies because it initiated recalls based on its own findings.

Here’s how the 18 major vehicle brands ranked according to their recall rate between between January 1985 and September 2016, from lowest to highest: Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, KIA, Tesla, Mazda, GM, Subaru, Toyota, Nissan, Jaguar Land Rover, Mitsubishi, Ford, Volvo, BMW, Hyundai, Honda, Volkswagen.

Please recall what we’ve stated in previous blogs: if you have a vehicle AND it is under the manufacturer’s warranty, you are entitled to fair treatment and getting the problem fixed in a timely manner. In many cases, the vehicle gets bought back by the manufacturer, and they may even have to pay civil penalties and or reimbursement of your expenses. It helps to understand your rights as a consumer, and the California Lemon Law expert is here to help you or someone you may know who is in this situation. If your vehicle is not functioning properly and is under warranty, you have rights under the law that you need to thoroughly understand.

Our business is growing and our mission is simple: to educate you, fellow consumers, about the “Lemon Law”, and how it protects those who have found themselves stuck with that new car, truck, RV, motorcycle, etc, that just isn’t performing up to expectations. Stay in the know, visit this site often and let us know if we can be of assistance. The initial consultation is free, and if you’re having a problem, it is well worth a few minutes of your time to understand your rights and how you can get the help you need.

Source : https://www.boston.com/cars/cars/2016/11/01/the-automakers-that-have-the-best-and-worst-recall-rates

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TESLA-PROS AND CONS!

Welcome back ! Lately, electrically powered cars seem to be in the news daily, and certainly seem to be gaining in popularity. One of the newest and most talked-about car companies is of course, Tesla. Let’s take a look at early reviews of the Tesla ‘Model 3’, which is Tesla’s first ‘mass-market’ electric vehicle. What follows are the initial reviews of those who have experienced the product.

The positives : The Model 3’s handling is reported to be somewhat “stiffer” than that of the pricier Model S, and that it feels “quicker” and was easier to maneuver. Owners have praised the car’s handling and acceleration. In addition to the overall feel, turning radius is also more nimble. Whereas the Model S requires about three lanes width to accomplish a “u-turn”, the 3 can do it comfortably with two. Some premium features of the X are definitely missed but that’s to be expected for $40k less.

Problem areas : Some owners have reported that the car’s biggest problem so far concerns similar issues we have seen with other Tesla models : Inconsistent door operation. The front driver-side door doesn’t close as easily as it should, and does not properly latch, as we have seen in prior models. Other owners report malfunctions with the Model 3’s Bluetooth features. Problems reported include the fact that the car is constantly connecting to smartphones via Bluetooth every few minutes, resulting in the car ‘waking up’ and unfolding the mirrors – all day long.

The positive responses the Model 3 have received so far are good news for Tesla — which has struggled to meet its production goals for the vehicle. For Tesla to meet their intended market-capitalization goals (regardless of model), the company will have to find success among consumers who can’t afford Tesla’s high-end vehicles. Solving the Model 3’s production issues and working to fulfill the car’s preorders in a somewhat timely manner would be a good first step.

Please remember : if you have a vehicle AND it is under the manufacturer’s warranty, you are entitled to fair treatment and getting the problem fixed in a timely manner. In many cases, the manufacturer will repurchase your vehicle, and may even have to pay civil penalties and or reimbursement of your expenses. It helps to understand your rights as a consumer, and the California Lemon Law Expert is here to help you or someone you may know who is in this situation. If your vehicle is not functioning properly and is under warranty, you have rights under the law that you need to thoroughly understand.

Our business is growing and our mission is simple : to educate you, fellow consumers, about the “Lemon Law”, and how it protects those who have found themselves stuck with that new car, truck, RV, motorcycle, etc, that just isn’t performing up to expectations. Stay in the know, visit this site often and let us know if we can be of assistance. The initial consultation is free, and if you’re having a problem, it is well worth a few minutes of your time to understand your rights and how you can get the help you need.

Source : https://www.businessinsider.com

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FORD ANNOUNCES NEW VERSION OF RANGER TRUCK

One of the bigger debuts at the 2018 Detroit auto show was the 2019 Ford Ranger. The newest Ranger is larger in size this time around and will compete against the likes of the Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon and Toyota Tacoma once it reaches dealerships next year. Ford officials are positioning the pickup as a lifestyle vehicle that appeals to younger, active buyers who may not want the herculean hauling capabilities of a full-size F-150.

The question is how this will serve North American buyers who drive their pickup to work five days a week and for play on weekends when the Ranger goes on sale early next year. The addition of features like an Ecoboost engine and Wi-Fi hotspot augurs well. But the fact that Ford describes the interior as ‘functional and durable’ raises questions about look, feel and comfort.

“It’s finally here, the new Ford Ranger. After years of looking at the foreign market one enviously, it’s coming here. And it sounds promising. It has the 2.3-liter four-cylinder we know from the Mustang and Focus RS, so it should be pretty potent. While I wish a manual was announced, the 10-speed should be very good, since we’ve enjoyed it in basically every car to feature it. It also has a nice, clean, simple look that contrasts with the more aggressive, heavily styled trucks from competitors.”

— Joel Stocksdale, Autoblog

“While I’m a little disappointed that Ford didn’t go further in updating the Ranger before bringing it to America (it’s largely the same model we’ve seen on sale globally since 2011), what Ford did bring is tasty, stylish and a welcome addition to the market.”

— Aaron Bragman, Cars.com

“In total, this is a far more sophisticated machine than the previous Ranger, and it adopts many of the innovative conveniences Ford has placed in the F-150 and the Expedition SUV.”

— Jeff S. Bartlett, Consumer Reports

“Slightly more aggressive designs for the front end and tailgate distinguish the North American Ranger from its cousins. It looks very much like one would expect a Ranger to, with appropriately sporty styling, a utilitarian interior, and trim dimensions. If we had a complaint, it’d be a slightly plain-looking rear quarter view and the use of hard plastic on the door panels (though we’ll withhold final judgment till we sit in a series-production example).”

— Brett T. Evans, Four Wheeler Network

When you buy a new car, be sure to protect your rights by taking it to the dealer to document every problem. If you ever have to make a Lemon Law claim, you will need that documentation as evidence.

Please remember : if you have a vehicle AND it is under the manufacturer’s warranty, you are entitled to fair treatment and getting the problem fixed in a timely manner. In many cases, the manufacturer will repurchase your vehicle, and may even have to pay civil penalties and or reimbursement of your expenses. It helps to understand your rights as a consumer, and the California Lemon Law expert is here to help you or someone you may know who is in this situation. If your vehicle is not functioning properly and is under warranty, you have rights under the law that you need to thoroughly understand.

Our business is growing and our mission is simple : to educate you, fellow consumers, about the “Lemon Law”, and how it protects those who have found themselves stuck with that new car, truck, RV, motorcycle, etc, that just isn’t performing up to expectations. Stay in the know, visit this site often and let us know if we can be of assistance. The initial consultation is free, and if you’re having a problem, it is well worth a few minutes of your time to understand your rights and how you can get the help you need.

Source : https://www.autonews.com

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FORD TO INCREASE OUTPUT RATE OF LUXURY SUV LINE

Customer demand is reportedly surging for high-end Ford SUV’s, another sign that America’s appetite for big, luxury SUV’s isn’t stopping anytime soon. Dealers are struggling to get their stock to keep up with demand for their biggest, most expensive SUVs. Ford is reportedly investing $25+ Million to speed up output at its Louisville, KY plant, with a goal of increasing output by 25% over current levels.

Sales have increased by 59% and 132% for Expedition and Navigator respectively. Ford enjoys a relatively high profit margin on these trucks, and “turns” (time from on-lot delivery to final sale) has decreased dramatically. Dealers cannot keep them in stock.

According to Ford sales analyst Erich Merkle, both of the vehicles are doing well. It is imperative that the company do everything it can to increase output. The Ford CEO has implemented a no-order policy for Ford employees from ordering Navigators or Expeditions for personal use.

Currently, the Ford Expedition sits an average of just 11 days on the lot. Average sale prices reflect a $7k rise in part due to those vehicles with the “Platinum” trim level, with a starting price of $76,600. Also, Navigator sales are up over 100% in nearly every region, including California, where sales are up a whopping 135%.

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Please remember : if you have a vehicle AND it is under the manufacturer’s warranty, you are entitled to fair treatment and getting the problem fixed in a timely manner. In many cases, the manufacturer will repurchase your vehicle, and may even have to pay civil penalties and or reimbursement of your expenses. It helps to understand your rights as a consumer, and the California Lemon Law expert is here to help you or someone you may know who is in this situation. If your vehicle is not functioning properly and is under warranty, you have rights under the law that you need to thoroughly understand.

Our business is growing and our mission is simple : to educate you, fellow consumers, about the “Lemon Law”, and how it protects those who have found themselves stuck with that new car, truck, RV, motorcycle, etc, that just isn’t performing up to expectations. Stay in the know, visit this site often and let us know if we can be of assistance. The initial consultation is free, and if you’re having a problem, it is well worth a few minutes of your time to understand your rights and how you can get the help you need.

Source : https://www.autonews.com

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