Wirtz Law Blog

Matthew J. and Marisa J. bought a used 2011 Dodge Durango to be their primary family vehicle, to be used to drive to and from work and shuttle their kids to school and activities. Just over one year after purchase, the substantial problems began. Over the next three years, Matthew and Marisa had to bring their Durango into FCA dealerships for repairs to dangerous and unsafe defects 18 times. The Durango’s transmission would not shift correctly, the engine overheated, and the engine stalled repeatedly. Overwhelmed by the issues that FCA could not fix, Matthew and Marisa phoned FCA and asked for a repurchase because their vehicle was dangerous and unreliable. Despite the serious issues and the repeat visits to the dealership, FCA refused.

After FCA’s refusal, Matthew and Marisa hired counsel. The case went to trial in Alameda County Superior Court, where Matthew and Marisa were represented by California Lemon Law trial attorneys Richard Wirtz and Amy Rotman from Wirtz Law APC. After a two-week trial, the jury awarded Matthew and Marisa with the maximum damages awardable under the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act (California Lemon Law): repurchase and a two-time civil penalty for a total of $130.373.37, plus FCA was ordered to pay plaintiff’s attorney’s fees and costs. The jury agreed that FCA had willfully violated the California Lemon Law by refusing to repurchase the vehicle despite the repeated repair visits and serious, unrepaired defects.

For more information call the experienced trial attorneys at (858) 259-5009 for a free case evaluation.

Disclaimer.  The information provided in this post is for informational and educational purposes only regarding aspects of the California Lemon Law.  It is intended for California Consumers only. This post is considered an advertisement by attorney Richard M. Wirtz and Wirtz Law APC. You should not rely on any of the information provided in this advertisement and no legal advice is given by the advertisement. No attorney client relationship is established by viewing this advertisement. A written signed engagement agreement between you and Wirtz Law APC is required to create an attorney client relationship. You should immediately consult an attorney who is experienced in California Lemon Law. Attorney Richard M. Wirtz is responsible for the content of this post. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.