Chrysler FCA

Fiat Chrysler Faces Lawsuit Claiming Valve Train System Defect Resulting in Engine Failure

A recent lawsuit has drawn attention to a significant defect in the valve train systems of vehicles produced by FCA. The lawsuit alleges that the defect causes engine failure, leading to buyer safety hazards. Commencing in January 2023, the discovery process has embarked on its journey, with an anticipated culmination in July 2024. The model years that fall under this lawsuit range from 2014 to the present day.

The Defect

The valve train system plays a vital role in regulating the movement of valves within the engine and is a critical component in ensuring the proper functioning of the engine. This system needs to operate efficiently to ensure optimal engine performance and fuel economy. The alleged defect in the valve train system can cause engine seizing by disrupting the smooth regulation of the valves’ movements, leading to a chain reaction of malfunctions within the engine. 

Lawsuit Claims

Damage or misalignment within the valve train system can prompt a range of issues, including power loss, misfires, and, ultimately, engine failure. These dire consequences may jeopardize human safety and even pose a life threat.

In addition to the inconvenience of being stranded on the road, engine failure can result in expensive repairs or even the need for a full engine replacement. It can also create safety hazards, such as sudden loss of power, difficulty in steering or braking, and increased risk of accidents. 

Impact on Consumers

The impact of the engine failure can be significant on consumers. Financially, it can lead to unexpected repair costs, reduced vehicle value, and even total engine replacement expenses. The potential safety hazards that arise from engine failure can also direct to physical harm, causing emotional distress and trauma. Additionally, the inconvenience of experiencing an unanticipated vehicle breakdown can result in significant disruptions in daily life. Therefore, the impact on consumers can be extensive and multifaceted, highlighting the need for timely detection and resolution of any defects in vehicle components.

Vehicles Subjected To Recall

The plaintiffs intend to initiate legal action on behalf of owners or lessees of FCA vehicles that are fitted with the following: 

  • Gen III 5.7-liter HEMI 
  • 6.4-liter HEMI 392 V-8 engine

The list of vehicles in the partial lawsuit comprises of: 

  • Dodge Charger (Models 2014-16)
  • Dodge Challenger (Models 2014-2016)
  • Jeep Grand Cherokee (Models 2014-2022)
  • Chrysler 300 (Models 2014-2016)
  • Dodge Durango (Models 2014-2021)
  • RAM 1500 (Models 2014-2022)
  • RAM 2500 (Models 2014-2022) 
  • RAM 3500 (Models 2014-2022). 

It’s difficult to predict the duration of this process, and it could potentially be prolonged.

Summary Statement

Ignoring the lawsuit’s allegation that a defect in the valve train system is responsible for engine failure would amount to severe negligence, given the potential harm it could cause. It is essential for automakers to prioritize the safety of their customers by thoroughly testing and ensuring the reliability of their products. As consumers, you should remain vigilant and hold companies accountable for any carelessness that puts lives at risk.

We Can Assist You!

Get the compensation you deserve for a vehicle sold with manufacturing faults. The Lemon Firm knows how to successfully secure compensation for clients. Don’t hesitate to take action and claim. Simply dial (833) LEMON FIRM to talk to our Lemon Law experts.

About the Author
Sepehr Daghighian is a partner with CCA that is well-versed in all aspects of lemon-law litigation. A 2005 graduate of Loyola Law School, Mr. Daghighian has been practicing litigation throughout the state of California for over 13-years. In this time, Mr. Daghighian has advocated on behalf of California consumers in hundreds of lemon law cases throughout our great state. Mr. Daghighian has also successfully tried numerous such cases to verdict in both Federal and State Court.