General Motors law

Another General Motors Class Action Lawsuit Says Vehicles Can’t Be Shut Off – Shift to Park Issue

Yet another Class Action Lawsuit Filed Against GM, this time for the ‘Shift To Park’ Issue In Chevy Malibu, Blazer, Traverse, And Volt models.

The GM Shift to Park lawsuit alleges certain GM vehicles fail to detect when the gear selector has been shifted into Park, and the driver cannot shut the vehicle off.

  •     2016-2019 Chevrolet Malibu
  •     2016-2019 Chevrolet Volt
  •     2018-2019 Chevrolet Traverse
  •     2019 Chevrolet Blazer

According to the GM class-action lawsuit, these vehicles fail to detect they are shifted into PARK which prevents vehicles from shutting off and locking. Typically, a ‘Shift to Park’ warning message will appear on the driver instrument panel when this happens. The driver can jiggle and or wiggle the gear shifter in order to remedy the issue, although this technique does not always work.

Below are the complaints filed by drivers:

“So when you spend this kind of money on a vehicle you expect it to hold up for several years. This car is barely a year old and for the last month, I have been dealing with my SUV not recognizing when it is in park. What that means is, the vehicle will not shut off and I can not lock it and walk away. I have to sit and jiggle the gear shifter like a mad woman until it decides to recognize that it is indeed in park.” — 2018 Chevrolet Traverse owner

“Vehicle does not turn off after shifting to park. The car does not detect park mode and driver has to ‘jiggle’ shift knob.” — 2018 Chevrolet Volt owner

This class action lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan by three plaintiffs in Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Maryland, Car Complaints reports.

This isn’t the first time General Motors has been sued over the seemingly prevalent ‘Shift to Park’ defect. A band of GMC Acadia owners sued the automaker over the issue back in 2019 and two other similar lawsuits were filed in May and August of last year.

GM Shift to Park Technical Service Bulletins

The Shift to Park lawsuit alleges General Motors knows about the problem and has issued several technical service bulletins to dealerships regarding vehicles with Shift to Park messages.

  • January 9, 2017 (TSB PIC6244) — “Diagnostic Aid For Vehicles With Shift To Park Message And All DTCs P1AEE P1AEF P1AF0 P1AF2 P1E22.”
  • December 5, 2017 (TSB PIE0441) — “Engineering Information – Shift to Park Message Displayed.”
  • December 1, 2018 (TSB 18-NA-297) — “Message Displaying Shift to Park when in Park.”
  • September 2019 (TSB 19NA206) — “Intermittent Shift to Park Message Displayed While Vehicle in Park.”

Final Thoughts

If you are an automobile owner and having manufacturing issues, you can contact us for a class-action lawsuit. Serious car problems require serious legal representation, especially when you are bringing a claim against a major automaker.  http://thelemonfirm.com/contact/

At The Lemon Firm, our experienced attorneys have been able to successfully recover compensation for our clients who were sold a vehicle that did not perform as intended and we can do the same for you. Contact us for a free consultation today if you have experienced problems like those experienced by the Volkswagen class action above or any other types of design or manufacturing defects with your vehicle.  Our experienced attorneys can be reached by calling (833) 536-6634.  The first consultation is free and we can take your case on a contingency fee, meaning that you will not pay a cent unless our experienced attorneys recover money for you.  Call us today!

GM motors

2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer Recalls For Jack Defect and Other GM Recalls

General Motors is recalling the Chevrolet Trailblazer, Buick Encore GX model vehicles years 2021-22 because the emergency jack can break while a driver is using it. GM estimates it will start notifying vehicle owners on July 26 and around 135,400 units will be recalled.

The issue was discovered when a GM test driver reported a broken jack during a durability test on a 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer, according to a safety recall report filed with NHTSA. If not positioned as recommended by the vehicle manual, the jack could fracture. 

If the jack fractures while in use, the vehicle could collapse, injuring people near or under the vehicle, according to a safety bulletin filed with NHTSA. GM opened an investigation in April and identified 21 claims alleging the jack failed in the field.

The automaker says dealers will swap in a replacement jack made of metal. In the meantime, GM plans to remove the recalled plastic jack from undelivered vehicles.

“Material used in a sensor connection in the electronic brake boost system in these vehicles may have been contaminated during the material supplier’s production process,” Chevrolet spokesman Kevin Kelly confirmed to Motor Authority. “Contamination of this material may cause an interruption of communication between the sensor and the brake boost system under certain conditions.”

Conformed 4 Safety Recalls For Chevrolet Trailblazer

There are 4 safety issues found in these vehicles, you can check the details below.

Equipment

Recall date: 2021-06-10 | Recall no.21V440000

General Motors is recalling certain 2020-2022 Buick Encore GX and 2021-2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer vehicles. The emergency jack, if not positioned as directed in the vehicle owner’s manual, can fracture while in use. GM’s number for this recall is A212335470.

Service brakes

Recall date: 2020-09-24 | Recall no.20V588000

General Motors is recalling certain 2020 Chevrolet Corvette and Cadillac CT4, CT5 and XT4, 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer, and 2020-2021 Buick Encore GX vehicles. If communication with the sensor is interrupted, the electronic brake boost assist could be lost. The extra pedal force will be required to slow and stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash. GM’s number for this recall is A202307260.

Seats

Recall date: 2020-09-03 | Recall no.20V537000

General Motors is recalling certain 2020 Buick Encore GX and 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer vehicles. If an occupied front seat is missing the rear attachment bolts, it may move during a crash, increasing the risk of injury to the occupant. GM’s number for this recall is A202304380

Tires, equipment

Recall date: 2020-05-21 | Recall no.20V295000

General Motors is recalling certain 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer vehicles. If drivers are uninformed and overinflate or underinflate their tires, this may increase the risk of a crash. GM’s number for this recall is A202304070

At The Lemon Firm, our experienced attorneys have been able to successfully recover compensation for our clients who were sold a vehicle that did not perform as intended and we can do the same for you. Contact us for a free consultation today if you have experienced problems like those experienced by the GM Recalls above or any other types of design or manufacturing defects with your vehicle.  Our experienced attorneys can be reached by calling (833) 536-6634.  The first consultation is free and we can take your case on a contingency fee, meaning that you will not pay a cent unless our experienced attorneys recover money for you.  Call us today!

Ignition Switch

GM Faces Lawsuit Regarding Ignition Switch

General Motors is facing several lawsuits concerning defective ignition switches in several models. The defect causes the engine to suddenly shut off, ultimately cutting off the car’s power while in motion.

Back in 2014, GM began recalling 2.6 million vehicles due to these ignition switch problems. Apparently, some GM insiders were aware of the problem as early as 2001, 13 years before the recall was issued. Affected drivers and their families are going after GM for personal injuries and wrongful deaths related to the defective ignition switches. As a result, GM has paid out nearly $7 billion in recall-related costs, but is fighting against the injury and death suits, claiming that the defective switches were not the cause of the crashes. To avoid unnecessary exposure, the automaker is also settling cases outside of court.

How Did the Ignition Switch Go Wrong?

When a driver starts the car, the ignition switch activates the vehicle’s electrical system. Normally, the ignition switch will remain in the “on” position when the car is running. However, in a defective ignition switch, the “detent plunger” part was made to improper specifications, allowing the switch to slip to the “ACC” position when the key is accidentally struck, or on rough terrain. At this point, the vehicle’s engine, power steering, anti-lock brake system, and airbags are disabled. It goes without saying that this can lead to extremely dangerous consequences: a driver can lose control of the vehicle and safety systems, including the airbag, can fail to function properly. Over 124 people were injured and 275 people were killed due to these defective switches.

Instead of issuing a recall right away in 2001, GM instead issued a “service bulletin” to its dealers in 2005. The automaker also withheld information from federal authorities that may have led to a recall much sooner. Ultimately, when GM issued the recall in 2014, the Department of Transportations issued a $35 million fine for failure to report a safety defect in a timely manner and, the Department of Justice issued a $900 million fine for concealing a potentially deadly defect. GM’s CEO responded by blaming the delayed recall on a “cost culture” and claimed the automaker was working hard to improve its safety culture. While GM paid $575 million to victims of ignition switch crashes via a compensation fund, less than 10% of people who made claims to the fund actually received payment.

What Can I Do if My GM is Equipped With a Defective Ignition Switch?

Ultimately, you may be eligible to file a GM ignition switch lawsuit if:

  • You were injured in a crash involving a faulty GM ignition switch
  • You lost a loved one in an ignition switch crash
  • You own a vehicle with a defective ignition switch that depreciated in value as a result of the recall
  • You did accept payment through the GM compensation fund

If you are driving a GM vehicle equipped with a potentially defective ignition switch, California’s lemon laws are here to protect you and prevent any further complications. The attorneys at CCA are very knowledgeable about the defective ignition switches in GM vehicles discussed above and will work with you to fight back against the automaker.

Please do not hesitate to call CCA today for a free consultation: (833) LEMON-FIRM. We’ll get you the compensation you deserve – and at no cost to you!

piston rings

GM Defective Piston Rings

General Motors (GM) has been the target of numerous recent complaints concerning engine defects in several GM models. Specifically, according to recently filed class-action lawsuits, GM engines have suffered widespread problems with their piston rings. 

CCA is here to help if your GM-manufactured vehicle has exhibited any repeat engine issues. We invite you to call our experts today for a free consultation: (833) LEMON-FIRM.

What Are the Issues in the GM Piston Rings that Resulted in a Class Action Lawsuit?

Recently, GM owners have complained about the vehicle’s excessive oil consumption issue. Drivers are financially burdened by the cost to continuously address this issue, as excessive oil consumption also affects the vehicle’s engine, pistons, and rings.

Here is a list of the models that are equipped with the potentially defective 5.3L Vortec 5300 engines mentioned in the lawsuit:

  • 2010-2014 Chevrolet Avalanche
  • 2010-2013 Chevrolet Silverado
  • 2010-2014 Chevrolet Suburban
  • 2010-2014 Chevrolet Tahoe
  • 2010-2013 GMC Sierra
  • 2010-2014 GMC Yukon
  • 2010-2014 GMC Yukon XL

One plaintiff, an owner of a 2012 Chevrolet Silverado equipped with a faulty engine, complained that the engine had fouled spark plugs that caused it to misfire. Later in 2015, the plaintiff noticed oil consumption issues caused by the faulty spark plugs. The dealer allegedly confirmed that defective piston rings caused the oil consumption problems. Apparently, the piston rings did not maintain sufficient tension to prevent excess oil consumption in the combustion chamber. As per the lawsuit, this defect creates a safety risk for the affected models as the engine is prone to catching fire and causing fatal accidents.

A user of the Chevrolet Suburban stated, “Have added in excess of 5 quarts of oil on two separate occasions in between 3,000-mile oil changes. Would like Chevrolet to take responsibility for this and fix it, please.”

What Can I Do if My GM Manufactured Vehicle is Subject to Oil Consumption Issues or Repeat Engine Issues?

If you experience any engine trouble with your GM-manufactured vehicle, such as engine damage, defective piston rings, excess oil consumption, or other engine-related issues, California’s lemon laws are here to protect you from any further complications. The attorneys at CCA have extensive experience litigating cases concerning complicated engine issues in GM models.

If your vehicle has exhibited any of the issues mentioned above, do not hesitate to contact our experts for a free consultation at (833) LEMON-FIRM.

GM infotainment

GM Infotainment System Lawsuit

By: Nicole Halavi

General Motors (GM), in recent years,has received numerous complaints concerning electronic and infotainment system defects in various models. In light of the recent complaints regarding GM’s infotainment system, a class-action lawsuit has been filed alleging that some GM models are equipped with a defective IOR 7-inch radio, which has led to a sudden increase in sound volume. Ultimately, this becomes a safety problem as it can be distracting to a driver.

CCA is here to help if your GM manufactured vehicle has exhibited any faults in the infotainment system. We invite you to call our experts today for a free consultation: (833) LEMON-FIRM.

What Are the Issues in the GM Infotainment System that Resulted in a Class Action Lawsuit?

A recent class-action lawsuit concerning GM’s infotainment system alleges a defect in the radio system that triggers a sudden volume spike. This can act as a distraction to the driver and result in potentially fatal accidents. The lawsuit further expands on Bluetooth issues, a faulty rearview camera, and defective display screens that spontaneously goes dark.

Here is a list of the recent models that are equipped with faulty infotainment systems:

  • 2019 Chevrolet Colorado
  • 2019 Chevrolet Equinox
  • 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
  • 2019 GMC Canyon
  • 2019 GMC Sierra 1500
  • 2020 Chevrolet Blazer
  • 2020 Chevrolet Camaro
  • 2020 Chevrolet Colorado
  • 2020 Chevrolet Equinox
  • 2020 Chevrolet Sonic
  • 2020 Chevrolet Trax
  • 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
  • 2020 Chevrolet 2500HD
  • 2020 Chevrolet 3500HD
  • 2020 GMC Canyon
  • 2020 GMC Terrain
  • 2020 GMC Sierra 1500
  • 2020 GMC 2500HD
  • 2020 GMC 3500HD

After numerous complaints, General Motors issued several technical bulletins to dealerships and introduced a software update. However, the update only eliminated the volume problems but not the spike issue. According to the lawsuit, GM has not issued any updates to resolve the volume spike problem. Also, GM owners complain that dealers refuse to refuse to replace or repair defective infotainment systems. 

As for the faulty rearview display, users allege the display image remains on the screen for 30-50 seconds even after the vehicle is shifted out of reverse mode. Another issue mentioned in the lawsuit is regarding the Bluetooth system. When the vehicle receives a call through the Bluetooth system, the ringer does not turn off throughout the call’s duration, causing the driver to become distracted and, simply making it impossible to make use of the Bluetooth feature.

The plaintiffs of the lawsuit state that the automakers have yet to find a solution to the issue, but are not even willing to issue a recall for the defective models. 

What Can I Do if My GM Manufactured Vehicle Suffers Repeat Issues?

If you face any trouble with the infotainment system installed in your GM vehicle, such as a faulty rearview camera, a defected display, Bluetooth issues, or sudden volume spikes, California’s lemon laws are here to protect you and prevent further complications. At CCA, our lawyers are well aware of the defective infotainment system’s issues in the GM manufactured vehicles and can help you get the compensation you deserve.

If you are experiencing any of the above-mentioned issues with your vehicle, do not hesitate to contact our experts for a free consultation at: (833) LEMON-FIRM.

GM infotainment

GM Ignition Switch Lawsuit

By: Nicole Halavi

General Motors is a multinational corporation and has been America’s largest automobile manufacturer for years. It was founded in 1908 and has now grown to be one of the world’s largest multinational corporations specializing in the manufacturing, marketing, and distribution of vehicles across the globe. Despite its reputable position in the auto market, the automaker is facing several lawsuits concerning multiple issues regarding a defective ignition switch in various models.

If your GM vehicle has exhibited serious repeated issues, CCA is here to help. Please feel free to call our experts today for a free consultation: (833) LEMON-FIRM.

What is the Ignition Switch Defect in the GM Vehicles that Resulted in a Lawsuit against the Corporation?

According to numerous GM owners, they encountered issues with respect to the proper operation of their vehicle’s ignition switch. The ignition switch activates the vehicle’s electric system and starts the car when the key is turned. Most ignition switches are equipped with four different settings: Lock, Accessory, On, and Start. Normally, the switch will remain in the “On” setting for as long as the car is running. However, with a defective switch, the car will spontaneously shift into the “Accessory” mode. The main problem arises from the fact that the vehicle’s engine, airbags, and anti-lock braking system are disabled when the car is in “Accessory” mode. Clearly, this creates a major safety problem for a driver on the road.

While this issue is becoming more prevalent in certain GM models, there are claims that GM has been aware of it since 2001. In 2005, GM dodged a recall and, instead, issued a service bulletin to GM dealers. Apparently, they also withheld important information from federal authorities to avoid issuing the recall.

Ultimately, the recall was delayed for 13 years, and finally, in 2014, GM issued a recall and paid a $35 million fine to the Department of Transportation and a $900 million fine to the Department of Justice for concealing a potentially life-threatening defect.

GM has been fighting several ignition switch lawsuits for almost two decades now. The three main types of lawsuit filed against GM are:• Personal Injury
• Wrongful Death
• Class-Action
Several crash victims and their families have filed multiple suits against the corporation for injuries and wrongful death caused by the faulty ignition switch. Despite the issues stirred up and the lawsuits filed, only 10% of the people who raised their issues received some form of compensation.

What Can I Do if My GM Vehicle is Subject to Defective Ignition Switch Issues?

If your GM vehicle has been exhibiting any of the problems mentioned above, such as a defect in the ignition switch, CCA’s lawyers are here to help – and at no cost to you! CCA is equipped with a team of lawyers who are trained to handle complicated lemon law cases and get you the relief that you deserve.

If your vehicle has been exhibiting any defects or issues, please contact our experts for a free consultation at (833) LEMON-FIRM.

GMC Acadia shifter

GMC Acadia Shifter Lawsuit

By: Nicole Halavi

Despite GM’s popularity in the auto market, the brand has managed to become involved in several lawsuits concerning defects in various GM models. In fact, a recently filed lawsuit against GM alleges that a number of GMC Acadia models were equipped with a defective shifter.

If your GM vehicle has exhibited any shifter issues or serious transmission issues, CCA is here to help. Feel free to call our experts today for a free consultation: (833) LEMON-FIRM.

What are the Issues in the GMC Acadia that led to a Lawsuit?

Several users have filed complaints against General Motors alleging their vehicles exhibited issues that caused the “shift to park” message to appear when the vehicle failed to detect the transmission has been shifted to “PARK” mode. The issue eventually led to a class-action lawsuit filed by Plaintiff Rilla Jefferson on behalf of former and current GMC Acadia owners in Tennessee.

Acadia owners claim that the defective gear shifter prevents them from shutting or locking the vehicle properly. According to the lawsuit, the message appears even though the shifters are in PARK, which ultimately drains the car’s battery. The lawsuit alleges that GM has repeatedly concealed this issue in order to keep Acadias’ on the market at a competitive price.

According to the lawsuit, after purchasing her new 2017 GMC Acadia, Ms. Jefferson began to notice several defects in her vehicle, one of which being a problem with the gear shifter. She visited several GM dealers, but none provided her with sufficient repair.

An owner of the 2018 GMC Acadia explained the issue as follows: “The problem seems to be like everyone else. When you park and shift to park and turn off the car you get a message that you need to shift to park. I have to shift back and forth several times before it thinks the car is in park. If the car is not in park it stays on and drains the battery. Once I got the car back from the dealership after about a week the problem is still occurring.”

Another complaint from an owner of the 2017 GMC Acadia stated the following: “The shift to park comes on after parking the car in the drive way, I have to play with the gear or put the car in drive and attempt to drive it sometimes or if I’m in a hurry the alarm goes off and the batter remains on the alarm goes off if not in park this is a very annoying problem where the dealership says they can’t duplicate. Which is a bunch of bull crap because it happens every time I cut the truck off: I just brought the car a few months ago it would have been nice to see this before leaving the lot !”

What Can I Do if My GMC Acadia is Subject to the Problems Discussed Above?

If you suffered transmission or shifter issues with your Acadia (such as a defective gear shifter, lurching, harsh shifts, acceleration problems, or other issues), CCA’s attorneys are here to help. Our attorneys are knowledgeable about the issues concerning your vehicle and are prepared to get you the compensation that you deserve.

Please do not hesitate to contact our experts today for a free consultation at: (833) LEMON-FIRM.

red car being worked on in factory

Oil Consumption Issues in GM Vehicles

By: Nicole Halavi

General Motors is a multinational corporation and has been America’s largest automobile manufacturer for years. Despite its reputable position in the auto industry, a 2016 lawsuit against GM was recently certified as a class action suit concerning GM vehicles’ oil consumption problems.

If your GM vehicle has exhibited repeated or unrepaired oil consumption problems, CCA is here to help. Please free to call our experts today for a free consultation: (833) LEMON-FIRM.

What are the Oil Consumption Issues in GM-Manufactured vehicles?

Numerous owners have filed complaints against GM alleging their vehicles exhibited defects such as engine damage, excessive oil consumption, knocking engines, and more. The class action lawsuit filed against GM alleged that the oil consumption defect ultimately caused serious engine defects and even engine failure. As described in the complaint, the oil consumption defect is caused by a carbon buildup in the defective piston rings. An oil consumption issue is a major safety concern as it may cause the vehicle to breakdown unexpectedly.

Here is a list of some GM models reported to have oil consumption issues:

  • Chevrolet Avalanche
  • Chevrolet Silverado
  • Chevrolet Suburban
  • Chevrolet Tahoe
  • GMC Sierra
  • GMC Yukon
  • GMC Yukon XL

A Chevrolet Suburban owner recently described his problems, “Chevy Suburbans are too expensive to have these kinds of problems. I took the Suburban to the dealer and they told me the pistons and rings needed to be replaced to the tune of $4,000. They admitted to oil burning in the combustion chamber and a buildup of carbon had occurred. This vehicle is a perfect fit for our large family. However, given that GM gave me their dishonest run-around and then only paid for half of the repair, I will be selling the vehicle after it gets fixed and will NEVER buy another Suburban again.”

While the class action lawsuit was initially dismissed in 2017, the judge later ruled that there is enough evidence that supports the allegations regarding the oil consumption defect. According to the court, the defect is undoubtedly a safety concern. In his final ruling, the judge stated that “a reasonable jury could conclude that the evidence before the Court supports the conclusion that the alleged oil consumption defect constitutes a safety defect and that GM actively concealed information about the defect.”

Excerpts from complaints filed against GM provide further insight into the problem:

“High oil consumption, 3.5 quarts used. Start mileage 49591, oil change today 53598 mileage. 4007 miles 3.5 quarts used. Got low oil warning around mid-November the dealer added 1 qt. Today they said it was 2.5 qt low. I had to remind that it would be 3.5 qt consumption in 4007 miles. Not good!” – owner of a GMC Sierra 1500 3.5L.

“At 79k miles I noticed my 2014 Chevy Silverado LT was low in oil. I did add two quarts and waited for the following oil change to report it to the dealer advisor. Since then the truck has been consuming about a quart and a half per one thousand miles. At some point the engine light came on and after checking the deep stick I found out that the level was way low, almost empty.” – owner of a Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT.

What Can I Do if My GM Has Suffered Excessive Oil Consumption?

If your vehicle is excessively consuming oil or has suffered resultant engine damage, CCA’s attorneys are here to help. Our attorneys are knowledgeable about the issues concerning your vehicle and are prepared to get you significant compensation. Here’s the best part – our legal bills are paid by the automakers; not by our clients.

Please call our experts today for a free consultation at: (833) LEMON-FIRM.

Chevrolet car dealership, a part of General Motors.

Oil Consumption, Knocking, and Ticking in GM Engines

By: Michael H. Rosenstein, Esq.

General Motors is a multinational corporation and has been America’s largest automobile manufacturer for years. It was founded in 1908 and has now grown to be one of the world’s largest multinational corporation that is specialized in manufacturing, marketing and distributing vehicles and vehicle parts. Over the years, General Motors has built a core connection with several high-end automobile brands such as Cadillac, Buick, GMC and Chevrolet.  In spite of GM’s vast popularity over the last 100 years, it has managed to attract some unfortunate defects and widespread issues with oil consumption in GM engines. GM customers have complained for years of widespread, frustrating, and dangerous oil consumption issues.

If your GM vehicle has suffered any serious issues regarding oil consumption, CCA is here to help. We invite you to call our experts today for a free consultation: (833) LEMON-FIRM.

What Are the Common Safety Defects in GM Engines?

Vehicles with GM engines have been facing numerous lawsuits for the past couple of years involving excessive oil consumption. The engine issues have been brought up multiple times by owners of vehicles across different brands. Most of the complaints mention engine damage, ring wear, knocking engines, sudden stops and more.

One of the most common issues amongst vehicles with GM engines is a troubling “knocking sound” and “ticking noise”. Several models have received similar complaints and customers say, this is a persisting problem that does not seem to have an easy solution. In fact, oftentimes when presented to the dealership, the GM dealership advises customers that there’s nothing that they can do.  A user of Chevrolet Tahoe described the issue as, “I just bought my Chevy Tahoe and when I start it, it makes a knocking noise. This noise is very annoying and It seems like if it’s coming from the engine.  The noise comes and goes at frequent intervals.”

Several users have discussed the excessive cost of having a vehicle with high oil consumption. Apart from the cost of frequent oil refills, it incurs other expenses such as the costs of repairing damaged engines, pistons and rings. A user of Chevrolet Suburban stated, “Chevy Suburbans are too expensive to have these kinds of problems. I took the Suburban to the dealer and they told me the pistons and rings needed to be replaced to the tune of $4,000. They admitted to oil burning in the combustion chamber and a buildup of carbon had occurred. This vehicle is a perfect fit for our large family. However, given that GM gave me their dishonest run-around and then only paid for half of the repair, I will be selling the vehicle after it gets fixed and will NEVER buy another Suburban again.”

Here is a partial list of the recent models that are known to have oil consumption issues:

  • Chevrolet Avalanche
  • Chevrolet Silverado
  • Chevrolet Suburban
  • Chevrolet Tahoe
  • GMC Sierra
  • GMC Yukon
  • GMC Yukon XL

What Actions Have Been Taken to Address the Oil Consumption Issues, Ticking Noises, Knocking Noises, and Other Problems in GM Engines?

Multiple lawsuits have been filed against GM engines over the past 10 years. A recent class-action suit claims that engines fitted in GMC and Chevrolet vehicles are equipped with faulty engines that fail prematurely. The lawsuit alleges, the engines cause excessive oil consumption and spark plug degradation.

Another recent lawsuit filed in 2020, alleges the IV LC9 engines are equipped with defective piston rings that are incapable of maintaining enough tension to keep oil in the crankcase. As per the lawsuit, the engine consumes excessive amounts of oil which can cause severe engine damage.

What Can I Do if My GM Vehicle Has Oil Consumption Issues?

If you are facing any engine trouble with your GM vehicle such as excessive oil consumption, engine damage, knocking noises, ticking noises, damaged piston rings, sudden stops or other engine-related issues, California’s lemon laws are here to protect you from any further complications. Over the past few years, our lawyers have developed strong expertise in litigating cases surrounding complicated engine issues.

If you are facing any performance issues with your vehicle, do not hesitate to contact our experts for a free consultation at: (833) LEMON-FIRM.

Chevrolet dealership, trucks that may have transmission issues.

Transmission Defects in GMC Canyon and Chevrolet Colorado

By: Karina Dutra

Buying a new car is a big decision. You’ve finally found the vehicle that checks all the boxes and you’re ready to upgrade to a new ride. No one buys a new car expecting to deal with transmission defects only months after driving it off the lot, but owners of 2015-2017 GMC Canyon or Chevrolet Colorado have found this to be exactly the case. If you are experiencing manufacturer defects on your GM vehicle, we encourage you to contact the lemon law experts at CCA today for a free consultation: (833) LEMON-LAW.

GM’s Severe Transmission Defects

Owners of 2015-2017 GMC Canyons and Chevrolet Colorados have complained that they have experienced transmission issues when downshifting or accelerating. The most commonly reported issue is “shuddering” when the truck accelerates and sudden “jerking” when downshifting gears when driving up an incline. Despite many complaints about these serious issues, there are currently no ongoing investigations regarding transmission defects for these vehicles within GM.

Recent Class Action Suit

In a 2019 class action lawsuit, McKee v. General Motors, LLC, James McKee filed a complaint that GM “designed, manufactured, marketed, distributed, sold and warranted” models of 2015-2017 GMC Canyon and Chevrolet Colorado that were “equipped with defective 6L50 transmissions.” The defective transmissions allegedly caused the vehicles to “slip, buck, kick, jerk, and harshly engage” causing “premature internal wear… and eventually suffer a catastrophic failure.” 

Consumer complaints regarding the GL50 transmission are serious and widespread.  For example, one 2015 GMC Canyon owner complained, “Transmission and engine are not synchronized through shifting and acceleration. Engine is overloaded and shudders at low speeds when transmission does not downshift. Acceleration is very poor unless aggressive accelerator is used. Often, engine revs to 4500 to 5000 RPM but there is no acceleration until transmission catches up – dangerous situations occur.” Similarly, a 2015 Chevy Colorado owner complained, “I spent a ton of money for this truck. Seems as it does not know what gear to be in… It is by far the worst driving car / truck I have even owned.”  

If you have purchased or leased a new or used automobile that has manufacturer defects, California lemon law allows you to pursue a claim for a replacement vehicle or full refund. The attorneys at CCA are highly skilled and experienced at fighting manufacturers to ensure that your rights are being protected. If you are the owner of a vehicle and you are experiencing transmission issues that are putting your safety at risk, we invite you to contact us for a free consultation with an expert lemon law attorney at: (833) LEMON-LAW.