GM "Shift to Park" Class Action Lawsuit Settlement: What It Means for Consumers

At Valero Law, APC, we closely follow developments in consumer protection and automotive litigation. A recent class action settlement involving General Motors (GM) highlights the importance of manufacturer accountability and consumer rights.

The Issue: "Shift to Park" Defect

Many GM vehicle owners have experienced a frustrating issue: even after shifting their vehicles into "Park," the car fails to register the change, preventing them from turning off the ignition. This defect has led to drained batteries, inconvenience, and, in some cases, costly repairs.

The Lawsuit and Settlement

A class action lawsuit was filed against GM, alleging that the company knowingly sold vehicles with defective transmission systems that failed to properly detect when the car was in "Park." The affected models include various Chevrolet, GMC, Cadillac, and Buick vehicles from recent years.

According to pleadings filed with the court, GM has agreed to settle the lawsuit, offering reimbursement to eligible vehicle owners for past repair expenses related to the issue. Although GM has not admitted wrongdoing, the settlement ensures that affected consumers receive compensation for their troubles.

What This Means for Vehicle Owners

If you own an affected GM vehicle, you may be eligible for reimbursement if you incurred repair costs due to the "Shift to Park" issue. Key points of the settlement include:

  • Coverage for out-of-pocket repair expenses related to the defect.

  • Specific eligibility requirements, including vehicle model years and repair documentation.

  • Deadlines for submitting claims.

The settlement varies by states and includes the following vehicles:

  • 2017-2019 GMC Acadia

  • 2019 Chevrolet Blazer

  • 2016-2019 Chevrolet Malibu

  • 2018-2019 Chevrolet Traverse

  • 2016-2019 Chevrolet Volt

Legal and Consumer Protection Considerations

This settlement underscores the critical role of consumer protection laws in holding automakers accountable. While GM’s agreement to compensate consumers is a step in the right direction, it also raises questions about manufacturer responsibility and transparency in addressing known defects.

If you’re in California and you believe you have a claim related to this issue or need legal guidance on automotive consumer rights, Valero Law, APC, is here to help. Our firm is committed to advocating for consumers facing defective vehicle claims and other automotive-related legal concerns.

For California consumers, to discuss your legal options, contact Valero Law, APC today.

California, General Motors, Chevrolet, Lemon Law, Lemon Law AttorneyJoshua Valero