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Media reports recently disclosed damning information about German vehicle manufacturer Volkswagen’s attempt to “cheat” U.S. emissions standards in an effort to shore up lagging sales. The company’s push to sell more diesel vehicles has landed them in hot water, and has left hundreds of thousands of vehicle owners wondering what to do if they own a car fitted with a “defeat device” that falsifies the vehicle’s emissions. The company has announced plans to recall affected vehicles, but information remains sketchy.
Consumers who purchased one of the Volkswagen vehicles listed below are encouraged to contact Morgan & Morganto discuss their legal options.
Here is a checklist of things you can do while this story is still developing:
Call Your Volkswagen Dealer
As of this writing, the company has not yet released a complete list of all the vehicles affected by the scandal, but some news agencies are reporting that, in the U.S., affected models include the Jetta, Golf, Passat and Beetle, with some saying that the company’s Audi A3 model might be affected as well.
Contact your local dealer to see if they have any information about the model you own, and what you will need to do if the vehicle is to be recalled. There might be significant costs involved that vehicle owners might be responsible for. Volkswagen owners should not have to pay for a defect in their vehicle that the company was aware of during the manufacturing process. Moreover, changes to vehicles emissions systems will result in higher fuel costs, since emissions have a direct impact on fuel economy.
Visit a Local Emissions Testing Center
If you are concerned about harmful levels of emissions, have your car inspected. The professionals at emissions testing centers will be able to determine whether or not your car’s exhaust system is operating properly, and if repairs are needed.
It is important that emissions testing remain up-to-date as this affects a vehicle’s registration. If you have any questions about your vehicle’s registration, contact your local department of motor vehicles. Unfortunately, these steps might involve significant costs and time spent trying to obtain accurate information about what steps need to be taken.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Many Volkswagen vehicle owners have received significant discounts on insurance for owning diesel vehicles that have lower emissions. It would be prudent to contact your auto insurance provider to see if the vehicle’s defect will have a negative impact on current and future policies.
Confirm Your Car’s Re-Sale Value
Many people purchase Volkswagen vehicles because they are known for their high re-sale values. This scandal could lower your vehicle’s re-sale value if it has a defective emissions system. Contact an independent car dealer to find out what your vehicle’s current re-sale value is, and if it might be wise to consider selling the car sooner rather than later.
Speak To a Qualified Attorney
Volkswagen has admitted it knowingly manufactured cars that are equipped with devices that falsify actual emissions. Consumers have had their trust violated and are demanding action.
If you are a Volkswagen owner, and want to explore your legal options, help is here. The attorneys at Morgan & Morgan have filed a class action lawsuit against Volkswagen of America and are standing by to evaluate your case and will help determine whether or not you are entitled to compensation for any damages or inconvenience caused by your defective vehicle.