A major legal battle has unfolded between Ford Motor Company and owners of certain Ford F-Series trucks over allegations of defective door latches. Ford has moved to dismiss a class action settlement lawsuit, arguing various legal issues. The court denied part of that motion, allowing the case to proceed. This post explores the background, arguments, and potential impact, serving as a reliable legal news source and providing key LEGAL INFORMATION.
1. Background of the Case
The lawsuit alleges that Ford door latch defect problems in 2015-2017 F-Series truck models created a safety risk. Some trucks assembled at the Dearborn Assembly Plant, Kansas City Assembly Plant, Kentucky Assembly Plant, and Ohio Assembly Plant were allegedly affected.
The complaint referenced technical service bulletins that acknowledged issues. Despite multiple repairs, plaintiffs claimed failures persisted. Such lawsuit allegations raised questions about vehicle design, customer safety, and broader automotive safety standards.
2. Ford’s Motion to Dismiss
Ford contended that slogans like “Built Ford Tough” were not misrepresentations but marketing. They argued user manuals and warranty terms defined actual vehicle specifications and manufacturing standards.
Ford also stated that TSBs were not proof of knowledge before purchase. Yet plaintiffs countered that these TSBs showed Ford’s awareness of a design defect and lack of disclosure, which supports the class action settlement claim.
3. Court’s Decision to Keep the Case Alive
Judge Lawrence Kahn, a California federal judge, ruled that Kommer presented plausible evidence. The court emphasized Ford’s exclusive knowledge and its duty to disclose. This ruling was vital for Settlement Class Members, as it meant their claim form submissions could still be validated by the settlement administrator for validation purposes and claim reimbursement.
4. Settlement Developments
Ford later agreed to a $5.3 million resolution. Settlement Class Members could submit a class action settlement claim for expenses, with eligibility verified by the settlement administrator. Those who filed could track their claim status and receive claim reimbursement for costs like repairs or even vehicle rental.
The settlement covered multiple Ford vehicles, including Ford Transit, Ford Mustang Mach-E, certain sport utility vehicles like the Expedition SUV and Navigator SUV, and even older models like the Lincoln Blackwood.
The agreement highlighted the responsibility of manufacturers to align with safety compliance, automotive safety regulations, and oversight from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
5. Legal and Consumer Implications
a) Consumer Rights and Safety
The case demonstrates how unresolved legal issues tied to defective door latches can pose a safety risk such as side-impact crashes or rollover accidents.
b) Broader Accountability
The decision sets precedent not only in U.S. courts but could influence regulations in regions like the European Union. International standards demand higher safety compliance, ensuring vehicle compatibility with customer safety expectations.
c) Corporate Oversight
Suppliers like Intier Corp were noted in some filings, while parallel claims in Canada reached the Ontario Superior Court. These developments underscore how vehicle design, spring torque configuration, and automated door latch system flaws create global exposure.
6. What Should Affected Owners Do?
Owners should check eligibility, submit a claim form, and keep records. The settlement administrator may request details for validation purposes. Those impacted may also review the Open Settlementsdirectory to confirm eligibility.
Filing ensures you preserve rights for claim reimbursement. Missing deadlines could result in loss of benefits. Keeping track of claim status updates is crucial for every affected driver.
7. Broader Lessons for the Industry
- Transparency in legal news source outlets ensures the public receives timely LEGAL INFORMATION.
- Manufacturers must address lawsuit allegations before they escalate into massive TCPA Class Action Lawsuits or similar disputes.
- ATTORNEY ADVERTISING disclosures remind consumers that insights, while informative, do not replace LEGAL ADVICE.
Call to Action
If you own or leased a vehicle impacted by the Ford door latch defect, you may have rights as part of the Settlement Class Members. Submit a claim form promptly to preserve eligibility. Ted Law can assist with navigating deadlines and ensuring proper filing.
Contact Ted Law:
- Schedule a consultation with our law firm
- Discuss eligibility under the class action settlements
- Prepare documentation for claim reimbursement
- File with the settlement administrator to protect your rights
- Stay updated on claim status and results
About Ted Law firm
At Ted Law Firm, is a trusted law firm that provides representation in complex litigation, including class action settlements, product liability, and automotive safety disputes. We serve families across Aiken, Anderson, Charleston, Columbia, Greenville, Myrtle Beach, North Augusta and Orangeburg. Whether in U.S. courts or international jurisdictions like the European Union, we remain focused on supporting clients through evolving legal issues. Contact us today for a free consultation.
