Chevrolet (Chevy), a flagship brand of General Motors (GM), faces multiple lawsuits in 2025 addressing a range of consumer safety, defect, and regulatory compliance issues. Lawsuits span allegations from defective windshield wipers and engines to emissions cheating and false advertising, reflecting ongoing scrutiny of vehicle quality and corporate accountability. This overview details the major Chevy-related lawsuits, their claims, legal foundations, impacts, and current status.
Windshield Wiper Defect Class Action
A class action lawsuit filed in July 2025 alleges that 2023 and 2024 models of GMC Yukon/Yukon XL, Cadillac Escalade, and Chevrolet Suburban and Tahoe suffer from an electrical defect causing windshield wipers to freeze or stop working unexpectedly. Plaintiffs claim this defect poses a significant safety risk by impairing visibility without warning. The lawsuit accuses GM of failing to warn consumers and adequately fix the problem.
Engine and Transmission Defect Lawsuits
- 5.3L V8 Engine Lawsuit: Claims that certain Chevy trucks and SUVs from model years 2011-2014 suffer piston ring defects resulting in excessive oil consumption and engine damage. Settlements are progressing in California, Idaho, and North Carolina, with payouts expected.
- 6.2L V8 Engine Recall Lawsuit: Alleges that the recall fix for 2021-2024 Chevy and GMC vehicles does not address the root cause of engine failures related to defective connecting rods and crankshaft components, exposing drivers to possible engine disasters.
- Faulty Transmission Class Action: Involves models from 2015-2019 experiencing transmission shuddering, hesitation and abrupt shifting. A federal appeals court recently decertified this class action, but litigation continues.
Emissions Cheating Lawsuit
The Chevy Cruze faces a longstanding lawsuit alleging diesel emissions cheating through defeat device software that disabled emissions controls during regular driving. Owners claim the vehicle emitted nitrogen oxides (NOx) far exceeding EPA limits, similar to the Volkswagen diesel scandal. Legal proceedings have spanned several years with some claims dismissed but others ongoing.
False Advertising Lawsuit
A lawsuit alleges that Burger King, owned by Restaurant Brands International, falsely advertises the size of its Whopper sandwich. Though not a Chevy case, it reflects the broader trend of consumer backlash against misleading automotive and food advertising.
Legal Claims and Framework
- Product liability for defective design and manufacture.
- Class action claims under consumer protection laws for warranty and disclosure violations.
- Federal and state environmental laws regarding emissions standards and recalls.
- Claims of negligence, breach of warranty, and fraud.
Impacts and Industry Significance
- Financial liabilities including multi-million and potentially billion-dollar settlements.
- Increased consumer awareness and skepticism on vehicle reliability.
- Regulatory pressures on automakers to enhance safety and environmental compliance.
- Market influence on future vehicle design, manufacturing standards, and recall management.
Current Status and Developments
Various suits are actively proceeding in federal and state courts with settlements reached in some cases, while others continue through appeals and discovery. A $90 million verdict against GSK concerning the Breo Ellipta inhaler (unrelated to Chevy) shows the broader environment of product liability settlements influencing all sectors. Chevy remains under close legal and regulatory watch as it addresses these challenges.
Consumer Advice
- Monitor recalls and safety notices issued by manufacturers and regulators.
- Document vehicle issues promptly and consult legal counsel if defects cause harm or financial loss.
- Utilize warranty and consumer protection rights in case of defective vehicles.
Conclusion
The spectrum of lawsuits facing Chevy in 2025 underscores persistent challenges in automotive product safety, emissions compliance, and truthful marketing. The outcomes will influence industry practices and consumer protections moving forward, highlighting the critical need for transparency, quality assurance, and corporate accountability in vehicle manufacturing.
