Automobile Protection Association

The Automobile Protection Association announced the filing of motions to authorize class actions against two automakers today, for failing to cover some of the costs related to recalls of their vehicles sold in Quebec. APA President, George Iny, says in Quebec an automaker has to pay for all the cost of a repair required to correct a known defect. The models concerned are 2000-2001 Chrysler minivans, and several 1999-2002 Honda and Acura vehicles.

The case against Chrysler covers an estimated 7750 people who were asked to pay for the cost of reconnecting remote car starters, antitheft devices and other aftermarket accessories when their 2001-2002 Caravan/Grand Caravan and Town and Country minivans were recalled to modify computer software that controls the air conditioning. The APA says Chrysler’s warranty practices have run afoul of Quebec’s consumer laws before; a Chrysler settlement with Quebec’s Office de la protection du consommateur (Consumer Protection Office) in the mid-1980’s was estimated to have cost the company 10 million dollars in refunds to consumers.

The lawsuit filed against Honda concerns approximately 23,000 owners and lessees of 1998-2000 Civics, and 1997-99 Accord and Prelude cars, CR-V sport utilities, and Odyssey minivans. Also concerned are several 1997-2000 Acura CL, EL and TL cars. Honda recalled the vehicles to correct a potential safety defect in the ignition system that could cause the vehicles to stall, but refused to pick up the tab for reconnecting antitheft systems, remote starters and radios. The APA says Honda’s failure to cover the antitheft devices is surprising, as several of the recalled vehicles have been among the top ten stolen models for many years. In some cases, the devices had been recommended by Honda dealers or insurance companies.

The lawsuits are being handled by Kugler Kandestin, and filed in the name of two consumers. In addition to reimbursement of any charges found to be illegal, Kugler Kandestin is also asking the court for $75 per person to cover lost time and inconvenience, and additional exemplary damages to discourage the companies from similar practices in the future. Consumers who wish to be included in a list can register on the APA web site using the following form or with the law firm at www.kugler-kandestin.com.