San Diego, California – Richard Wirtz, the founding attorney of Wirtz Law, is advising owners of 2010-2013 Chevrolet Equinox vehicles to consider opting out of a recently approved class action settlement with General Motors (GM) to potentially secure greater compensation for their losses. The $42 million settlement, approved by a federal judge in Florida, aims to address claims that certain GM vehicles suffer from an oil consumption defect due to malfunctioning piston rings.

While the class action settlement offers various remedies, including free-piston assembly replacements and reimbursements for repairs, Wirtz emphasizes that these solutions may not fully compensate for the individual damages incurred by vehicle owners. “The Class Action may not provide for payment of all your damages,” lemon law attorney, Wirtz stated. He underscores that potential damages and recovery under California lemon law can often exceed the benefits offered in a class action settlement.

The class action settlement includes free piston assembly replacements at authorized dealerships for owners of 2010-2012 models, and reimbursement claims for those who previously paid for repairs. Similar provisions are available for 2013 models. Despite these benefits, Wirtz argues that individual lawsuits can secure more comprehensive compensation compared to the class action settlement under the California Lemon Laws.

California’s lemon law allows for civil penalties that can amount to up to two times an owner’s actual damages, presenting a significant financial advantage for those who choose to opt out of the class action. Wirtz Law is offering free consultations to help California-based Chevy Equinox owners evaluate whether opting out of the class action is a more advantageous strategy to recover their losses.

By opting out, vehicle owners may have the opportunity to pursue individual claims that could result in more substantial financial recovery, including compensation for diminished vehicle value, loss of use, and additional repairs. Wirtz Law encourages Chevy Equinox owners to explore their options to ensure they receive the most comprehensive compensation available.

Wirtz Law also takes on the full risk of pursuing the claim and their legal fees are paid out by the auto manufacturer. A lemon law lawsuit with the firm carries no financial risks for the client and they will receive all of the compensation.

Wirtz Law is standing by to provide a free case evaluation to California Chevrolet Equinox owners.

The GM Chevrolet Equinox SUV Oil Consumption Defect Class Action Lawsuits are Ellen Berman, et al. v. General Motors LLC, Case No. 2:18-cv-14371, in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida; Hindsman, et al. v. General Motors LLC, Case No. 3:17-cv-05337, in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California; and Sanchez, et al. v. General Motors LLC, Case No. 1:18-cv-02536, in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois.