Drivers Clash Over Consolidation Site Of Fiat Gearshift MDL

Carmaker Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and groups of plaintiffs suing it over an alleged gearshift defect sparred Monday over where to centralize the many class actions, with some parties arguing for Michigan — the heart of the American automotive industry — and some for Colorado, a central location where the claims allegedly include the type that gets chosen for bellwethers.

The Wall, Maneotis and Malone classes are represented by Steve Berman and Thomas Loeser of Hagens Berman Sobol Shapiro LLP. read more »

NHTSA proposes digital recall notices to increase repair rates

Automakers would be required to notify owners of vehicle recalls electronically through emails, text messages or other digital tools under a rule change proposed by U.S. auto safety regulators to increase the rate of repairs.

Recall notices sent via first-class mail would still be required, but under the proposal, automakers would be able to choose the “electronic means they feel are most effective” in order to maximize the number of repairs in a recall campaign, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. read more »

Chevrolet SS and Caprice PP for seatbelt issue

There’s a big shadow cast over safety systems in our cars as of late – mostly due to the millions of airbags recalled by Takata and its automotive partners – but it appears some automakers have issues with other safety elements as well.

The National Highway Transport Safety Administration (NHTSA) has recently announced a recall for Chevrolet SS and Chevrolet Caprice Police Pursuit models.