Over the last several years, we have heard more and more about “Price Fixing” and associated lawsuits.
One of the biggest coming to mind (that is still in the works) is the Loblaws Bread Price Fixing of 2017.
Recently coming to light is a series in Auto Parts Class Actions (approximately 40 ongoing cases) in which it is alleged the price-fixing of specific auto parts in Canada resulted in consumers overpaying for vehicles.
The first of the Class Actions, related to Wire Harnesses, has been settled and the funds are ready for distribution, anticipating all claims will receive a minimum $25 payout.
Who Can Apply?
If you purchased or leased a new Honda/Acura, Nissan/Infiniti, Toyota/Lexus, Subaru or Pontiac Vibe between January 1, 1999 and November 30, 2014 you are eligible to file a claim.
If you purchased/leased multiple vehicles in this time frame you can claim each eligible vehicle, even if you have subsequently sold it.
Please note, no wrongdoing is alleged against these brands – it is the manufacturers/suppliers of the parts that are in question.
What Proof Do I Need?
The claims administrator has been provided with sales records from Honda, Nissan, Toyota, Subaru and GM to establish vehicle purchases.
When filing out the claim form, if you are part of this class, your information should be prepopulated within the form. If you believe you are a part of this claim and your information does not prepopulate, you can still submit a claim declaring the make, model & year of eligible vehicles purchased/leased.
No proof is necessary unless your claim is selected for audit. If selected you will have 30 days to provide documentary proof of purchase/lease.
How & When Do I Get Paid?
During the registration process, you will provide an email address to which an e-transfer will be sent. If no email address is provided, a check will be mailed.
It can take up to a year following the claims deadline to receive your refund.
MORE: New Rexall Loyalty Rewards Program Coming
What About The Other Class Actions?
In addition to the Wire Harness Class Action Settlements, settlements have been reached with all defendants in Air Flow Meters, Electronic Control Units, Fan Motors, Fuel Senders, Power Window Motors and Windshield Washer Systems class actions. The settlements are still being finalized.
As additional cases get resolved, it is likely that they will relate to the same brands and years covered by the Automotive Wire Harness case.
As part of the claim form, you will be asked to consent to your information being retained by the Claims Administrator for use in future distributions. This will make it easier for you to apply for payments in those future distributions.
Deadlines
You have until June 12, 2020 to complete the Automotive Wire Harness claim form.
Failing to register for the Automotive Wire Harness class action may make you ineligible to receive settlement benefits in future related claims.
