Volkswagen exploding sunroof class action advances.
Volkswagen exploding sunroof claims were given the green light by a federal judge on February 26, 2019. Specifically, the court rejected Volkswagen’s attempts to dismiss consumer protection and fraud claims, finding that the allegations were sufficient to demonstrate Volkswagen’s knowledge of the exploding sunroof problem in multiple models across multiple model years.
As proof of Volkswagen’s knowledge of the exploding sunroof defect, the court pointed to allegations concerning previous Audi recalls related to “shattering sunroofs;” a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration investigation in connection with the Audi recalls; and a voluntary recall of Volkswagen 2013-2015 VW Beetles with panoramic sunroofs. The case now moves to the “discovery” phase, which will allow a full examination of Volkswagen’s internal communications regarding the sunroof defect.
Which Volkswagen models have the sunroof defect?
According to the federal complaint, the following models may have the sunroof defect that causes them to explode or shatter:
- CC (2009–2010)
- Eos (2007–2016)
- Golf (2015–2017)
- GTI (2006–2015)
- Jetta (2005–2017)
- Passat (2012–2017)
- Rabbit (2006–2009)
- R32 Base (2008)
- Tiguan (2009–2017)
- Touareg (2004–2006 and 2011-2017)
My car is still under warranty. Will Volkswagen fix my sunroof?
Our experience is that Volkswagen will deny warranty claims based on exploding or shattering sunroofs by claiming that the sunroof shattered or exploded due to road debris. They will also suggest that you report the damage to your auto insurance company even if there is no evidence of damage due to road debris.
Should I wait for the outcome of the Volkswagen exploding sunroof class action or pursue my own individual case?
The outcome of the class action could take years. Even then, any settlement may not be sufficient to compensate consumers (if there even is a settlement, which at this point is speculative). Further, your state may or may not allow you to wait to file your own case if you don’t like the outcome of the class action. If your state does not recognize what is called “tolling” of the statute of limitations while a class action is pending, your individual claim could be barred.
How much does it cost to consult a lawyer?
Webster Book LLP offers a free consultation for Volkswagen exploding sunroof cases. If you would like to examine whether you have an individual claim, please fill out the form below or call us at 888-987-9991.
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On 3/6/20 driving 65 mph on the highway, my sunroof exploded. At first it sounded like a shotgun or a bomb explosion. I pulled over to the nearest gas station to notice my sunroof had shattered as glass was pouring onto myself, my puppy and my husband. There was no explainable answer as to what it had happened. There were no rocks or anything that could have caused this explosion. Also the damage looked as it was outward. I contacted Volkswagen manufacture and my nearest dealership and I was told “they had never heard of anything like this occurring and… Read more »