Dodge Minivan Deal

Dodge Lawsuit

Well, it seems dragging an automaker into the courtroom actually worked for some Dodge minivan owners. After a class-action lawsuit focusing on defective door lock actuators, FCA (Fiat Chrysler Automobiles) has decided to settle. The settlement might be less about the justice and more about the attorneys celebrating with top-shelf liquor. Anyway, here’s what everyone needs to know.

The Case

The lawsuit was centered around the 2017 and 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan and claimed issues with sliding door lock actuators. Initially filed in July 2021, it highlighted problems that prevented the sliding doors from locking or unlocking effectively. While the issue was present in models as far back as 2013, the settlement only covers 2017-2018 vehicles. Owners of these specific years can now take advantage of an extended 10-year or 100,000-mile warranty for these door locks starting from when the vehicle was first under purchase or lease.

What’s in the Settlement?

For those who had to pay out of their own pocket for repairs between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017, they are eligible for reimbursement. The lead plaintiff involved in this frenzy gets a $3,000 payout for the time and effort, while their legal representatives pocket a cool $1.75 million. That’s one way to turn a legal scuffle into a lucrative payday.

Driving Experience

Driving a Grand Caravan, especially with the potential door lock hiccup resolved, remains as versatile as ever. Sure, it might not offer the sporty, tight-handling experience of a compact SUV or sedan, but for a minivan, it isn’t too shabby either. It’s designed for families and long road trips, providing ample room and decent comfort. The 283 horsepower it delivers is nothing to sneeze at for a vehicle of its class. Compared to something like the Honda Odyssey, the Grand Caravan might feel a little more basic inside, but it’s got all the essentials covered for a straightforward, practical ride.

Either way, the Grand Caravan continues to do what it does best—haul families and their gear across America’s main streets and freeways without fuss. This settlement might give owners a renewed peace of mind when piling everyone in for a long drive, knowing those locks are set to remain reliable—or at least someone’s paying if they aren’t.

Final Thoughts

While FCA denies wrongdoing, they settled the lawsuit with the extended warranty as a gesture of goodwill. Whether this fix is seen as rolling off FCA’s back or a welcomed relief for Dodge owners, these lawsuits tend to underscore how consumer complaints can lead to real action—sometimes it even inspires a courtroom drama along the way.