In a legal showdown that could resonate with many car owners, a Pennsylvania resident has filed a lawsuit against a major automobile manufacturer, alleging violations of consumer protection laws. On April 4, 2024, Rupinder Singh Dhillon initiated legal proceedings in the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, targeting General Motors LLC for failing to honor warranties and selling a defective vehicle.
The case centers around Dhillon's purchase of a new 2024 Chevrolet Corvette from Ciocca Chevrolet in New Jersey. Despite assurances from General Motors regarding the vehicle's quality and performance, Dhillon claims the car has been plagued by significant mechanical issues since its acquisition. According to the complaint, the vehicle experienced transmission problems shortly after purchase, rendering it "substantially impaired" and "worthless" for its intended use. Dhillon's legal counsel argues that these defects violate both express and implied warranties provided by General Motors.
Dhillon's lawsuit invokes several statutes, including the Pennsylvania Automobile Lemon Law and the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Improvement Act. The former mandates manufacturers to replace or refund vehicles that fail to meet promised standards after reasonable repair attempts. The complaint details multiple unsuccessful repair efforts by authorized dealers to fix persistent transmission issues—efforts that left the vehicle out of service for extended periods. As per Section 1955 of the Lemon Law, if repairs are ineffective after reasonable attempts, manufacturers must offer a replacement or refund.
Furthermore, Dhillon accuses General Motors of engaging in unfair trade practices under Pennsylvania law. The complaint alleges deceptive conduct on part of General Motors by misrepresenting the vehicle’s condition and failing to provide necessary repairs despite contractual obligations. "The nonconformities described violate the express written warranties issued," states the complaint, highlighting how these actions contravene consumer protection laws designed to safeguard buyers from such malpractices.
Seeking redressal through this lawsuit, Dhillon demands reimbursement equivalent to the vehicle's purchase price along with all associated costs such as collateral charges and attorney fees. Additionally, he seeks compensation for damages incurred due to General Motors' alleged negligence in addressing warranty obligations.
Representing Rupinder Singh Dhillon is attorney Robert M. Silverman from Kimmel & Silverman P.C., while no specific defense attorneys have been listed for General Motors LLC at this stage. The case is presided over by judges at the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County under Case ID CVPDD008S365F323.