A new lawsuit against BMW claims a brake defect exists in certain vehicles. The alleged defect is in the “M Compound” brakes found in BMW models including the 2020 M8 convertible.
According to the plaintiff, Alber Karamanoukian, the brake system “generates an extremely loud, high-pitched squealing noise” when the brakes are applied. He contends this alleged defect causes problems including distracting drivers and nearby pedestrians. In addition, he says, consumers won’t know when the brakes actually need to be fixed, if the brakes are always squeaking and squealing. For instance, they might overlook a need to replace worn-out brake pads, thinking the associated squealing is just a normal noise from the defect.
As further alleged in the complaint, BMW began selling vehicles with the defective brakes in or around 2013. And, Karamanoukian alleges, BMW has known of the defect through avenues including customer complaints, dealership repair records, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration records, warranty claims, and pre-sale durability testing, but has failed to notify consumers of the defect or provide an adequate remedy.
The lawsuit raises claims including fraud and deceit, breach of warranty, and violation of California consumer, unfair competition, and false advertising laws. Karamanoukian seeks remedies including damages and restitution.
The case is Karamanoukian v. BMW of North America, LLC, et. al, case number 2:21-cv-05985, in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California.
