A proposed class action alleges an oil consumption defect in certain GM vehicles.
The lawsuit, filed earlier this month by proposed class representative and Missouri resident Rachel Buchholz, alleges the class vehicles have a design defect that makes them unable to properly utilize engine oil and burn off and/or consume abnormally high amounts of oil. Buchholz contends the oil pressure warning system, including the “Engine Oil Pressure Light” on the dashboard, fails to adequately warn drivers when the oil becomes critically low.
As asserted in the complaint, engine oil has important functions including serving as a necessary lubricant for moving parts within internal combustion engines, and the proper amount of oil is needed for the engine and related parts to function. The alleged defect may purportedly lead to problems such as engine stalling or shutdown, as well as the potential for engine fires.
Buchholz contends she had to pay nearly $2,000 toward the cost of an engine replacement to repair the alleged defect in her 2015 Chevrolet Equinox. Her lawsuit seeks to certify a class comprised of the following, with some exceptions: “All current and former owners or lessees of 2014 through 2017 model year Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain vehicles equipped with a 2.4 liter engine who reside in and/or purchased their vehicles in the State of Missouri.”
The lawsuit raises claims under the Missouri Merchandising Practices Act and seeks remedies including damages and attorney fees.
The case is Buchholz v. General Motors LLC, case number 5:2023-cv-06004, in the United States District Court for the Western District of Missouri.
