PARIS: The French automaker Renault is bracing itself for a legal challenge as disgruntled customers are ready to lodge a criminal complaint against the company next week. The issue centers around allegations of defects in the company’s all 1.2-liter, four-cylinder gasoline / 1.2 TCE engine that was installed in around 400,000 vehicles across Europe.
The complaint, set to be filed with the Nanterre criminal court, encompasses a range of accusations including “aggravated deceit, questionable business practices, fraud, and endangering the life of others.” This move comes after failed negotiations between Renault and the complainants over the alleged faulty engines.
Christophe Leguevaques, the attorney representing the group, indicated that the initial complaint will be lodged on behalf of several dozen people. He added that many more Renault and Dacia owners, as well as those of partner Nissan, are expected to join the suit. It will be at the discretion of the prosecutors to determine whether to initiate a formal investigation.
The customer complaints revolve around excessive oil consumption, with some claimants alleging that Renault should have initiated a recall once the issue came to light. “These cars are like cancers,” one disgruntled customer told local press.
In response to the allegations, Renault admitted that around 133,050 vehicles in France may have been affected by the issue. However, the company asserts that there is no safety risk – a point vehemently disputed by the group of complainants.
In anticipation of the looming legal action, a Renault spokesperson stated, “The Renault Group never stopped and continues reviewing demands that it is receiving.” The spokesperson emphasized that the company has been providing technical assistance and financial support to affected customers, and the demands made by customers have been addressed to the best of the company’s abilities.
Nissan, which shares a partnership with Renault and produces some models in collaboration, also expressed its commitment to supporting customers who may be experiencing engine-related problems. The company pledged to provide assistance under their warranty and customer support policies for issues such as engine noise, misfiring, low power, and excessive oil consumption.
However, some customers claim that neither Renault nor Nissan have adequately addressed their complaints. “We were treated like a common number,” one customer lamented in French. “No offer of support, even partial, has been made to us,” she added.
The potential legal battle could have serious implications for Renault, with the possibility of severe penalties if found guilty of the alleged offenses. The case underscores the challenges faced by automakers in managing customer complaints and addressing product defects effectively.
The filing of the complaint is a significant milestone in this ongoing dispute, marking a new phase in the battle between Renault and its dissatisfied customers.
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