When evaluating vehicles, critical aspects such as performance, fuel efficiency, reliability, and cost-effectiveness often top the list—but safety remains the most vital. Unfortunately, even trusted automakers like General Motors (GM) sometimes face defects that lead to legal disputes.
In one such case, a class action lawsuit has led to a settlement, and some eligible vehicle owners could receive up to $875. Here’s everything you need to know to determine your eligibility and claim your compensation.
Background of the GM Class Action Lawsuit
What Triggered the Settlement?
General Motors, the American automotive giant known for brands like Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, and Cadillac, has faced legal challenges over a manufacturing flaw. Despite GM’s mission to achieve “zero crashes, zero emissions, and zero congestion,” a shifter defect led to a major issue called the “Shift to Park” problem.
According to the lawsuit’s plaintiffs, the defective shifter prevented drivers from turning off their vehicles properly and caused other malfunctions. GM denied any wrongdoing but agreed to a class action settlement to resolve these allegations.
Who Is Eligible for the Settlement?
List of Affected Vehicles
According to ClassAction.org, the following groups may qualify:
Ohio Residents
- 2017–2019 GMC Acadia
- 2019 Chevrolet Blazer
- 2016–2019 Chevrolet Malibu
- 2018–2019 Chevrolet Traverse
- 2016–2019 Chevrolet Volt
Tennessee Residents
- 2017–2018 GMC Acadia
Repair Requirements for Reimbursement
You may qualify if:
- You requested a repair for the shifter issue at a GM dealership during the warranty period
- You did not receive a repair, or the repair didn’t involve a silicon-free replacement shifter assembly or shifter control wire harness
Note: Eligibility for reimbursement also depends on the type of repair and whether warranty records exist.
Settlement Benefits and Payment Structure
Two Tiers of Compensation
Reimbursement Type | Eligibility Criteria | Amount |
---|---|---|
Cash Payment | Co-owners or co-lessees with warranty data | Up to $500 |
Out-of-Pocket Reimbursement | Owners with repair expenses outside warranty documentation | Up to $375 |
Automatic vs. Manual Claims
- Those who appear in warranty records will be automatically compensated.
- Others must submit a valid claim form with proof by the August 19, 2025 deadline.
Important Deadlines You Must Know
- Claim Submission Deadline: August 19, 2025
- Objection/Exclusion Deadline: July 21, 2025
- Final Approval Hearing: August 22, 2025
Following final court approval, payments are expected to be distributed in the weeks afterward. Stay vigilant and ensure your paperwork is submitted on time.
This GM class action settlement offers an opportunity for affected vehicle owners and lessees to receive meaningful compensation—up to $875—for a defective shifter issue.
Whether you receive a cash payment or a reimbursement for repair expenses, this could serve as a small victory for those impacted. Make sure to verify your eligibility, gather your documentation, and submit your claim before the deadline.
FAQs
What caused the “Shift to Park” problem?
The issue stems from a defective shifter that failed to recognize when the vehicle was in park, preventing the car from shutting off properly.
Do I need to submit a claim to receive compensation?
If your details are in GM’s warranty records, no action is needed. Others must submit a claim form with supporting documents.
When will I receive my payment?
Payments will likely begin a few weeks after the final court approval hearing on August 22, 2025.