The Allegations
Renault customers, joined by Nissan and Dacia owners who share the same 1.2-liter engine, firmly believe that the automakers should have taken swift action to address the engine defect. The owners argue that the excessive oil consumption issue poses a serious threat to the longevity and reliability of their vehicles, thereby undermining the overall driving experience and potentially diminishing resale values. Consequently, a criminal complaint is set to be filed at the Nanterre criminal court in France on behalf of several dozen people. The lawyer representing the group of customers, Christophe Leguevaques, asserts that the complaint will allege "aggravated deceit, questionable business practices," fraud, and endangering the lives of others.
Renault's Response
Renault, on the other hand, maintains that while the 1.2-liter engine may consume higher amounts of oil than anticipated, it does not compromise the safety of the affected vehicles. Consequently, the automaker has chosen not to issue a recall, opting instead to provide technical support and financial assistance to those impacted by the engine problem. Renault states that approximately 133,050 vehicles in France are affected by this issue. Additionally, the company contends that it has been engaging in discussions with the plaintiffs to address their concerns, but these negotiations have not yielded satisfactory results. As a result, the discontented owners have decided to escalate their complaint to the criminal court.
Legal Implications and Possible Outcomes
The decision to pursue legal action against Renault raises questions regarding the potential consequences for the car manufacturer. While the criminal court will ultimately decide whether a formal investigation should be launched, the allegations of "aggravated deceit" and "questionable business practices" carry significant weight. If the court decides to investigate, Renault may face substantial fines and potential damage to its reputation. Furthermore, a successful criminal prosecution could establish a precedent for future cases involving similar claims against automobile manufacturers.
Customer Support from Renault and Nissan
In response to the mounting pressure, Renault has emphasized that it is committed to assisting affected customers by providing technical support and financial aid. Similarly, Nissan, which shares the 1.2-liter engine with Renault, has pledged its support to customers experiencing issues related to engine noise, misfiring, low power, or excessive oil consumption under its warranty and customer support policies. Both companies appear determined to address customer concerns and mitigate any adverse impact on their brands.
Source: Reuters
