Caterpillar Reaches $60 Million Settlement In Engine Defect Suit

Caterpillar will pay out $60 million as part of a settlement in a class action lawsuit over defects in their ACERT C13 and C15 engines.

The class action suit includes engines manufactured from 2006 through 2009.

Defect Reportedly Caused Loss Of Horsepower And Shut Down

Problems with emission control systems in the engine, referred to as the CAT Regeneration Systems (CRS), caused numerous trucks and busses to lose horsepower and shut down. After the loss of power, the engines required repair at a Caterpillar dealership. The suit alleges that Caterpillar technicians were unable to effectively repair the defect.

Caterpillar does not accept blame for the defect, but they say the the settlement is a “realistic resolution” and a preferred alternative to continuing litigation.

Settlement Provides Several Tiers Of Payout Options

The settlement offers a variety of compensation options based on how many CRS related engine repairs were performed. Settlement class members who required six or more engine repairs could receive a maximum $10,000 payment. Those who needed one to five engine repairs are eligible for a maximum $5000 payout. Class members who did not require engine repair can still receive a $500 payout to compensate for lost residual value.

Those who have had to seek out more than one CRS related engine repairs can choose to opt out of the class action settlement and seek reimbursement for losses up to $15,000.

The deadline to file a claim is March 20, 2017. To learn more or to get started filing a claim, click here.

Sources:
Transport Topics Online
American Journal of Transportation