The class action alleges that the door handle and/or door locking mechanisms of these vehicles are affected by defects that may cause handles to jam, break or detach.
The lawsuit was authorized as a class action by the Quebec Superior Court in April 2024. Under the proposed settlement, FCA Canada Inc. will repair or replace affected door handles free of charge, subject to inspection.
If approved, the agreement will also provide all persons in Quebec who purchased or leased a Fiat 500 vehicle, model years 2012-2019, with 10 years of coverage from the vehicle’s in-service date.
Vehicles already over 10 years old when settlement approval notices are distributed will be provided one additional year of coverage from the date of such notice.
“There is no limit on the number of claims during the warranty period, however preventative inspections or repairs are not covered,” the release noted.
Additionally, the settlement provides for reimbursement of any costs previously incurred by class members for repairs related to the door handle issue, with supporting documentation.
The settlement approval hearing is scheduled for Feb. 16, 2026, at the Montreal Courthouse of the Quebec Superior Court.
Class members who wish to exclude themselves from the settlement must do so by Feb. 4, 2026. Any objections to the settlement must be submitted by Feb. 6, 2026.
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