A Louisiana couple has taken legal action against a major automobile manufacturer, alleging significant defects in their newly purchased vehicle. On December 18, 2024, Oksana Dalton and Richard C. Dalton filed a complaint in the United States District Court for the Western District of Louisiana against FCA US LLC, known as Chrysler. The plaintiffs claim that the vehicle they purchased was riddled with defects that have not been adequately addressed by the manufacturer.
The case centers around a 2023 Jeep Wrangler purchased by the Daltons on January 28, 2023, from Sterling Automotive for $65,000. According to the complaint, the vehicle exhibited several defects soon after purchase, including safety issues with the battery and battery charger—problems that allegedly pose a fire risk and lack any available fix. Despite multiple attempts to have these issues resolved through authorized warranty service dealers, the Daltons assert that Chrysler failed to repair these significant and potentially dangerous conditions.
The Daltons argue that Chrysler breached both implied and express warranties by failing to deliver a defect-free vehicle or adequately repair it. They invoke Louisiana Civil Code Article 2545 concerning redhibition—a law that holds sellers accountable for knowingly selling defective products without disclosure—and seek rescission of their sales contract. The lawsuit also cites violations of the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, which provides federal protections for consumers regarding warranties on consumer products.
In addition to seeking rescission of their purchase contract and return of all associated costs—including finance charges and insurance premiums—the Daltons are pursuing damages for loss of use, diminished value of the vehicle, mental anguish, and attorney fees. They also request civil penalties or punitive damages due to Chrysler's alleged misconduct.
Representing themselves legally is Richard C. Dalton from Scott, Louisiana. The case is identified under Case ID: 6:24-cv-01762 with no specific judge mentioned at this stage.