In a compelling legal battle, a Louisiana resident has taken action against a prominent automobile manufacturer, alleging significant defects in a vehicle that was supposed to be covered by warranties. On April 10, 2025, Hali Berthelot filed a complaint in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana against Volvo Cars of North America, LLC. The lawsuit seeks to address issues related to alleged breaches of warranty and defects in a purchased vehicle.
Hali Berthelot's case revolves around the purchase of a new 2019 Volvo XC90 from Bergeron Volvo on July 20, 2019. According to the complaint, Berthelot contends that the vehicle exhibited numerous defects soon after purchase, including sunroof leaks, knocking sounds when braking, and air conditioning malfunctions. These issues were reportedly not resolved despite multiple repair attempts by authorized dealers. Berthelot claims these defects have significantly impaired the vehicle's use, value, and safety. The lawsuit accuses Volvo Cars of North America of breaching both express and implied warranties under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act and Louisiana Redhibition laws. The plaintiff argues that Volvo failed to deliver a defect-free vehicle as promised and did not adequately repair or replace it.
The legal action seeks several forms of relief from the court. Berthelot is asking for rescission of the sales contract under Louisiana Civil Code Art. 2545 due to undisclosed defects at the time of sale. Additionally, she demands compensation for out-of-pocket expenses related to repairs and diminished value of the vehicle. The complaint also requests civil penalties or punitive damages under applicable state laws if warranted by breach of warranty provisions.
Represented by attorney Richard C. Dalton from Scott, Louisiana, Hali Berthelot is pursuing general and special damages along with attorney fees and litigation costs. The case has been assigned Case ID 2:25-cv-00696 with no specific judge mentioned yet.