Is My Diesel Claim Legit? A Comprehensive Guide for 2024

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Has the recent diesel emissions scandal left you questioning, “is my diesel claim legit?” You’re not alone. Thousands of diesel vehicle owners have been affected by this alarming development, leaving many unsure of what steps to take next.

In this comprehensive guide, we unravel the complexities of the diesel emissions scandal, help you identify affected vehicles, and walk you through the process of filing a diesel claim. Stay informed and protect your interests as we delve into this critical issue for 2024.

Key takeaways – Is my diesel claim legit

• Understand the Diesel Emissions Scandal and identify affected vehicles.

• Evaluate claim legitimacy by confirming vehicle eligibility for compensation, joining a group ‘no win, no fee’ claim with a reputable law firm and understanding deadlines.

• Consider legal costs & risks before filing your diesel emissions claim to maximise chances of success.

• Ultimately attempt to answer the question “is diesel claim legitimate”

Affected Vehicles: Affected vehicles typically include diesel cars and vans manufactured between 2009 and 2020 by various brands such as VW, Mercedes, Audi, and others. It’s important to check if your vehicle is on the list of affected models, as this is a primary factor in determining the legitimacy of your claim.

Filing a Diesel Claim: To file a diesel claim, you’ll need to provide your chosen law firm with essential information such as vehicle registration, proof of ownership, and any other relevant documents. Joining a group legal claim, often on a ‘no win, no fee’ basis, can be a prudent approach. Be aware of deadlines set by the courts, as missing these could invalidate your claim.

Complexities of the Diesel Emissions Scandal: The diesel emissions scandal is complex, involving intricate legal and technical issues. It’s crucial to understand that not all vehicles from the scandal period are affected, and eligibility for compensation will depend on specific criteria set by the legal proceedings.

Understanding the diesel emissions scandal

In 2014, the International Council on Clean Transportation revealed a shocking truth about diesel engines: car manufacturers had been using cheat devices to manipulate emissions tests, leading to higher real-world emissions. This revelation, now known as the diesel emissions scandal, sparked global outrage and led to more rigorous emissions tests being implemented in 2017.

At the heart of the scandal were “defeat devices,” which activated emissions controls only during testing, allowing vehicles to meet emissions standards in the lab but emit significantly higher levels of nitrogen oxides in real-world driving conditions. Among the implicated car manufacturers were:

• Volkswagen (VW)

• Audi

• BMW

• Ford

These companies not only misled consumers but also the emissions regulations contributed to increased air pollution and potential public health risks.

Identifying affected vehicles

Identifying vehicles affected by emissions issues, particularly those involved in notable emissions scandals or subject to recall due to failing to meet legal emissions standards, can be complex.

The most well-known case is the Volkswagen (VW) Dieselgate scandal, where VW admitted to using software in diesel vehicles to cheat on emissions tests. However, other manufacturers have also faced scrutiny and legal action regarding emissions compliance.

Below is a general outline of how to identify affected vehicles and an example list focusing on the VW Dieselgate for illustration, as the specific lists can vary widely between different manufacturers and issues.

How to Identify Affected Vehicles

1. Manufacturer Announcements: Manufacturers are required to announce recalls and compliance actions, including lists of affected models and production years.
2. Regulatory Bodies: Environmental and automotive regulatory agencies in various countries (such as the EPA in the United States, the European Environment Agency in the EU, etc.) publish information on non-compliance and recalls.
3. Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Checks: Many manufacturers and regulatory agencies offer online tools where owners can enter their vehicle’s VIN to check if it is affected by any emissions issues or recalls.
4. Legal Notices: Class action lawsuits and legal settlements often include detailed lists of affected models and years.

Example: VW Dieselgate Affected Vehicles

The VW Dieselgate scandal primarily involved diesel vehicles sold under the Volkswagen, Audi, Skoda, and Seat brands that were equipped with the Type EA189 diesel engine. Below is an illustrative list of affected models, which is not exhaustive but covers some of the key models implicated:

Volkswagen

• Golf (2009-2015)
• Beetle (2009-2015)
• Passat (2009-2015)
• Jetta (2009-2015)

Audi

• A3 (2009-2015)
• A4 (2008-2015)
• A6 (2008-2015)
• Q5 (2008-2015)

Skoda

• Octavia (2009-2015)
• Superb (2009-2015)
• Fabia (2009-2015)

Seat

• Leon (2009-2015)
• Ibiza (2009-2015)
• Toledo (2009-2015)

Checking Specific Vehicles

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on specific vehicles affected by emissions issues:

• Visit the manufacturer’s official website and look for any emissions compliance or recall notices.
• Use the VIN check tools provided by manufacturers or regulatory agencies.
• Consult the official websites of environmental or automotive regulatory bodies in your country for lists of affected vehicles and compliance notices.

Given the varying nature of emissions issues across different manufacturers and models, and the potential for new information to emerge, it’s crucial to consult specific, current resources for identifying affected vehicles.

Other Manufacturers include:

• BMW

• Citroen

• Fiat

• Ford

• Hyundai

• Jaguar

• Kia

• Land Rover

• Mercedes-Benz

• Nissan

• Peugeot

• Porsche

• Renault

• Suzuki

• Vauxhall

• Volvo

This has had a lasting impact on public opinion of other manufacturers of diesel vehicles, including diesel cars. If you owned a diesel vehicle produced by any of these manufacturers between 2007 and 2020, you might be eligible for a diesel claim.

Not all diesel vehicles are affected, even if they fall within the mentioned range of years. Do you think you might be eligible for compensation? Our vehicle reg check can help you quickly ascertain this. Give it a try now! By doing so, you can take the first step towards seeking justice and compensation for the damages caused by the diesel emissions scandal.

What are the diesel emissions limits within Europe

Diesel emissions limits are set to regulate the amount of pollutants that diesel engines can emit. These pollutants include nitrogen oxides (NOx), particulate matter (PM), hydrocarbons (HC), carbon monoxide (CO), and carbon dioxide (CO2). Emissions limits vary by region, type of vehicle or engine, and over time as regulations become stricter to protect air quality and public health. Here are the general standards for some major regions:

European Union (Euro Standards)

The European Union has implemented a series of Euro standards for vehicles, including diesel cars, trucks, and buses. The Euro 6 standard, which is the most stringent for diesel passenger cars, requires:

• NOx: 80 mg/km
• PM: 4.5 mg/km for direct injection engines, with a particle number limit of 6.0×10^11 particles/km

Assessing your diesel claim’s legitimacy

Understanding the dieselgate scandal, identifying affected vehicles, and knowing the eligibility criteria for compensation are important factors in assessing the legitimacy of your diesel claim. While some car manufacturers like VW, Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz have faced legal action due to their involvement in the emissions scandal, it is crucial to verify your diesel car’s eligibility for compensation.

Checking compensation eligibility

To be eligible for making a diesel claim, you must be a registered owner or keeper of a diesel vehicle manufactured between 2007 and 2020 in England, Wales, or Northern Ireland. It doesn’t matter if you purchased or leased the vehicle; as long as you had possession of at least one vehicle or van within the mentioned period and it was not bought outside the UK, you can submit or make a claim.

You can use our vehicle reg check to determine your compensation eligibility. It’s easy and fast. By providing the necessary information, you can quickly find out if your diesel vehicle is eligible for a claim and take the appropriate steps towards seeking compensation.

Checkout our informative blogpost on protecting yourself from BT scams

Filing a diesel emissions claim: The process

Filing a diesel emissions claim involves joining a group claim against vehicle manufacturers, typically on a ‘no win, no fee’ basis, through a reputable law firm. Group claims are advantageous because they allow individuals to band together, increasing their chances of success and reducing the financial burden of litigation.

Choosing a reputable law firm with experience in diesel emissions claims should be a priority before filing a claim. These legal firms can guide you through the process and ensure that your legal rights are protected. Additionally, most law firms offer a 14-day ‘cooling-off period,’ during which you can cancel the claim without incurring legal costs.

Timeframe for diesel emissions claims

Diesel emissions claims can be a lengthy process, taking years to settle due to legal processes and the complexity of the cases. The duration may vary depending on the strength of the claim and the law firm used. For example, a claim related to a diesel emissions issue discovered years after the vehicle’s purchase may require a longer resolution period than a claim for a more recent issue.

Diesel vehicle owners should ensure they are aware of the specific deadlines for filing a claim, as these may vary depending on the car model and manufacturer. Being aware of these timeframes can help you plan accordingly and ensure that your claim is filed within the required period.

Potential compensation amounts

The compensation amounts for diesel claims are unpredictable and can vary significantly, with no fixed sum guaranteed. Factors affecting compensation amounts include the nature of the claim, the car or vehicle manufacturer being involved, and the legal firm representing the claimants.

For example, in May 2022, the VW group settled a claim out of court for £193 million. However, the individual compensation amounts for petitioners remain undetermined due to the subtracted charges and costs. This settlement illustrates the uncertainty in predicting the exact compensation amounts for diesel claims, emphasising the need to evaluate each case on its merits and consult with a legal professional for more precise information.

Preparing to sell your diesel car

Given the impact the diesel emissions scandal has had on the automotive industry, understanding the evolving Clean Air Zones and emissions standards in the UK before 2035 is key to preparing for selling your diesel car. By being aware of these alterations, you can make informed decisions regarding the sale of your vehicle, reduce emissions, and its potential value in the market.

When selling your diesel car, make sure to gather all necessary documentation, such as the title, registration, and any other relevant paperwork. Additionally, research the current market value of your vehicle by consulting online resources such as Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds. By taking these steps, you can effectively prepare to sell your diesel car and navigate the changing automotive landscape.

Choosing the right law firm

The success of your diesel claim largely depends on selecting the right law firm. To choose a reputable law firm with experience in diesel emissions claims, consider researching the company and checking reviews and accreditation.

Law firms representing consumers in the UK diesel emissions scandal include Hagens Berman UK, Keller Lenkner UK, Leigh Day, Milberg London, PGMBM, and Slater & Gordon. They are helping those affected by the scandal to fight for their right..

Evaluate a law firm’s expertise by considering the following factors:

• The qualifications and experience of its lawyers

• The firm’s success rate in similar cases

• Any awards and recognition it has received

• The firm’s resources, such as the size of the firm, the number of lawyers and personnel, and the technology and tools employed

By carefully considering these factors, you can confidently choose the right law firm to represent your company car and diesel claim.

Understanding the risks and legal costs

Being aware of the potential risks and legal costs is important before starting the diesel claim journey. Although most law firms operate on a ‘no win, no fee’ basis, some may charge legal fees if you withdraw from the claim after the cooling-off period.

Additionally, there is no guarantee of success in a diesel claim, and payouts can be reduced by the court. Diesel vehicle owners should weigh the potential benefits and drawbacks of pursuing a claim, considering factors such as the strength of their case, the law firm chosen, and the potential financial and emotional costs involved.

Navigating the claim process

To successfully navigate the diesel claim process, start by providing the necessary information to your chosen law firm, such as your vehicle registration, proof of ownership, and any other pertinent documents. This information will help your legal team build a strong case on your behalf.

Maintain open communication with your law firm throughout the process, understanding the legal steps involved and seeking clarification when needed. By staying informed and actively participating in your claim, you can increase the likelihood of a successful outcome and ensure your interests are well-represented.

Diesel claim payout expectations

Although some claimants have reportedly received average payouts of around £2,100, remember that compensation amounts can vary and are not guaranteed. Factors affecting payout amounts include the car manufacturer involved, the strength of your claim, how much compensation is, and the law firm representing your case.

In light of the uncertainty surrounding diesel claim payouts, consider if the process merits the potential financial and emotional costs involved, if you undertake a legal claim. Consult with a legal professional or claims service for more precise information on potential compensation amounts and weigh the pros and cons before proceeding with a claim.

Summary

In conclusion, understanding the diesel emissions scandal, identifying affected vehicles, and assessing your diesel claim’s legitimacy are crucial steps towards seeking compensation. By choosing the right law firm and carefully navigating the claim process, you can increase the likelihood of a successful outcome.

While diesel claim payouts can take years to receive and may be reduced by the court, it is essential to consider if the process is worth the effort. Stay informed, protect your interests, and make informed decisions as you navigate the complex landscape of diesel emissions claims in 2023.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. GOV.UK: Vehicle Emission Standards

• URL: GOV.UK Vehicle Emission Standards
• Description: The official government website provides comprehensive information about vehicle emission standards in the UK, including diesel vehicles.

2. Citizens Advice

• URL: Citizens Advice Consumer Rights
• Description: Citizens Advice offers guidance on consumer rights, including those related to vehicle purchases and claims.

3. The Motor Ombudsman

• URL: The Motor Ombudsman
• Description: As a government-backed self-regulatory body for the motoring industry, this site offers information about dispute resolution and codes of practice in the automotive sector.

4. Which? Consumer Rights

• URL: Which? Consumer Rights – Cars
• Description: Which? provides detailed consumer advice and information related to cars, including legal rights, claims, and what to expect from retailers.

5. The Financial Ombudsman Service

• URL: The Financial Ombudsman Service
• Description: If the claim involves car finance or insurance, this service helps in resolving disputes and providing impartial information on what one is entitled to claim.

Jon Cosson

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With over three decades of experience in the heart of London’s financial sector, I have dedicated my career to the pursuit of robust cybersecurity practices and IT leadership. As a Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), Certified Chief Information Security Officer (C|CISO), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), and Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator (CHFI), I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table.

My journey in the field of cybersecurity has not only been about personal growth but also about sharing my insights with others. As an international speaker, I have had the privilege of addressing audiences worldwide, discussing the importance of cybersecurity in today’s digital age. My passion for knowledge sharing extends to my work as an author and blogger, where I delve into the complexities of cybersecurity, offering practical advice and thought leadership.

In my role as a CISO and Head of IT, I have overseen the development and implementation of comprehensive information security and IT strategies. My focus has always been on creating resilient systems capable of withstanding the evolving landscape of cyber threats.

My Master’s degree in Cybersecurity has provided a solid academic foundation, which, when combined with my practical experience, allows me to approach cybersecurity from a holistic perspective.

I am always open to connecting with other professionals in the field, sharing knowledge, and exploring new opportunities. Let’s secure the digital world together.

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