Quick Facts: VW's $15B Settlement
June 30, 2016
This week, Volkswagen agreed to pay about $15 billion to begin rectifying the diesel emissions scandal. There are still some details that need to be ironed out, but Consumer Reports has a nice summary of everything so far. I went ahead and highlighted the key facts below:
Settlement Summary
- VW will buyback, terminate leases, or fix affected vehicles.
- Covers 475,000 vehicles that contain 2.0 liter diesel engines
- Settlement DOES NOT cover 87,000 vehicles containing 3.0 liter diesel engines (those will be decided in a separate settlement)
Eligible Vehicles
- 2013-2015 VW Beetle
- 2010-2015 VW Golf
- 2009-2015 VW Jetta
- 2012-2015 VW Passat
- 2010-2013; 2015 Audi A3
Buyback & Lease Termination Options
- VW will buy back the vehicle at retail replacement value or higher (between $12,500 and $44,000 depending on model, mileage, etc)
- If the vehicle is leased, VW will offer a full termination as soon as vehicle is returned to dealer.
- VW will pay off any third-party loans, up to 130% of the amount the consumer is entitled under the buyback (this is to help cover anybody that is upside down on their loan)
- Buyback and lease termination offers will be available 15 days after settlement has been approved, and will remain open for at least 2 years.
Modification Options
- Fixes for the vehicles have not been ironed out yet. The remedy must be approved by the EPA prior to being made available to owners.
- VW is expected to announce fix options starting in November.
- If you choose to have your vehicle fixed, you will also receive between $5,000 and $10,000 for diminished value. (keep in mind the vehicle will have lower performance characteristics such as lower mpg and engine power)
My Recommendation for Car Shoppers
TrueCar No-Haggle, CarsDirect, and Ryde Shopper are the quickest way to see the lowest car prices in your area. These sites show you no-haggle prices from dealers closest to you - and the deals are usually really good. This should be the first step you take when negotiating your car price. Follow this up with my checklist to make sure you squeeze out every last bit of savings.- Gregg Fidan
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