In what may prove to be among the most extensive price-fixing class actions in U.S. history, private actions are now being brought on behalf of millions of individuals who purchased automobiles between 2000-2010. These actions come on the heels of a massive, still-unfolding antitrust investigation conducted by the U.S. Department of Justice ("DOJ"). DOJ has probed an alleged conspiracy by prominent auto parts manufacturers to artificially inflate the price of integral parts including engine starters, radiators, wire harnesses, and fuel senders.
In January 2013, guilty pleas were entered in the largest-ever criminal antitrust probe conducted by DOJ. Fines totaling $548 million were levied on corporations including:
• Denso Corp.
• Hitachi, Ltd.
• Hitachi Automotive Services Ltd.
• Mitsuba Corp.
• Mitsubishi Electric Corp.
Additionally, four executives from Japanese manufacturing companies are facing prison terms as a result of their participation in this price-fixing conspiracy.
Because of its alleged breadth, it is likely that U.S. consumers have been charged more for automobiles than they otherwise would have in the absence of these artificially inflated prices.
If you purchased an automobile between the years of 2000-2010, you are encouraged to contact Attorney Michael McShane at Audet and Partners, LLP at (800) 965-1461, or complete and submit our confidential inquiry form to the rights of this page.
antitrust - auto parts - class action - price fixingAudet & Partners represents individuals, governmental entities, small businesses and institutional shareholders in product liability, tort, negligence, consumer, construction defect, investment fraud, securities, insider trading, antitrust, environmental, whistle blower, aviation and employment cases. In recognition of their outstanding abilities and commitment to the legal profession over the years, the firm and its members have served as Court-appointed Plaintiffs’ Counsel in dozens of federal and state cases throughout the United States.
