A class action lawsuit has been filed against 2 Suzuki dealerships in Alabama, the Shoals Suzuki in Sheffield and Suzuki of Huntsville, and their owner, Gary Linam. The suit, brought by 2 plaintiffs, alleges that closing the Shoals dealership is a breach of contract against customers who have outstanding warranties or service contracts.
The service program allegedly played a significant role in customers' decision to purchase cars from the dealerships, and many pre-paid for 3 years service in advance, at the time they bought their vehicles. Some people paid between $600 and $800 for a book of coupons that also entitles the purchaser to free oil changes.
According to one resident of Florence who purchased a car from the dealerships, the book also contained coupons for services like alignment checks, air filter replacement, brakes inspections, and wheel rotation and balance up to 36,000 miles.
While the lawsuit is just in the beginning phases, the plaintiffs could reportedly number in the thousands.
A manager of media relations with American Suzuki Motor Corporation commented that Suzuki dealers operate as independent business people, and that the car manufacturer has no control over what is sold beyond the car.
