Diesel Emissions Claims
Check Your Eligibility for Compensation After the Dieselgate Scandal
Diesel emissions claims allow car owners to seek compensation for being affected by the notorious Dieselgate scandal, where manufacturers used illegal software to manipulate emissions tests.
This deceit impacted millions of vehicles, leading to higher pollution, reduced vehicle values, and potential financial losses for owners.
This scandal, widely known as Dieselgate, involved car manufacturers like Volkswagen, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz intentionally installing defeat devices to cheat emissions tests, violating environmental and public health standards such as Euro 6 regulations.
By understanding your vehicle’s emissions history and legal standing, you can reclaim financial losses while supporting cleaner air initiatives.
In this article, we’ll explain the diesel scandal, its consequences for car owners, and how CarVeto can help you determine if your vehicle is eligible for compensation.
Let’s explore how to take action and potentially recover what you’re owed.
What is a Diesel Emissions Claim?
A diesel emissions claim lets vehicle owners seek compensation for the impact of the Dieselgate scandal.
Manufacturers used illegal software to pass emissions tests, causing cars to emit far more pollution than legally allowed.
The scandal, revealed in 2015, exposed that Volkswagen, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, and other manufacturers installed defeat devices in millions of diesel cars.
These devices led to excessive nitrogen oxide emissions, environmental damage, and a drop in vehicle value for owners.
By filing a claim, owners can recover financial losses, hold manufacturers accountable, and push for stricter emissions enforcement. If your vehicle is affected, you may be eligible for compensation.
Eligibility for Diesel Claims
To be eligible for a diesel emissions claim, your vehicle must meet certain criteria. The main factor is whether it was equipped with a defeat device, a software that allowed it to pass emissions tests while emitting more pollution than allowed by law.
Most affected vehicles were diesel models manufactured between 2009 and 2019, though some older models, such as Volkswagen or Audi diesel vehicles from the early 2000s, may also qualify.
Ownership of the vehicle at the time the scandal was uncovered in 2015 is also essential for filing a claim.
In addition to these factors, your claim may also depend on local air quality regulations, such as Euro 6 compliance standards and NOx emission limits.
Vehicles failing these standards often receive higher compensation due to greater environmental harm.
If you're unsure whether your car is affected, you can check the make, model, and year of your vehicle against known lists or consult with experts like CarVeto.
Filing a claim within the statutory time limit is crucial, as deadlines apply. The sooner you take action, the better your chances of securing compensation.
Affected Car Models
Several manufacturers were involved in the diesel emissions scandal, including Volkswagen, Audi, Porsche, and Mercedes-Benz. Key affected models include:
- Volkswagen: Golf, Passat, Jetta, Tiguan (2012-2015)
- Audi: A1, A3, A4, Q5 (2012-2015)
- Porsche: Cayenne (2013-2015)
- Mercedes-Benz: C-Class, E-Class (2012-2015)
To check if your vehicle is affected, use the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to verify through manufacturer websites, regulatory bodies, or consult CarVeto for a detailed check.
Legal Requirements for Filing a Claim
To file a diesel emissions claim, you must meet the following legal requirements:
- Proof of ownership: Logbook (V5C) or purchase agreement.
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN): Needed to verify vehicle details.
- Emissions test records: If available, to show emissions discrepancies.
- Proof of loss: Documentation showing the reduced value of your vehicle since the scandal.
- Group action deadlines: Check for any class action lawsuits or Group Litigation Orders (GLOs) deadlines. Missing these can significantly reduce or eliminate your potential compensation.
How to File a Diesel Emissions Claim
Filing a diesel emissions claim is straightforward when you follow the right steps.
Begin by confirming your vehicle is affected by the emissions scandal, either by checking the make, model, and year or consulting experts like CarVeto.
Start your Car Registration Verification.
Next, gather all necessary documents, including proof of ownership, your VIN, emissions test results, and any evidence of financial loss.
After that, submit your claim either through the manufacturer, a regulatory body, or with legal representation.
Finally, follow up to ensure your claim is processed and receive any compensation you’re entitled to.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Confirm Eligibility: Check if your vehicle is affected.
- Gather Documentation: Collect necessary paperwork (logbook, VIN, emissions results).
- Submit the Claim: File the claim through the relevant authority or with legal assistance.
- Follow Up: Stay in contact to track the progress of your claim.
- Receive Compensation: Once your claim is successful, collect your compensation.
Using Legal Services
Legal services can greatly simplify the process of filing a diesel emissions claim by providing expertise and handling complex legal procedures.
A law firm specialising in emissions claims can help identify whether your vehicle is affected, gather the necessary documentation, and submit the claim correctly and on time, reducing the risk of rejection or delays.
They can negotiate on your behalf to ensure the best possible outcome, as they have experience dealing directly with manufacturers and understand settlement strategies.
Pros and Cons of Using Legal Services
Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of using legal services to file your claim.
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Expertise: Legal professionals handle complex paperwork and procedures, increasing the chance of a successful claim. | Fees: Many firms charge a percentage of the compensation, reducing your final payout. |
Time-saving: They manage the entire process, freeing up your time and reducing stress. | Slower Process: Legal claims can take longer, especially if they involve court hearings. |
Higher Compensation: Lawyers can negotiate better settlements, maximising your compensation. | Limited Control: You may have less direct involvement in the claim process. |
No-win, no-fee: If you don’t win, you don’t pay, reducing financial risk. | Uncertainty: There's no guarantee of success, even with professional legal representation. |
DIY Claims: Pros and Cons
Filing a diesel emissions claim on your own can be a cost-effective option, as it eliminates the need for legal fees.
By handling the process yourself, you also have full control over your case, from gathering documents to submitting the claim.
For those who are comfortable with paperwork and legal procedures, this can be a straightforward and rewarding approach.
However, the DIY route does come with challenges. Legal processes can be complex, and making small mistakes or missing important details can delay your claim or reduce the compensation you receive.
The time and effort required to research eligibility, collect the necessary paperwork, and ensure deadlines are met can be overwhelming for some.
To increase your chances of success, it’s important to stay organised and proactive. Be thorough when gathering proof of ownership, VIN details, and emissions test records.
Make sure you understand the statute of limitations to avoid filing too late.
If you feel uncertain at any point, seeking advice from experts like CarVeto can help you avoid common pitfalls and make your claim stronger.
If you choose to file your claim independently, consider using CarVeto’s emissions claim calculator and conduct a Free Vehicle Check now.
This tool provides a tailored estimate of potential compensation based on your vehicle’s emissions level, model, and usage, helping you strengthen your case and avoid common errors.
Understanding Compensation for Diesel Claims
Compensation for diesel emissions claims can range from £1,000 to £10,000 or more, depending on factors like vehicle value, make, and model.
In most cases, payouts cover the reduced value of the vehicle, overpaid taxes, and sometimes penalties.
The amount you receive is influenced by factors such as the age and condition of your vehicle, as well as whether it was owned or leased during the scandal.
Additionally, local laws and specific settlement terms can affect your payout.
Providing solid evidence, like documentation of your car's reduced resale value or extra costs incurred, can help strengthen your claim.
For the best chance of maximising compensation, consulting experts like CarVeto ensure you gather all necessary information and meet claim requirements.
Factors Affecting Compensation
The compensation you receive from a diesel emissions claim is influenced by several factors, each contributing to the final payout.
These include the car model, vehicle usage, and emissions levels.
Additional considerations include clean air zone charges, future resale value restrictions, and possible tax penalties.
Accounting for these factors can increase the accuracy of your estimated compensation and strengthen your claim submission.
Car Model
- High-value models (e.g., Audi, Volkswagen, Porsche) tend to receive higher compensation due to their greater financial loss.
- Older models or cars with lower market value may see lower payouts, as the overall loss in value is less significant.
- Some brands may have more extensive legal settlements or compensation schemes, affecting the payout amount.
2. Vehicle Usage
- Cars that have been used more frequently or for long distances often show a greater reduction in resale value, leading to higher compensation.
- Urban usage can increase compensation. City driving leads to higher emissions and additional wear on the vehicle, which may result in greater financial loss.
- Low-mileage cars with careful usage may have a higher residual value, which results in lower compensation because their financial loss is smaller.
3. Emissions Levels
- Vehicles with higher-than-legal emissions levels generally lead to more significant claims, as the environmental and legal impact is greater.
- Defeat devices that allowed cars to pass emissions tests while emitting harmful pollutants can significantly increase the claim value, particularly when it is proven they deceived emissions regulators and caused greater environmental harm.
Examples and Scenarios:
- A Volkswagen Golf 2015 with low mileage and frequent city driving may qualify for a higher payout than a 2012 Jetta with high mileage and minimal urban usage.
- A Porsche Cayenne (2014) affected by high emissions could result in a larger claim than a Mercedes-Benz C-Class, as luxury cars typically experience more financial loss.
To estimate the compensation for your specific situation, use the compensation calculator tool here.
This can provide a personalised estimate based on your vehicle’s details.
For more information on how to maximise your claim, explore related articles on diesel emissions claims and claim strategies.
Benefits of Filing a Diesel Emissions Claim
Filing a diesel emissions claim not only offers financial rewards but also contributes to a cleaner environment.
By holding manufacturers accountable, car owners can receive compensation while also supporting efforts to reduce harmful emissions and protect the planet.
The financial benefits of these claims can help offset losses caused by decreased vehicle value, while the environmental impact of pursuing these claims promotes cleaner air and a more sustainable future.
In the long run, diesel emissions claims can benefit both your wallet and the environment.
Financial Benefits
Filing a diesel emissions claim can provide significant financial compensation, covering the reduction in your vehicle's resale value, overpaid taxes, or even potential penalties.
This compensation helps offset losses from owning an affected vehicle and can be used for future vehicle upgrades, repairs, or other financial needs.
To maximise your payout, make sure you gather all necessary documentation and submit a strong, well-supported claim.
Environmental Impact
By filing a claim, you are not only seeking compensation but contributing to reducing harmful emissions.
Holding manufacturers accountable pushes them to implement cleaner technologies, which helps promote sustainability and reduce air pollution.
Your participation in these claims can be seen as a small, meaningful step toward cleaner air and a healthier environment for future generations.
By filing a claim, you also support stricter enforcement of global environmental standards and help reduce climate change-related emissions, creating a broader impact beyond personal compensation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Diesel Claims
It is a legal claim for compensation by car owners whose vehicles were affected by the emissions scandal.
Eligibility depends on your car’s make, model, emissions levels, and whether it was fitted with a defeat device. Cars from affected manufacturers like Volkswagen, Audi, Porsche, and Mercedes-Benz are usually eligible. Check Your VIN, consult emissions standards such as Euro 6, and gather supporting documents.
First, confirm your vehicle’s eligibility using our Car Number Plate Check. Inspect emissions records and defeat device information. Then gather documents (proof of ownership, emissions test results, proof of value loss) and submit your claim directly to the manufacturer, through a group litigation order, or with legal assistance.
Compensation typically ranges from £1,000 to £10,000, depending on the car’s value, usage, and emissions levels.
Book Your Diesel Emissions Claim with CarVeto
Don't miss out on the compensation you deserve. CarVeto specialises in diesel emissions claims, providing expert support to make the process quick and simple.
Our team ensures your claim is fully supported, maximising your payout and taking care of all the details.
We also offer a dedicated emissions claim calculator and access to a network of legal experts with extensive experience in group diesel emissions claims, ensuring you get accurate estimates and the best possible support.
Why choose CarVeto?
- Expert Guidance: Navigate the claim process with ease.
- Maximise Compensation: We work to get you the best outcome.
- Stress-Free: We handle the paperwork, deadlines, and everything in between.