A legal battle has erupted as two California residents have taken a major automobile corporation to court over allegations of defective vehicle sales. On March 25, 2025, Rosario Sanchez and Cristina Gabriela Sanchez filed a complaint in the Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco, against Volkswagen Group of America Inc., claiming violations of consumer protection laws.
The plaintiffs, Rosario Sanchez and Cristina Gabriela Sanchez, allege that they purchased a 2023 Audi E-Tron from Volkswagen Group of America Inc., which was riddled with defects. According to the complaint, the vehicle failed to conform to express written warranties within a reasonable number of repair attempts or warranty periods. The plaintiffs argue that these defects substantially impair the use, value, and safety of the vehicle. "Defendants violated the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act by failing to promptly replace the vehicle or make restitution," the complaint states. The plaintiffs are seeking damages for breach of express and implied warranties under this act.
The lawsuit further accuses Volkswagen Group of America Inc. of engaging in unlawful business practices under California's Business and Professions Code § 17200. The plaintiffs claim that the company knowingly sold vehicles with defective components that affected their value and safety. They allege that Volkswagen failed to properly diagnose issues with their vehicle and installed substandard parts during repairs. "Defendant intentionally placed the Subject Vehicle, with defective components, into the stream of commerce," asserts the complaint.
In addition to damages for breach of warranty and unfair business practices, Rosario Sanchez and Cristina Gabriela Sanchez are seeking injunctive relief to prevent further acts constituting unfair competition by Volkswagen Group of America Inc. They demand actual damages amounting to $56,895 along with consequential damages according to proof at trial. The plaintiffs also seek civil penalties under the Song-Beverly Act amounting to twice their actual damages.
Representing Rosario Sanchez and Cristina Gabriela Sanchez are attorneys Neal F. Morrow III from MES Legal Inc., based in Torrance, CA, and Ryan K. Marden from Marden Law Inc., located in Irvine, CA. The case is presided over by Judge Sahar Enayati under Case No.: CGC-25-623609.