A significant class-action lawsuit has been launched against General Motors (GM) Australia and New Zealand, targeting transmission defects in several popular Holden models.
With potentially “hundreds of thousands” of vehicles involved, this legal battle could impact Holden owners nationwide, spanning models like the Holden Commodore VE, Holden VF Commodore, Holden Colorado, and others.
The Allegations: Faulty Holden Transmissions
Maurice Blackburn, the law firm leading the case, alleges that three automatic transmissions—GM 6L45, 6L50, and 6L80—are defective due to a design fault in the torque converter and torque converter clutch. These issues reportedly affect vehicles sold between January 1, 2011, and December 24, 2024.
According to Maurice Blackburn Principal Lawyer Kimi Nishimura:
“Because of the alleged defect, car owners have experienced problems with their vehicles including intermittent transmission shudders, excessive vibrations, and harsh gear shifts.”
Reported Problems in Holden Vehicles
The transmission issues have led to widespread complaints from affected Holden owners, including:
- Transmission Shudder: Frequent and intermittent vibrations during operation.
- Fluid Leaks: Reports of automatic transmission fluid leaking.
- Component Wear: Accelerated degradation of internal transmission parts.
- Increased Servicing: Owners have faced higher maintenance costs and requirements.
GM’s Statement
General Motors has declined to comment on the ongoing litigation but reaffirmed its commitment to Holden customers. A spokesperson stated:
“GM does not comment on ongoing litigation. GM stands by its commitment to achieving the best outcomes for Holden customers.”
Affected Holden Models
The class action includes a wide range of Holden Commodore and Holden Colorado vehicles, along with derivatives like the Holden Ute, Holden Calais, and Holden Caprice. Affected vehicles span multiple model years and transmissions:
| Model | Model Year | Transmission |
|---|---|---|
| Colorado 7 | MY12-MY16 | 6L50 |
| Colorado | MY17-MY20 | 6L50 |
| Trailblazer | MY17-MY20 | 6L50 |
| Commodore VE | MY11-MY12.5 | 6L45, 6L50, 6L80 |
| Commodore VF | MY13-MY17 | 6L45, 6L80 |
| Holden Ute VE | MY11-MY13 | 6L45, 6L50, 6L80 |
| Holden Ute VF | MY13-MY17 | 6L45, 6L80 |
| Caprice WM Series II | MY11-MY12 | 6L45, 6L50, 6L80 |
| Caprice WN Series II | MY15-MY17 | 6L80 |
Other models such as the Holden Calais, Holden Captiva, and Holden Rodeo may also be impacted.
Historical Class Actions in Australia
This is not the first time Australian automakers have faced lawsuits for vehicle defects:
- Ford PowerShift Transmission: In 2016, Ford Australia was ordered to compensate owners for defective dual-clutch transmissions.
- Toyota DPF Class Action: Toyota faced a class action in 2019 for defective Diesel Particulate Filters (DPFs), leading to compensation payouts to owners.
Your Rights and Next Steps
If you owned or currently own a vehicle affected by the Holden transmission class action lawsuit, you may be entitled to compensation—even if you haven’t experienced any issues yet. Maurice Blackburn encourages all eligible parties to register for the lawsuit.
Why This Matters
This lawsuit highlights the importance of consumer rights in Australia’s automotive industry. With popular models like the Holden Commodore VE, VF Commodore, and Holden Colorado involved, this case could lead to significant outcomes for owners across the country.
Stay informed by visiting Maurice Blackburn’s website to check if your Holden vehicle is included.
Whether it’s a Holden Ute, Holden Calais, or another model, it’s worth exploring your eligibility for this class action.
Dylan Anderson
