Drivers have a November deadline to claim a $3,850 check for the “defective” car settlement – If you have this car, you can claim the payment

If you own or leased one of these Volkswagen or Audi models, you could qualify for a payout before November 29

Modified on:
October 12, 2025 2:00 pm

Drivers across the U.S. have just a few weeks left to claim up to $3,850 as part of a major class-action settlement against Volkswagen and Audi. The case involves certain vehicles that were reportedly built with defective turbochargers — a problem that led many owners to spend thousands of dollars on repairs.

If you ever owned or leased one of the affected cars, you might be eligible for a check, but the deadline to file is November 29. Here is what you need to know.

Why this settlement exists

The lawsuit claimed that Volkswagen and its owned-brand Audi knowingly used defective turbochargers in several of their models. These parts allegedly caused the cars to lose power or break down prematurely, forcing owners to pay for expensive repairs.

The plaintiffs said the companies were aware of the defect through testing, design analysis, and consumer complaints, but still chose to sell the vehicles.

Volkswagen has not admitted to any wrongdoing, but the company agreed to settle the lawsuit to avoid further litigation. While the exact settlement amount has not been confirmed, reports suggest it could be worth around $1.95 million.

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Which cars are eligible for the settlement

This settlement covers a range of Volkswagen and Audi models equipped with Generation 1, 2, or 3 EA888 engines. These include both current and former owners or lessees of the following models:

  • 2012–2014 VW Beetle
  • 2009–2012 VW CC
  • 2009–2012 VW Eos
  • 2008–2012 VW GTI
  • 2008–2014 VW Jetta
  • 2008–2010 VW Passat
  • 2009–2014 VW Tiguan
  • 2008–2012 Audi A3
  • 2009–2013 Audi A4
  • 2009–2013 Audi A5
  • 2012 Audi A6
  • 2009–2012 Audi TT
  • 2011–2012 Audi Q5

If you own or leased any of these vehicles, you may be entitled to partial reimbursement for repair expenses.

How much money you could receive

The settlement allows eligible drivers to claim 40% to 50% reimbursement for one turbocharger repair or replacement that occurred within 8.5 years or 85,000 miles of the car’s in-service date.

  • Payments can reach up to $3,850 for repairs completed by a non-Volkswagen or Audi dealer.
  • Drivers who had the repair done at an authorized dealer may also qualify for reimbursement, depending on documentation.
  • In some cases, the settlement provides extended warranties, especially for vehicles with Generation 3 engines.

If the turbocharger issue was due to corrosion, the warranty may cover 50% of the repair cost.

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What documents you will need to file a claim

To apply for the settlement, you will need to show proof that you paid for the repair. This can include:

  • The repair invoice that lists your vehicle’s make, model, and VIN number
  • The date and mileage at the time of repair
  • For repairs that are not done by an authorized dealer, a signed declaration from the repair shop confirming the work will be required.

You will need to make sure the documents clearly show that the turbocharger was repaired or replaced. Submitting incomplete or incorrect information could delay or disqualify your claim.

When and how to file your claim

You must submit your claim by November 29, 2025, to be considered for reimbursement. Claims submitted after this date will not be accepted.

The final approval hearing for this case is set for December 4, when the court will officially review and finalize the settlement terms.

If you qualify, you can visit the official settlement website (listed in court documents) to file your claim form online or by mail. Make sure you include all required documents.

Be careful not to submit any fraudulent information, as that can harm those who truly deserve compensation.

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What this means for you

If you have owned or leased one of the listed Volkswagen or Audi vehicles, this settlement could mean hundreds or even thousands of dollars back in your pocket. It is worth checking your car’s paperwork and repair history to see if you qualify.

Even if you already sold the vehicle, you may still be eligible as long as you can prove that you paid for the turbocharger repair during the qualifying period.

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Enobong Demas
Enobong Demashttps://polifinus.com/author/e-demas/
I write on social welfare programs and initiatives for the United States, focusing on how these programs impact the lives of everyday Americans. My background in environmental sciences allows me to approach these topics with a unique analytical lens to provide my readers with a clear and well-rounded insight, eliminating the complexities often common with these topics.

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