A legal battle is brewing in Ventura County as a disgruntled vehicle owner takes on a major automotive company over alleged warranty violations. On April 22, 2025, Justin Claveria filed a complaint in the Superior Court of California, County of Ventura, against VinFast Auto, LLC. The lawsuit accuses the Delaware-based company of breaching both express and implied warranties under the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act.
According to the complaint, Claveria purchased a new 2023 Vinfast VF 8 on March 13, 2024, which was accompanied by several warranties promising that the vehicle would be free from defects and fit for its intended use. However, Claveria alleges that the vehicle was delivered with serious defects in its electrical, transmission, and body systems. "The Vehicle was delivered to Plaintiff with serious defects and nonconformities to warranty," states the complaint. Despite numerous attempts to have these issues repaired at authorized service centers, Claveria claims that VinFast Auto failed to fix the problems within a reasonable number of attempts or time frame.
The lawsuit outlines multiple causes of action against VinFast Auto and unidentified defendants referred to as Does 1-20. These include breach of express warranty and breach of implied warranty under the Song-Beverly Act, as well as violation of Section 1793.2(b) for failing to repair or replace the defective vehicle within 30 days. Claveria's attorney argues that these failures not only breached contractual obligations but also diminished the resale value of the vehicle and posed safety concerns.
In seeking justice from the court, Claveria demands general damages exceeding $35,000 exclusive of interest and costs. Additionally, he seeks rescission of the sales contract along with restitution for all monies expended on purchasing and attempting to repair the vehicle. The plaintiff also requests civil penalties amounting to twice his actual damages due to what he describes as willful non-compliance by VinFast Auto with their legal responsibilities under California law.
Represented by Carrie Shumake from American Lemon Law Group LLP based in Los Angeles, Justin Claveria is determined to hold VinFast Auto accountable for what he perceives as blatant disregard for consumer rights. The case has been assigned Case ID FO25CUPLoOAZ&h43 in Ventura County Superior Court.