Lawsuits Allege Automaker, Dealer Antitrust Violations

Multiple antitrust lawsuits have been filed against seven of the largest automakers, alleging that they conspired to prevent U.S. consumers from buying new vehicles in Canada where prices are considerably lower. The suits claim that automakers have taken several measures, such as refusing to honor warranties in the U.S., to discourage American consumers from buying cars in Canada. Defendants named are General Motors, Ford, Toyota, Honda, DaimlerChrysler, Nissan and BMW. The suits also allege manufacturers engaged in blacklisting and price-fixing activities. A similar lawsuit has been filed against the National Automobile Dealers Association and the Canadian Automobile Dealers Association.