Covid-19 Could Slow Car Production for General Motors

The coronavirus pandemic has wreaked havoc on the auto industry as economic uncertainty and stay at home orders largely sapped the demand for new and used vehicles over much of the year. The pandemic appears to also be stifling the process of making new cars.

General Motors is slowing the production of certain sport utility vehicles in Texas and Corvettes in Kentucky, USA Today reports. The problem is that coronavirus restrictions have pumped the brakes on the supply of certain parts from Mexico.

GM told USA Today that it will play catchup on production slowdowns by offering plant employees the opportunity to work overtime. Although its global purchasing and supply center is already working around the clock to keep the supply chain moving, further spikes in virus rates south of the border could make that more difficult.

Mexico was recently on track to hit 100,000 deaths from Covid-19, a number that some have blamed on inadequate testing across the country. Limited tests have hampered efforts to effective contact trace, according to USA Today.

Meanwhile, GM recently announced that it is looking to hire some 3,000 engineers, tech, and other workers to speed an ambitious plan to build electric vehicles.

Car Defects and Your Legal Rights

While GM struggles with its supply chain, the company and the world’s other major auto manufacturers have a bigger challenge on their hands: making cars that are safe to drive. GM and other manufacturers recall millions of vehicles each year because of significant defects that put lives at risk.

Last year, for example, GM recalled some 640,000 vehicles because of a software glitch that could cause them to unexpectedly veer from lanes. It also called back another 370,000 vehicles because of an engine block heater cord problem that could cause cars to catch fire.

The good news for car owners in California is that you have some valuable protections under the state’s lemon law. 

The Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act requires car manufacturers to repair vehicles while they are under warranty and to buy back or replace cars that it cannot or will not fix. It also obligates the company to foot the bill for any legal fees that a car owner or lessor incurs while enforcing rights under the law.

Talk with a California Lemon Law Attorney

If you are a car owner or lessor stuck with a detective or malfunctioning vehicle, an experienced California lemon law attorney can help. A lawyer can ensure that you understand your rights and help you explore your options to make the manufacturer responsible for the defective vehicle.

At the Bickel Law Firm, we have represented hundreds of clients in defective vehicle cases across California. We work tirelessly to get the people we represent the compensation they deserve and we have a strong track record of successful results.

Our offices are conveniently located in Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco.  Call us at (888) 800-1983 or contact us online to speak with a California lemon law attorney today.