The deadline for filing claims regarding the auto parts settlement has passed. However, eligible individuals will still receive notification via email about a $100 payment they are entitled to.

Numerous VERIFY readers have inquired about the authenticity of emails they received that pertain to this settlement. Specifically, Laurie and Kara expressed concern about an email stating their eligibility for the payment from an auto parts-related settlement.

The email reads, “Pursuant to the Court-approved Round 4 Plan of Allocation and Round 5 Plan of Allocation in the matter entitled In Re: Automotive Parts Antitrust Litigation, Lead Case No. 12-md-02311, you are eligible to receive a payment of $100.00.”

The question arises: Is this auto parts settlement legitimate? The answer is yes.

Recent communications have confirmed that eligible customers are indeed receiving emails regarding a $100 payment as part of the settlement. Lawsuits involving multiple auto parts manufacturers alleged collusion to inflate prices of vehicle components. Although the companies denied any malpractice, they reached a settlement agreement.

The eligibility criteria included individuals who purchased or leased qualifying new vehicles (not for resale) or paid to replace certain vehicle parts between 2002 and 2018. This information is detailed on the official settlement website.

Robins Kaplan, LLP, a co-lead counsel in the settlement, highlighted the extensive duration of the multidistrict litigation, which has spanned over 12 years. It arose from the largest criminal antitrust investigation in U.S. history, covering more than 40 distinct actions involving over 160 defendants linked to different automobile parts and alleged anticompetitive behavior.

Current payments being distributed relate to the fourth and fifth rounds of the settlement, resolving multiple class action lawsuits that claim the defendants collectively raised prices on specific vehicle component parts. The United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan Southern Division approved the fourth round of settlements in September 2020, while the fifth round received approval in February 2023.

For those seeking further information, a comprehensive list of eligible vehicles for each settlement can be accessed on the official settlement website.