Many owners of 2019 Jaguar I-PACE are now grappling with a serious defect in the vehicle's high-voltage battery, leading to fire risks and a significant Jaguar I-PACE buyback program. If you're facing issues with your 2019 Jaguar I-PACE, this blog post explains the problem, its impact, and how you can seek compensation through legal avenues in New York and New Jersey.

The Battery Defect and Fire Risk

The core issue with the 2019 Jaguar I-PACE lies in its battery, specifically LG factory cells with folded anode tabs that can cause thermal overloads. This defect has led to at least 8 fires. Despite multiple recalls, including software updates to the Battery Energy Control Module, the problem persists. Jaguar is buying back 2,760 affected vehicles.

NHTSA has issued recalls, advising owners to park and charge vehicles away from structures and limit charging to 80% to reduce fire risks. Three vehicles caught fire even after recall fixes.

Impact on Owners

The defect has significantly affected owners' experiences. One owner reported a permanent 20% range reduction, dropping from 195–205 miles to 165 miles. This reduction limits the vehicle's practicality, especially for long trips. Safety concerns are also prevalent, with owners instructed to avoid parking near buildings due to fire risks, causing inconvenience and anxiety.

On the I-PACE Forum, owners discuss their frustrations. One California owner shared that their Jaguar I-PACE buy back was approved, expecting around $38,000, though this amount is unofficial and varies based on market value and vehicle condition.

The Jaguar Buyback Process

Jaguar's response to the ongoing issue is a buyback program for all 2,760 affected 2019 I-PACE vehicles in the US. The process involves contacting Jaguar North America, submitting documentation like sales contracts, and navigating multiple stages, including case manager assignment and pre-inspection at a dealer. However, owners report delays and communication challenges, with some waiting months for updates.

The buyback amount is typically based on the vehicle's current market value, which has depreciated significantly. For instance, Ars Technica cites an Edmunds valuation of $24,428 for a private sale, though some owners estimate higher amounts, like $38,000 or $52,000 with interest, as discussed on forums.

Statistics

Your Legal Rights

If your 2019 Jaguar I-PACE has substantial and recurring problems, you may be entitled to a refund or replacement under lemon law. Lemon laws in New York and New Jersey protect consumers who purchase defective vehicles that cannot be repaired after reasonable attempts. Additionally, other owners may have claims for breach of warranty under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, a federal law safeguarding against deceptive warranty practices.

These legal options can help you secure fair compensation, especially if the Jaguar I-PACE buy back process falls short or offers inadequate compensation. Navigating these laws can be complex, but professional legal assistance can streamline the process.

How Our Law Office Can Help

At our New York and New Jersey law office, we specialize in representing consumers with defective vehicles, including those facing issues with the 2019 Jaguar I-PACE. Our experienced attorneys can assess whether you qualify for a lemon law claim or a breach of warranty case under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act. We aim to secure the maximum compensation possible, whether through a refund, replacement, or other remedies.

Don't let the stress of a defective 2019 Jaguar I-PACE overwhelm you. Contact our law office today for a free consultation to explore your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. We work on a contingency basis, ensuring no upfront costs for you.

Sources:

• Carscoops: Jaguar Is Buying Back 2,760 Faulty I-PACE EVs Over Fire Risk
• NHTSA: 2019 Jaguar I-PACE Vehicle Complaints and Recalls
• Green Car Reports: Jaguar Buying Back Nearly 3,000 I-PACE EVs
• Ars Technica: Owner's Experience with I-PACE Range Reduction and Buyback
• Road & Track: Jaguar Buying Back Almost 3,000 I-PACE EVs
• I-PACE Forum: 2019 I-PACE Buyback Approved in California

You may also like:

• Jaguar Fire: Is Your 2019 Jaguar I-PACE a Fire Risk?
• 2019–2024 Jaguar I-PACE Recalls