CJEU Confirms: All Dieselgate Car Owners are entitled to just compensation
On 8 August 2025, the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) further strengthened the position of owners of diesel emissions scandal cars and vans.
The main points:
- Dieselgate car owners in the entire EU must receive just compensation
- Dieselgate software updates are also illegal
- Car manufacturers cannot use the initial registration of a vehicle as a defense; they are still responsible for any emissions violations.
The decision provides crucial clarity that the vehicle manufacturers is liable for installing unlawful emissions control systems — both at the time of production and through later software updates.
The Court acknowledged that Member States must ensure that the compensation remains fair and provides a real possibility for consumers to enforce their rights. Any national law that makes it excessively difficult or impossible for consumers to obtain redress would be incompatible with EU principles.
Impact on Current and Future Litigation
This ruling is expected to influence many thousands of ongoing Dieselgate claims across the EU.
Owners of diesel vehicles — especially those who received software updates in the context of emissions recalls — should check whether their vehicles may have been affected by such defeat devices.
Seeking legal advice early can help ensure that claims are filed within applicable limitation periods.
Read more here: Case C-666/23
💡 If you own a diesel vehicle and suspect it may have been affected — even if you had a “fix” installed years ago — this ruling confirms you may still have a claim. Act now to protect your rights.
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