Alin v. Honda Motor Company

Plaintiffs allege that deficient designs of Honda CR-V, Acura TSX, and Honda Odyssey vehicles lead to avoidable damage to the air conditioning condensers.  The condensers were placed in such a location that they were vulnerable to damage from rocks and other road debris.  Despite this vulnerable position, the vehicle designers did not provide a protective guard or grill.  As a result of this design, class vehicles suffered preventable damage.  Class members were not aware of this defect, which lead them to purchase or rent vehicles they would not have otherwise.

1. Final Approval granted.
2. All objections were overruled.
3. Three objectors appealed the Final Approval.
4. All objector-appeals were voluntarily withdrawn two days after they were filed.

1. Notice is deficient.
2. Parties have not met the burden of showing the settlement is adequate.
3. Attorneys' fees are excessive.

1. Notice plan does not reach a sufficient number of class members.
2. Sub-classes lack adequate representation and create impermissible conflicts.
3. Attorneys' fees are excessive.

Objector Kaye's attorneys filed several appearances and withdrawals of appearances throughout the proceedings.