The diesel emissions scandal has impacted drivers across the UK, prompting legal action against major car manufacturers. You could be entitled to compensation if you owned or leased a diesel vehicle that may have been fitted with emissions-cheating software. Understanding how emissions claims work and your rights as a vehicle owner is the first step toward taking action.
What Is an Emissions Claim?
A diesel emissions claim is a legal process by which vehicle owners can seek compensation from manufacturers accused of using software to manipulate diesel emissions tests. The claim alleges that car companies misled consumers by promoting their vehicles as environmentally friendly, while in reality, the vehicles emitted far more harmful pollutants than allowed under EU regulations.
These claims are based on UK consumer and environmental protection laws and breaches of the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008 and the Misrepresentation Act 1967. The legal argument is that drivers paid a premium for vehicles marketed as cleaner and more efficient, only to discover they were misled.
Who Can Make an Emissions Claim?
You may be eligible to file a claim if:
- You purchased, leased, or financed a diesel vehicle between 2009 and 2020
- The vehicle was manufactured by a brand involved in the emissions scandal (e.g. Volkswagen, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Ford, Vauxhall, Nissan, and others)
- You still own the vehicle or owned it during the affected period.
Both individuals and businesses (including fleet owners) may be eligible, even if the vehicle has since been sold.
What Are Your Rights as a Vehicle Owner?
Under UK law, vehicle owners can be treated fairly, receive accurate information, and seek redress if misled. Specifically:
- You are entitled to accurate environmental and performance data at the point of sale
- If misrepresentation occurred, you may claim for loss of value, overpayment, or diminished performance
- You have the right to join group litigation to strengthen your case and reduce individual legal costs
You can still seek compensation even if your vehicle was recalled and updated. After the recall, some owners experienced reduced fuel efficiency or performance, further strengthening their claims.
How Does the Emissions Claim Process Work?
- Check Vehicle Eligibility: Check whether your vehicle is included in ongoing emissions litigation. This can be done through law firm websites or by submitting your registration number to an eligibility checker.
- Choose a Legal Firm: Many law firms offer emissions claims on a no-win, no-fee basis, meaning you won’t pay anything unless your claim is successful. Choose a firm experienced in group consumer actions.
- Submit Documentation: You must provide documents proving your ownership or lease agreement. This typically includes:
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- Vehicle registration (V5C)
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- Finance or lease agreements
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- Purchase receipts
- Join a Group Action: Your claim will likely be part of a larger group litigation order (GLO) being brought against the manufacturer. Group claims are efficient and carry more weight in court.
- Legal Proceedings: The legal team will handle the proceedings once your information is submitted. You will be updated on the case progress and may be asked to provide further details if required.
- Compensation Outcome: If the claim is successful, you could receive compensation for:
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- Financial loss due to overpayment
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- Reduction in vehicle resale value
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- Loss of fuel efficiency post-recall
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- General damages for misrepresentation and inconvenience
How Much Could You Receive?
Payouts vary depending on the vehicle brand, model, ownership period, and court rulings. Past emissions claims have resulted in compensation ranging from £1,000 to over £10,000 per vehicle.
Is There a Deadline to File?
Yes. Emissions claims are time-sensitive. Legal time limits (limitation periods) apply based on when you purchased the vehicle or became aware of the issue. If you delay, you may lose the right to claim.
Final Thoughts
If you owned or leased a diesel vehicle between 2009 and 2020, checking whether you are eligible to join an emissions claim is worth checking. Car manufacturers have already faced penalties and paid compensation across Europe. As a UK vehicle owner, you have rights—and legal teams are actively pursuing justice for thousands of drivers.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Review your documents, consult a qualified law firm, and take the first step in holding manufacturers accountable for misleading practices.