Landmark Verdict: Maruti Suzuki Ordered to Replace Car or Refund ₹20.5 Lakh Over E20 Petrol Engine Damage
Raipur, Chhattisgarh – In a landmark judgment that has drawn significant attention from vehicle owners across India, the District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission in Raipur has held Maruti Suzuki India Limited and its authorized dealer accountable for engine failure caused by the use of E20 (20% ethanol-blended) petrol.
The consumer court has ordered the automaker to either provide a brand-new, E20-compliant car of the same model to the customer within 45 days or refund the full vehicle cost of approximately ₹20.5 lakh, along with other applicable expenses.
Key Highlights of the Ruling
Failure to Disclose Compatibility: The commission observed that the vehicle sold to the customer was not compatible with E20 fuel, despite E20 petrol being actively promoted nationwide.
Repeated Technical Issues: The complainant reported experiencing persistent technical snags shortly after purchasing the vehicle, requiring frequent visits to the service center before the engine ultimately failed.
A First in India: Reports indicate this is the first ruling in the country where a consumer court has granted compensation of this magnitude specifically for damage resulting from E20 petrol usage.
Court Observation: Selling a vehicle that cannot safely run on currently mandated fuel blends constitutes a deficiency in service, entitling the consumer to full replacement or compensation.
Maruti Suzuki Responds: Plan to Appeal
Maruti Suzuki has voiced strong disagreement with the District Consumer Commission’s verdict, maintaining that the vehicle model in question was already fully compatible with E20 fuel.
Calling the order inconsistent with the facts of the case, company representatives signaled their intention to challenge the ruling in a higher court.
