By Automakers are typically seen as the creators, not the litigators, in the automotive landscape. Yet, there have been notable instances where car manufacturers took legal action against their own customers. From unauthorized modifications to breaches of purchase agreements, these lawsuits reveal a side of the auto industry that’s seldom discussed.
1. John Cena’s Ford GT Saga
Wrestling superstar John Cena found himself in a legal tussle with Ford shortly after purchasing a 2017 Ford GT. The issue? Cena sold the prized vehicle for a profit just months after acquiring it. According to Ford’s records, Cena had signed a contract prohibiting the resale of the car for at least two years. Cena contended that the final contract he signed didn’t include this clause. The disagreement was eventually settled out of court, with the terms remaining undisclosed. This case underscores the strict resale policies some manufacturers enforce to maintain brand integrity and exclusivity.
2. Deadmau5’s “Purrari” Ferrari 458
Canadian DJ Deadmau5 took creative liberties with his 2009 Ferrari 458 Italia, transforming it into a whimsical “Purrari” inspired by the popular “Nyan cat” meme. The modifications included a vibrant rainbow wrap, custom floor mats, new license plates, and replacing Ferrari’s iconic prancing horse with a cat emblem. Ferrari wasn’t amused. The company demanded that Deadmau5 reverse all changes, leading to the removal of the playful alterations. Unfazed, Deadmau5 eventually sold the Ferrari and opted for a Lamborghini “Purracan,” which faced the same fate without the company taking legal action.
3. Philipp Plein’s Ferrari 812 Superfast Controversy
Fashion designer Philipp Plein incorporated his Ferrari 812 Superfast into his brand’s promotional materials, featuring the car alongside his products and models. The inclusion of Ferrari’s logo in an environment Ferrari deemed inconsistent with its brand image prompted legal action. Ferrari argued that Plein’s portrayal could tarnish its prestigious reputation. The lawsuit resulted in Plein paying approximately $1.3 million in damages and an additional $28,300 in legal fees after he refused to remove the contested images.
4. Lamborghini vs. Gold Coast Exotics
Lamborghini took legal action against Illinois-based Gold Coast Exotics for operating a “shadow program” that involved selling Lamborghini cars to resellers and individuals linked to criminal activities, rather than to legitimate customers. Despite Gold Coast Exotics reporting sales as legitimate, the truth surfaced, revealing that the dealership had obtained millions in bonuses through fraudulent means. Lamborghini accused the dealership’s president and another employee of fraud, highlighting the lengths to which automakers will go to protect their brand and ensure their vehicles are sold to appropriate buyers.
5. Jean Blaton’s Ferrari F40 Barchetta Modification
Racing driver Jean Blaton purchased one of the limited Ferrari F40 IMSA LM units after it was retired from racing. With the help of Michelotto, Blaton modified the car by removing the roof, adding a tubular steel cage, and altering the suspension and exhaust systems. Ferrari swiftly responded with a cease-and-desist order, demanding the removal of all Ferrari emblems and markings. While the modified “F40 Barchetta” continues to exist, Ferrari no longer recognizes it as an official product, demonstrating the company’s zero-tolerance policy for unauthorized alterations that could dilute its brand.
6. Mansory’s “Mock FXX-K” Ferrari 488 Alteration
German tuning firm Mansory attempted to create a body kit for the Ferrari 488 GTB that would mimic the multi-million-dollar FXX-K model. Ferrari accused Mansory of blatantly copying unique design elements of the FXX-K, leading to a lawsuit. The court ruled in Ferrari’s favor, ordering Mansory to cease the production and sale of the offending body kit. This case highlights how even aftermarket modifications can cross the line into intellectual property infringement, prompting manufacturers to defend their exclusive designs vigorously.
7. Tesla’s Battle Over Unauthorized Service Centers
Tesla has been known to take legal action against unauthorized service centers and individuals offering unofficial repairs. The company argues that unauthorized repairs can compromise vehicle safety and the integrity of Tesla’s technology. In several instances, Tesla has sued businesses for operating without proper certification, emphasizing the importance of maintaining high standards for vehicle maintenance and repair to protect both the brand and its customers.
8. Porsche’s Enforcement of Purchase Agreements
Porsche has a history of enforcing strict terms in their purchase agreements. In one case, a customer who attempted to export a Porsche vehicle without adhering to the company’s stipulated procedures faced legal repercussions. Porsche’s stance is clear: adhering to purchase agreements is non-negotiable, ensuring that their vehicles are distributed and maintained in a manner consistent with the brand’s high standards and global reputation.
9. BMW’s Litigation Over Unauthorized Accessories
BMW has pursued legal action against manufacturers producing unauthorized accessories that fit their vehicles. In several instances, BMW has sued companies producing items like custom spoilers and interior modifications that use BMW’s trademarks without permission. The automaker maintains that such unauthorized accessories can damage the brand’s image and lead to potential safety issues, reinforcing the importance of controlling how their products are customized and presented.
10. Mercedes-Benz’s Actions Against Fake Merchandise Sellers
Mercedes-Benz has actively pursued legal action against individuals and businesses selling counterfeit merchandise bearing the brand’s logo. The company asserts that fake merchandise can confuse consumers and dilute the luxury image associated with Mercedes-Benz. By targeting counterfeiters, Mercedes-Benz protects its brand integrity and ensures that customers receive genuine products that meet the company’s high standards.