Los Angeles court overturns small-claims judgment against American Honda over hybrid mileage – 5/9/12

The Center for Auto Safety is the nation’s premier independent, member driven, non-profit consumer advocacy organization dedicated to improving vehicle safety, quality, and fuel economy on behalf of all drivers, passengers, and pedestrians.

LOS ANGELES — A judge overturned a nearly $10,000 small claims judgment against American Honda Motor Co. that was won by a car owner who said the automaker misrepresented that her hybrid Civic could get 50 miles per gallon, according to a ruling released Wednesday.

Superior Court Judge Dudley W. Gray II ruled Tuesday on Honda’s appeal of a court commissioner’s award of $9,867 to Heather Peters.

Gray’s ruling found, among other things, that Peters had standing to bring the case in state court, but it’s actually federal regulations that govern fuel economy ratings and related advertising claims.

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