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In a significant development, Ford Motor Co. and a group of consumers have nearly finalized a settlement concerning the Shelby Mustang "limp mode" issue, following a prolonged legal battle in Florida's federal courts.

Drivers, Ford Agree To Resolve Mustang 'Limp Mode' Suit: Agreement Reached After Jury Decision

The consensus, termed an "agreement in principle," was announced after more than a month of deliberations subsequent to a jury verdict which cleared Ford of allegations of misleading consumers about the performance capabilities of the 2016 Shelby GT350 Mustangs. The details of the proposed settlement between Ford and the class representative, George Tershakovec, remain under wraps for now.

"Plaintiffs and defendant Ford Motor Company have reached an agreement in principle to resolve all claims asserted against Ford in this action," read the joint settlement notice. The parties involved are actively working to draft and finalize the agreement, with a further update promised by May 24, 2024.

Drivers, Ford Agree To Resolve Mustang 'Limp Mode' Suit: Background of the 'Limp Mode' Controversy

The lawsuit originated from a 2017 class action filed by more than a dozen drivers, who argued that Ford's promotional materials had convinced them of the GT350's high-speed track capabilities. Contrary to expectations, the Mustangs reportedly entered a "limp mode," significantly reducing their performance after brief stints of intense engine use.

The trial, which concluded in March, saw a jury disagree with several plaintiffs, ruling that Ford had not engaged in misleading practices. Despite this, the case highlighted broader concerns about the vehicle's performance issues.

Legal Representation and Ongoing Proceedings

The drivers in this case are represented by Stuart Z. Grossman of Grossman Roth Yaffa Cohen, along with Steve W. Berman and Catherine Y.N. Gannon of Hagens Berman Sobol Shapiro LLP. Representing Ford are Henry Salas of Cole Scott Kissane PA and John M. Thomas along with Krista L. Lenart of Dykema Gossett PLLC.

As both parties inch closer to a final settlement, the automotive community and consumers eagerly await the outcome, which may set precedents for how car manufacturers handle reported defects and consumer expectations in the future.