A class action lawsuit has been filed against a major retailer, alleging that it knowingly sold defective refrigerators to consumers. On August 6, 2024, James Grotte filed the complaint in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois against Transform SR, LLC and Transform SR Brands Management, LLC.
The lawsuit centers around Kenmore-branded refrigerators containing a defective component known as a "linear compressor." These compressors are crucial for the operation of the refrigerators but have been failing prematurely, often within just a few years of purchase. The plaintiff claims that these failures render the refrigerators unable to maintain safe temperatures for food storage, posing significant risks of food-borne illnesses. Despite being aware of these defects through consumer complaints, warranty claims, and prior lawsuits, Transformco (the collective name for both defendants) allegedly continued to market and sell these refrigerators without disclosing the defect to consumers.
James Grotte purchased his Kenmore refrigerator from a Sears store in Texas in mid-2019. By April 2024, his refrigerator's linear compressor had failed. When he sought assistance from Transformco for repairs under warranty, he was informed that no authorized technicians were available in his area. Consequently, Grotte had to hire an independent technician at his own expense to replace the compressor. This incident is not isolated; numerous consumer complaints dating back several years document similar issues with Kenmore refrigerators equipped with LG-manufactured linear compressors.
The plaintiff accuses Transformco of multiple violations including breach of express and implied warranties under Illinois law and federal statutes like the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act. The lawsuit also alleges violations of consumer protection laws such as the Illinois Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act and Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act. The plaintiff argues that Transformco's actions were deceptive and misleading because they continued to advertise the refrigerators as reliable despite knowing about their defects.
Grotte seeks various forms of relief including monetary damages for himself and other affected consumers who bought these defective refrigerators within the last ten years. He also requests that Transformco be ordered to repair or replace the defective units free of charge or provide refunds.
Representing Grotte are attorneys specializing in class action litigation and consumer protection laws. The case is assigned Case No. 1:24-cv-6892 before Judge John F. Kness.