Get the facts on the CarFax class-action suit

If you've bought a CarFax automotive history report any time before Oct. 27, 2006, it is time to chime in on whether you want to participate in a proposed settlement of a national class-action suit against the company. The proposal would settle nine cases that accuse the company of misleading customers into believing that its history reports contain more-complete information than they really do. Vehicle-history reports have become a popular tool for consumers who want to know whether the used vehicle they're buying has been wrecked, flooded, stolen, repurchased under a state Lemon Law program, or had another significant problem that could affect its reliability, safety, or value.

CarFax says it's done nothing wrong. But, the company has agreed to pony up more than half a million dollars in attorney fees, make some changes in its online disclosures, and provide former customers with the option of free or reduced-price reports, or receiving $20 toward a car inspection.

Unless eligible past customers opt out of the proposed settlement, they are automatically included and forfeit the right to sue CarFax for any outstanding complaints related to the issues raised in the case. Whether you decide to participate or not, it's important to know the terms and deadlines. For more information about the proposed settlement, read our complete story: "CarFax sued over vehicle-history reports."

--Tony Giorgianni