Attorney General Tim Fox announced on Wednesday that Montana has joined several other states to launch an investigation into Volkswagen for altering software to produce false results on vehicle emissions tests.

Fox said he has directed his staff to join the investigation, to ensure that Montana citizens who have purchased Volkswagen products will be protected from any fraudulent actions.

"Attorneys general from at least 32 states and Washington,D.C.  will work together to investigate allegations that Volkswagen equipped 11 million diesel vehicles with software that could be used to cheat on emissions tests, potentially deceiving consumers and violating clean air standards," Fox said.  "As part of this multistate investigation, the attorneys general will send subpoenas to Volkswagen. Many states will review the matter through both their consumer protection and environmental protection divisions."

Fox said he has personal experience in dealing with auto dealerships.

“Growing up, my folks owned a car dealership, and I know how important it is for consumers to be treated fairly when they purchase a big-ticket item like an automobile," he said. "Emissions standards are important anti-pollution features that Montana consumers seriously consider while making their vehicle purchasing decisions.  Any required repairs to correct emission problems may result in lower fuel economy and higher fuel costs, which also may violate Montana's consumer protection laws.”

A list of affected vehicles can be found here. Montana consumers who own one of the affected diesel cars are welcome to file a complaint with the Montana Department of Justice’s Office of Consumer Protection online or by calling 1-(800) 481-6896.

 

More From 96.3 The Blaze