Class Action Lawsuit Filed Against FuelRod for Introduction of New Swap Fees at Disney Theme Parks

    Even though you still have a few days to enjoy the “free unlimited swapping” promised by FuelRod machines before new fees kick in, there is already a class action lawsuit filed against Tricopian, Inc., the parent company of FuelRod.

    According to a court filing in the California Southern District Court, the Law Office of Carey, Danis & Lowe, is accusing FuelRod of a breach of contract, violation of the California Consumer Legal Remedies Act, false and misleading advertising, and a violation of the California Unfair Competition Law.

    The lawsuit claims that the “free unlimited swapping” promised by FuelRod was a primary benefit of purchasing a FuelRod. The machines even stated that benefit next to the point of sale part of the device. Here are a couple of photos of two of the many machines that featured the “free unlimited swapping” verbiage before a sign was put over that portion of the machine to inform guests of the changes coming November 1st.

    The case was filed yesterday, October 28th, but we will keep an eye on it as it makes its way through the court system.

    What do you think? If you purchased a FuelRod, do you think there was enough false advertising to lead to a class action lawsuit? Would you purchase another FuelRod knowing what you do now? Are you going to pay the $3 fee implemented on November 1st? Let us know in the comments below or on social media!

    As always, keep checking back with us here at BlogMickey.com as we continue to bring you the latest news and photos from around the Disney Parks!

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    8 COMMENTS

    1. I believe they have a case. If the sign had said ‘Free Swapping’ that might have been one thing but when they stated ‘Free Unlimited Swapping’ they indicated I could swap as many times as I wanted for free.

      I have not purchased a Fuel Rod (yet) as my phone is newer and the battery lasts me a full Disney day.

      The moment I read about the charge for swaps I looked for an alternative power source that will meet my needs. No Fuel Rod for me now.

    2. We have several fuel rods, but will charge on our on at night at the resort. We will not pay $3 for each refill.

    3. Generally, a law office does not make the accusations – a plaintiff makes the accusations and then the plaintiff is represented by the law office. Also, a law office is not a consumer, so it would not have the ability to file a case under the consumer legal remedies act. So, my guess is that the law firm is not making these claims but representing a person that is making these claims What is the full name of the lawsuit?

    4. I bought a fuel rod from wdw 2 or 3 years ago and use it everytime I go. The unlimited swapping was the huge perk since I could keep my phone charged all day at the park. I definitely wouldn’t buy one if I knew I’d eventually have to pay $3 to charge my phone after I’ve already paid $30 for the battery.

    5. I bought one in Epcot 2 days before the announcement. I would return it if I could and would not buy it with the $3 fee.

    6. The reason I chose to purchase a Fuel Rod was the convenience of being able to swop it at station for a fully charged one without paying any more than the original fee. The whole benefit of the system was being able to swop as from a cost point there are many cheaper options for a battery pack but the unlimited free swopping clinched the deal.

    7. So, with Disney beginning to nickel and dime guests more and more, the change was assumed to be another money grab by the Mouse. Does the presence of this class action strongly imply that this was NOT a Disney decision? Or will we see the Class Action dismissed for improper standing, if indeed it is Disney’s decision. The mere presence of this suit indeed changes the landscape of how we perceive Disney’s moneygrabs of late in this case.

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