General Motors Co. customers won a key ally in their quest for $10 billion in compensation: the automakers bankrupt predecessor, which said switch defects were illegally hidden from consumers during the companys 2009 bailout.

General Motors Co. told a judge that claims in a $10 billion customer class-action over ignition flaws are misleading and should be dismissed.

GM argued against customers contention that the automaker forfeited immunity from past errors by hiding a long-known defect and exposing them to accidents and financial losses.

Confirmed deaths tied to General Motors Co.s defective ignition switches have risen to 29 and may rise as new claims are filed before the December deadline set by the automaker.

General Motors Co. customers demanding compensation for the eroded value of recalled Cobalts and Ions will hear today how their lawyers plan to fight for the right to sue the carmaker.

General Motors Co. customers demanding compensation for the eroded value of recalled Cobalts and Ions will hear today how their lawyers plan to fight for the right to sue the carmaker.