Issue
Whether an automobile manufacturer owed a duty of care to a consumer who bought the car from a dealer rather than directly from the manufacturer.
Holding
The court held that a manufacturer can owe a duty to foreseeable users when a negligently made product is reasonably certain to place life and limb in danger.
Facts
MacPherson was injured when a wheel on his Buick collapsed. Buick had purchased the wheel from another manufacturer but sold the completed automobile through a retail dealer.
Rule
A manufacturer owes a duty of care to foreseeable users when the nature of the product makes danger probable if it is negligently constructed.
Reasoning
The court rejected a strict privity limitation and focused on foreseeability and risk. Because automobiles are dangerous if poorly made, Buick had a duty to inspect and use reasonable care even though MacPherson bought from a dealer.