Two Engine Failures Leave Vehicle Non-Operational for Over Five Months — No Resolution After Multiple Channel

Two weeks ago, I shared a situation involving a vehicle that became non-operational after repeated engine failure. This update reflects additional efforts made since that time, along with the current status.

The vehicle is a 2014 Volkswagen Passat, purchased in October 2022 from CarMax Oak Lawn and financed through Santander Consumer USA.

Within approximately six months of purchase, the original engine failed and required full replacement. That replacement was performed by Volkswagen and approved through the MaxCare warranty process, which managed inspection and authorization from start to completion.

Approximately one and a half years later, the replacement engine failed as well. The vehicle is currently not drivable and has now remained in a non-operational condition for over five months.

At present:

• The vehicle cannot be driven
• Approximately $19,870 has been paid over three years
• Nearly the same loan balance remains
• Two complete engine failures have occurred

Publicly available Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs), accessible through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration database, describe oil-related conditions that may lead to internal engine damage and failure. The failure pattern observed in this case appears potentially consistent with these documented conditions.

Since the initial post, additional efforts have been made to resolve the matter directly with the dealer, the manufacturer, and through multiple consumer protection channels, including the Federal Trade Commission, the Offices of the Attorney General in Illinois and Virginia, the Better Business Bureau, and the Virginia Department of Consumer Affairs.

At this time, no resolution has been provided.

This situation reflects a circumstance in which a vehicle has experienced repeated major mechanical failure, while the financial obligation remains active and the vehicle itself is not in use. The extended period of non-operation and lack of resolution raise broader questions regarding how similar situations are addressed when they fall outside standard warranty coverage.

This update is being shared to provide a factual account of the current status and to highlight a situation that may be relevant to other consumers.