Vehicle Failure Case Summary – Request for Fair Resolution

A documented summary of the vehicle purchase, repeated engine failure, and request for resolution.
Vehicle now inoperable and parked in the garage.

This page provides a documented summary of the vehicle purchase, subsequent engine replacement, repeated engine failure, and the current request for resolution.

Vehicle Overview

A 2014 Volkswagen Passat purchased from CarMax in Oak Lawn, Illinois (Chicago area) in October 2022 with approximately 77,000 miles experienced a major engine failure at around 80,000 miles within about six months. The engine was then replaced through a Volkswagen-authorized process, with the work approved and handled under CarMax’s MaxCare coverage. At approximately 120,000 miles, about a year and a half later, the replacement engine has now failed as well.

Timeline of Events

Current Condition

The vehicle is not drivable and cannot be used as intended.

Key Issue

This matter involves a repeated pattern of major engine failure, including the failure of a replacement engine within a relatively short period of time. This raises concerns beyond normal expectations of reliability and durability.

Consumer Impact

The vehicle is inoperable while the financial obligation remains active, creating an ongoing hardship.

Requested Resolution

A fair and reasonable resolution is being requested, including that the vehicle be taken back and the remaining loan balance be satisfied.

Additional Documentation

Formal Letter:
View the formal letter

Manufacturer Correspondence:
View the formal letter

Contact Information

Eric W. Stiles Sr.
Father of Vehicle Owner / Authorized Representative
Chicago, IL

Email: ewsacademy1802@ewsacademy.org
Phone: 708-424-4397