I bought a 2001 Passat from Carmax in Richmond VA in 2003.7 months later the engine light went on and the car died so I took it to a mechanic, one that was recommended by Carmax.
Since I had purchased an extended warranty (sold by Carmax) I called them right away to file a claim. After they sent an adjuster out to look at the car they said that I did not properly maintain the car thereby causing damage to the engine. They said I did not change the oil or maintain the oil so there was sludge built up on the cylinders causing 1-2 to crack. I needed to replace the engine.
The mechanic that originally looked at it was positive that this kind of damage could not have been done in 7 months and that it was a pre-existing condition. We contacted Carmax but they said "too bad, you're out of luck", "not our problem".
We filed reports with BBB and States Attorneys Office but have had no resolution. We ended up buying a new engine for $4000.00 and replacing the defective one.
The mechanic that replaced the old engine (upon opening it up and inspecting it) said there was no way this could have been caused by my apparent lack of maintainance. I did, BTW change the oil and check oil levels several times during that 7 months.
0 comments