L-Series Engine VVT Lawsuit Dismissed by Judge

Mazda’s L-series engines have a reputation of variable vale timing (VVT) defects that can cause oil leaks, excessive smoke out of the tailpipe, loose timing chains, and catastrophic engine failure. Other than that they're great. Unfortunately a judge has granted a motion to dismiss a VVT lawsuit after Mazda argued their extended warranty terms are clear:

"if the (problem) is caused by poor vehicle maintenance (insufficient oil changes or using engine oil of viscosity lower than 5W-30), this warranty extension does not apply.”

The plaintiff could not produce comprehensive oil change records. So is Mazda calling anyone who doesn't maintain perfect records a negligent owner? Because if that's the case there's going to be a lot of "negligence":

"I have gone various places locally and out of town to change my oil, didn't keep all the receipts. Don't even remember all the places. What is the purpose of getting an extended warranty if you have to go through this? $1800 timing chain and who knows about the engine --- 2008 CX-7 owner"

Additional Resources ∞

• The original lawsuit was filed in August 2014.
• Additional information about Mazda's VVT problems.

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Is Mazda Still Refusing Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Repairs?

Mazda’s L-series engines are earning a reputation for variable valve timing (VVT) defects that can cause oil leaks, excessive smoke out of the tailpipe, loose timing chains, and catastrophic engine failure. Mazda acknowledged the problems i