by Problems with VC-Turbo Engines in Nissan and Infiniti
Ten years ago, engineers introduced an innovative variable compression engine system that promised improved efficiency and performance. Nissan and Infiniti were among the first to implement this technology, and several of their models are still equipped with it.
However, what was once advertised as an innovation has now become the subject of a collective lawsuit. The claim states that the engines can suddenly fail, leaving drivers in a difficult situation.
Driver Complaints and Hidden Problems
The case, filed in Delaware, concerns Nissan’s VC-Turbo engines. In theory, the system should adjust compression on the fly, balancing fuel economy with power. In practice, as the lawsuit claims, owners are facing engines that shudder, produce high-frequency noise, idle roughly, stall, lose power, or even shut down completely while driving.
According to the class action lawsuit, the engine has problems with main bearings and other malfunctions. It is also alleged that Nissan knew or should have known about these defects but concealed them from consumers.
Stories of Affected Owners
The lawsuit mentions four plaintiffs, including Dennis Becker. On March 30, 2024, he purchased a new 2023 Nissan Rogue, but after just 157 miles, a “Engine Malfunction, Reduced Power, Service Immediately” warning appeared on the panel. He recounts that the car stopped and could not be restarted.
According to Becker, the dealer replaced the battery, but that did not solve the problem. After updating the engine control module software, the malfunction was also not resolved. A month later, the same warning appeared, and the dealer replaced the exhaust gas recirculation valve, which also did not help. Becker claims his Rogue is still faulty.
Models Affected by the Problems
The lawsuit covers the 2021-2023 Nissan Rogue, 2019-2023 Nissan Altima, and 2019-2023 Infiniti QX50. It is also alleged that a recent recall initiated by the manufacturer for variable compression engines offers insufficient repairs, which for most owners “boils down to just a few oil changes.”
The lawsuit claims that Nissan routinely denied the existence of the defect until after the warranty expired or forced customers to pay for diagnostics and repairs themselves. This, the plaintiffs say, forces many owners to spend large sums even when their cars are still eligible for warranty coverage. “The engine defect occurs without warning, drivers are surprised when the engines suddenly lose power or stop completely,” the lawsuit describes. “Even if no accident occurs, the plaintiffs and consumers incur thousands in costs to repair or replace the damaged engine and its components.”
This situation points to a broader problem in the automotive industry, where technological innovation sometimes outpaces reliability. Many owners who once trusted cutting-edge developments are now facing financial and safety risks. Similar cases can affect consumer confidence in future technologies, especially when manufacturers do not provide adequate post-sale support. The need for transparency and accountability is becoming increasingly evident as the number of complaints continues to grow.
