Court Largely Denies Motion to Dismiss in VW Tiguan Oil Consumption Class Action

On January 8th, 2026, Judge Brian R. Martinotti from the U.S. District Court in the District of New Jersey issued an opinion that denied a significant portion of Volkswagen Group of America’s (VW) motion to dismiss, which sought to throw out claims furthered by Shub Johns & Holbrook LLP and co-counsel on behalf of a class of consumers.  

The plaintiffs that represent the class of consumers are seven purchasers of either a 2022 or 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan. The plaintiffs assert that their Tiguan vehicles contain improperly installed piston ring assemblies. This alleged improper installation has resulted in insufficient engine oil lubrication, which the plaintiffs have dubbed the oil consumption defect. The oil consumption defect requires the plaintiffs to refill their engine oil constantly, causes premature wear, and reduces engine performance.  

VW sought to dismiss many of the claims that the plaintiffs brought against it pursuant to the oil consumption defect. But Judge Martinotti denied several of their attempts and upheld the plaintiff’s claims for breach of express warranty, fraudulent concealment, negligent misrepresentation, and unjust enrichment. Judge Martinotti also upheld various Consumer Fraud Act claims and state law claims for breach of the implied warranty of merchantability.  

The case is captioned Zeiders et al., v. Volkswagen Group of America et al., Case No. 2:24-cv- 11197 (D. NJ). Shub Johns & Holbrook Partner Benjamin F. Johns currently serves as interim co-lead class counsel. Judge Martinotti’s order is available below.

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