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The check engine light in my 99 Toyota 4Runner had come on a few months back.  There was no noticeable difference in engine power, no stumbling, etc, so I figured it was a sensor.  While getting an oil change @ local Jiffy Lube, they did a courtesy diagostic which returned a "171" code.  According to the manual they consulted, this was a lean code, signaling the need to possibly replace the MAF sensor.  A week later, I took the truck to the Toyota dealer to have them diagnose and correct the cause behind the check engine light.  Based on the "171" code, they also commented it was likely the MAF sensor.  2 hours after dropping the truck off, the Toyota dealership calls to inform me the engine threw a rod while their staff moved it from the parking area to the service bay.  When I arrived at the shop, the techs alleged that there was twice as much oil in the engine, making it a point to comment that I had a recent oil change.  The Toyota dealership is claiming no responsibility and is pointing the finger at Jiffy Lube (and me for trying to set them up with a truck I somehow knew would fail at the precise moment their staff would move it)...

I am no expert, but it doe not seem that my daily driver, with no tell-tale sign of engine problems or failure (no knocking, pinging, loss of power or fuel economy), could throw a rod at low speed over a distance of approx. 100 feet (especially since I drove it that day and the valet moved the truck upon drop-off).  Also, even if their allegation of too much oil in the engine was true, I believe the engine would sputter and gurgle, but not fail.  I've read some info about the "171" diagnostic code and do not get the impression that the several suspected causes for this code would cause engine failure.  Rather than a $250 MAF sensor replacement I now have a $4500-6000 engine replacement job.  Any experts out there that could comment on this?  

There has been alot of issues with the quick change oil services and you can go onto the BBB and track them down but on the other hand the truck was in your dealers resposabilities. They should be working with them to resolve this.  

Some one is defiantly accountable, but its not you.  Whether its jiffy lube or Toyota, don’t give in, someone is easily accountable.  It is possible for catastrophic engine failure if twice the recommended oil amount is added, but it also seems a little suspicious as to when it happened.


Good luck.  

A "171" error can also be created by a clogged (or nearly clogged) fuel filter.  Has it been replaced recently?  I would check this first before replacing a MAF sensor.  It's also alot cheaper.

As for the rod issue, both Jiffy Lube and Toyota are accountable, stand your ground.  For $4500-6000 some leg work contacting Toyota and Jiffy Lube's corp offices, plus the BBB might be worth your time.  Also, ask around there maybe a better and less expensive repair shop in your area if you lose out.