This is where lawyers come in, I can see the argument both ways.

Unfortunately for him, it’s worth VW’s while to railroad him legally to deter others from attempting to do the same to their cars. They have lawyers on retainer just for this type of thing. If he has to pony up for his own lawyer, even if he eventually wins, he will wish he never bothered being so petty as parting his…

Is it legal to drive it on public roads in that condition? Is it still considered “operable” if it isn’t legally allowed on the road?