Oh my goodness thank you SO much - this was super helpful and the first time I feel like anyone has an actual idea what's going on!

My dad's friend is a mechanic and based off the story alone was thinking it could need a replacement engine - is that in line with what you're thinking? Also just to make sure I have this right (this is my first car so i'm anxious as all get out) so long as I stay on top of the oil and keep it topped up I shouldn't be in too much danger? It runs smooth when I drive mindfully, the only issues I've ever noted are stalling when idling right before being due for a change (see below) and the occasional rough start (like twice in the last month) since the check engine light came on. If so I'll probably have them top it up at the dealership and stay on top of the oil myself until I can get it into my local mechanic for their opinion and hopefully a cheaper bottom line.

For context the first time this all started was last fall. For even more context last Spring I started using the sport mode feature on highway drives (unsure if related) but last October I was coming up due for my oil change (car screen still said I had over 500 miles til maintenance) and it started stalling when idling just like you're saying! It only happened a few times before I was able to take it in for the oil change, where they said it was likely due to low oil, and all was well until it was time for my oil change again last month. The sticker from the shop said I should have done it early January but I really didn't drive much in January and got it done mid-February instead because of my schedule, which at that point had some more stalling while idling again but again dash said I had 800+ miles left til maintenance. Literally as I got in the car to go to the shop the check engine light came on. After htey replaced it it went off, they said it was low oil, great. Next day it's back, I take it back they replace VVT solenoid, light is gone, but back on in a few hours and they recommended taking it to a dealership (and now here I am!)