The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has officially escalated its investigation into General Motors’ 6.2-liter L87 V8 engines after receiving more than 1,100 new complaints of engine bearing failures—many involving Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, and Cadillac Escalade models not covered under GM’s earlier recall.
Why NHTSA Is Investigating GM’s 6.2L Engine Again
In January 2025, NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a preliminary review after reports surfaced of sudden engine failures in GM’s 6.2L V8 engines. GM later traced the defect to manufacturing flaws in the connecting rods and crankshafts, which could lead to a catastrophic loss of motive power while driving.
GM issued a recall in April 2025 affecting 721,000 full-size trucks and SUVs built between March 2021 and May 2024, including:
- Chevrolet Silverado 1500
- GMC Sierra 1500
- Chevrolet Suburban and Tahoe
- GMC Yukon and Yukon XL
- Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV
However, NHTSA has now received 1,157 additional complaints, including 173 failures outside the recall’s original scope, prompting a new engineering analysis into 286,000 additional vehicles from model years 2019–2024.
Which GM Vehicles Are Under Investigation
The expanded probe covers popular GM models equipped with the 6.2-liter L87 V8 gasoline engine, including:
- 2019–2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
- 2019–2024 GMC Sierra 1500
- 2021–2024 Chevrolet Suburban and Tahoe
- 2021–2024 GMC Yukon and Yukon XL
- 2021–2024 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV
What Drivers Are Reporting
Owners have reported engine knocking, low-oil pressure warnings, and sudden engine shutdowns while driving. NHTSA noted that “loss of motive power due to engine failure” presents a major safety risk, especially at highway speeds.
GM has acknowledged 12 alleged crashes and 12 injuries possibly linked to the defect, though most were minor or non-crash-related.
What GM Owners Should Do
If you own a GM vehicle with the 6.2L L87 V8 engine, you should:
- Check your VIN on NHTSA.gov/recalls to see if your vehicle is affected.
- Schedule an inspection with your dealership immediately.
- Document any warning lights, noises, or performance issues—they may help prove eligibility under state warranty laws.
Conclusion
Recalls can be an indication that an underlying issue exists with the vehicle and the manufacturer has knowledge of that defect. Under the California Lemon Law, if the manufacturer cannot repair your vehicle under warranty after repeated attempts, you may be entitled to compensation. You can read MMO Law’s post pertaining to automotive recalls by clicking here.
At MMO Law, A.P.C. we have substantial experience litigating and negotiating lemon law claims throughout Los Angeles, Orange County, San Bernardino, Bakersfield, Kern County, Palm Springs and many other counties throughout California.
Call today at (310) 933-4493 for a free consultation with a California Lemon Law Lawyer regarding your potential Lemon Law claim.
Disclaimer: The information contained herein is meant for general information and advertisement purposes only and is not intended to be construed as legal advice.