General Motors is recalling nearly 600,000 vehicles due to potential engine issues. The 6.2-liter V-8 engine that powers many of the automaker's most popular models has a problem where potential defects with the connecting rods or crankshaft can lead to engine damage and catastrophic engine failure.
The recall affects 2021-2024 models of the Cadillac Escalade, Chevrolet Suburban, Chevrolet Silverado, Chevrolet Tahoe, GMC Sierra, GMC Yukon, and GMC Yukon XL equipped with the 6.2-liter engine. According to the recall report, drivers could be alerted to a potential issue prior to a major failure if they hear unusual sounds from the engine, see a check engine light illuminate, or the vehicle exhibits performance issues like high rpms, abnormal shifting, or reduced power.
GM began investigating issues related to the 6.2-liter V-8 engine in January. That’s when the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration announced it was investigating 877,710 GM vehicles for reports of engine failures. GM said in the NHTSA Safety Recall Report that it closed three previous investigations into the potential issue in February 2022, June 2023, and July 2024.
During GM’s investigation, the automaker discovered that vehicles built from March 1, 2021, to May 31, 2024, showed increased engine failure claims. The automaker also found that there were intermittent quality issues and manufacturing issues that resulted in rod-bearing damage and out-of-spec crankshaft dimensions.
GM identified 28,102 field complaints “potentially related to the failure of the L87 engine due to crankshaft, connecting rod, or engine bearing failure.” Of those, 14,332 resulted in a loss of power. The company identified 12 potentially related crashes and 42 possible fires due to engine failures. It also provided the following statement to Car and Driver:
“GM will voluntarily recall certain 2021–2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Tahoe, Suburban; GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, Yukon XL; Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV models equipped with 6.2-liter L87 engines to resolve manufacturing issues affecting some engines. The safety and satisfaction of our customers are the highest priorities for the entire GM team, and we’re working to address this matter as quickly as possible.”
GM will begin notifying owners on June 9. The automaker will ask owners to bring their vehicle to a dealer, and a service tech will inspect and replace or repair the engine as needed. Vehicles that pass the inspection will receive higher viscosity oil, a new oil filter, a new oil fill cap, and an insert for the owner’s manual.
