GM Issues Massive Recall on 6.2L V8 Engines in 2021–2024 Trucks and SUVs

General Motors has announced a major recall involving nearly 600,000 full-size trucks and SUVs equipped with its 6.2-liter L87 V8 engine. The move comes after a series of engine failure reports and a federal investigation into the reliability of these powertrains.

What’s the Problem?

The issue centers on internal engine components—specifically the connecting rods and crankshaft—in the 6.2L L87 engines. A defect in the manufacturing process may cause these parts to fail prematurely, leading to sudden engine damage or complete failure. In many cases, this can occur without any prior warning, creating potential safety hazards on the road.

Which Vehicles Are Affected?

The recall includes a range of popular GM models from the 2021 to 2024 model years, such as:

• Chevrolet: Silverado 1500, Tahoe, Suburban

• GMC: Sierra 1500, Yukon, Yukon XL

• Cadillac: Escalade, Escalade ESV

These vehicles are widely used as family haulers, work trucks, and luxury SUVs—making the scale of the recall especially significant.

GM’s Immediate Actions

In response to the issue, GM has issued a stop-sale order for unsold inventory that may be affected. For vehicles already in the hands of customers, GM will inspect the engine to identify any signs of the defect.

Depending on the findings:

• If no damage is detected, GM will change the engine oil to a more protective 0W-40 viscosity, update the oil cap to reflect the change, and include an insert in the owner’s manual.

• If damage is found, the engine will be repaired or replaced—free of charge.

What Should Owners Do?

GM plans to start mailing official recall notices to owners beginning June 9, 2025. In the meantime, drivers are advised to watch for symptoms such as:

• Unusual engine knocking or ticking noises

• Loss of power or rough idling

• Check engine light illumination

If any of these symptoms are present, affected owners should contact their dealership immediately for inspection and service.

Legal and Financial Ramifications

Beyond the technical issue, this recall has also prompted legal scrutiny. Class-action lawsuits have been filed alleging that GM was aware of the potential engine flaw but failed to act quickly. The situation may pose long-term risks to GM’s brand trust and financial performance, especially as competitors ramp up quality standards across their truck and SUV segments.

Final Thoughts

This recall highlights the importance of proactive quality control and swift manufacturer response. With the affected engine used across a large part of GM’s high-volume lineup, the company is under pressure to manage repairs efficiently and maintain customer confidence.

For more updates, GM owners can visit the company’s official recall lookup tool using their VIN or reach out directly to their local dealership.