General Motors has issued a massive recall affecting nearly 600,000 vehicles due to a defect in 6.2L V8 engines that could cause sudden engine failure while driving. The recall, published April 24, 2025, by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), involves several popular Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC models built between 2021 and 2024.
Which GM vehicles are affected?
The recall impacts 597,630 full-size trucks and SUVs equipped with the L87 6.2L V8 gas engine. The models affected include:
- Cadillac Escalade (79,747 units)
- Cadillac Escalade ESV (46,280 units)
- Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (107,244 units)
- Chevrolet Suburban (22,162 units)
- Chevrolet Tahoe (44,802 units)
- GMC Sierra 1500 (153,630 units)
- GMC Yukon (82,832 units)
- GMC Yukon XL (60,933 units)
All affected vehicles were produced between March 1, 2021, and May 31, 2024.
What’s the engine defect?
The issue stems from possible contamination and manufacturing defects in the connecting rods and crankshafts, which can lead to internal engine damage and complete engine failure. According to GM, the root causes include:
- Sediment on connecting rods and crankshaft oil galleries
- Crankshafts with incorrect dimensions or poor surface finish
If the engine fails while driving, the vehicle may lose propulsion, significantly increasing the risk of a crash.
Warning signs to watch for
Drivers may notice signs before failure, including:
- Unusual engine noises (knocking or banging)
- Check engine light activation
- Poor performance, rough shifting, or no-start condition
What GM is doing
Owners will be notified beginning June 9, 2025. GM dealers will inspect the engine and replace or repair it as needed. Vehicles that pass inspection will get a new oil fill cap, higher viscosity oil, and a manual insert outlining new maintenance procedures.
GM will also reimburse owners for prior related repairs under its recall plan.
Reported incidents
GM identified 28,102 field complaints, including 14,332 cases involving loss of propulsion. There were also 12 alleged crashes, 12 minor injuries, and 42 fire reports, though most fires were minor and contained to the engine compartment.
What owners should do
Owners of affected models should:
- Check their VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls
- Look for notification letters starting June 2025
- Contact their GM dealer for free inspection and repair
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