by GM Engine Problems: New Lawsuit and Recall
Problems with the L87 V8 engines at General Motors continue to accumulate, and owner dissatisfaction is growing. The latest lawsuit, filed in Pennsylvania, brings familiar accusations regarding serious malfunctions in the engines of the company’s popular SUVs and pickups.
The Essence of the Problem
The lawsuit concerns a defect in engine components – connecting rods or crankshafts – that can lead to bearing failure. This can cause the engine to seize completely or even result in a connecting rod puncturing the engine block. Owners also complain of abnormal gear shifting, reduced power, and delays during acceleration.
The recall measures do not completely eliminate the defect and do not provide a long-term solution to the problem
Manufacturer’s Response
In January, GM initiated a recall of 597,630 vehicles with these engines. Depending on the situation, some vehicles are planned to have their engines replaced, while others will only receive a replacement of the oil with 0W-40, a new oil filter, and a cap.
Affected models include the Cadillac Escalade/ESV (2021-2024), Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, as well as the GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL. Three plaintiffs, including Farra Forrest, whose engine failed in November 2024, express dissatisfaction with the company’s approach to resolving the issue.
An internal GM investigation revealed over 28,000 complaints related to this defect in the United States. However, the company closed the investigation back in February 2022, continuing to sell vehicles with these engines.
This situation has been a sore point for GM for more than a year now, especially considering that the L87 V8 engines are installed on the company’s key models. Despite numerous complaints and lawsuits, the manufacturer has still not offered a final solution, causing concern among both owners and automotive industry experts.
