General Motors has launched a massive recall affecting nearly 600,000 trucks and SUVs equipped with 6.2-liter V8 engines due to potential catastrophic engine failures. The recall specifically targets 597,630 vehicles manufactured between 2021 and 2024 that feature the L87 V8 engine configuration, including popular models like the Cadillac Escalade, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, and several GMC offerings.
Manufacturing defects in connecting rod and crankshaft components represent the core issue. GM engineers identified two primary failure modes during teardowns: rod-bearing damage from sediment accumulation and out-of-specification crankshaft dimensions. These problems originated with components from suppliers American Axle & Manufacturing and Questum Macimex, affecting engines produced at three North American facilities in Tonawanda, Spring Hill, and St. Catharines. There are no warning signs that indicate potential engine failure before it occurs.
Manufacturing flaws in rod and crank components led GM engineers to identify sediment damage and dimensional issues from multiple supplier parts.
The gravity of this recall cannot be overstated. Affected engines may fail without warning during operation, considerably increasing crash risk. I’ve examined similar failures previously, and they typically manifest as sudden power loss accompanied by catastrophic internal damage requiring complete engine replacement.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration initiated an investigation in January 2025 after receiving 39 owner complaints related to engine failure. This prompted GM’s fourth investigation into these engines since 2022, ultimately identifying the problematic build period from March 2021 through May 2024. The company has documented 12 injuries reported due to these engine failures, though fortunately no deaths have been linked to the issue.
Dealers will inspect the affected vehicles and repair or replace engines as needed, with all costs covered under the recall program. Owner notification letters are scheduled for mailing by June 9, 2025. Owners seeking immediate information can contact brand-specific customer service lines: Cadillac (1-800-333-4223), Chevrolet (1-800-222-1020), or GMC (1-800-462-8782).
The recall, designated N252494000 by GM and 25V-274 by NHTSA, represents a considerable quality control challenge for the automaker. Owners may also contact NHTSA directly at 1-888-327-4236 for additional information or to report related concerns.
Remarkably, similar engines in 2019-2020 models remain unaffected by the current recall action.
