In the dead of winter, a GM Silverado owner’s engine sputtered and failed just miles from home—despite having the recall fix completed just months earlier. The 6.2L V8 engine, which was supposed to be safeguarded by a recall remedy, suddenly shut down, leaving the owner stranded in subzero temperatures.
This isn’t an isolated case. Nearly 600,000 GM vehicles are now under scrutiny, with owners nationwide reporting similar engine failures. What went wrong with GM’s promised fix, and why are the same vehicles still breaking down?
Stakes Escalate
The investigation now targets nearly 600,000 vehicles, with 36 complaints alleging engine failures after the recall remedy.
This probe could expand the scope of the original defect, potentially affecting models from 2021-2024. The focus is now on understanding why the remedy failed to work as expected.
Engine Saga Begins
GM’s 6.2L V8 engine, known as the L87, was introduced in 2019, powering high-performance trucks like the Silverado and Tahoe.
By April 2025, GM initiated Recall 25V-274 after more than 28,000 complaints regarding sediment buildup and wear on the crankshaft. The issue stemmed from subpar manufacturing in GM plants.
Pressures Mount
Despite the recall, complaints continued, especially after oil upgrades and engine replacements. NHTSA documented persistent failures in vehicles that underwent the remedy.
In May 2025, a class-action lawsuit was filed. By October, the investigation scope was expanded, with nationwide reports of stranded vehicles.
NHTSA Strikes
On January 16, 2026, NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation launched Recall Query RQ26001 to probe GM’s remedy for 597,630 vehicles.
The investigation follows 36 Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs) that allege engine failures after oil changes and engine replacements. The issue spans multiple GM models, including the Escalade and Silverado.
U.S. Fleet Impact
The investigation is focused on 597,571 GM vehicles in the U.S., while a global recall involved 721,000 vehicles.
However, the U.S. market is under the most scrutiny, with owners across the country reporting breakdowns. NHTSA is reviewing field data to evaluate the effectiveness of GM’s recall remedy.
Owners’ Challenges
Owners of affected trucks are facing persistent engine failures even after completing the recall remedy.
While no crashes have been reported, the failures have raised significant safety and reliability concerns. One VOQ stated, “Engine had recall remedy completed prior to failure.”
Investigation Focus
NHTSA is scrutinizing whether the recall fix—higher-viscosity oil and full engine replacements—sufficiently addresses the underlying defects in the engine.
The investigation is also focusing on the quality of parts used in the L87 engines and whether the remedy was adequately tested.
V8 Engine Context
As the auto industry shifts toward electric vehicles, GM’s 6.2L V8 engine failures underscore ongoing quality issues in traditional gasoline engines.
More than 28,000 complaints have been filed, pointing to metallurgy problems. These defects date back to the engine’s debut in 2019 and are now a point of contention in this investigation.
Global Scale
While the U.S. is the primary focus, GM’s global recall affected 721,000 vehicles.
Issues with the L87 engine extend beyond American shores, highlighting potential gaps in GM’s manufacturing oversight and raising concerns about its production practices worldwide.
Owner Concerns Grow
Frustrated owners are filing complaints about the ineffective recall remedies. Reports indicate that dealer networks are handling numerous service requests related to the engine failures.
The lack of resolution is contributing to growing frustration among GM truck owners, who are left in limbo regarding the next steps.
Corporate Accountability
GM’s reputation and financial stability are at risk following this recall and ongoing investigation.
The company is required to submit data to NHTSA and work with dealerships to resolve customer complaints. The findings from the investigation will guide GM’s next steps in addressing the issue.
GM’s Response
In response to the ongoing investigation, GM is preparing to submit detailed data to NHTSA.
The company has outlined its inspection protocols and remedy procedures, aiming to demonstrate that the fixes offered to consumers were effective while continuing to support owners with affected vehicles.
Expert Analysis
Industry experts suggest the failures highlight significant issues with the original engine design. Reports point to manufacturing defects with the crankshaft, which have plagued GM’s engines since 2019.
The failure of both oil upgrades and engine replacements raises doubts about the original remedy’s adequacy.
Potential Outcomes
The investigation’s findings could lead to expanded remedies, including the possibility of full engine replacements for a broader range of affected vehicles.
If widespread systemic issues are discovered, GM may face additional recalls and heightened scrutiny.
Regulatory Implications
NHTSA’s investigation may result in stricter oversight of future recall remedies. This case underscores the importance of thoroughly testing fixes before implementing them to ensure they effectively resolve the original defects.
Auto safety regulations may evolve to include better post-recall monitoring practices.
International Dimensions
The investigation has international implications, as owners outside the U.S. may pursue similar complaints.
With 721,000 vehicles recalled globally, GM could face cross-border legal challenges and heightened scrutiny from regulatory bodies in other markets.
Legal Proceedings
A class-action lawsuit, filed in May 2025, continues as the NHTSA investigation progresses.
The lawsuit focuses on the inadequacy of the recall remedy and seeks compensation for damages caused by the engine failures. Legal proceedings are ongoing in multiple U.S. jurisdictions.
Buyer Confidence Impact
GM’s handling of the recall and subsequent investigation may affect consumer confidence. Potential buyers of GM vehicles, particularly those equipped with the 6.2L V8 engine, may be wary of the company’s ability to address manufacturing defects.
This could influence future sales and brand loyalty.
Recalls Evolving
This case illustrates how the recall process is evolving to address not just the original defects but the effectiveness of the fixes themselves.
NHTSA’s investigation signals a more rigorous approach to ensuring vehicle remedies truly resolve safety issues. The outcomes will shape future recall standards across the automotive industry.
Sources:
“ODI Resume: Recall Query RQ26-001 (Loss of Motive Power Due to Engine Failure Post Recall Remedy).” National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 16 Jan 2026.
“NHTSA Opens Probe Into About 600,000 GM Vehicles Over Engine Failure Issue.” Reuters / Insurance Journal, 19 Jan 2026.
“GM Recalls Nearly 600K SUVs, Pickups Over Engine Failures.” Automotive Dive / WardsAuto, early May 2025.
“GM Recalling 721,000 Vehicles Over Engine Issue.” Reuters, 29 Apr 2025.