GM’s V8 Is Fueling Lawsuits Faster Than Ford Can Issue Recalls
It's alleged that GM knew about serious engine problems but continued selling L87-powered models
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by Brad Anderson
GM issued a recall for almost 600,000 vehicles due to engine issues in January.
Impacted models include the Cadillac Escalade, Chevy Silverado, and GMC Yukon.
As with a previous lawsuit, this one takes issue with GM’s subscribed recall repairs.
Problems with GM’s L87 V8 engines are mounting, and frustration among owners seems to be keeping pace. Over the past several months, a wave of class action lawsuits has targeted GM over alleged defects in these engines. The latest lawsuit, filed in Pennsylvania, raises familiar concerns around serious engine problems under the hoods of the company’s best-selling SUVs and pickup trucks.
Also: GM Faces Lawsuit Surge Over V8s That Could Die Without Warning
The complaint points to a flaw in the L87 V8 engine, citing a “defect in the connecting rod or crankshaft engine component” that can lead to bearing failure. This may cause the engine to seize entirely or allow a connecting rod to break through the engine block. In addition to these failures, owners have reported abnormal shifting, reduced power, and hesitation during acceleration.
Recall Measures Under Scrutiny
GM issued a recall of over 597,630 vehicles with this engine in January. According to that campaign, some vehicles will get an engine replacement if deemed necessary, while others will get just an oil change; more specifically, 0W-40 oil, a new engine oil filter, and a new oil cap.
As with at least two other lawsuits GM is facing over this engine, the latest class action argues that “the recall is inadequate and does not provide a complete and lasting remedy for the Defect.”
The legal filing covers several popular models, including the 2021-2024 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, and Tahoe models, as well as the GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL. Among the three plaintiffs named, two, Mezanur Rahaman and Gerald Reed, express dissatisfaction with GM’s recall remedy, despite not having experienced a failure themselves.
One Case of Engine Failure
The third plaintiff, Farrah Forrest, says her 2022 Cadillac Escalade suffered a major engine issue in November 2024. She states that her dealership ultimately replaced the engine under warranty, though the repair took three weeks, and she wasn’t offered a loaner vehicle during that time.
An internal GM investigation reportedly identified more than 28,000 field complaints or incidents in the United States that could be tied to this engine issue. Nevertheless, the automaker closed the investigation in February 2022, and vehicles equipped with the L87 engine remained on sale.
