GM’s 6.2-liter V-8 investigated for engine failure in SUVs, trucks

General Motors is facing a major issue with its largest vehicles that are equipped with the brand’s biggest engine, the 6.2-liter V-8. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) launched an investigation in January after receiving 346 reports from customers about a “sudden loss of motive power” caused by engine seizures.

Customers have reported that the connecting rod can breach the engine block or a bearing can fail while driving, leading to a loud knocking and thumping sound. This issue has been observed in vehicles such as the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra pickup trucks, Chevy Tahoe, and Cadillac Escalade full-size SUVs.

While a recall has not been issued yet, the NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation has requested more information from General Motors. It is worth noting that nearly half a million vehicles were recalled last November for a different issue that affected GM’s 3.0-liter turbodiesel engines.

The investigation includes vehicles that were redesigned in recent years, such as the 2019 Silverado and Sierra pickup trucks and the 2021 full-size SUVs. Interestingly, the 2025 model year vehicles with the same 6.2-liter V-8 engine have not been included in the investigation, despite no stated changes to the engine.

General Motors has until March 28, 2025, to provide the NHTSA with the requested information regarding the 6.2-liter V-8 engine. If a recall is deemed necessary, it could be a significant and costly endeavor for the automaker. In a similar situation, Toyota recently decided to replace over 100,000 engines in the Tundra and Lexus LX600 due to a recall related to the twin-turbo 3.5-liter V-6 engine.

This investigation highlights the importance of addressing potential safety issues in vehicles equipped with powerful engines to ensure the safety and reliability of the vehicles on the road. Stay tuned for updates on this developing situation as more information becomes available.