GM Voluntarily Stops Selling 6.2L Trucks And SUVs
General Motors has issued a stop-sale order for all full-size pickups and SUVs equipped with its 6.2-liter L87 V8 engine built between the 2021 and 2024 model years, citing concerns over connecting rod and crankshaft integrity which are causing engine failures.
Key Points
- GM has issued a recall for 2021–2024 full-size pickups and SUVs equipped with the 6.2L V8 engine due to potential connecting rod and crankshaft defects that could lead to sudden engine failure.
- A stop-sale order is in effect for affected Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC models, with inspections required; vehicles that pass will receive higher-viscosity 0W-40 oil and a revised owner’s manual insert.
- 2025 models are not affected thanks to updated manufacturing processes, but the availability of 6.2L V8 trucks and SUVs remains limited.
The move follows a formal NHTSA investigation into GM trucks and SUVs equipped with the L87 engine after numerous customer complaints of sudden engine failures earlier this year. GM has confirmed this is an issue and has issued a voluntary recall, citing potential defects in the connecting rods and crankshafts that could lead to catastrophic engine failure and increased crash risk.
Affected models include the Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL. GM has issued an immediate stop-sale order for unsold vehicles, requiring all inventory already at dealerships to be inspected before being sold or delivered.
Dealers will scan for diagnostic trouble code P0016, which indicates crankshaft or camshaft misalignment. Vehicles that pass inspection will be updated with higher-viscosity 0W-40 oil, a new oil cap, and a revised owner’s manual insert. Vehicles failing inspection may require engine replacement.
The recall indicates inconsistencies in manufacturing tolerances that could cause premature wear or total engine failure. GM is advising that switching to thicker 0W-40 oil offers improved protection under high load and temperature, aligning with specifications seen in performance models like the Camaro and Corvette.
GM manufactures the 6.2L L87 V8 engine at Tonawanda Propulsion, the company's longstanding engine assembly plant in Buffalo, N.Y.
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An experienced automotive storyteller and accomplished photographer known for engaging and insightful content. Michael also brings a wealth of technical knowledge—he was part of the Ford GT program at Multimatic, oversaw a fleet of Audi TCR race cars, ziptied Lamborghini Super Trofeo cars back together, been over the wall during the Rolex 24, and worked in the intense world of IndyCar.
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