GM L87 Free Engine Warranty Extension but How the California Lemon Law May Be a Better Alternative
General Motors (GM) has issued a significant recall affecting nearly 600,000 full-size trucks and SUVs equipped with the 6.2L V8 L87 engine due to potential engine defects that could lead to sudden failure . While GM is offering extended warranty coverage for engines that pass inspection, California residents experiencing repeated issues may have additional protections under the state's Lemon Law.
Understanding the GM 6.2L V8 L87 Engine Recall
The recall targets certain 2021–2024 models across GM's Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC brands, including popular vehicles like the Cadillac Escalade, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, and GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL . The issue stems from manufacturing defects in the connecting rod and/or crankshaft components, which can result in engine damage or failure without warning
Owners of affected vehicles will be notified by mail starting June 9, 2025. GM dealers will inspect the engines, and those that pass will receive an oil and filter change with a switch to higher-viscosity oil. Engines that fail inspection will be repaired or replaced at no cost to the owner.
HOW DID THIS HAPPEN?
The recall centers around two supplier-related manufacturing defects: possible rod bearing damage caused by contaminants, and crankshafts that are either out-of-spec or improperly finished. The affected vehicles include certain models from the 2021 to 2024 model years, with 2019, 2020, and 2025 models excluded due to falling outside the identified production window.
Authorized GM technicians will inspect impacted vehicles. If a defect is found, the engine will be replaced. If no defects are detected, GM will perform an oil and filter change using 0W-40 Mobil 1 Supercar oil and install a new oil fill cap to reflect the updated specifications.
Extended Warranty Coverage for "Good" Engines
For vehicles that pass the inspection and are deemed free of defects, GM is offering an extended warranty covering the engine for 10 years or 150,000 miles, whichever comes first . This special coverage aims to provide peace of mind to owners, ensuring that any future engine-related issues within this period will be addressed by GM.
California Lemon Law Protections
California's Lemon Law offers additional protections for consumers who purchase or lease new vehicles with significant defects that the manufacturer or its authorized dealers cannot repair after a reasonable number of attempts. If your GM vehicle has experienced repeated engine issues, prolonged repair times, or has been out of service for an extended period due to these problems, you may be entitled to a replacement vehicle or a refund.
Key criteria under California's Lemon Law include:
The vehicle has a substantial defect that impairs its use, value, or safety.
The defect persists despite a reasonable number of repair attempts.
The vehicle has been out of service for repairs for more than 30 days cumulatively.
It's important to note that even if your vehicle is outside the standard warranty period, the extended warranty offered by GM does not negate your rights under the Lemon Law.
Steps to Take If You're Affected
Check Your Vehicle's Recall Status: Visit the NHTSA recall website or GM's recall lookup tool to see if your vehicle is part of the recall.
Schedule an Inspection: If your vehicle is affected, contact your local GM dealer to schedule an inspection and necessary repairs.
Monitor Symptoms: Any new engine noises, warning lights, or loss of power? Stop driving immediately and seek inspection and let the dealership know.
Document Everything: Keep detailed records of all repairs and communications with the manufacturer. While at the dealership, ensure that all of your complaints are noted in the work order that you receive when you first drop off your vehicle.
Consult a Lemon Law Attorney: If you experience repeated issues or prolonged repair times, consult with a Lemon Law attorney to understand your rights and potential remedies.
Talk to a Lemon Law Attorney, like Valero Law: If repairs fail, or if you experience repeated issues, you may be entitled to relief under California law. Remedies can include a repurchase of the vehicle or a cash settlement.
Protect Your Rights Under California Lemon Law
If you are like many GM owners who are now experiencing serious engine issues with your Chevrolet, GMC, or Cadillac, you may be entitled to compensation under the California Lemon Law.
Compensation may include:
A complete repurchase of your defective vehicle
A replacement vehicle
Or substantial cash reimbursement for damage already caused by the defect
If you’re in California and your GM truck or SUV has a 6.2L engine, lifter, or transmission defect, call Valero Law, APC at (424) 299-4447 or complete our free Lemon Law case evaluation form today.