GM L87 Engine Lawsuits Consolidated in Federal Court

What's the Problem

General Motors faces multiple lawsuits alleging defects in its 6.2-liter L87 V8 engines. The alleged issues include defective crankshaft, bearing, and connecting rod components that can lead to sudden and catastrophic engine failure. Reported failures have occurred in vehicles still under warranty, often while driving at highway speeds.

Allegations

Plaintiffs claim that GM knew about manufacturing or design flaws in the L87 engine but failed to provide an adequate fix. They allege that the recall GM issued in April 2025 does not fully resolve the problem for most affected vehicles, instead offering only an oil change to a higher viscosity rather than a complete repair or replacement. The lawsuits assert violations of warranty and consumer protection laws, and they seek remedies including repurchase, replacement, or cash compensation.

Recall

In April 2025, GM recalled approximately 600,000 vehicles equipped with the L87 6.2-liter V8 engine. Models include certain 2021–2024 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado, Suburban, and Tahoe, and GMC Sierra, Yukon, and Yukon XL.
Dealers were instructed to check for diagnostic trouble code P0016.

• If the code is present: replace the engine.

• If the code is not present: change the oil to GM dexos R 0W-40, replace the oil filter and cap, and insert updated maintenance instructions in the owner’s manual.

Critics argue that this approach leaves underlying mechanical defects unresolved for the vast majority of recalled vehicles.

Litigation Status

At least ten separate class action lawsuits have now been consolidated into one proceeding in the Eastern District of Michigan under the lead case Powell et al. v. General Motors, LLC. The consolidation will streamline discovery and pre-trial motions. Plaintiffs are preparing a consolidated complaint, and GM is expected to respond under new court-ordered deadlines.

Symptoms

Owners have reported:

• Knocking or ticking noises from the engine

• Loss of power or hesitation while driving

• Illuminated check engine light, sometimes with code P0016

• Complete engine failure, occasionally requiring towing

How to Proceed

Document Issues: 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.

Reasonable Number of Repair Attempts: While the law doesn't specify an exact number, generally, if the same problem persists after four or more repair attempts, or if the vehicle is out of service for more than 30 days cumulatively, it may qualify as a "lemon."

Monitor Symptoms: Any new engine noises, warning lights, or loss of power? Stop driving immediately and seek inspection and let the dealership know.

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.