The gm l87 engine lawsuit has captured attention from thousands of General Motors owners. This legal battle centers on serious defects in the 6.2L V8 L87 engine. Owners report sudden failures that leave vehicles stranded and create safety risks. In this article, we break down the key facts. We explain the engine’s background, the problems at hand, and steps you can take. Our goal is to help you understand your options clearly.
Understanding the GM 6.2L V8 L87 Engine
General Motors introduced the L87 engine as part of its EcoTec3 family. This 6.2-liter V8 powers many popular trucks and SUVs. It delivers strong performance with 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. The engine uses advanced features like direct fuel injection and variable valve timing. These help improve fuel efficiency and power.
GM first put the L87 in vehicles starting in 2019. It replaced older models like the L86. The L87 includes dynamic fuel management. This system shuts down cylinders to save gas during light driving. Many drivers praise its smooth ride and towing strength. For example, it handles up to 13,300 pounds in some trucks.
The engine appears in high-end trims. Think RST, High Country, or Denali models. GM aimed it at buyers who need power for work or family trips. Over the years, sales of L87-equipped vehicles reached millions. Data from GM shows over 1 million units sold by 2024.
But issues started to surface early. Owners noticed odd noises and warning lights. These signs pointed to deeper problems. The engine’s design relies on precise parts like connecting rods and crankshafts. When these fail, the whole system breaks down.
Experts link some troubles to manufacturing choices. GM sourced parts from suppliers in Michigan and Mexico. Quality control lapses may have played a role. An NHTSA report notes over 28,000 complaints by late 2025. This number highlights the scale of the issue.
The L87 builds on GM’s long history with V8 engines. Since the 1950s, GM has led in this area. Models like the small-block Chevy set standards. The L87 continues that legacy but adds modern tech. Yet, defects have tarnished its reputation.
To grasp the lawsuit, know the engine’s specs:
- Displacement: 6.2 liters
- Configuration: V8 with aluminum block and heads
- Fuel System: Direct injection
- Compression Ratio: 11.5:1
- Key Features: Dynamic fuel management, active thermal management
These details matter because defects hit core components. Owners often face repairs costing thousands. In one case, a 2023 GMC Yukon needed a full engine swap after just 10,000 miles.
The Core Defect in the L87 Engine
The heart of the gm l87 engine lawsuit lies in manufacturing flaws. Plaintiffs claim defects in connecting rods and crankshafts cause failures. These parts move thousands of times per minute. Any imperfection leads to wear.
Connecting rods link pistons to the crankshaft. They must handle huge forces. In the L87, sediment builds on rods. This comes from poor machining. Crankshafts also show out-of-spec dimensions. Rough surfaces add friction.
Over time, this damages bearings. Bearings sit between rods and crankshaft. They reduce friction with oil. But defects let metal shavings enter the oil. This creates a chain reaction. Shavings score parts, leading to seizure.
Symptoms appear suddenly. Drivers hear knocking sounds. Oil pressure drops fast. The engine may stall at highway speeds. NHTSA links this to 12 crashes and 12 injuries. At least 42 fires occurred too.
GM admitted issues in a 2025 recall. They blamed supplier errors from March to May 2021. But lawsuits argue the problem spans more years. Data shows failures in 2019-2024 models.
A key point: GM’s fix changes oil from 0W-20 to 0W-40. This thicker oil cushions tolerances. But plaintiffs say it doesn’t solve root causes. It may reduce fuel economy by 1-2 mpg. Owners face higher costs over time.
Statistics back the claims:
- Field Reports: 28,102 by December 2025
- Catastrophic Failures: About half of reports
- Affected Vehicles: Over 597,000 in initial recall
Owners share stories online. One Yukon driver lost power on a busy interstate. Another Silverado owner paid $8,000 out-of-pocket after warranty expired. These examples show real impacts.
Experts analyze the defect using engineering tools. They test oil samples for metal particles. High levels signal bearing wear. Prevention involves regular oil changes and monitoring gauges.
If you own an L87 vehicle, check your VIN on GM’s site. Look for codes like P06DD, which indicate oil issues. Early detection saves money.
History of GM Engine Issues Leading to the Lawsuit
GM has faced engine troubles before. The L87 case echoes past problems. In the 2000s, Vortec engines had piston ring failures. Owners sued over oil consumption.
The 5.3L AFM engines saw lifter collapses. Class actions followed in 2020. GM settled for millions. These cases set precedents for the L87 suit.
Complaints about the L87 started in 2021. Forums like Reddit filled with posts. Users described knocking and seizures. By 2024, NHTSA opened a probe.
In January 2025, NHTSA investigated 877,000 vehicles. They found patterns in failures. GM issued Recall 25V-274 in April. It covered 2021-2024 models.
But owners weren’t satisfied. Lawsuits began in February. The first, Powell v. GM, claimed defects in a 2023 Yukon. More followed, reaching 11 by November.
NHTSA expanded the probe in October 2025. They added 286,000 trucks from 2019-2021. This fueled more suits.
Timeline of events:
- 2019: L87 debuts in Silverado and Sierra.
- 2021: Early complaints surface.
- January 2025: NHTSA probe opens.
- February 2025: First lawsuit filed.
- April 2025: GM recalls 597,630 vehicles.
- October 2025: Probe expands.
- December 2025: Lawsuits consolidate.
This history shows growing awareness. GM’s stock dipped 5% after the recall, per NASDAQ indexes. Investors worry about costs.
Similar issues hit other brands. Ford’s EcoBoost had timing chain problems. Lawsuits there led to extended warranties.
For GM, the L87 case could cost billions if lost. Past settlements averaged $4,000 per owner.
Details of the GM L87 Engine Lawsuit
The gm l87 engine lawsuit consolidated into Powell v. General Motors. A judge merged 11 cases in December 2025. This streamlines the process.
Plaintiffs include owners from Illinois, Georgia, and more. They seek over $5 million each in some filings. Claims cover breach of warranty and fraud.
Key allegations:
- GM knew about defects for years.
- Recall fixes are inadequate.
- Vehicles lose value due to issues.
- Safety risks weren’t disclosed.
The case sits in Michigan’s Eastern District Court. Four firms lead: Miller Law, DiCello Levitt, Hagens Berman, and Lieff Cabraser.
Progress as of January 2026: Discovery phase starts. Experts will testify on defects. A trial could come in late 2026.
Owners can join via class action sites. Firms like Hagens Berman offer free consults.
One suit, McNamara v. GM, focuses on fuel economy loss from thicker oil. Another, Houchin v. GM, says replacement engines are flawed too.
According to AutoGuide, the suit highlights 28,000 complaints. This strengthens the case.
GM defends the recall as effective. They replaced engines in severe cases. But data shows failures continue.
Affected Models and Years
The lawsuit targets specific GM vehicles with L87 engines. These include trucks and SUVs built for power.
List of models:
- Chevrolet Silverado 1500: 2019-2024
- GMC Sierra 1500: 2019-2024
- Chevrolet Tahoe: 2021-2024
- Chevrolet Suburban: 2021-2024
- GMC Yukon: 2021-2024
- GMC Yukon XL: 2021-2024
- Cadillac Escalade: 2021-2024
- Cadillac Escalade ESV: 2021-2024
Over 877,000 units may be involved. The recall hit 597,630 in the U.S. NHTSA’s probe covers more.
Check if your vehicle qualifies. Use GM’s recall site or NHTSA.gov. Enter your VIN.
Owners in these models report similar issues. A 2022 Sierra owner shared a failure at 50,000 miles. Warranty covered it, but trust eroded.
If your model matches, document everything. Photos of warning lights help in claims.
Symptoms of L87 Engine Failure
Spot problems early to avoid breakdowns. Common signs include:
- Knocking Noises: Loud ticking from the engine bay.
- Oil Pressure Drop: Gauge falls suddenly.
- Check Engine Light: Codes like P06DD appear.
- Power Loss: Vehicle stalls or goes into limp mode.
- Metal in Oil: Shavings during changes.
If you see these, stop driving. Tow to a dealer. Ignoring leads to total failure.
Maintenance tips:
- Change oil every 5,000 miles.
- Use GM-approved specs.
- Monitor gauges on drives.
- Get oil analysis tests.
GM Authority reports failures often happen without warning. Stay vigilant.
What Owners Can Do: Actionable Steps
You have options if affected by the gm l87 engine lawsuit. Act now to protect your rights.
First, check recall status. Visit my.gm.com/recalls. If eligible, schedule a free fix.
Report issues to NHTSA. Call 1-888-327-4236 or use safercar.gov. Your input strengthens investigations.
Join the class action. Contact lead firms. They handle paperwork.
If out-of-warranty, seek lemon law help. States like California cover defects.
Steps to file a claim:
- Gather records: Purchase docs, repair bills.
- Note symptoms and dates.
- Consult a lawyer specializing in auto defects.
- Submit to the court or firm.
Many get compensation for repairs or buybacks. One owner received $10,000 in a similar case.
For reassurance, know most failures are fixable. GM has replaced thousands of engines.
Impact on Vehicle Owners and Resale Value
Defects hurt more than mechanics. Owners face downtime and stress. A stalled truck means missed work.
Resale drops 10-20%. Kelley Blue Book data shows affected models sell lower.
Insurance may rise if crashes occur. Fuel costs add up with thicker oil.
But positive: GM extends warranties in some cases. Owners band together online for support.
Communities on Reddit and Facebook share tips. One group has 5,000 members discussing fixes.
Similar GM Lawsuits and Industry Trends
GM’s history includes the 2014 ignition switch scandal. It cost $900 million.
The 5.3L lifter suit settled in 2023 for $102 million.
Industry-wide, recalls rose 15% in 2025. Supply chain issues blame.
Ford and Toyota face similar engine suits. Learning from these helps consumers.
Future Outlook for the L87 Engine and GM
GM may redesign parts. New models could use better suppliers.
The lawsuit might end in settlement by 2027. Expect payouts of $2,000-5,000 per owner.
NHTSA could mandate more recalls. Watch for updates.
GM’s reputation rebounds with transparency. They invest in quality checks.
FAQs About the GM L87 Engine Lawsuit
What is the gm l87 engine lawsuit? It claims defects in GM’s 6.2L V8 cause failures. Owners seek fixes and pay.
Which vehicles are in the gm l87 engine lawsuit? 2019-2024 Silverado, Sierra, Tahoe, Suburban, Yukon, Escalade.
How do I join the gm l87 engine lawsuit? Contact firms like Hagens Berman. Check classaction.org.
Is the gm l87 engine lawsuit settled? No, it’s ongoing as of 2026.
What compensation in the gm l87 engine lawsuit? Possible repairs, refunds, or cash for losses.
Conclusion
The gm l87 engine lawsuit exposes serious flaws in a popular engine. From defects in rods and crankshafts to inadequate fixes, owners face real challenges. We’ve covered the background, symptoms, and steps forward. GM must address these to rebuild trust. Affected owners can seek justice through reports and legal action. In the end, this case reminds us to stay informed about vehicle safety.
What experiences have you had with GM engines? Share below to help others.
References
- GM Authority – Multiple GM L87 Engine Lawsuits Consolidated – Details on lawsuit consolidation and recall.
- AutoGuide – Lawsuit Over GM’s Defective 6.2L V8 – Overview of defects and case progress.
- YouTube – NHTSA Expands GM L87 Investigation – Video on investigation expansion and owner advice.
