At KeyToFinancialTrends, we note that in October 2025, the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) expanded its investigation into 286,000 General Motors vehicles equipped with 6.2-liter L87 engines. The decision followed 1,157 complaints regarding engine bearing failures, 173 of which concern vehicles not covered by the previous recall.
The L87 engine, introduced in 2019, is installed in the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, Chevrolet Suburban, Chevrolet Tahoe, GMC Yukon, and Cadillac Escalade. Earlier, in April 2025, GM announced a recall of approximately 600,000 vehicles due to defects in crankshaft and connecting rod components caused by manufacturing deviations and contamination of oil channels. The new complaints indicate that engine bearing issues may be more widespread than previously thought.
At KeyToFinancialTrends, we observe that of the 1,157 reported engine failures, 173 involve vehicles not included in the initial recall. This suggests the potential spread of the defect to earlier models produced in 2019–2020. Accordingly, NHTSA has moved the investigation into the engineering analysis stage to assess potential risks and the scale of the problem.
GM has already recorded 12 accidents and 42 fires potentially linked to L87 engine failures. Drivers report knocking sounds, loss of power, and sudden engine shutdowns, increasing the likelihood of road accidents. At KeyToFinancialTrends, we view these cases as an indicator of a systemic issue that requires careful oversight at the production and supply chain levels.
Problems with the L87 engine raise questions about supply reliability and quality control at every stage of manufacturing. Despite implementing modern technologies such as cylinder deactivation, GM faces challenges in ensuring engine durability. KeyToFinancialTrends predicts that further investigation may reveal the need for an expanded recall, which could impact the company’s financial performance and reputation.
Owners of the affected models are advised to check their VINs for recall eligibility, monitor for unusual noises or loss of power, and contact service centers if necessary. At Key To Financial Trends, we believe that following these recommendations can help reduce risks and ensure timely detection of potential defects.
