Table of contents

• What’s the Problem With the 6.2 Silverado?
• What’s the Manufacturer Doing to Fix the Problem?
• 5 Steps 2021 Chevy Silverado Owners Can Take
• FAQ

General Motors has issued a recall for 2021-2024 Chevy Silverado 1500 trucks with the 6.2L V8 L87 engine due to catastrophic engine failures. The recall (N252494001) affects multiple GM vehicles after owners’ reports of engines seizing, connecting rods breaking through engine blocks, and complete power loss while driving.

What is the Problem With the 6.2 Silverado?

Mechanics have also reported serious failures tied to the 6.2L V8 engine, like this dramatic example on Reddit: “Customer’s 2023 6.2L Silverado with 28k shut off going down the road. Pan full of glitter, one damaged main bearing, three spun rod bearings.” 

This is not an isolated incident. Another Silverado owner described: “Engine seized. A large boom sound…rattling, shaking, and loss of power. An extremely scary situation.”

GM and NHTSA traced the problem to faulty connecting rod and crankshaft components in the 6.2L V8 L87 engine. These defects can cause engines to fail suddenly, putting drivers at serious risk. 

Affected Vehicles

The 2021 Chevy Silverado 6.2 engine failure recall affects 2021-2024 model year vehicles, including:

Chevrolet:

• Silverado 1500
• Suburban
• Tahoe

GMC:

• Sierra 1500
• Yukon
• Yukon XL

Cadillac:

• Escalade
• Escalade ESV

If you own any of these vehicles with the 6.2L engine, this recall likely applies to you.

What is the Manufacturer Doing to Fix the Problem?

GM has taken several actions in response to this defect:

• Recall initiation & stop-sale order: Affected models were removed from sale until inspected
• Engine inspection requirement: Dealers must inspect the engine for internal component defects
• Updated oil service: If the engine passes inspection, service includes replacing the oil filter and oil cap, and switching to high-viscosity 0W-40 synthetic oil
• Engine replacement if needed: Engines failing inspection due to bearing or rod defects will be repaired or replaced

GM says, “Safety and customer satisfaction are the highest priorities…working to address this matter as quickly as possible.”

Is This Fix Appropriate?

The inspection and oil change help catch early problems, but if your engine already has internal damage, only a complete replacement will prevent failure.

5 Steps 2021 Chevy Silverado Owners Can Take

If you own a 2021 Chevy Silverado 1500 with the 6.2L V8 engine, take action now to protect your safety and investment. Here’s the process GM has outlined:

1. Wait for Notification or Contact GM

GM is mailing recall notices to all owners affected by the 2021 Chevy Silverado 6.2 engine failure. While you wait for yours, you have three ways to initiate the process:

Your options:

• Wait for the official notification with instructions
• Contact GM directly to check your VIN status
• Call your local Chevrolet dealership to schedule an inspection

The sooner you act, the better. Existing damage can worsen with additional miles.

2. Schedule Inspection

Once notified or after confirming your vehicle is part of the recall, book an appointment with your Chevrolet dealership for a thorough engine inspection. They’ll examine the connecting rod bearings and internal components to determine if your engine needs repair or replacement.

3. Understand Possible Outcomes

Following the inspection, your dealership will provide one of two outcomes based on your engine’s condition:

Pass Inspection

If the dealer finds no damage, they will:

• Change your oil and oil filter
• Switch to 0W-40 full synthetic oil
• Replace the oil fill cap
• Update your owner’s manual to reflect the updated oil specifications

Fail Inspection

If the dealer detects damage, you’ll receive:

• Full engine replacement or major repairs
• All work covered at no cost to you under the recall

Even if your vehicle passes inspection, stay alert for unusual symptoms. Some owners have experienced problems after their initial inspection, so monitor your engine’s performance going forward.

4. Stay Informed

Monitor credible sources like GMAuthority and TFLTruck for updates, and check our problem-vehicle page for other Silverado issues.

5. Consult a Lawyer

If your 2021 Chevy Silverado’s engine failed without warning or you’ve faced lengthy repairs, you may have legal remedies beyond this recall.

• Case Eligibility: Engine failures and extended repair times often qualify under Lemon Law
• Our Experience: We’ve helped Silverado owners secure refunds, replacement vehicles, and cash compensation
• No Cost to You: Free case review with no upfront fees—the manufacturer pays our legal costs when we win

The sooner you act, the stronger your case becomes. Contact us for a free case review to understand your legal rights and potential compensation.

FAQ

How many GM 6.2 engines have failed?

GM documented 28,102 engine failure incidents between April 2021 and February 2025, including 14,332 cases where vehicles lost power completely. These numbers only reflect reported cases to GM.

Is the 2021 Chevy 6.2 recalled?

Yes. Recall N252494001 applies to 2021–2024 Silverado 6.2L trucks, among others. 

What is the GM 6.2 engine class action lawsuit?

Powell v. GM, filed in early 2025, claims the L87 engine continues failing even after recall repairs. The lawsuit seeks additional compensation beyond GM’s free engine replacement program.

Timothy Abeel & Associates is a national law firm that handles lemon law claims across the country. Reviews can be seen on AVVO, Google, Glen Mills Yelp, Roseland Yelp, & Pittsburgh Yelp.