Nearly 1 million GM small-block V8s investigated for failing

The popular powertrains, found in a range of pricey models, are the subject of an NHTSA probe that could lead to a recall

  • The U.S. is looking into multiple reports of failing General Motors 6.2L V8 engines
  • The popular powerplants can be found under the hoods of some 877,000 trucks and SUVs Stateside
  • The just-launched NHTSA investigation is not a recall, but could lead to one

It is the general expectation that the engine in one’s brand-new pickup truck or SUV, especially one costing close to or over six figures, will not be prone to going bang! prematurely. However, that has been exactly the case over the past few years for many owners of such rigs from General Motors, particularly ones powered by the 6.2L V8 engine internally code-named “L87.”

The problem description is listed as “engine failure resulting from connecting rod bearing failure,” with complainants reporting a bearing failure which may result in either engine seizure or breaching of the engine block by the connecting rod. In what can only be described as a typical-of-government understatement, the feds say this malfunction may result in a “loss of motive power.”

To be clear, this isn’t a recall. Yet. The Office of Defects Investigation has just opened a preliminary evaluation to determine the scope and severity of the potential problem and to fully assess the potential safety-related issues.

Sign up for our newsletter Blind-Spot Monitor and follow our social channels on X, Tiktok and LinkedIn to stay up to date on the latest automotive news, reviews, car culture, and vehicle shopping advice.

Related Posts


This will close in 0 seconds