Feds to Probe GM Pickup, SUV Engine Failures

Federal auto safety regulators recently opened an investigation into reports of engine failures in General Motors pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles.

The probe covers nearly 600,000 trucks and SUVs, including many that were already recalled for stalling and failure problems. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Office of Defects Investigation says the previous fix may not have addressed the situation. 

“ODI is opening this Engineering Analysis to continue investigating complaints of post-remedy engine failure,” the agency said in a public filing. “ODI is expanding the scope of this Investigation to include engines produced after the production period cited in the recall.”

The investigation covers a wide range of vehicles from model years 2021 to 2026 that are equipped with L87 engines. GM reported nearly 7,000 reports of engine failures in vehicles that were included in the previous recall. NHTSA said it had also received nearly 500 similar reports.

GM recalled the vehicles in April 2025, citing a defect in their 6.2L V8 engines. The automaker said at the time that a problem with the engines’ connecting rod and crankshaft components could result in catastrophic engine failure. GM said it would inspect the trucks and SUVs and replace engines as needed. The company also pledged to use higher-viscosity oil and replace the oil filters and filler caps on vehicles that passed inspections.

California Lemon Law Rights for GM Drivers

This is just one of the safety issues facing GM and its drivers. Like other major auto manufacturers, the company calls back slews of cars, trucks, and SUVs each year, citing a wide range of defects that pose hazards for everyone on the road.

GM recently announced it was recalling more than 14,000 Cadillac Vistiq electric SUVs, for instance, warning that a seat problem poses a particular risk for kids. The vehicles’ power-folding third-row seatbacks could fold down on and trap children or smaller passengers, the company said.

Fortunately, car owners and lessors in California have some valuable rights and protections when it comes to malfunctioning and defective vehicles. Many don't have to wait for a recall to get their cars fixed, with GM or another vehicle manufacturer picking up the tab.

The California lemon law generally requires carmakers to repair vehicles while they are under warranty. It also requires companies to repurchase covered vehicles they cannot or will not repair. That includes compensating the owner for the car’s purchase price, as well as financing fees, rental car costs, and other related expenses.

No specific number of repair requests or attempts must occur before the buyback or replacement requirement kicks in. An experienced lemon law attorney can help you understand your rights and take action.

Talk with a California Lemon Law Attorney

If you have been stuck with a defective or malfunctioning vehicle, a California lemon law attorney at Bickel Sannipoli APC can help you fight back.  

Call us at (888) 800-1983 or contact us online to speak with a California lemon law attorney.