Key Takeaways
- The GM L87 engine lawsuit alleges a critical defect in the 6.2L V8 L87 engine, primarily involving the connecting rod bearings, which can cause catastrophic engine failures and safety risks.
- The class action, filed in Illinois, covers GM vehicles from model years 2019 to 2024, including the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, and has prompted a recall and a federal investigation by the NHTSA.
- Affected vehicle owners may be eligible for compensation and are encouraged to monitor the lawsuit’s progress and consider their legal options.
Overview of the GM L87 Engine Lawsuit
The GM L87 engine lawsuit centers on allegations that General Motors knowingly sold vehicles equipped with a defective 6.2L V8 L87 engine. The core issue involves the engine’s connecting rod bearings, which plaintiffs claim are prone to premature failure. This defect can lead to engine seizure, catastrophic engine failure, and, in some cases, the engine block being breached. The lawsuit was filed in Illinois and seeks to represent a nationwide class of affected vehicle owners.
The vehicles named in the lawsuit include several popular GM models from the 2019 to 2024 model years, such as the Chevrolet Silverado 1500. Plaintiffs from multiple states, including California and Washington, have joined the class action, highlighting the widespread nature of the alleged defect. The litigation has attracted significant attention from consumer advocates, legal experts, and federal regulators.
Background: The L87 Engine Defect
What Is the L87 Engine?
The L87 engine is a 6.2-liter V8 gasoline engine produced by General Motors. It is commonly found in full-size trucks and SUVs, including the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500. The engine is marketed for its power and reliability, making it a popular choice among consumers seeking high-performance vehicles.
Nature of the Alleged Defect
The lawsuit alleges that the L87 engine suffers from a critical defect in its connecting rod bearings. According to the complaint, these bearings can wear out prematurely or fail entirely. When this happens, the engine may seize, resulting in a sudden loss of power. In severe cases, the failure can breach the engine block, causing oil leaks, smoke, and even fire hazards.
Plaintiffs claim that this defect can occur without warning, sometimes while the vehicle is in motion at highway speeds. This sudden power loss poses a significant safety risk to drivers, passengers, and others on the road. The lawsuit further alleges that General Motors was aware of the defect but continued to sell affected vehicles without disclosing the risk to consumers.
Scope of the Lawsuit
Vehicles and Model Years Affected
The class action lawsuit covers GM vehicles equipped with the L87 engine from the 2019 to 2024 model years. The primary models identified include:
- Chevrolet Silverado 1500
- GMC Sierra 1500
- Other GM trucks and SUVs with the L87 engine
For a full list of affected vehicles, refer to the NHTSA recall database.
Plaintiffs and Legal Representation
The lawsuit includes plaintiffs from several states, such as California and Washington, who have experienced similar engine failures. Law firms like Hagens Berman and the Cheeley Law Group are representing the plaintiffs in this case. The class action seeks compensation for repair costs, diminished vehicle value, and other damages.
For more details on the legal filings, see the Cheeley Law Group’s case summary and Hagens Berman’s information page.
Allegations Against General Motors
Knowledge and Concealment
The plaintiffs allege that General Motors was aware of the L87 engine defect before selling the affected vehicles. Internal documents and consumer complaints reportedly alerted GM to the issue, but the company did not disclose the risk to buyers or offer a remedy before the lawsuit was filed.
Safety and Economic Impact
The lawsuit claims that the engine defect poses a serious safety risk. Sudden engine failure at high speeds can lead to accidents, injuries, or worse. In addition to safety concerns, owners face significant economic losses, including expensive repairs, reduced resale value, and potential out-of-pocket costs not covered by warranty.
GM’s Response
General Motors has not admitted liability and is defending itself against the allegations. The company has issued recalls for some affected vehicles, aiming to address the defect and prevent further engine failures. For official recall information, visit the NHTSA recall lookup tool.
Regulatory and Legal Developments
NHTSA Investigation
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched an investigation into the L87 engine failures. The investigation seeks to determine the scope of the defect and its impact on vehicle safety. The NHTSA’s involvement underscores the seriousness of the allegations and may lead to further regulatory action.
For updates on the investigation, check the NHTSA investigations page.
Class Action Status
The lawsuit is currently in its early stages. No final judgment or settlement has been reached. The case is ongoing, and all information presented is based on current allegations and publicly available filings. The outcome may change as the litigation progresses.
For more information on the lawsuit’s status, see the Illinois court docket.
Impact on Vehicle Owners
Symptoms and Risks
Owners of vehicles with the L87 engine should be aware of the following symptoms:
- Unusual engine noises (knocking or ticking)
- Loss of power or stalling
- Warning lights on the dashboard
- Oil leaks or smoke from the engine compartment
If you experience any of these issues, contact your GM dealer or an authorized repair center immediately.
Recall and Repair Options
GM has initiated recalls for some vehicles equipped with the L87 engine. Owners should check their vehicle’s recall status using the NHTSA VIN lookup tool. If your vehicle is included in the recall, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for repairs or replacements.
Legal Rights and Remedies
Affected owners may be eligible to join the class action lawsuit or pursue individual claims under state lemon laws. Compensation may include reimbursement for repair costs, replacement vehicles, or other damages. For more information on your legal rights, consult the Lemon Law Experts or review the California Lemon Law.
How to Join the Lawsuit or File a Claim
If you own a GM vehicle with the L87 engine from model years 2019 to 2024 and have experienced engine problems, you may be eligible to join the class action lawsuit. Law firms such as Hagens Berman and the Cheeley Law Group are actively seeking affected owners. You can also file a complaint with the NHTSA to help document the scope of the defect.
For more information on joining the lawsuit, visit the Hagens Berman case page.
Conclusion
The GM L87 engine lawsuit highlights significant concerns about the safety and reliability of certain GM vehicles. The alleged defect in the 6.2L V8 L87 engine has led to catastrophic failures, prompting a nationwide class action, a federal investigation, and a recall. Vehicle owners should stay informed about the lawsuit’s progress, check for recalls, and consider their legal options if affected.
For attorneys and legal professionals seeking in-depth research and case updates, visit Counsel Stack.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The GM L87 engine lawsuit is an active case, and the information provided is based on current allegations and publicly available sources. The facts and legal outcomes may change as the case develops. For specific legal advice, consult a qualified attorney.
