2025 Update: GM Lifter Failures — What Owners Need to Know Now
Since our initial coverage of the GM lifter failure class action lawsuit here and here, there have been significant developments that GM vehicle owners should be aware of. This update provides the latest information on affected vehicles, warranty considerations, legal actions, and what steps owners can take.
Affected Vehicles
The class action lawsuit targets GM vehicles equipped with 5.3L, 6.0L, and 6.2L V8 engines, especially models from 2019 to 2021, including:
Chevrolet Silverado / Silverado 1500
GMC Sierra / Sierra 1500
Chevrolet Corvette (2014–2019)
Cadillac Escalade
Chevrolet Tahoe / Suburban
GMC Yukon / Yukon XL
Notably, the L84 5.3L and L87 6.2L engines, especially those built between September 2020 and March 2021, have shown higher rates of lifter-related failure, often resulting in misfires, ticking noises, or catastrophic engine damage.
Warranty Coverage Issues
While GM’s standard powertrain warranty (5 years / 60,000 miles) should cover these types of issues, many California owners have reported difficulty getting repairs approved or covered — particularly those just outside the warranty window.
In some cases, dealerships have performed goodwill repairs, while others have denied warranty coverage altogether, even when the vehicle clearly shows signs of the defect.
Class Action Lawsuit Developments
The main lawsuit, Harrison, et al. v. General Motors LLC, is currently being litigated in federal court. The plaintiffs argue GM knowingly sold defective vehicles, and that the lifter and valvetrain issues stem from a flawed design and poor-quality materials.
As of 2025, discovery is ongoing, and many claims have survived GM’s attempt to dismiss the case. If you’ve experienced repeated repairs or total engine failure, your case may align with the claims made in this class action.
What Owners Are Saying
According to a GM Authority reader poll, the overwhelming majority of respondents reported hearing ticking noises, misfires, or outright engine shutdowns. While GM downplays the issue, the community feedback is clear — this is not isolated and it’s not overblown.
What You Can Do Right Now
If you’re a California GM owner:
Document all repair orders, service visits, and dealership communications.
Check your warranty status — and inquire about goodwill or post-warranty repairs.
Speak with a Lemon Law attorney, like Valero Law, APC, to evaluate your rights under California law.
Stay updated — follow developments in the lawsuit and future recalls.
Protect Your Rights Under California Lemon Law
If you are like many GM owners who consistently experience the engine issues mentioned in your Chevrolet or GMC car or truck, you may be entitled to compensation under the California Lemon Law.
Compensation may include:
A complete repurchase of your defective vehicle
A replacement vehicle
Or substantial cash reimbursement for damage the vehicle has already suffered due to the defect
If you’re in California and your GM car or truck has a lifter, engine, or transmission defect, call Valero Law, APC at (424) 299-4447 or complete our free Lemon Law case evaluation form.