Understanding the GM L87 Engine Class Action Lawsuit and Your California Lemon Law Rights
Introduction
General Motors (GM) is currently facing a class action lawsuit concerning alleged defects in its L87 V8 engines. Owners of certain GM vehicles have reported severe engine problems, leading to significant concerns about vehicle safety and reliability. This article delves into the details of the lawsuit, the vehicles affected, and how lemon laws may offer recourse to impacted consumers.
Overview of the GM L87 Engine Class Action Lawsuit
On April 7, 2025, a class action lawsuit was filed against General Motors, alleging that the L87 V8 engines installed in specific vehicle models are defective due to faulty bearings that can cause engine failures. The plaintiff, James S. Powell II, purchased a new 2023 GMC Yukon Denali equipped with an L87 engine. In October 2024, after the check engine light illuminated, he took the vehicle to a dealership, where it was discovered that metal particles were present in the oil and the engine block had sustained damage due to a connecting rod bearing failure. Although GM replaced the engine at no cost, Powell contends that the replacement engine is equally defective, prompting the lawsuit seeking over $5 million in damages.
Vehicles Affected by the L87 Engine Issues
The lawsuit identifies the following GM vehicles equipped with the allegedly defective L87 engines:
2019–2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
2021–2024 Chevrolet Tahoe
2021–2024 Chevrolet Suburban
2019–2024 GMC Sierra 1500
2021–2024 GMC Yukon
2021–2024 GMC Yukon XL
2021–2024 Cadillac Escalade
2021–2024 Cadillac Escalade ESV
Common Problems Reported
Owners of the affected vehicles have reported several issues, including:
Engine Seizures: Sudden engine seizures, sometimes occurring at highway speeds, leading to dangerous driving situations.
Metal Contamination: Presence of metal shavings in the engine oil, indicating internal component wear or failure.
Bearing Failures: Premature bearing failures causing significant engine damage.
Loss of Power: Unexpected loss of engine power, increasing the risk of accidents.WSJ
NHTSA Investigation into L87 Engine Failures
In January 2025, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) initiated an investigation into approximately 877,000 GM vehicles equipped with L87 engines. The investigation was prompted by 39 complaints alleging engine failures due to bearing issues, which could result in engine seizure or connecting rods puncturing the engine block. The NHTSA aims to assess the scope and severity of these potential safety concerns.
Lemon Law Protections for Affected Consumers
Lemon laws are designed to protect consumers who purchase defective vehicles that fail to meet quality and performance standards. If your GM vehicle has experienced repeated engine issues or has been out of service for an extended period due to repairs, you may be entitled to relief under your state's lemon law. Potential remedies include vehicle replacement, a refund, or monetary compensation.
Steps to Take if You're Experiencing L87 Engine Problems
If you own one of the affected GM vehicles and are encountering engine issues, consider the following steps:
Document Everything: Keep detailed records of all repairs, communications with the dealership or GM, and any related expenses.
Consult a Lemon Law Attorney: Seek legal advice, from Valero Law, to understand your rights and determine if you qualify for relief under the lemon law.
Stay Informed: Monitor updates on the class action lawsuit and NHTSA investigation to stay informed about potential recalls or settlements.
Conclusion
The class action lawsuit and NHTSA investigation highlight significant concerns regarding the reliability and safety of GM's L87 V8 engines. If you're experiencing issues with your vehicle's engine, it's crucial to understand your rights and explore available legal options. Consulting with a knowledgeable lemon law attorney can provide guidance tailored to your situation.
If you’re in California and if your GM vehicle is exhibiting engine problems, don't wait for the situation to worsen. Contact Valero Law for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your options for compensation or vehicle replacement.