Lemon Law Help for Drivers with GM Engine Problems

May 1, 2026
By: Robert Silverman


As of April 2026, General Motors is facing a significant shortage of the 6.2L V8 (RPO L87) gasoline engine, driven by a massive recall for manufacturing defects that can lead to catastrophic engine failure. This has resulted in a stop-sale order on certain new vehicles and long wait times for replacement engines.

Impacted Vehicles (2021–2024 Model Years)
The issue affects roughly 721,000 vehicles worldwide, specifically focusing on the 2021–2024 model years. Affected models include:

  • Chevrolet Silverado 1500
  • Chevrolet Tahoe
  • Chevrolet Suburban
  • GMC Sierra 1500
  • GMC Yukon & Yukon XL
  • Cadillac Escalade & Escalade ESV

Nature of the Shortage & Recall

  • Defect: The 6.2L L87 engines may have defective connecting rods or crankshafts, causing engine seizing or loss of power.
  • Shortage Cause: The demand for replacement engines is exceeding production capabilities, creating a bottleneck for repairing existing vehicles while simultaneously trying to build new ones.
  • 2025 Exemption: Reports indicate 2025 model-year vehicles are not part of the recall because they were built after June 1, 2024, when GM implemented manufacturing improvements, however we are still seeing 2025 and 2026 vehicles out of service for an extended period of time.
  • Status: Many dealers have no 6.2L replacement engines available, leading to long-term loaners for customers or, in some cases, owners waiting months for repairs.

Depending on the age and mileage, consumers impacted by the GM engine shortage have rights to free legal representation under either State Lemon Laws or Federal Warranty Statutes. Potential recourse could include a full repurchase of the vehicle or significant compensation to reflect the diminished value while maintaining full ownership. Under State and Federal laws, General Motors must pay all attorney fees and legal costs on top of recourse if the consumer prevails, When 1 800 LEMON LAW accepts a claim, the client never pays anything, win or lose.  Since 1991, Kimmel & Silverman has successfully resolved more GM lemon Law and Breach of Warranty claims for GM consumers than any other firm in the Country, and their efforts have been featured in numerous news stories and consumer features.

If you are a GMC, Chevrolet, or Cadillac driver dealing with a 6.2 liter engine issue:

  • Make sure you get the vehicle to a GM authorized dealer as soon as possible for service.
  • Do not drive the vehicle or take the vehicle home until the necessary service is performed.
  • Keep written records of when the vehicle is dropped off and service personnel you are working with.
  • Communication with service advisors throughout the repair process should  be handled over text or email, versus phone, so you can keep track of correspondence.
  • Call 1 800 LEMON LAW (1-800-536-6652) or email us (link to rid.html) to report your issue and further discuss your rights to free legal help and potential recourse.
  • Immediately upon receipt of the vehicle following repair, secure detailed repair records with mileage in, mileage out, days out of service, vehicle problems encountered, and repairs performed by the dealer.  These documents are very valuable to you, so keep them in safe place.

Your vehicle is a significant investment and if you have been unable to use it due to the engine shortage, you need to take action to prioritize your situation.  Kimmel and Silverman is ready to help you, as they have previously helped over 25,000 GM consumers secure the recourse they rightfully deserve. If you are driving a Chevrolet, Cadillac, or GMC vehicle with the 6.2 liter engine issue, call 1 800 LEMON LAW today.