GM’s L87 recall covers certain 2021–2024 Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC SUVs and half-ton pickups built between March 1, 2021, and May 31, 2024. It does not cover every GM vehicle with a 6.2-liter V8. Because the campaign is production- and VIN-specific, owners should verify the 17-character VIN through NHTSA or a GM dealer.
GM’s L87 recall covers certain 2021–2024 vehicles—not every GM vehicle with a 6.2-liter V8. The affected vehicles are specific Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC SUVs and half-ton pickups built between March 1, 2021, and May 31, 2024, and equipped with the L87 engine. Model name and engine size alone are not enough to establish coverage; owners must check the vehicle’s 17-character VIN.
The official campaign is NHTSA recall 25V-274, also identified by GM as recall N252494000. GM reported 597,571 potentially involved U.S. vehicles and estimated that about 3% contained the defect. That 3% is a manufacturer estimate for the recall population—not a 3% probability that any particular vehicle will fail.
Which vehicles are affected by the GM L87 recall?
The recall covers certain vehicles from the following model lines:
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware match#1 Best Overall
- CEL Doctor: The ANCEL AD310 is one of the best-selling OBD II scanners on the market and is recommended by Scotty Kilmer, a YouTuber and auto mechanic. It can easily determine the cause of the check engine light coming on. After repairing the vehicle's problems, it can quickly read and clear diagnostic trouble codes of emission system, read live data & hard memory data, view freeze frame, I/M monitor readiness and collect vehicle information
- Sturdy and Compact: Equipped with a 2.5 foot cable made of very thick, flexible insulation. It is important to have a sturdy scanner as it can easily fall to the ground when working in a car. The AD310 OBD2 scanner is a well-constructed mechanic tool with a sleek design. It weighs 12 ounces and measures 8.9 x 6.9 x 1.4 inches. Thanks to its compact design and light weight, transporting the device is not a problem. The buttons are clearly labelled and the screen is large and displays results clearly
- Accurate Fast and Easy to Use: The AD310 scanner can help you or your mechanic understand if your car is in good condition, provides exceptionally accurate and fast results, reads and clears engine trouble emission codes in seconds after you fixed the problem. This device will let you know immediately and fix the problem right away without any car knowledge. No need for batteries or a charger, get power directly from the OBDII Data Link Connector in your vehicle
- OBDII Protocols and Car Compatibility: Many cheap scan tools do not really support all OBD2 protocols. AD310 scanner as it can support all OBDII protocols such as KWP2000, J1850 VPW, ISO9141, J1850 PWM and CAN. This device also has extensive vehicle compatibility with 1996 US-based, 2000 EU-based and Asian cars, light trucks, SUVs, as well as newer OBD2 and CAN vehicles both domestic and foreign. Pls confirm with our customer service whether it is compatible with your vehicle before purchasing
- Home Necessity and Worthy to Own: This is an excellent code reader to travel or home with as it weighs less and it is compact in design. You can easily slide it in your backpack as you head to the garage, or put it on the dashboard, this will be a great fit for you. The AD310 is not only portable, but also accurate and fast in performance. Moreover, it covers various car brands and is suitable for people who just need a code reader to check their car
| Brand | Models listed in the recall | Vehicle type |
|---|---|---|
| Cadillac | Escalade and Escalade ESV | Full-size SUVs |
| Chevrolet | Silverado 1500 | Half-ton pickup |
| Chevrolet | Suburban and Tahoe | Full-size SUVs |
| GMC | Sierra 1500 | Half-ton pickup |
| GMC | Yukon and Yukon XL | Full-size SUVs |
These model names are only the starting point. The campaign applies to vehicles equipped with the GM RPO L87 6.2-liter V8 and built during the specified production window. Vehicles built before March 1, 2021, after May 31, 2024, or with another engine are not included in recall 25V-274 simply because they share a model name or have a similar engine size.
That means two apparently identical trucks or SUVs can have different recall results. A 2021 model may or may not fall inside the production window, while a 2024 model built after May 31, 2024, may be outside it. The VIN is the deciding identifier.
Why is GM recalling the L87 engine?
GM’s filing describes intermittent supplier manufacturing and quality problems affecting engines produced during the suspect period. The filing identifies two principal defect pathways:
- Contamination or sediment: Sediment on connecting rods or in crankshaft oil galleries can damage the engine’s connecting-rod bearings.
- Crankshaft problems: Crankshaft dimensions or surface finish may be outside specification, which can also contribute to bearing damage.
As bearing damage progresses, the engine can suffer severe internal damage, fail, or stop producing power. The safety concern is a possible loss of propulsion while the vehicle is being driven.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
NHTSA investigation records contain owner reports describing bottom-end knocking or growling, bearing failures, engine seizure, and, in some cases, broken connecting rods that damaged the engine block. Those reports explain why the issue is a safety concern, but they do not create a universal diagnostic rule. An affected engine will not necessarily produce a predictable warning before failure.
The recall is narrower than the broader NHTSA investigation
One of the most important distinctions is between the official recall and NHTSA’s broader investigation into L87-related complaints.
Rank #2
- [Easy to Use—Work Out of the Box] + [FOXWELL 2026 New Version] FOXWELL NT604 Elite scan tool is the 2026 new version from FOXWELL, designed for car owners who want to figure out the cause of issues before fixing car problems by scanning common systems like ABS, SRS, engine, and transmission. The NT604 Elite obd2 scanner diagnostic tool comes with the latest software—no need to waste time downloading software first. Plug the scanner into the OBDII port with OBDII cable to start the diagnosis.
- [Affordable] + [Reliable Car Health Monitor] Will you be confused what happens when the warning light of ABS/SRS/transmission/check engine flashes? Instead of taking your cars to dealership, this FOXWELL scanner will help you do a thorough scanning and detection for your cars and pinpoint the root cause. Note：The device is a diagnostic tool, not a repair tool. To turn off a warning light, you must first physically repair the issue causing it. Only then can the scanner be used to clear the corresponding fault code.
- [5 in 1 Car Diagnostic Scanner] Compared with obd scanners (50-100), NT604 Elite code scanner not only includes their OBDII diagnosis but also serves as ABS/SRS scanner, transmission and check engine code reader. When it’s an odb2 scanner, you can use it to check if your car is ready for annual test through I/M readiness menu. In addition, live data stream, built-in DTC library, data play back and print, all these features are a big plus for it. Note: doesn't support maintenance functions like reset or relearn. For the SRS system, NT604 Elite can read and clear common fault codes not caused by a crash, but crash/collision data cannot be cleared.
- [Fantastic AUTOVIN] + [No extra software fee] Through the AUTOVIN menu, this NT604 Elite car scanner allows you to get your V-IN and vehicle info rapidly, no need to take time to find your V-IN and input one by one. What's more, the NT604 Elite ABS SRS scanner supports 60+ car brands from worldwide (America/Asia/Europe). You don’t need to pay extra software fee. AUTOVIN may not work on some older vehicles or certain vehicle brands. If AUTOVIN fails, please input the vin code manually or go to the Diagnostic Menu to select your vehicle model.
- [Solid protective case KO plastic carrying bag] + [Lifetime update] Almost all same price-level car scanner diagnostic tool only offers plastic bag to hold the scanner.However, NT604 Elite automotive scanner is equipped with solid protective case, preventing your obd2 scanner from damage. Then you don’t need to pay extra money to buy a solid toolbox.
| Record | What it means |
|---|---|
| Recall 25V-274 | The official recall for certain 2021–2024 vehicles with the L87 engine built from March 1, 2021, through May 31, 2024. VIN eligibility determines whether a repair is open. |
| Preliminary Evaluation PE25001 | NHTSA’s initial investigation into a broader group of 2019–2024 GM vehicles with L87 engines. NHTSA opened it on January 16, 2025, and closed it on October 23, 2025, after GM issued the recall. |
| Engineering Analysis EA25007 | NHTSA’s continued examination of complaints involving vehicles outside the recall’s defined population. Its opening record identifies 286,051 vehicles, including certain 2019–2021 and 2024 Silverado 1500 and Sierra 1500 vehicles, along with certain 2021 and 2024 full-size GM SUVs. |
The existence of EA25007 does not automatically put every vehicle named in that investigation into recall 25V-274. This matters especially to owners of 2019 and 2020 L87-equipped pickups and SUVs. A vehicle can appear in an investigation record, have online complaints that resemble recalled failures, and still have no open recall under its VIN.
Conversely, a vehicle does not need to show an engine symptom to be covered. Recall eligibility comes from the VIN-specific recall record, not from a noise test, an internet complaint list, or the engine designation alone.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
What repair will GM perform?
The remedy is not identical for every vehicle in the recall. GM uses VIN-specific procedures and can assign the vehicle to an inspection-and-oil-service branch or to an engine-replacement branch.
Inspection and oil-service branch
Under the inspection branch, the dealer examines the vehicle using GM’s procedure. A vehicle that passes that process receives:
- Higher-viscosity dexosR 0W-40 engine oil
- A replacement oil filter
- A new oil-fill cap
- An insert for the owner’s manual
This is more than a generic oil-change recommendation, but it is also not an automatic engine replacement. The dealer must verify the vehicle in GM’s warranty system and follow the procedure assigned to that VIN.
Engine-replacement branch
If GM’s inspection procedure identifies the engine as requiring replacement, the dealer replaces the engine. GM’s engine-replacement procedure is documented in bulletin N252494002.
Recommended Free Tools
Rank #3
- Understand Your Check Engine Light – The ANCEL AD410 OBD2 scanner helps everyday drivers quickly read and clear engine-related fault codes, view code definitions, and understand why the check engine light is on before visiting a repair shop. With 42,000+ built-in DTC lookups, this car code reader helps reduce guesswork and makes basic vehicle diagnostics easier for beginners and DIY users
- Full OBD2 Diagnostics Made Simple – More than a basic engine code reader, this OBD2 scanner diagnostic tool supports key OBDII functions including reading/clearing codes, live data, freeze frame, I/M readiness, O2 sensor test, EVAP test, vehicle information, and MIL status. It helps you check your car’s condition, verify repairs after the issue is fixed, and communicate with mechanics more confidently
- Live Date & Real-time Vehicle Insights – View real-time engine data such as RPM, coolant temperature, fuel trim, oxygen sensor readings, and other available OBD2 parameters directly on the screen. These live data readings help you better understand how your vehicle is running, spot abnormal patterns, and make more informed repair decisions instead of relying only on a warning light
- Smog Check Readiness At A Glance – Use the I/M readiness function before a smog check or emissions inspection to see whether your vehicle’s monitors are ready. This OBD2 code scanner helps you confirm if recent repairs have brought the system back to a ready state, reducing the chance of failed inspections, retests, wasted trips, and unnecessary inspection fees
- Works With Most OBD2 Vehicles – Compatible with most 1996 and newer U.S.-based OBD2 cars, SUVs, and light trucks, as well as many 2000 and newer EU/Asian OBD2 vehicles. Supports major OBDII protocols including CAN, ISO9141, KWP2000, J1850 VPW, and J1850 PWM. This automotive diagnostic scanner is designed for wide vehicle coverage; please check compatibility with your vehicle before purchase
Owners should therefore avoid assuming that every recalled vehicle will receive a new engine—or that an oil change alone is the remedy for every vehicle. The outcome depends on the recall procedure and the inspection result for that specific vehicle.
How to check whether a vehicle has an open L87 recall
- Find the 17-character VIN. Use the vehicle’s paperwork or the VIN displayed on the vehicle. Check the characters carefully; one incorrect character can return the wrong result.
- Search the VIN through NHTSA’s recall lookup. NHTSA also supports a license-plate lookup, but the VIN is the most precise way to identify the vehicle.
- Contact a GM dealer. Provide the VIN and ask the service department to check GM’s warranty system for recall 25V-274 or campaign N252494000.
- Ask which remedy branch applies. The dealer can confirm whether the vehicle is scheduled for the inspection and oil-service procedure or requires the engine-replacement procedure.
- Keep the repair paperwork. Save the completed recall documentation, especially if the vehicle is later sold.
Open safety-recall repairs are free at the manufacturer’s dealership under NHTSA’s consumer guidance. A dealer should confirm the VIN-specific status before beginning work because not every vehicle with the same model, year, or engine description has the same campaign status.
Can an OBD2 scanner check the L87 recall?
No. An OBD2 scanner or automotive code reader can be useful for reading diagnostic trouble codes when the check-engine light is on, but it cannot determine whether a VIN is covered by the L87 recall. It also cannot inspect the condition of the connecting-rod bearings or certify that the engine is safe.
A vehicle can have an open recall with no diagnostic trouble code, and a vehicle with a code may have a problem unrelated to the recall. The absence of a code is not proof that the engine is unaffected. Use the NHTSA VIN lookup or a GM dealer for recall status, and treat a scanner only as supplementary diagnostic equipment.
Warning signs owners should take seriously
NHTSA’s records include reports of:
- Unusual engine knocking or growling from the bottom end
- Sudden loss of power or loss of motive power
- Engine seizure
- A warning light or other serious engine symptom
- Severe internal engine damage, including a broken connecting rod in some reports
These are reported failure patterns, not a guaranteed sequence. Do not wait for a particular noise or warning light before checking the VIN. If the vehicle develops unusual knocking, loses power, or shows a serious warning, stop treating the problem as routine maintenance. Pull over safely, avoid continuing to drive if the vehicle is unsafe or losing power, and contact a GM dealer or qualified repair professional to determine whether it should be driven or transported for inspection.
What about 2019 and 2020 GM vehicles with the L87?
They are not automatically included in recall 25V-274. NHTSA’s original evaluation covered a broader 2019–2024 group, and EA25007 continues to examine complaints outside the recall scope. But being included in an investigation population is not the same as having an open recall.
Rank #4
- Multi-Functions - Practical Multi-Functions OBD2 code reader features built-in OBD2 DTC lookup library, which help you to determine the cause of the engine light, read code, erase code, view freeze frame, I/M ready, vehicle information, data flow, real-time curve, get vehicle speed information, calculate load value, engine coolant temperature, get engine speed.
- Wide Capability - Supports 9 protocols compatible with most 1996 US-Based, 2000 EU-Based and Asian cars, and newer OBD II & CAN domestic or import vehicles. Supports 6 languages - English,German, Dutch, Spanish, French, Italian.
- 2.8" LCD Display - Designed with a clear display 2.8" Large LCD screen - white backlight and contrast adjustment. No need any battery or charger, OBD reader gets the power directly from your vehicle through the OBDII Data Link Connector.
- Compact Design - Car diagnostic scanner is equipped with a 2.5 feet long cable and made of a very thick flexible insulator.There are 6 buttons on OBD2 Scanner:scroll up/down,enter/exit and buttons that quick query VIN vehicle number& the DTC fault code.
- ABS / Airbag codes NOT Supported - It is able to read and clear check engine information which is part of OBDII system, but it cannot work with non-OBDII systems, including ABS / Airbag / Oil Service Light, etc.
An owner of a 2019 or 2020 L87-equipped vehicle should still:
- Run the VIN through NHTSA’s recall lookup.
- Ask a GM dealer to check for open recalls and applicable service information.
- Report serious symptoms rather than assuming the vehicle is excluded from every possible remedy.
- Keep service and repair records in case the vehicle’s status or the investigation changes.
Do not describe a 2019 or 2020 vehicle as recalled solely because it has the L87 engine or because similar failures appear in NHTSA complaint records. The official recall population remains VIN- and production-window-specific.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Buying a used Silverado, Sierra, Tahoe, Suburban, Yukon, or Escalade?
Before buying one of these vehicles, check the VIN yourself rather than relying only on a seller’s statement. Confirm whether the recall is open, completed, or not applicable, and ask for dealer paperwork if the remedy has already been performed.
A vehicle history report may help document reported ownership, accident, or repair history, but it is not a substitute for the NHTSA recall lookup or a GM dealer’s VIN-specific check. A history report can be incomplete, and it should not be treated as proof that an engine is healthy or that a recall repair was completed unless the relevant repair record is documented.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Key dates in the L87 recall and investigation
- January 16, 2025: NHTSA opened Preliminary Evaluation PE25001 after receiving complaints involving L87 engine failures.
- April 24, 2025: GM issued recall 25V-274 for the defined 2021–2024 production population.
- October 23, 2025: NHTSA closed PE25001 and continued examining out-of-scope allegations under Engineering Analysis EA25007.
The timeline explains why online information can appear contradictory. One source may discuss the official recall, while another may discuss the larger investigation. Both can be referring to L87-related vehicles, but only the VIN lookup establishes whether a particular vehicle has an open recall.
Common mistakes to avoid
| Mistake | Why it is wrong |
|---|---|
| Assuming every GM 6.2-liter V8 is recalled | The campaign is for the L87 engine in a defined vehicle and production population. |
| Checking only the model year | Vehicles must also fall within the March 1, 2021–May 31, 2024 build window and match the VIN-specific campaign. |
| Assuming every recalled vehicle gets a new engine | Some vehicles receive the inspection, oil, filter, cap, and manual-insert remedy; others are assigned engine replacement. |
| Treating an OBD2 code reader as a recall checker | Diagnostic codes and recall eligibility are separate matters. |
| Calling a 2019 or 2020 vehicle recalled because it appears in NHTSA’s investigation | An investigation population can be broader than the official recall population. |
| Using the estimated 3% defect figure as an individual risk score | It is GM’s estimate for the potentially involved population, not a prediction for one VIN. |
What owners should do now
- Locate the VIN and check it through NHTSA’s recall lookup.
- Call a GM dealer if the result is unclear or if you want confirmation of the assigned remedy.
- Do not wait for a symptom to perform the recall check.
- If the engine is knocking, losing power, or showing a serious warning, stop driving when it is safe to do so and ask the dealer or a qualified repair professional about transportation for diagnosis.
- After the repair, retain the dealer’s paperwork and verify that the recall now shows as completed.
Official campaign identifiers: NHTSA recall 25V-274, GM recall N252494000, and engine-replacement bulletin N252494002. The NHTSA Part 573 filing and GM’s recall bulletins control the affected population and remedy; NHTSA’s investigation records provide broader complaint and investigation context.
Best Value
- 【Diagnose Check Engine Light in Seconds – No Mechanic Needed】The FOXWELL NT301 OBD2 scanner instantly reads & clears engine fault codes (DTCs) with one click. Simply plug into the 16-pin DLC port, turn ignition on, and get accurate results within seconds—No prior car knowledge required. Save hundreds on dealership fees by knowing exactly what’s wrong before you visit a shop. The #1 choice car scanner for DIYers and car owners who want to take control of their vehicle’s health
- 【Clear & Reset CEL with Confidence】Unlike cheap code readers that just erase codes temporarily, NT301 works like all professional vehicle code readers: It clears the check engine light only after you’ve fixed the underlying issue. If the problem isn’t fully repaired, the fault code will reappear. So you’ll never get a false pass. Use the foxwell scanner to verify your repair work and drive with peace of mind
- 【Sm-og Check Helper – Know Your Pass/Fail Status Before the Test】With dedicated one-click I/M readiness hotkeys and a simple Red-Yellow-Green LED indicator, you’ll instantly know if your vehicle is ready for annual testing. Built-in speaker provides clear audio feedback. No guesswork—just confidence before you head to the test center. One less thing to worry about when inspection day comes
- 【Advanced OBDII Modes – O- 2 Sensor & EVAP Testing】NT301 go beyond basic code reading with enhanced OBD2 modes. Run an EVAP system check to assess fuel tank condition, and use the O- 2 sensor test to optimize air-fuel ratio, boosting fuel economy, cutting em- issions, and saving you money at the pump. The code reader for cars and trucks is like having a mini em-issions lab in your glove box
- 【Live Data Graphing – Spot Engine Issues in Real Time】View and log live sensor data in easy-to-read graphs with this OBD2 scanner diagnostic tool. Monitor ox- ygen sensors, fuel trims, coolant temperature, RPM, and more to spot suspicious values instantly. This obd scanner gives you professional-grade insight without the pro price tag—a feature you won’t find on basic $20 car code readers
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all GM 6.2-liter V8 vehicles recalled?
No. Recall 25V-274 covers certain 2021–2024 vehicles with the L87 engine built between March 1, 2021, and May 31, 2024. Other GM vehicles with a 6.2-liter V8, a different engine, or a VIN outside the suspect production population are not automatically included.
Are 2019 and 2020 L87 vehicles covered?
Not automatically. Some 2019 and 2020 L87-equipped vehicles appear in NHTSA’s broader complaint and investigation records, but that does not place them in recall 25V-274. Check the specific VIN with NHTSA and a GM dealer.
Does every recalled vehicle get a replacement engine?
No. The recall has more than one outcome. Some vehicles receive an inspection followed by dexosR 0W-40 oil, a filter, an oil-fill cap, and an owner’s-manual insert. Vehicles identified as needing it receive an engine replacement.
Can an OBD2 scanner check whether an L87 engine is recalled?
No. A scanner can read some diagnostic trouble codes, but it cannot determine recall eligibility or verify the condition of the L87’s internal bearings. Use the VIN lookup or a GM dealer for recall status.
The Bottom Line
The GM L87 recall is limited to certain 2021–2024 Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC vehicles built from March 1, 2021, through May 31, 2024. It is not a blanket recall of every 6.2-liter GM vehicle, and NHTSA’s broader investigation does not automatically expand the recall.
Check the vehicle’s 17-character VIN through NHTSA or a GM dealer. Depending on the VIN and inspection result, the remedy may be an oil-and-filter service with updated materials or a complete engine replacement.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
