GM Recalls Nearly 600K Vehicles in 2025 Over Engine Failure Risk

General Motors is recalling nearly 600,000 Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC vehicles in the U.S. due to a defect that could cause sudden engine failure, raising crash risks. Owners are left wondering, Is my car safe?

On April 29, 2025, General Motors announced a massive recall of 721,000 trucks and SUVs worldwide, including 597,630 in the U.S., due to faulty 6.2L V8 engines that may fail without warning. Triggered by a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) investigation, the GM recall 2025 affects popular models like the Cadillac Escalade and Chevrolet Silverado. With 28,102 complaints, 12 crashes, and 12 injuries linked to the issue, this recall highlights serious safety concerns and GM’s challenge to restore consumer trust.

A Widespread Safety Concern

The recall targets 2021-2024 model-year vehicles equipped with 6.2L V8 L87 engines, which may have manufacturing defects like internal debris or faulty crankshafts. These issues can cause engine failure, leading to a sudden loss of power and increased crash risk. The NHTSA launched an investigation in January 2025 after reports of engine failures in nearly 878,000 GM vehicles, prompting GM’s voluntary recall.

Here’s a breakdown of the affected models:

Source: NHTSA, April 24, 2025

The recall also extends to 50,000 vehicles in Canada and others globally, totalling 721,000. Notably, 2025 models are unaffected due to manufacturing improvements implemented by June 2024, according to GM Authority.

Real-World Impact on Drivers

The defect has already caused significant disruptions. For example, Gary Johnson, a Minnesota resident, told KSTP 5 Eyewitness News his 2023 GMC Sierra’s engine died while driving at 65 mph on April 5, 2025, leaving him stranded. Such incidents underscore the danger, especially for drivers relying on these vehicles for daily commutes or critical tasks, like medical appointments. Posts on X reflect growing frustration, with one user lamenting, “So much for quality control management,” after owning GM vehicles for over 60 years.

GM has identified 42 potential fires and 28,102 complaints related to the issue, though no fatalities have been reported. The company’s response includes a stop-sale on affected inventory, meaning dealers cannot sell these models until repairs are made.

GM’s Fix and Next Steps

To address the issue, GM dealers will inspect affected engines and repair or replace them free of charge. Owners will receive notification letters starting June 9, 2025, but can check their vehicle’s status now using the NHTSA recall database or GM’s customer service lines:

• Cadillac: 1-800-333-4223

• Chevrolet: 1-800-222-1020

• GMC: 1-800-462-8782

Use recall number N252494000 for enquiries. GM estimates repair costs could reach billions, with some engines requiring full replacements due to bearing failures.

Concerned about your vehicle? Check if it’s affected by visiting NHTSA.gov or contacting your local dealer today.

What’s Next for GM and Consumers?

This recall is a blow to GM’s reputation, especially for premium models like the Cadillac Escalade. While the company has acted swiftly, the scale of the recall, coupled with recent transmission issues in 90,000 other GM vehicles, raises questions about quality control. Consumers face delays for parts and repairs, potentially leaving them without vehicles for weeks. For GM, rebuilding trust will require transparent communication and efficient fixes.

As GM scrambles to repair nearly 600,000 vehicles, drivers are left to navigate the fallout. Will this recall prompt stricter oversight in the auto industry, or is it just a bump in the road for one of America’s biggest automakers? Only time will tell, but for now, affected owners should act fast to ensure their safety.