GM recalls Chevrolet Silverado V8s in Australia due to engine failure risk

General Motors has announced a voluntary recall of 9451 Chevrolet Silverado 1500s in Australia, fitted with the 6.2-litre ‘L87’ V8 engine, due to a manufacturing defect that may lead to engine failure.

This is part of a broader global recall affecting 721,000 GM vehicles, including models such as the Chevrolet Tahoe, Suburban, GMC Yukon, Yukon XL, GMC Sierra 1500, and Cadillac Escalade, sold in markets outside Australia. However, 2025 Silverado 1500 models and the incoming GMC Yukon Denali are not affected.

According to GM, the issue stems from quality problems during the manufacturing of the crankshafts and connecting rods used in certain vehicles. These defects can lead to engine bearing damage, and in some cases, complete engine failure. While not every L87 engine is impacted, GM is taking a precautionary approach.

Vehicles that fail inspection will receive engine repairs or a full replacement. For those that pass, GM will provide an oil change using higher viscosity oil, a new oil fill cap, and updated owner’s manual inserts. They’ll also be covered by a special warranty extension to safeguard against future problems.

“There’s no need for drivers to take any action unless they notice symptoms like knocking noises, engine hesitation, unusual RPMs, or a check engine light,” a GM spokesperson said. “The condition doesn’t affect braking or lead to an abrupt stop – drivers can still safely manoeuvre the vehicle to the roadside.”

The problem has been addressed in 2025 models, thanks to updated manufacturing processes introduced before June 1, 2024. GM says these improvements have resolved the contamination and quality issues at the root of the defect.

An investigation by the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) noted that some affected engines suffered bearing failures, including complete seizure or structural breaches. The agency estimated that around 3% of the nearly 600,000 vehicles recalled in the US are affected by the issue, which was not detectable before failure.

Interestingly, Australian members of the Silverado 1500 GMSV Complaints Facebook group have claimed engine replacements were offered—but only after signing non-disclosure agreements.