What engine is GM discontinuing?

The 4.3-liter V6, known as the Vortec 4300, is being discontinued by General Motors. This marks a shift toward smaller, turbocharged four-cylinder engines and diesel options in GM’s lineup. Here’s what you need to know about where the engine was used, what replaces it, and how it affects buyers.

GM’s move reflects a broader strategy to improve efficiency and align with future electrification plans, while still offering capable alternatives for towing and daily driving. The discontinuation primarily affects full-size pickups and large SUVs that previously offered the 4.3L V6 as a base or mid-range option, with replacements positioned to deliver similar or better performance through newer powertrains.

What engine is being discontinued

The engine being retired is GM’s 4.3-liter V6, commonly referred to as the Vortec 4300. It has served as a mid-range powertrain in several Chevrolet and GMC models for years, prized for its blend of torque and smooth operation. As GM refines its powertrain lineup, the 4.3L V6 is being phased out in favor of newer options across the catalog.

Below is a quick look at where this engine has appeared and how the discontinuation plays out across GM’s lineup.

• Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (base and select mid-trim configurations)


• GMC Sierra 1500 (base and select mid-trim configurations)


• Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban


• GMC Yukon and Yukon XL

The list above captures the principal models historically offered with the 4.3L V6. As the transition unfolds, the availability of the 4.3L V6 in new models will diminish, with regional and dealer variations possible during the shift.

What replaces it and how it affects buying decisions

Replacement options for models previously offered with the 4.3L V6 center on a mix of turbocharged gasoline and diesel powertrains. GM is steering customers toward more efficient options that still deliver suitable capability for daily driving and light-to-moderate towing.

Replacement engines and configurations GM has signaled or rolled out include:

• 2.7L turbocharged inline-4 gasoline engine (standard in many base configurations)


• 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel inline-6 (popular for towing and long-range efficiency)


• 5.3L V8 (available on select trims where higher performance is desired)


• 6.2L V8 (offered on higher-end trims and specific markets)

For buyers, this shift means that while the base powertrain will often be a smaller, turbocharged four-cylinder or a diesel, there will still be ample choice for higher-torque needs on certain trims. It also signals a longer-term pathway toward electrified variants of core GM models while preserving a familiar range of combustion options for the near term.

Timeline and impact on production

GM has indicated the transition will roll out across the 2025 model year and beyond, with current inventories and models gradually adapting as old stock is depleted. The company emphasizes that the change aligns with ongoing efficiency improvements, fleet-wide electrification goals, and consumer demand for more capable yet efficient powertrains.

Dealers may vary in the exact timing and availability of specific configurations during the transition. Prospective buyers should verify the powertrain for a given vehicle, especially if shopping a 2024 or early-2025 model, to confirm whether the 4.3L V6 is still offered in that model-year and region.

Summary

GM is phasing out the 4.3-liter V6 Vortec engine, shifting toward the 2.7L turbocharged inline-4 and the 3.0L Duramax diesel as the primary replacements in many models. While some higher-performance V8 options remain available on select trims, the base and mid-range powertrains are moving away from the 4.3L V6. For shoppers, this means considering newer powertrains for base configurations and checking with dealers about available engine options in your region and desired model. The transition reflects GM’s broader push toward efficiency and electrification while preserving flexibility through multiple combustion-powered choices. Summary: the 4.3L V6 is being discontinued in favor of newer engines across GM’s lineup, with the replacement options aimed at balancing efficiency, capability, and future technology.

What is the problem with the Chevy engine in 2025?

Recent 2025 Chevrolet engine issues include thrust bearing failures in the 3.0L Duramax diesel, causing low oil pressure and potential engine replacement. Separately, the 6.2L V8 engine, despite being excluded from a major recall for 2021-2024 models, is also reportedly experiencing early failures, and other engines may have issues with lifters and transmissions.
 
This video discusses the potential issues with 2025 Chevrolet Silverado trucks: 59sTech TriumphYouTube · May 26, 2025
3.0L Duramax diesel engine 

• Problem: Thrust bearing failure, leading to excessive crankshaft end play and potential engine damage.
• Symptoms: Low oil pressure, noise from the bell housing, and a "P06D" code.
• Affected vehicles: 2025 and 2026 Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, Sierra 1500, and Yukon with the LZO engine.
• What to do: Have a dealer inspect the crankshaft end play, especially if you notice any symptoms. 

6.2L V8 engine 

• Problem: While 2025 models were not included in the April 2025 recall, some early-2025 models may still experience catastrophic failure, similar to issues in previous model years.
• Symptoms: Sudden loss of power, unusual noises, and potential engine seizure or block damage.
• What to do: Monitor for early signs, and ensure your vehicle has the updated oil viscosity (0W−400 cap W minus 400𝑊−40) and a new oil filter if you fall under the recall, even if your model year is not covered. 

Other potential issues

• Lifter failure: A persistent issue in GM's V8 engines, including the 5.3L and 6.2L, though it is not a certainty for all vehicles. 
• 8-speed automatic transmission: Some users have reported rough shifting and other general failures with this transmission. 

This video explains the issues with the 6.2L V8 engine in GM trucks: 49sDONSLIFEYouTube · Nov 1, 2025

Does 2025 5.3 have cylinder deactivation?

The 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 uses direct injection and cylinder deactivation technologies to improve efficiency without sacrificing power.

Is GM bringing back the V8?

GM is developing an all-new sixth-generation small-block V8 family, with strong indications it will launch in two displacements: 5.7L and 6.6L. The 5.7L version is aimed at volume models like the Silverado 1500 with improved efficiency, while the 6.6L variant is reportedly under evaluation for future Corvette models.

Did GM fix the 6.2 engine problems for 2025?

No, GM has not completely "fixed" the 6.2L engine problems for the 2025 model year, as the recall and related issues primarily affect 2021-2024 vehicles, and it's uncertain if the problem has been resolved for all 2025 models. GM claims that manufacturing improvements implemented around June 1, 2024, address the contamination and quality issues, but there is ongoing concern about the engine's reliability. 
What this means for the 2025 model year

• Recall does not apply: GM states that 2025 vehicles are not included in the recall because they were built after the alleged manufacturing improvements were made. 
• Ongoing concerns: Despite GM's assurances, some industry observers and consumers remain skeptical about whether the 2025 engine is truly problem-free. 
• Continued investigation: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is still investigating the broader engine failure issue, and if the problem is found to be more widespread, future recalls could impact 2025 models or other years. 

What to do if you own a 2021-2024 model affected by the recall

• Get the recall service: Take your vehicle to a GM dealer to have the recall performed. 
• Inspect the engine: Dealerships will inspect the engine for codes. 
• Update oil if needed: If no code is present, your vehicle may receive a software update, an oil change with a thicker oil (0W−400 cap W minus 400𝑊−40 instead of 5W−405 cap W minus 405𝑊−40), and an updated oil cap. 
• Replace engine if necessary: If the engine shows signs of failure, a complete replacement may be necessary.