What is the engine recall for Chevy?
There is no single "Chevy engine recall." Recall campaigns are issued by model-year and engine configuration, and they vary widely across Chevrolet’s lineup. To determine if a specific vehicle is affected, you must check its VIN against official recall databases.
Chevrolet’s range includes multiple engine options—from small four-cylinders to larger V8s and diesels—so engine-related recalls cover a broad spectrum. The safety recall process is overseen by regulators in the United States and administered by General Motors, with repairs offered free of charge to owners.
How recalls are tracked and reported
Recalls are formal notices that track across vehicle lines and are tied to safety risks connected to specific components or systems, including engines. The most reliable way to know whether your Chevrolet is affected is to search by VIN in official databases and monitor notices from GM and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
How to check if your Chevy is affected
To confirm whether your specific vehicle is affected by a current engine recall, follow these steps:
- Find your vehicle's VIN. It’s located on the dashboard near the windshield and on the driver’s door jamb sticker.
- Visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall database and enter your VIN to see any safety recalls tied to your vehicle.
- Check Chevrolet’s official recall page or your Chevrolet owner's site for recall notices and VIN-based search.
- If a recall is listed, contact your Chevrolet dealer to schedule the required repair. Recalls are free of charge, regardless of mileage or ownership status.
- Keep a record of the recall notice and the repair date until the issue is resolved.
Even if no recalls appear for your VIN, stay alert for new notices. Vehicle manufacturers occasionally issue new campaigns after initial production.
Notable categories of engine-related recalls affecting Chevrolets
Over the years, engine-related recalls involving Chevrolet-branded vehicles have fallen into several broad categories. These descriptions reflect common problem areas rather than a single, current campaign.
- Fuel delivery and pump-related issues that can cause stalling or hesitation.
- Thermal and cooling-system faults that risk engine overheating and possible damage.
- Oil consumption or gasket issues that may trigger warning lights or engine damage.
- Emissions-control components or software updates tied to engine performance.
- Camshaft/valve-train or timing-related concerns that can affect engine reliability.
For each category, the solution typically involves part replacement, a software update, or a factory-approved repair plan performed at no cost to the owner.
What to expect at the dealership
When a recall involves the engine, Chevrolet dealers will perform the necessary repair or part replacement free of charge. The process usually looks like this:
- Appointment scheduling with a Chevrolet dealer or GM service center.
- Inspection confirms the recall repair that is required for the VIN.
- Replacement of faulty parts or software updates, with most jobs completed in a few hours to a full day depending on the repair.
- Documentation of the service and confirmation that the recall work has been completed.
In some cases, parts may be on allocation and require a follow-up visit if the exact component isn’t immediately available.
Summary
The term “Chevrolet engine recall” does not denote a single fix. Instead, engine-related recalls are specific to model-year and engine configuration. Owners should check their VIN against NHTSA and Chevrolet’s recall databases and act promptly if a recall is listed. Remember: recalls are free to repair, and dealerships are obligated to perform the work.
Resources
Reliable sources to verify recalls include the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Chevrolet’s official recall pages. Use these links to search by VIN and receive up-to-date recall information:
- NHTSA recall database: https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls
- Chevrolet recalls page: https://www.chevrolet.com/recalls
What years did Chevy have engine problems?
Chevy has had engine problems in specific years, with notable issues occurring in 2019–2021 (DFM lifter failures) and 2014–2016 (various issues) for the Silverado 1500, and 2019–2024 models with the L87 6.2L V8 engine, which are under investigation for catastrophic bearing failures. Other years with engine-related issues include 2007–2011 (AFM oil consumption and lifter noise), and 2010–2014 for certain 5.3L Vortec V8 engines due to cylinder deactivation problems.
Specific years with reported engine issues
This video discusses the engine issues in Chevy Silverado and other GM vehicles: 1mGetty's GarageYouTube · Apr 29, 2025
- 2007–2011: Known for Active Fuel Management (AFM)-related oil consumption and lifter issues.
- 2010–2014: Certain 5.3L Vortec V8 engines with AFM experienced problems.
- 2014–2016: The Silverado 1500 generation saw frequent problems, including some engine issues and transmission shudder.
- 2019–2021: Silverado 1500 models had problems with Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM) lifter failures and engine bearing issues.
- 2019–2024: The L87 6.2L V8 engine, found in models like the Silverado 1500, Tahoe, and Suburban, is under a NHTSA investigation for catastrophic bearing failures, notes Jalopnik.
- 2011–2016: The Duramax LML engine (2011-2016) was prone to fuel pump failure, which contaminated the entire fuel system.
What to do if you have an affected vehicle
- Check for recall information: See if your vehicle is covered by any recalls.
- Consider an extended warranty: These can be a good idea, especially for vehicles approaching the end of their powertrain warranty, says this YouTube video.
- Consult a trusted mechanic: Have them check for specific issues, like lifter noise or engine codes, and ask about potential fixes.
Which Chevy engine is being recalled?
The 6.2L V8 L87 engine is being recalled in various 2021-2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Tahoe, and Suburban models, along with certain GMC and Cadillac vehicles. The recall is due to a defect in the crankshaft or connecting rod bearings that can cause engine failure, and the issue is linked to vehicles manufactured between March 1, 2021, and May 31, 2024.
Vehicles included in the recall
- Chevrolet: Silverado 1500, Tahoe, Suburban
- GMC: Sierra 1500, Yukon, Yukon XL
- Cadillac: Escalade
Recall details
- Engine: The affected engines are the 6.2L V8 L87 engines.
- Issue: A defect in the crankshaft or connecting rod bearings can lead to engine damage and potential failure.
- Timeline: The issue is linked to engines manufactured between March 1, 2021, and May 31, 2024.
- Symptoms: You may notice unusual engine noises like knocking, reduced engine power, or the "check engine" light.
- Action: Chevrolet owners should take their vehicles to a dealership for inspection. Depending on the findings, the engine may need repair or replacement.
Did Chevy fix the 5.3 engine problems?
No, Chevy has not fully fixed all the known 5.3L engine problems, as issues persist, though specific problems are being addressed. For newer models, there have been recalls and customer satisfaction programs for specific issues like contaminated engine blocks, but older models with Active Fuel Management (AFM) and Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM) continue to experience problems like lifter failure and high oil consumption.
Older engine problems (approx. 2007-2013)
- High oil consumption: Primarily caused by the AFM system and piston rings.
- Lifter failure: The AFM system, which shuts off cylinders, can cause the lifters to fail and damage the camshaft.
- Solutions: These older engines are more prone to these issues. Frequent oil changes and, for some owners, using a DFM disabler device can help mitigate problems.
Newer engine problems (approx. 2019 onwards)
- Lifter failure: Even with updated lifters, the more complex DFM system in newer engines can lead to lifter failure more frequently.
- Engine block contamination: A recent customer satisfaction program has been issued for certain 2024 models to address contaminated engine blocks, requiring inspection and potential replacement.
- Solutions: Some owners opt for a DFM disabler to prevent the system from engaging and to reduce the strain on engine components.
What this means for you
- If you own an older 5.3L engine, be vigilant about checking your oil and address any signs of lifter failure promptly to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
- If you are considering purchasing a newer 5.3L engine, be aware of the ongoing DFM system concerns. However, be comforted that specific issues, like the recent engine block contamination in 2024 models, are being addressed through specific recall programs.
What Chevy models are being recalled by year?
Latest Chevrolet Recalls
- 2019-2020 Chevrolet Silverado 4500 HD, 5500 HD, and 6500 HD.
- 2024-2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV Recall.
- GM Engine Recall.
- GM Transmission Recall.
- GM Tailgate Recall.
- 2022-2023 Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana Recall.
- GM Transmission Recall.
- GM Brake Control Module Recall.
