General Motors has issued a global recall on MY2021-24 vehicles powered by the General Motors’ 6.2-litre petrol V-8. In Australia, that applies to more than 9000 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 models. The 2025 model and the forthcoming GMC Yukon Denali are unaffected.

In early 2025, the USA’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) opened an investigation into GM utes and SUVs powered by the ubiquitous L87 6.2-litre V-8 that can experience sudden and serious engine damage.

The issue supposedly stems from quality problems with crankshafts and connecting rods. As a result, all the vehicles involved in the recall need to be inspected by GM dealerships. Engines that don’t pass inspection are supposed to be repaired or replaced.

Vehicles that pass inspection will receive an engine oil and filter change, using higher-viscosity 0W-40 Mobil 1 Supercar oil. The owner’s manual for pre-June-2024 L87-equipped utes requires 0W-20 oil.

It seems odd to us that a simple move to higher-viscosity oil is touted as a ‘cure’ for potential engine failure. Was the original oil recommendation incorrect?