NHTSA Investigates Engine Failures in 600,000 GM Vehicles

• NHTSA received 36 Vehicle Owner Questionnaires alleging engine failures in vehicles that were already subject to a prior recall
• GM had previously recalled 721,000 vehicles worldwide (nearly 600,000 in the U.S.) in April 2025 for related engine issues
• The investigation is a 'recall query' examining whether the original recall remedies adequately addressed the engine damage and failure problems

Summary: NHTSA Investigates Engine Failures in 600,000 GM Vehicles

The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced on January 19, 2026, that it has opened a recall query investigation involving approximately 597,571 General Motors vehicles due to engine failure issues.

Key Details:

The investigation targets GM vehicles equipped with the L87 6.2L V8 gas engine that have experienced engine damage or failure. The probe was initiated after NHTSA received 36 Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs) alleging engine failures in vehicles previously subject to a recall. Notably, these complaints indicate that the remedies applied in the prior recall have failed to resolve the underlying issues.

Background:

This investigation follows GM's April 2025 recall of 721,000 vehicles worldwide, which included nearly 600,000 vehicles in the United States. The current inquiry suggests the original fix may have been inadequate.

Market Implications:

This development poses several concerns for General Motors:

• Potential additional recall costs and warranty expenses
• Reputational risk related to product quality and safety
• Possible regulatory penalties if NHTSA determines the original recall remedy was insufficient
• Consumer confidence issues affecting future sales of V8-powered vehicles

The investigation's outcome could result in a supplemental recall requiring GM to implement new remedies for the affected vehicles, creating further financial exposure for the automaker. Investors should monitor for updates on the scope of required repairs and associated costs, as well as any impact on GM's full-size truck and SUV sales, which typically use this engine configuration.