GM and Ford Recall Hundreds of Thousands of Vehicles Over Defects: What Illinois Drivers Should Know

In April 2025, General Motors (GM) issued a major recall of nearly 600,000 full-size trucks and SUVs due to a defect that could cause V8 engine failures without warning. The issue affects several popular models, including the Chevrolet Silverado, Cadillac Escalade, and GMC Sierra. In a separate action, Ford Motor Company also recalled more than 280,000 SUVs and trucks over a defect that could issues with the vehicles’ rearview cameras. These recalls raise serious safety concerns for drivers across the country—especially in Illinois, where such vehicles are widely used in both rural and suburban areas.

Vehicles Affected by the GM Recall

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the GM recall affects certain 2021–2024 models equipped with 6.2-liter L87 V8 engines, including:

• Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV
• Chevrolet Silverado 1500
• Chevrolet Suburban and Tahoe
• GMC Sierra 1500
• GMC Yukon and Yukon XL

The problem stems from a defect in the engine’s connecting rod and crankshaft components, which may have been manufactured with improper metallurgy. This can lead to excessive wear, sudden failure, or catastrophic engine damage while driving.

According to GM, affected drivers may experience:

• A loud knocking or ticking noise
• Loss of power or propulsion
• An illuminated check engine light
• Engine stalling or complete shutdown

GM began investigating after at least 39 consumer complaints and 28,000 warranty claims. As of April 2025, GM has acknowledged at least 12 crashes and 12 minor injuries potentially linked to the defect.

Ford and Lincoln Recalls Also Raise Safety Concerns

Ford has also recalled more than 280,000 vehicles in recent months, including:

• 2021–2022 Ford Bronco
• Ford Edge, Explorer, and F-150
• 2021–2022 Lincoln Navigator and Nautilus

These vehicles are equipped with 2.7L or 3.0L Nano EcoBoost engines, which are prone to unexpected stalling. The defect may leave drivers unable to restart the engine, increasing the risk of an accident.

Ford has issued multiple follow-up recalls in early 2025 due to issues with rearview cameras, battery monitoring modules, and software updates.

What to Do If You’re Injured in a Recalled Vehicle

If you’re involved in a crash and suspect that a vehicle defect or recall was involved, take the following steps to protect your rights:

1. Get immediate medical care – Even if injuries seem minor, seek professional evaluation.
2. Document everything – Take photos of the crash scene, damaged vehicle, and your injuries. Keep repair invoices and medical bills.
3. Preserve the vehicle – If possible, do not repair or dispose of the vehicle until it is inspected by a professional.
4. Check for recalls – Use the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see if your car is affected.
5. Speak to a lawyer – An experienced Illinois defective product injury attorney can help you determine if a product liability claim is appropriate.

Product Liability Law in Illinois: Your Rights After a Defective Vehicle Injury

Under Illinois product liability law, manufacturers, distributors, and sellers can be held legally responsible if a defective product causes injury or death. This includes vehicles, vehicle parts, and safety systems such as engines, brakes, and airbags.

There are three main types of product liability claims in Illinois:

1. Design Defect

These claims argue that the product was inherently dangerous due to poor design, even if it was manufactured correctly. If GM or Ford used a flawed engine design that increases the risk of failure, they may be held liable.

2. Manufacturing Defect

In these types of cases, the product’s design is safe, but a problem occurred during the manufacturing process (e.g., using the wrong materials or tools). GM’s connecting rod and crankshaft defect appears to fall into this category, as the issue reportedly stems from a metallurgy error.

3. Failure to Warn (Marketing Defect)

Manufacturers must provide adequate warnings about known dangers. If GM or Ford failed to issue timely recalls or misled consumers about the severity of the defect, this could constitute a failure to warn.

What Must You Prove in a Defective Product Claim?

In Illinois, you generally must prove:

• The product was defective
• The defect existed when it left the manufacturer’s control
• The defect caused your injury
• You were using the product as intended or reasonably foreseeable

Illinois follows a strict liability standard for product defect claims. That means you don’t have to prove negligence—just that the product was unreasonably dangerous and caused harm.

Statute of Limitations for Product Liability

In Illinois, you generally have:

• 2 years from the date of injury to file a personal injury claim
• 5 years for property damage caused by a defective product

However, exceptions may apply, especially if the injury wasn’t immediately discoverable.

How a Lawyer Can Help With a Vehicle Defect Injury Case

A knowledgeable personal injury attorney can:

• Investigate the crash and secure evidence
• Obtain manufacturer documentation, service records, and recall notices
• Retain automotive engineers or other expert witnesses
• Negotiate with insurers and manufacturers
• File a lawsuit if a fair settlement isn’t offered

Depending on the facts of your case, you may be eligible for compensation for:

• Medical bills and future treatment
• Lost income and earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage
• Punitive damages (in extreme cases)

How to Protect Yourself From Injuries Caused by Defective Vehicles

Here are some steps you can take to minimize risk:

• Register your vehicle with the manufacturer to receive recall alerts
• Check your VIN periodically at nhtsa.gov/recalls
• Avoid ignoring dashboard alerts or engine noises
• Schedule repairs immediately if your vehicle is recalled
• Speak to an experienced Illinois personal injury lawyer if you’ve been in an accident—even if you’re not sure a recall was involved

Contact the Seasoned Illinois Product Liability Lawyers at John J. Malm & Associates

The recent GM and Ford recalls are a serious reminder of the dangers posed by defective vehicle components. If you or a loved one has been hurt in an accident involving a recalled truck or SUV, you may have a legal claim under Illinois product liability law.

Don’t assume the manufacturer will take full responsibility. Working with a skilled Illinois defective product attorney ensures that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact John J. Malm & Associates today for a free consultation and learn more about how you can receive compensation if you’ve been injured by a defective product.