NHTSA opens preliminary probe into more than 870,000 GM vehicles

(Reuters) – The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said on Friday it was opening a preliminary probe into 877,710 vehicles manufactured by General Motors (NYSE:), after receiving reports alleging engine failure.

The investigation covers certain Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, Chevrolet Tahoe, Chevrolet Suburban, GMC Yukon and Cadillac Escalade trucks and SUVs from model years 2019-2024, equipped with the L87 V8 engine.

According to the auto safety regulator, complainants reported a bearing failure that might result in either engine seizure or breaching of the engine block by the connecting rod.

Failure or malfunction of the engine could result in loss of motive power of the vehicle, leading to an increased risk of a crash. The NHTSA report, however, said no crashes or fires had been reported.

The auto safety regulator received 39 complaints and a number of early warning reporting field reports from vehicle owners, who also said there were no detectability prior to engine failures.

The probe, also known as a preliminary evaluation, was opened by NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation to determine the scope and severity of the potential problem and to fully assess the potential safety-related issues.

GM did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.