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There are plenty of negative Chevy Silverado stories about blown engines. I have shared several true stories myself. Here’s a refreshing story that reveals not all GM trucks are experiencing issues.
Kevin Menschel on the Chevrolet Silverado ZR2 Owners Facebook page shares this,
“Since I see all of the negative posts on the 6.2L, I just wanted to offer some encouragement – I have one of the first 2022s that came off the line. The engine and truck have 43,000 miles, and it just passed my recall test with the dealer, with no issues. I had a minor exhaust leak, but that’s about it.”
“I was nervous with all of the posts I see about burned up motors or failing the picometer testing, so I figured my passing the test would offer some encouragement to those who haven’t tested yet. This photo is from last winter for the Facebook tax.”
“P.S. If you’re gonna be a hater on the engine, don’t waste your time. We see enough of the complaining, I won’t respond to it, don’t have time,” he concludes.
Ok, so now let’s talk about the heart of Kevin’s truck. The GM 6.2L V8 has been generating considerable chatter and concern.
However, there’s more to the story.
I’m going to dive in and give you not just the headlines, but the meaningful, practical advice all Silverado owners can use.
I’ve been closely following the discussions on the Chevrolet Silverado ZR2 Owners Facebook page, and Kevin Menschel’s post caught my attention for a very important reason. In a sea of negativity, his message about his 2022 6.2L V8—with 43,000 miles and passing the dreaded “pistonometer” test—is a beacon of hope.
Real-world data offers genuine encouragement to countless owners who are holding their breath, wondering if their truck’s engine is next to fail. So, let’s peel back the layers on this issue.
The L87 6.2L V8 and its Reputation
First, let’s acknowledge the elephant in the room. The L87 6.2L V8 engine, a powerhouse in the Chevy Silverado ZR2 and other GM trucks, has been the subject of numerous online complaints.
We’re talking about GM 6.2L V8 engine reliability issues that range from excessive oil consumption to, in some unfortunate cases, catastrophic engine failure. The “pistonometer” test Kevin mentions is a dealership-level check designed to measure cylinder health and assess potential problems, often tied to a service bulletin or recall.
For many, it’s a moment of truth.
The root of these problems is often tied to GM’s Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM) system. This technology, designed to improve fuel efficiency by deactivating cylinders, has been linked by some owners and mechanics to lifter failures. Lifters are small but critical components that open and close the engine’s valves.
When they fail, it can lead to a domino effect of damage, including bent pushrods and, in the worst-case scenarios, a seized engine. This has led to a lot of anxiety and a key question for many: Should I buy a used Chevrolet Silverado with a 6.2L V8?
Kevin’s experience, however, offers a powerful counterpoint. His truck, one of the earliest 2022 models, has 43,000 trouble-free miles. This isn’t a fluke; it’s a testament to the fact that not all these engines are ticking time bombs.
The vast majority of these trucks are performing exactly as they should be—reliably and powerfully. The vocal minority on forums and social media can sometimes create a distorted view of reality.
Actionable Steps and Advice for Owners
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So, if you’re a proud owner of a Silverado with the 6.2L V8 or considering becoming one, what can you do? My expert advice is this: proactive maintenance is your best friend.
1. Follow the Maintenance Schedule Religiously: This isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a non-negotiable. Don’t push your oil change intervals. GM’s oil life monitoring system is effective, but if you’re towing or doing a lot of stop-and-go city driving, consider changing your oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, especially if you notice any signs of increased consumption. A crucial point here is using the correct, high-quality oil as specified by the manufacturer. This simple step is one of the best ways to prevent GM 6.2L V8 engine problems.
2. Listen to Your Engine: Pay attention to strange noises. A ticking or tapping sound, particularly at startup or when the engine is warm, could be an early sign of a failing lifter. Don’t ignore it. The sooner you get it checked by a qualified mechanic—ideally a trusted dealership technician—the better your chances of preventing a minor issue from becoming a major catastrophe.
3. Consider a DFM Disabler: This is a more aggressive solution, but one that many owners swear by. A DFM disabler is a small electronic device that plugs into your truck’s OBD-II port. It keeps the engine running on all eight cylinders at all times, effectively bypassing the DFM system.
Many owners report smoother operation and peace of mind. While this may slightly reduce your fuel economy, the potential for avoiding a costly engine repair is a trade-off many are willing to make. For those researching how to improve GM 6.2L V8 reliability, this is a topic that comes up again and again.
4. Embrace the Community, But with Caution: Facebook forums and online communities can be a fantastic resource for sharing information and finding solutions.
However, as Kevin rightly points out, they can also be filled with negativity and misinformation.
Use them for genuine advice and shared experiences, but filter out the noise. Look for comprehensive discussions on topics like what the Chevrolet Silverado 6.2L V8 engine recall is, but remember that not every issue you see online is a widespread problem.
Looking at the Bigger Picture
Kevin’s post also highlights the importance of individual data. The fact that his truck, with significant mileage, passed the test should be a comfort to those who are worried. It’s a reminder that manufacturing variances exist, and many of these engines are built to last.
Furthermore, GM has been continuously refining these engines and addressing issues through technical service bulletins, as well as in some cases, updating parts. The company isn’t ignoring the problem; they’re working on it.
For those considering a new or used Silverado with this engine, do your due diligence.
- Get a pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic.
- Look for detailed maintenance records.
- Ask about oil consumption.
- And above all, don’t let a few negative posts scare you away from what is otherwise a phenomenal engine—one that delivers a perfect blend of power, performance, and everyday usability. The Chevrolet Silverado ZR2’s performance and reliability are, for the vast majority of owners, truly excellent.
Conclusion
Kevin Menschel’s post reveals powerful and practical data that provides much-needed context to the ongoing conversation about the GM 6.2L V8. It tells us that while issues can and do occur, they are not universal. It serves as a reminder to look beyond the fear-mongering and focus on what we can control: proactive maintenance, careful listening, and smart decision-making.
The key to the L87 6.2L GM engine running well and enjoying it for years lies in understanding its potential weaknesses and taking simple, actionable steps to mitigate them. Don’t let the noise overshadow the reality that most of these engines are strong, reliable, and more than capable of handling whatever you throw at them.
It’s Your Turn
So, here’s my question for Silverado owners: If you own a Silverado with the 6.2L V8, what has your experience been like, and what proactive steps have you taken to ensure your truck’s long-term health? Click the red Add New Comment link below and let us know.
Check out my Chevrolet Silverado story: I Just Traded My 2020 Ford F-150 for a 2025 Chevy Silverado LT Trail Boss, But Now, I Hope I Made the Right Choice
I am Denis Flierl, a Senior Torque News Reporter since 2012. My 30+ year tenure in the automotive industry, initially in a consulting role with every major car brand and later as a freelance journalist test-driving new vehicles, has equipped me with a wealth of knowledge. I specialize in reporting the latest automotive news, covering owner stories, and providing expert analysis, ensuring that you are always well-informed and up-to-date. Follow me on X @DenisFlierl, @WorldsCoolestRides, Facebook, and Instagram
Photo credit: Denis Flierl via Kevin Menschel
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Source: torquenews.com
