GM Issues Massive “Incomplete” Recall, but “Remedy Not Yet Available”

On April 24, 2025, General Motors issued NHTSA Recall 25V274 (GM recall number N252494000), affecting nearly 600,000 vehicles from model years 2021-2024, including Cadillac Escalade, Chevrolet Silverado, Tahoe, Suburban, and GMC trucks equipped with the 6.2L L87 V8 engine. Manufacturing defects in the connecting rod and crankshaft engine components of affected vehicles could lead to engine damage and engine failure, causing a loss of propulsion during operation that increases the risk of a serious crash.

Interestingly, NHTSA classifies the recall as “Recall: Incomplete, Remedy Not Yet Available,” yet GM’s own report lists a multi-part remedy involving inspection, oil changes, and possible engine replacement. This discrepancy raises critical safety and legal questions for dealers as well as vehicle owners and lessees.

Read on to learn more about what to do when you learn of this kind of recall affecting your vehicle. If you own or lease a motor vehicle under the original manufacturer warranty with substantial issues affecting its use, safety or value that the dealer can’t repair after a reasonable number of attempts, contact Nita Lemon Law Firm in Los Angeles to review your options with an experienced and successful California lemon law attorney.

Duty to Recall: The Law Is Clear Even Without a Fix

Why would GM issue a recall notice if they don’t have a remedy available? Because they must. Federal regulations under the Motor Vehicle Safety Act mandate that once a manufacturer identifies a safety-related defect, they must notify NHTSA and initiate a recall immediately, even if the actual repair isn’t yet developed. The purpose is to prevent further sales of unsafe vehicles and protect current owners from potential harm.

Recall status types, such as “Incomplete—Remedy Not Yet Available,” indicate that:

• The defect is confirmed.
• No remedy is finalized.
• Dealers must not deliver affected vehicles.

This precautionary status ensures manufacturers can’t delay recall notices simply to buy time for fixing the issue.

What You Should Do If Your Vehicle Is on a Recall But No Fix Is Available

Even if there’s no remedy yet, GM’s recall notice sent to dealers and owners should include clear interim instructions. Here’s what you should do next:

1. Check your vehicle’s recall status.
   Visit SaferCar.gov or your manufacturer’s site and enter your VIN to verify that your vehicle is part of Recall 25V274.
2. Follow interim safety guidance.
   The recall document states dealers must hold all affected vehicles—new, used, shuttles, etc.—and not deliver them until parts are available. If you already own the vehicle, ask the dealer or GM whether it should be temporarily taken out of service.
3. Demand written documentation.
   If no remedy exists yet, ask for a recall bulletin acknowledgment and any temporary safety instructions in writing. Federal law grants you access to this information.
4. Monitor for updates.
   GM must notify owners again once the remedy is finalized and available—usually within 60 days of NHTSA’s initial recall submission.
5. File complaints if ignored.
   If dealers refuse to hold or document the vehicle appropriately—or still deliver it—you have the right to file a complaint with NHTSA via SaferCar.gov.

When Does a Recall Matter for California Lemon Law Purposes?

California’s Song‑Beverly Consumer Warranty Act (“Lemon Law”) defines a lemon as a vehicle with a substantial defect that can’t be fixed after a “reasonable number” of attempts. A recall isn’t required—but when one exists, it becomes powerful evidence of a safety defect, which strengthens your claim.

Here’s how a recall like 25V274 affects your legal rights under California law:

• Proves a safety defect.
  The recall confirms the engine defect is serious and safety-related.
• Accelerates your rights.
  Even if no fix is yet available, the recall reinforces the urgency for resolution. If GM continues to delay repairs after enough failed attempts, you may have grounds for a refund or replacement.
• Mandatory timelines apply.
  Under California Assembly Bill 1755 (effective Jan 1, 2025), manufacturers must:
  • Respond to a written buyback or replacement demand within 30 days, and
  • Complete the transaction within 60 days or face litigation.
• Facilitates mediation.
  California now requires mediation before filing lawsuits—but a recall helps you convincingly demonstrate a serious defect during that mediation stage.

Key Takeaways for Vehicle Owners

• Recall doesn’t always mean “fix now.”
  The economy of an “incomplete” recall is clarity, not a remedy, but it signals that a serious safety defect has been identified and the vehicle should not be sold or used until it’s properly fixed.
• Your safety and legal rights still apply.
  You should receive instructions from GM or the dealer on holding or limiting use of the vehicle. Follow them strictly, and document everything.
• California law adds muscle to your claim.
  A recall strengthens your position under lemon law, especially when paired with Assembly Bill 1755’s requirement for manufacturer timelines and mediation.

How Nita Lemon Law Firm Can Help

If your Cadillac, Chevy, or GMC is under Recall 25V274 and no remedy is available, or it has undergone multiple failed repair attempts, you have rights. You could be entitled to:

• A complete refund including fees and taxes,
• A replacement vehicle, or
• Reimbursement for rental, towing, or related expenses.

We offer free consultations, and following AB 1755, manufacturers must cover your attorney fees if your lemon law claim is successful. Contact Nita Lemon Law Firm today to discuss your potential claim. We’ll help you cut through the recall jargon to protect your safety and secure the compensation you deserve.