If you’re the proud owner (or lessee) of a Chevrolet or GMC truck or SUV from the early 2010s, you might be sitting on a windfall—and the clock is ticking!

A major class-action settlement means thousands of drivers could be eligible for a cash payout of at least $2,149, but you’ll need to act before August 8 to claim your share.

If your vehicle fits certain criteria, this could be one of the easiest checks you’ll ever cash.


General Motors (GM) has agreed to a $150 million settlement to resolve a lawsuit involving certain Chevrolet and GMC vehicles equipped with LC9 engines.

The lawsuit alleged that these engines—found in popular models like the Chevrolet Silverado, Tahoe, Suburban, Avalanche, and the GMC Sierra, Yukon, and Yukon XL from model years 2011 to 2014—were prone to excessive oil consumption.

Plaintiffs claimed GM knew about the defect but didn’t warn customers. While GM hasn’t admitted any wrongdoing, they’ve agreed to pay up to put the matter to rest.


There are some specific requirements based on where and how you bought or leased your vehicle:

• California Class: You’re eligible if you purchased or leased a new (not used) 2011-2014 Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra, Yukon, or Yukon XL in California as of May 23, 2022.
• North Carolina Class: You qualify if you purchased or leased one of the above vehicles in North Carolina as of May 23, 2022.
• Idaho Class: You’re in if you bought or leased your vehicle from a GM-authorized dealer in Idaho as of May 23, 2022.

If you’re not sure whether your vehicle qualifies, check your purchase or lease paperwork, or contact your local GM dealer for help.

Each eligible class member is expected to receive at least $2,149, but the final amount could be higher or lower depending on how many people file claims.

The more vehicles you own or lease that qualify, the more you could receive. It’s a rare chance to get a significant sum back in your pocket—just for owning a vehicle you already drive!


Also read: $62M Hyundai-Kia settlement means major payouts for drivers—don’t miss the deadline

How do you claim your share?

• Deadline: The key date to remember is August 8. That’s the last day to file for exclusion or objection if you don’t want to be part of the settlement, but it’s also the practical deadline to ensure you’re counted in for a payout.
• North Carolina Residents: If you received an identification form in the mail, you must return it by August 8, 2025, to get your payment.
• Other Class Members: No claim form is required for most other eligible owners—if you’re in the class, you should be automatically included. But it’s always wise to double-check your status and make sure your contact information is up-to-date.

The final approval hearing for the settlement is scheduled for October 2, so payments will likely be processed after that date.


Also read: A hidden engine issue? This shocking lawsuit could change how drivers see a top car brand

If you’ve ever wondered why you get those mysterious legal notices in the mail, here’s the scoop: Class-action lawsuits let a group of people with similar complaints band together to take on a big company.

Instead of each person filing their own lawsuit, one or a few people represent the whole group. If the company settles, everyone in the “class” can get a share of the payout—usually in exchange for giving up the right to sue individually over the same issue.

Class actions are common in cases involving defective products, false advertising, environmental issues, and more. They’re a way for everyday folks to hold big corporations accountable, even if the company never admits to any wrongdoing.

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Have you had issues with your Chevy or GMC’s engine? Are you planning to claim your settlement? Do you have tips for navigating class-action payouts?