Which GM 5.3 Vortec Years Have The Most Issues?
Yes, I'm talking about GM's 5.3-liter Vortec V8, an evolution of those classic Chevrolet mills that added a then-new "vortex technology" in the mid-1990s. The idea was to better mix air and fuel in the cylinder heads; the result was a smooth and powerful engine that went a long way toward civilizing old-school trucks and SUVs to appeal to more drivers. It was after GM went on to further refine the motor for its all-new 2006 trucks and SUVs -- such as the Chevrolet Silverado/Tahoe and GMC Sierra/Yukon -- that the trouble started.
Read more: These V6 Engines Put The LS1 V8 To Shame
It may be hard to believe now, but there was a time when most people in this country drove actual cars: sedans, coupes, hatchbacks, station wagons, roadsters, etc., etc. But SUVs started outselling cars in 2015, and in 2020, more people bought pickups than non-luxury cars for the first time ever in the United States. One key to this trend: Trucks and SUVs have been increasingly tuned for a more comfortable, car-like driving experience that includes at least an effort at responsible efficiency.
In 2006, that meant adding active fuel management (AFM) to the 5.3-liter Vortec V8. Also known as cylinder deactivation, AFM basically shuts off the fuel to four of the engine's eight cylinders in certain situations to help save gas. It ended up costing GM some big money though.
More specifically, according to a class-action suit finally settled in 2022, the 5.3-liter LC9 Vortec V8 has a combination of issues, including defective piston rings and faults with the AFM system, that cause excessive oil consumption and major engine problems. (GM's guilt came from knowing about the problems yet still selling the engines.) The vehicles affected included many Chevrolet and GMC trucks and SUVs from 2010 to 2014, and the penalties inflicted included a $102-million cash settlement.
The lawsuit over the 5.3-liter Vortec V8 was limited to engines from 2010 to 2014, with that last year marking the introduction of the Vortec's replacement, the 5.3-liter EcoTec3 V8. And note that it wasn't just full-size trucks and SUVs that carried the engine in question. The vehicles mentioned in the lawsuit include a muscled-up version of GM's midsize pickups as well as its full-size vans from the era:
2010-2014 Chevrolet Avalanche
2010-2012 Chevrolet Colorado
2010-2013 Chevrolet Express
2010-2014 Chevrolet Suburban
2010-2014 Chevrolet Tahoe
2010-2013 GMC Canyon
2010-2013 GMC Savana
2010-2013 GMC Sierra
2010-2014 GMC Yukon
2010-2014 GMC Yukon XL
Remember, too, that those aren't the only vehicles with the problematic motor. The 5.3-liter power plant in question was introduced in 2006, not in 2010, and that's four more model years' worth of engines to worry about. With that in mind, your best bet is to check beneath the hood before you buy, and know there's a good chance that any of the vehicles with GM's 5.3-liter Vortec V8 with AFM are from a bad year.
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As you expect given the price gap between the Ford and Chevy, there's a larger emphasis on both interior style and creature comforts in the Mustang Mach-E. The Ford's interior is finished in a lovely mix of materials, with cloth, textured carbon-esque plastics, faux leather, red stitching, and metallic trim. The redesigned-for-2025 center console features more storage options than the Equinox (something we didn't realize we were missing until we got into the Ford), with cubbies and slots for all of life's necessities and wireless phone charging that isn't available on the Chevy unless you step up to the LT2 trim. We generally like Ford's infotainment system and its snappy responses, intuitive layout, and real Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though some MT editors said they couldn't get used to the way the Mach-E's large central knob also controls HVAC or heated-seat functions if you tap a button to engage those features first. Which Electric SUV Is the Better Value? The Ford is more fun to drive, has a nicer interior, and charges slightly quicker, but it can't go as far on a charge as the Chevy and costs $23,675 more as equipped (or about $430 more per month over a 60-month loan). The Equinox EV, meanwhile, has a comfortable ride, spacious cabin, and doesn't leave you wanting for much beyond Apple CarPlay, smoother power delivery, and quicker charging from more DC fast chargers. But is it worth spending extra if you can afford it on a more expensive electric SUV like the 2025 Mustang Mach-E Premium eAWD extended range? Yes, in our view. Speaking as consumers, we prefer the Ford's more space-efficient interior layout, better infotainment experience, BlueCruise system, and the fact we can pull up to any DC fast-charging tower and consistently get the same charge speed (even though it's slower than many of the Mach-E's and Equinox's competitors). As enthusiasts, we also find the Mustang's extra power, rearward power bias, and better handling to be worth the price difference. We really like the Chevy Equinox EV LT and won't hesitate to recommend it to price-sensitive buyers because it offers exceptional bang for your buck. But for those who can afford to spend a bit more, it's worth doing so. 2nd Place: 2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV LT Pros So affordable Easy to drive Great one-pedal brake mode Cons Lots of torque steer Fast-charging speeds need improvement Lacks phone mirroring Verdict: An absolute bargain that price-conscious shippers shouldn't skip—it really is that good. 1st Place: 2025 Ford Mustang Mach-E Premium eAWD Extended Range Pros Sporty to drive Lovely interior More consistent charging performance Cons Fast-charging speeds could also use improvement Noisier than the Chevy Not as efficient, either Verdict: The Mustang Mach-E is more expensive than the Equinox EV, but you certainly get more for your money.
