NHTSA Complaint #11709180 — 2019 CHEVROLET SILVERADO 1500

While merging onto another highway at normal traffic speed, I pressed the accelerator to safely increase speed and merge with traffic. At that moment, I heard a loud bang coming from the front engine bay. Immediately afterward, the vehicle began making loud rattling noises, multiple warning lights illuminated on the dashboard, and the vehicle rapidly lost power. The car began decelerating while still on the highway, creating a dangerous situation. I was unable to maintain speed with surrounding traffic. Had another vehicle been approaching at a higher speed, this sudden loss of power could have resulted in a serious accident. The vehicle was later inspected by a Chevrolet dealership, which confirmed that the engine failed at approximately 77,000 miles. The dealer stated that the engine lifters failed and caused damage to the camshaft, resulting in complete engine failure. This failure occurred without warning and while the vehicle was in motion, presenting a serious safety risk. A sudden engine power loss at highway speeds significantly increases the risk of a collision. I am concerned this may be a defect affecting other vehicles as well.