GMC Yukon XL Complaints

2,896 consumer complaints on file.

#11705598December 17, 2025
POWER TRAIN
While driving my 2021 GMC Yukon XL, the vehicle unexpectedly lost acceleration. After lifting off the gas pedal, it jolted forward, triggered a “Reduced Performance” dashboard warning, and remained in what felt like second gear, refusing to shift. I immediately pulled into a parking spot; when I attempted to reverse, the vehicle would not move backward. As you may imagine, this was a major safety concern, as I had my [XXX] and [XXX] children in the vehicle with me. I had the Yukon inspected at a GMC dealership, where a technician confirmed the issue originated from a faulty transmission valve body. My independent research has revealed this to be a widespread defect in the 2021 Yukon XL, prompting GM to issue Special CoverageXXX, which explicitly covers valve-body replacements for 2021 Yukon XLs experiencing reduced performance. Despite meeting these criteria and receiving identical diagnostic alerts, I was informed that my VIN is not covered. I am formally requesting that this safety-related defect—widespread among this model year—be recognized and my VIN included under Special Coverage XXX. The valve body causing the loss of propulsion in my Yukon XL is exactly the same defective component GM has acknowledged and is covering under this program. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11705415December 16, 2025
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2019 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated that while driving approximately 30 MPH, there was a misfire in the engine, with a ticking sound coming from the engine compartment. There was no warning light illuminated. The dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was opened. The contact was referred by the manufacturer to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance with having the VIN linked to NHTSA Action Number: PE25001 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The approximate failure mileage was 104,389.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11705464December 16, 2025
ENGINE, FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I am writing to formally express my dissatisfaction with the vehicle I purchased from your dealership. Despite my expectations at the time of purchase, the vehicle has not met the standards that were represented to me. This letter is intended to address my concerns regarding the vehicle’s features, undisclosed recalls, and significant mechanical and safety issues discovered immediately after delivery. I discovered—through the GMC mobile application, not through the dealership—that the vehicle had two to three active recalls at the time I received it, including recalls involving the engine and transmission. I was never informed of these recalls by the dealership prior to or at the time of sale, which is extremely concerning. After discovering the recalls myself, I scheduled a service appointment. I was informed that the recalls were addressed and marked as resolved in GMC Springdale. Despite the recalls being cleared, only two days later, the vehicle began experiencing issues. The screen displayed warning messages, and the vehicle developed a vibration, to the point that it became unsafe to drive. They are changing us $820+tax I was forced to use roadside assistance, it hasn't been a month yet and the dealer are refusing to cover the damage. I have been calling but they said they are busy or they use somebody else to speak.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11705388December 16, 2025
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated that while driving at 30 MPH, the gear shifter independently shifted to neutral(N), and the vehicle speed decreased. The contact stated that upon depressing the brake pedal, the vehicle lost drive power. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed, and the dealer determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure NHTSA Campaign Number:25V274000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and filed a case. The contact was also referred to the NHTSA Hotline to file a complaint. The failure mileage was 120,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11704737December 12, 2025
POWER TRAIN
While driving the vehicles went into limp mode with a transmission issue. Vehicle was towed to the dealership where I was informed the transmission body valve has failed. Vehicle has been out of service for 3 week so far, still not fixed.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11704614December 11, 2025
ENGINE
Camshaft/Lifter broken and need replaced
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11704458December 11, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Details of the Issue: Vehicle Model: 2023 GMC Yukon Problem Description: The battery has drained completely on three separate occasions, leaving the vehicle unable to start and in cold weather areas safety is a concern. This occurs even when all lights and accessories are turned off, and the vehicle is parked for a reasonable period of time. The vehicle has been brought to the shop three times to address this issue. During one of these visits, a module failure was identified and repaired. However, the issue has occurred again since that repair, indicating that either the original repair did not fully resolve the problem or there may be additional underlying causes. Frequency: The issue has occurred three times to date, most recently on [insert date of the most recent incident]. Service History: The vehicle has been in the shop three times for this issue, and a module failure was identified and repaired during one of these visits. Troubleshooting Steps Taken: I have ensured that no lights or accessories are left on when the vehicle is parked. The battery terminals have been inspected for corrosion, and the connections are secure. [Include any other steps you’ve taken, e.g., "The battery was tested and confirmed to be in good condition."] Request for Assistance: Given the recurring nature of this issue and the fact that it has not been fully resolved despite multiple service visits, I would like to request the following: A more in-depth diagnostic to identify any additional root causes, including potential parasitic drains, alternator performance, or software-related issues. Confirmation of whether there are any recalls, technical service bulletins (TSBs), or known issues related to the electrical system or battery for this model. Consideration for extended warranty coverage or goodwill assistance to address this issue, as it appears to be related to a manufacturing defect. Since warranty coverage is up my vehicle cost is going to increase due to repeatable issues.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11704297December 10, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, POWER TRAIN
vehicle parked for extended period, 7-10 days, entered vehicle on 12/05/25 and proceeded to start - immediately service transmission appeared in display, check engine light on, dash flashing and door locks going up and down and chiming of alarms. was able to place in reverse, backed up, put into drive and vehicle would move approx 5-8 ft, lock up and stop, start again and repeat, etc.. put vehicle in low1 was able to get back in driveway and parked. had vehicle towed to closest dealer who had a transmission specialist available and worked with GM warranty plus GM CarBravo warranty to address issues (multiple dealers refused or didn’t have available personnel and/or were multiple weeks out for repairs). called and advisor said i needed a new battery (22mo of a 36mo free battery replacement GM AC Delco) and to have transmission valve body replaced and no tcm, 3-5 days for part delivery and that this was under a GM Service bulletin # PIP6069 (which i pulled up online), stated this repair (valve body) fixed most vehicles but knew of a few instances where complete GM 10spd transmissions had to be replaced. glad this happened in my driveway versus while being on a long distance trip. waiting on part delivery and unable to use vehicle due safety issue with transmission.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11703956December 9, 2025
ENGINE
Engine began knocking noise at around 150k miles, noise became faster with throttle speed. Brought in to repair shop, mechanic confirmed connecting rod failure, suggested replacing engine. Replaced engine as suggested.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11703969December 9, 2025
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2015 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated that when the vehicle was started, the vehicle started shaking with a tapping sound coming from the engine compartment. The contact stated that there were no warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed around the block, the failure persisted. The vehicle was parked at the residence. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the lifters in the engine were loose, and the lifters and the right side of the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11704023December 9, 2025
POWER TRAIN, FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
I'm vehicle has experience both active recalls for similar model year but my VIN isn't listed as been one that is covered by the call. 25V274000 and 21V739000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11703695December 8, 2025
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC, ENGINE
The contact owns a 2017 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that while idling, the vehicle started shuddering violently. The contact stated that while driving to the residence at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled and failed to restart. The vehicle was pushed into a church parking lot. The contact's father used a scanner to scan the vehicle, and a DTC for engine misfire was retrieved. The contact's father replaced the spark plugs, but the failure persisted. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed and determined that the engine was blown. The vehicle was then towed to another independent mechanic, where the engine was replaced. Additionally, the contact stated that upon depressing the brake pedal, the brake pedal was stiff and required to be pumped several times for the vehicle to respond as intended. The contact stated that the failure occurred while starting the vehicle and while driving at various speeds. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the brakes had been replaced annually, but the failure persisted. The contact stated that the brake pedal shuddered upon starting the vehicle. The contact received a notification for ABS from the OnStar Mobile App. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 148,246.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11703512December 7, 2025
ENGINE
2023 Gmc Yukon XL SLT 5.3 Liter V8 engine As i was crusing on hiway my engine gave up lost of power knocking noise and check engine light appeared on dash it was a very serious matter when you are on hiway and engine fails on you ive gotte the car diagnosed it had known issue like the rest of GM trucks and suv Lifter failure/camshaft/push rods complete engine had to be either replace or professional rebuilt. This vehicle brand new is almost $100k vehicle which shouldnt have had this issue under 2 years of ownership and paying out of my own pocket. I urge NHTSA to take this matter in to consideration and have the GM 5.3 liter V8 engine under recall just like they have with the 6.2 liter V8 engine they have the same problem with the lifters, camshaft,pushrod failure. Thank you
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11703342December 5, 2025
POWER TRAIN, VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
The contact owns a 2022 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated that while driving approximately 55 - 60 MPH and depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle failed to respond as intended for approximately one second before accelerating. A dealer was contacted. No warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the failure had occurred on several occasions. The vehicle was taken to a dealer to be diagnosed; however, the diagnosis was unknown. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and was in the process of towing the vehicle to another location. The approximate failure mileage was 92,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11703333December 5, 2025
ENGINE
Low engine oil message keeps flashing after less than 2,000 miles of driver. Excessive oil consumption. Took vehicle to GMC dealership and it was confirmed that an engine replacement or replacement of the pistons and rings is necessary. Only 77,000 miles on the vehicle. My car is currently not a part of the massive recall.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11703046December 4, 2025
ENGINE
This concerns a 2020 GMC Yukon XL Denali motor (6.2L gas) 118,000 miles. Regular maintenance performed every 5 K miles and per request of original dealer. Beginning 2 weeks ago a new regular pinging developed and the vehicle was taken to the dealer (at which time new tires were installed routinely). No clear issues were found upon brief inspection/auscultation and advised to return if the sound was recurrent. The sound persisted on a fairly frequent though intermittent basis. A recording was made and another appt made for routine spark plug replacement. Upon return and repeat inspection it was discovered that oil filter was full of metal shavings and advised it was very likely necessary for a complete engine overhaul (with $18-20 K price tag). Checking online it was discovered that this GM motor had a 580,000 vehicle recall for 2021-2024 models. A new ODI study is being done for similar complaints for 2019-2021 year models (additional 280,000 vehicles). The 6.2L motors have been found to have a crankshaft/bearing issue leading to motor failure and even sudden loss of power often presenting with metal particulate matter being discovered. Awaiting resolution.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11703036December 4, 2025
ENGINE, BACK OVER PREVENTION: REARVIEW SYSTEM BRAKING, FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL
Reduced engine power warning light came on at approximately 7600 miles on our new 2025 Yukon xl. Dealer inspected and ultimately decided the engine needs to be replaced due to crankshaft end play out of spec. This is a know GM issue. Incorrect thrust bearing was installed from the factory. Gm did not inform us of this issue. This could have resulted in catastrophic engine failure and cause to be stranded on the road. Not ideal when it is -20 degrees in my hometown. Dealer finally replaced engine then had lane departure unavailable and lane assist unavailable warning lights. Dealer claimed this was unrelated but all safety equipment worked when we dropped it off. Now it doesn’t.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11702865December 3, 2025
ENGINE
On July 3, 2025 we were traveling on a 4 lane at 55mph. Without any prior symptoms, the vehicle began to shake violently. It shook so hard that the skid warning light simultaneously came on. It was followed by the check engine light. The oil pressure guage started bouncing around. We stopped driving the vehicle and had it towed to VanYork GMC dealer in Asheboro, NC on this same day. (Invoice attached) VanYork GMC determined that cyclinder 5 was misfiring. We paid to have them repair it, and we began driving the vehicle again. (invoice attached) On or about August 1, 2025 we were traveling on an interstate at 70mph. Without any forewarning, the vehicle began to violently shake. Just as before, the skid warning light simultaneously came on, followed by the check engine light came on, and then the oil pressure guage started bouncing around. As there was heavy traffic on the interstate, the failure created a very dangerous situation for us as we tried to maintain our lane, and stay in control of the vehicle until which time we were able to safely maneuver to the side of the road. The vehicle was again towed to Vann York GMC in Asheboro, NC. (invoice attached) On December 3, 2025 we received a call from VannYork GMC saying that the vehicle repairs were complete. It had been in their repair shop for 4 months. This repair began with lifter and camshaft replacement. When this repair was unsuccessful, they decided that the vehicle needed a 'new' rebuilt engine. Since GMC has not offered any assistance with the expense of this new re-built engine, we will have to satisfy the $12,000 bill when we pick it up. After experiencing two very dangerous episodes, we are happy that we did not wreck, but certainly, this not the situation we expected from a high-end vehicle with only 76,169 miles on it.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11702112November 30, 2025
ENGINE, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, EXTERIOR LIGHTING
At stop light vehicle began to sputter and make noise, I was very close to my home, no engine light on. Upon turning vehicle off and using a code reader codes P0106 and P0506 was on scanner. I had vehicle towed to Complete Car Care. Mis fire on multiple cylinders. Vehicle has 69,801 miles. 3 push rods bent and I valve spring broken. The right Cylinder head assembly had to be removed and replaced with 8 new push rods, 8 new lifters, gaskets, seals, and valve spring. Cost was $3304.79. In addition the rear tail light has been sporadic on and off, GM was to replace up to 70,000 miles. When I took it to them they stated the time limit had expired, yet I had not been informed until I did a google search. GM requesting $475 plus tax. I am concerned my vehicle has the same manufacturing defects as the GM motors being recalled with total engine failures.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11702118November 30, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, ENGINE, EXTERIOR LIGHTING
At stop light vehicle began to sputter, run rough, and make noise. I was less than a mile from my home, no check engine light on. I turned the vehicle off, used a scanner to have codes P0106 and P0506 show. I had vehicle towed to Complete Car Care. Misfire on multiple cylinders, 3 push rods bent, one valve spring broken. The right Cylinder head assembly had to be removed and replaced with 8 new push rods, 8 new lifters, gaskets, seals, and valve spring. Total cost $3304.79, the vehicle only has 69,801 miles on it. In addition one of the rear tail lights has a known issue (found out on google), intermittently goes out, was never notified. I took the car to Jim Hudson GMC to be told it would cost $475 plus tax because I did not come in early enough even though it is to be warranted up to 70,000 miles. I am greatly concerned that this engine has the same manufacturing defects of the current recall and extended recall for the GMC Yukon Denali engines.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0

← Back to GMC Yukon XL