GMC Yukon Complaints (2021)

345 consumer complaints on file.

#11745006June 18, 2026
ENGINE
Took my vehicle in for general maintenance upkeep (oil change, tire rotation, vehicle inspection) and was notified my engine is already showing signs persistent with the recall on the 6.2L L87, specifically not holding oil. The dipstick was not showing signs of any fluid being in the vehicle.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11744561June 16, 2026
POWER TRAIN, AIR BAGS
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that while driving approximately 50-60 MPH, the vehicle was shuddering abnormally. The message "Restraint Safety System" was displayed, and the air bag warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to file a complaint with the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 138,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11744515June 16, 2026
AIR BAGS
1. Component / System Failed: The Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) / Driver’s Inboard Seat Airbag circuit has chronically failed, leaving the vehicle's primary safety restraint systems disabled. The faulty components and the physical service records documenting the failure are fully available for inspection upon request. 2. Safety Risk: The driver's safety and the safety of passengers are put at extreme, immediate risk. Whenever this failure occurs, the "Service Safety Restraint System" warning illuminates, which completely disables the airbag deployment system. Driving a heavy passenger vehicle (2021 GMC Yukon) without active driver-side airbag protection leaves the operator exposed to severe injury or fatality in the event of a collision. 3. Dealer Confirmation / Reproduction: The problem has been reproduced, diagnosed, and confirmed by an authorized dealership (Quirk GMC in Manchester, NH) on five separate occasions spanning from August 2025 to June 2026. 4. Inspections: The component has been repeatedly inspected by the manufacturer’s authorized dealer technicians at Quirk GMC. It has not yet been inspected by police or insurance representatives, as no crash has occurred. 5. Warning Lamps / Symptoms: The failure is preceded by the "Service Safety Restraint System" dashboard warning lamp and message illuminating. This symptom first appeared in August 2025 at 78,472 miles and has continuously reappeared shortly after every subsequent repair attempt made by the dealership, indicating a continuous, unresolved defect in the vehicle's safety manufacturing or a severe failure in the manufacturer's diagnostic repair procedures.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11743482June 11, 2026
ENGINE
On May 27, 2026, I was on my way home from work when I went to accelerate the vehicle and all the sudden it started shaking and the check engine light came on with the EBS. I was able to get the vehicle to a repair shop local the next day, who took the car apart. What was thought to be an easy fix of spark plugs and fuel injector, became even more after they put back together and the cylinder was still misfiring. After several hours of taking apart the engine, the mechanic determined that the hydraulic valve lifters had failed. This has been an ongoing issue with with the 5.8L V8. Due to a recall not being under the vin yet, i have now incured a $16k expense to add an engine to it after i purchased it in Nov of 25 at $97,000. This is a saftey issue and luckily no one was hurt when the car started shaking and couldn't go over a certain speed. I want this reviewed and looked at for possible reimbursement as there have been several other vehicles with the same known issue.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11742695June 8, 2026
ENGINE, ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that while pulling into the yard, the vehicle made an abnormal clanking sound and a hammer-like sound. No warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000 (Engine and Engine Cooling), but the VIN was not included. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed with metal fragments inside the engine. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure recurred while driving a month later. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 76,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11742402June 5, 2026
ENGINE
I am filing a complaint regarding my 2021 GMC Yukon due to a serious engine failure involving the camshaft, lifters, and crankshaft. The vehicle began exhibiting engine ticking and knocking noises, rough idle, loss of power, and reduced performance. These symptoms progressively worsened and ultimately resulted in major engine damage. The vehicle was diagnosed with failed lifters and camshaft damage, which required extensive repairs. In addition, the crankshaft failed, resulting in catastrophic engine damage and making the vehicle unsafe to operate. These are critical engine components that should not fail prematurely under normal driving and maintenance conditions. The most serious concern is safety. The engine's loss of power and deteriorating performance created the risk of sudden failure while driving. A vehicle that loses power in traffic, while merging, crossing intersections, or traveling at highway speeds can create a dangerous situation and increase the risk of a crash. Occupants and other motorists could be placed at risk if the engine fails without warning. My vehicle has been properly maintained and serviced. Despite regular maintenance, these major engine components failed unexpectedly. I am aware that other owners of GMC and Chevrolet vehicles equipped with similar engines have reported comparable camshaft and lifter failures, suggesting a potential defect rather than an isolated incident. The failure resulted in significant repair costs, loss of vehicle use, and concerns about the long-term reliability and safety of the vehicle. I believe these engine failures may indicate a manufacturing or design defect affecting 2021 GMC Yukon vehicles. I respectfully request that NHTSA investigate camshaft, lifter, and crankshaft failures in the 2021 GMC Yukon and determine whether a safety-related defect exists that warrants corrective action or a recall.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11741740June 3, 2026
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that while driving approximately driving 45 MPH and turning onto an exit the vehicle suddenly reduce speed and lost power and the message "Press Start" had displayed. The contact stopped the vehicle and eventually restarted the engine and the vehicle operated as normal. The next day the vehicle was driven to the local dealer who was unable to duplicate the problem and determine the cause of the failure. The manufacturer was not yet contact regarding the failure. The failure mileage was 42,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11741660June 2, 2026
ENGINE
Post-Recall Low Oil Warning + Performance Issues on 2021 GMC Yukon Denali – Campaign 25V274000 Vehicle: 2021 GMC Yukon Denali, 6.2L V8 Recall: 25V274000 Owner: One owner since new (purchased 2021) I had recall campaign 25V274000 performed on my vehicle. This was the first low oil warning I have ever received since purchasing the SUV new in 2021. I have always followed the vehicle’s oil life monitor with no prior issues. The change oil light appeared at roughly 7,500 miles after the recall service (when I already had a service appointment scheduled). About one week later, the low oil warning came on. I had the vehicle towed to the dealership and did not drive it after the warning. Since the recall service, I have also experienced performance issues including noticeable stuttering that was really evident before I towed it in. The dealership initially agreed to a consumption test but later acted like it was not needed, said everything was fine, and were dismissive — blaming me for not following their sticker. I am concerned the recall remedy is not fully effective. Please investigate this matter. Thank you, [XXX] 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
#11741458June 2, 2026
POWER TRAIN, ENGINE
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle would independently activate Limp mode and would not accelerate past 30 MPH. In addition, the vehicle would not shift into the Reverse gear as intended. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed with error codes: P0777 and P18A1. The vehicle was not repaired due to parts being on backorder. Upon further investigation, the contact related the failure to an Unknown NHTSA Campaign; however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 90,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11740700May 28, 2026
ENGINE
Engine is misfiring. Took it into local mechanic who mentioned he has seen many similar issues and knew there was a recall for similar 2021 Yukon engine issues but for some reason this model was not included. He encouraged me to trade in the vehicle because most likely the engine would need to be replaced (or a $10,000 repair) and it was not save to continue to drive in this condition. I call GMC and they suggested I contact the NHTSA to request that this year and model be added to the recall listing for other similar Yukon engines.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11740530May 28, 2026
POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that after restarted the engine and the vehicle did not operate in reverse. During the failure no warning messages had displayed. The vehicle was driven to the local diagnosed that the transmissions needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The contact was informed that the VIN was not included in the NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V797000(POWER TRAIN). The contact indicated that the vehicle had experienced that same failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was 70,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11740113May 26, 2026
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that the vehicle had a rough idle. There was an abnormal ticking and rattling sound detected. The vehicle lost oil pressure. The contact located smoke emerging from the vehicle. The engine light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed with a failure with cylinder five, no compression, and bearing failure. The dealer suggested the engine be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact indicated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) but was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was contacted who referred to the NHTSA hotline. The failure mileage was unknown.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11738939May 20, 2026
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM, ENGINE
I was driving in the left lane on [XXX] , a 4 lane interstate just outside of Cleveland when i lost engine propulsion. Engine RPMs dropped to under 1000rpm, and quit responding to throttle. I had to change lanes and coast until there was a shoulder available to stall out at while i awaited a tow. No warning lamps until i tried to restart vehicle. Engine cranked but wouldnt start. 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
#11738315May 16, 2026
ENGINE
My 2021 GMC Yukon AT4 with a 5.3L engine failed as I was driving down a highway going to my child's ballgame. It put me at risk of wrecking on the highway with other traffic around me as I needed to get my vehicle off the road way. Thankfully, I was able to get the vehicle to a safe spot to get it towed. After having the vehicle towed to my local GMC dealer, they determined my lifters in my engine failed and my camshaft had irreparable damage. GM has a lawsuit going on right now against their faulty lifters in their engines. The dealership told me they recalled the 6.2L engine, but not the others. It is shameful that they haven't recalled the other engines that also have the same lifters with the same active fuel management system. My power trained warranty has just expired and they want to charge me over 15,000 to replace the engine and radiator. I am now fighting with GM to help cover this expense that I feel a recall should take care of. These vehicles are not safe on the road with these faulty engine systems specifically the lifters inside them that are known to fail and GM is aware of this and not doing anything. Please help me and other GM owners get these vehicles recalled and make GM replace these engines at no cost to the owner due to their faulty engine components. My daughter and I could have been seriously been injured or died that day in the highway due to the abrupt engine failure on the highway going 70mph. Thank you for your time and God Bless.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11738231May 16, 2026
POWER TRAIN, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
transmission has been replaced, still having same problems. Actuator was fixed within the transfer case. still shaking. was driven by dealer and told to check again after changing into summer tires. changed into summer tires and still having issues if not worse. separately; the power running boards have never worked - been told its wiring issue. wiring issue is a concern for fire safety.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11737463May 12, 2026
ENGINE
Vehicle had lifter failure. This could’ve have caused a devastating accident to myself or family which includes my 8 year old daughter. GMC has knowledge of this problem with this motor
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11736092May 6, 2026
ENGINE
Motor started knocking My safety and my family safety was put at risk because we were driving down the street. The car is now at Woody dealership in Naperville, IL. Being inspected as we speak. No symptoms prior to failing.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11735212May 1, 2026
POWER TRAIN
Transmission valve body failed while driving on highway.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11734302April 28, 2026
ENGINE
Hello, I was driving on the highway with my family and my engine had a sudden loss of power. I only have 52,000 miles on the engine and it has been serviced the entire time. We almost got in a major accident as we had cars and trucks moving around us at a very high speed as we tried to pull over in the breakdown lane. I brought the car to Daddario GMC in Shelton, CT. They did a diagnostic test and said that cylinder 2 was misfiring. Upon closer inspection they saw that there was oil sitting on top of the piston head which indicates engine failure. I have since contacted GM warranty services given my car was just past the warranty date of November 2025, but still under the 60,000 miles of coverage. I did some research and have seen this is a very common with these engines as GM did a recall on 600,000 already. For some reason my VIN # is not listed on the current recall even though my engine is in the same year as the others that were. I would like GM to cover my engine 100% but was told they may only pay a % to fix it. Can you do anything to help me get them to cover the engine at 100%? I also wanted to let you know about this issue as my VIN was not under recall and this may happen to other people/families who have the same engine as mine that isn't recalled. Thank you, [XXX] 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
#11734192April 27, 2026
ENGINE
While operating my 2021 GMC Yukon AT4, my vehicle suddenly developed a popping noise, the check engine light began flashing, and the traction control warning illuminated. The vehicle lost power and had reduced acceleration, forcing me to pull off the road because it was unsafe to continue driving. This created a serious safety risk and appears consistent with reported GM lifter or engine defects.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0

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