GMC Yukon XL Complaints
683 consumer complaints on file.
- #11666039June 10, 2025ENGINE
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, there was grey smoke coming from the exhaust pipes. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was taken to a local independent mechanic for a second opinion, and it was diagnosed and determined that the engine and brake pads needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. Upon further investigation, the contact related the failure to an unstated recall; however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 125,000.
- Crash:
- No
- Fire:
- No
- Injuries:
- 0
- Deaths:
- 0
- #11665935June 9, 2025ENGINE
Vehicle has almost 75000 miles. No warnings whatsoever, the GMC app actually reported the vehicle has no issues and all systems are working. The engine began to knock, the transmission was not shifting well, traction control stopped working. Took the vehicle to the local dealership who called me and said it was complete engine failure that is going to require a brand new engine. All of the maintenance is up to date.
- Crash:
- No
- Fire:
- No
- Injuries:
- 0
- Deaths:
- 0
- #11665560June 7, 2025ENGINE
I am reporting a serious engine failure in my 2023 GMC Yukon XL (5.3L Ecotec3 V8) at approximately 68,775 miles. The engine began to run rough with a loud chatter noise, and both the check engine light and traction control light activated. Diagnostic tests at the dealer (F.C. Kerbeck GMC) confirmed a P0300 random misfire code and revealed that the lifter on cylinder #5 had collapsed, causing damage to the camshaft lobe. The repair required removing the cylinder head and replacing the lifter, camshaft, pushrods, valves, and associated gaskets and seals. Although I was told this was covered as a ‘goodwill repair’ by GM, I was still charged $3,450 for miscellaneous charges. I find this highly concerning and question whether these charges are consistent with GM’s stated goodwill or warranty policies. In my opinion, a known lifter design flaw requiring such an extensive repair should not result in out-of-pocket costs for the vehicle owner. This failure resulted in a severe misfire and significant performance issues that I believe raise serious safety concerns, including the potential for sudden loss of power while driving. I am submitting this report to NHTSA to ensure this issue is documented and to request that it be included in any broader investigation into GM lifter system failures. Repair invoices are available upon request
- Crash:
- No
- Fire:
- No
- Injuries:
- 0
- Deaths:
- 0
- #11665392June 6, 2025FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM, ENGINE, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I own a 2023 GMC Yukon Denali XL (VIN: [XXX] ) currently under active recall for the L87 6.2L engine. GM has no remedy available and has acknowledged a risk of complete engine failure and loss of propulsion, which could occur without warning. This is the primary vehicle I have for transporting my family of seven, including a toddler. I am significantly upside down on the loan, and the dealership cannot guarantee it is safe to drive. I am requesting that NHTSA escalate the urgency and hold the manufacturer accountable for timely resolution or replacement.” 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
- #11665310June 6, 2025ENGINE, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The engine system (6.2L V8 L87) in my 2022 GMC Yukon XL failed due to a known manufacturer defect tied to NHTSA Campaign 25V-274. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. The issue involves the risk of sudden loss of propulsion, which could result in a crash or injury to myself or others. This is a serious safety concern, and I do not feel safe operating the vehicle in its current condition. The defect has been acknowledged by GMC, but there is no remedy or repair currently available. I have contacted the selling dealership (Rick Hendrick Buick GMC, Duluth, GA) repeatedly for the past three weeks with no returned calls. I also contacted GMC corporate, who confirmed the recall but refused a buyback or replacement because no repair has occurred — even though a fix does not exist. They offered a loyalty voucher that does not come close to addressing the safety risk or impact. The problem has not yet been inspected by a dealer or manufacturer because there is no repair action to take at this time. No police, insurance, or third-party has reviewed the vehicle. There were no warning lights or messages prior to the issue — the problem was revealed when I looked up the VIN and learned of the active recall on the engine. I am requesting NHTSA’s support to ensure General Motors provides a replacement vehicle and compensation for this ongoing and unresolved safety hazard. I should not be placed in a position where I am expected to continue operating a vehicle with a known and dangerous defect that has no resolution in place.
- Crash:
- No
- Fire:
- No
- Injuries:
- 0
- Deaths:
- 0
- #11665130June 5, 2025POWER TRAIN
Transmission issue - 2021 Yukon XL broke down 5/6/25 while driving with 2 of our children in the vehicle. the RPMs skyrocketed but the vehicle wouldn't go. was hard shifting and speed would not exceed 35ish MPH. message popped up on vehicle that said acceleration throttled and engine light came on. Took it to dealership and it is a known problem. Transmission needs a valve body replacement. This part is on national backorder for months. Spoke with the dealership on 6/5/25 and they still do not have an ETA. They ordered one on 3/19/25 that still has not arrived. I received a case number from GM but they are extremely unhelpful.
- Crash:
- No
- Fire:
- No
- Injuries:
- 0
- Deaths:
- 0
- #11665082June 5, 2025POWER TRAIN
Driving 58 mph then felt like I slammed on my brakes out of no where then sped up on its own to 42 mph then wouldn’t accelerate but rpm was at 5000. Shortly after my reduced power warning came on. Well the next 12 hours I went to reverse and had nothing! Now dealership is saying unknown timeframe for it to be fixed.
- Crash:
- No
- Fire:
- No
- Injuries:
- 0
- Deaths:
- 0
- #11664739June 4, 2025ENGINE
Major recall on Yukon with no remedy listed - unable to sell vehicle or trade in with open recall.
- Crash:
- No
- Fire:
- No
- Injuries:
- 0
- Deaths:
- 0
- #11664657June 3, 2025POWER TRAIN
SUV appears to get stuck in gear or struggle shifting causing jerky behavior and erratic drivability. Stopped driving and had it towed to dealer. Dealer stated Engine Code P0747 shown. Dealer stated faulty transmission valve body but no ETA on parts. Told to keep driving unless condition gets worse. Vehicle is less than 2 years old and 20,000 miles. Check engine light goes on and off relating to the same condition and sometimes having shift issues.
- Crash:
- No
- Fire:
- No
- Injuries:
- 0
- Deaths:
- 0
- #11664268June 2, 2025STRUCTURE:BODY, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Sunroof exploded
- Crash:
- No
- Fire:
- No
- Injuries:
- 0
- Deaths:
- 0
- #11663895May 30, 2025ENGINE, SUSPENSION, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Subject: Formal Complaint – Engine Failure in 2021 GMC Yukon Denali XL VIN: [XXX] Defect Number (GM): [XXX] GM Case Numbers: [XXX] / [XXX] / [XXX] Dear NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation, I am writing to formally report a critical mechanical failure in my 2021 GMC Yukon Denali XL, which resulted in a complete engine failure, rendering the vehicle inoperable and exposing my family to significant safety and financial risks. Despite following the recommended maintenance schedule and driving under normal conditions, the engine failed prematurely. The vehicle has been out of service for over four months, and I have yet to receive a definitive resolution or timeline from General Motors. I have incurred over $13,000 in out-of-pocket costs, including towing, repair estimates, rental vehicles, and continued loan payments on a non-functional vehicle. Key Details: Vehicle: 2021 GMC Yukon Denali XL VIN: [XXX] Failure Type: Total engine failure requiring full rebuild or replacement Time Out of Service: 4+ months and ongoing Financial Impact: $13,335.58 in documented costs GM Defect Number: [XXX] (noted internally by GM) Dealer(s) Involved: Midas Auto Service, Beaman GMC (Nashville, TN) I have made repeated efforts to escalate this through GM’s Case Advisors and Executive Team, but have received no meaningful resolution or written acknowledgment of my request for either reimbursement or a good faith vehicle buyback. Given the safety implications of such a catastrophic failure in a relatively new vehicle, I believe this may represent a broader manufacturing defect or quality control issue and warrants NHTSA investigation. I respectfully request that NHTSA: Log this complaint into your safety database Investigate whether similar failures have occurred in other 2021 Yukon Denali XL vehicles Contact GM for further information regarding this defect and associated safety risk Thank you for your attention to this matter. 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
- #11663861May 30, 2025ENGINE
We were traveling eastbound on I 70 around 75mph. We received no prior indication that there was a problem. The display read engine oil hot, transmission shifted to neutral, and the entire vehicle shut down. We lost propulsion and were left coasting on a major highway with no power.
- Crash:
- No
- Fire:
- No
- Injuries:
- 0
- Deaths:
- 0
- #11663613May 29, 2025ENGINE
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated that when the vehicle was started, there was a loud sound coming from the engine compartment. The contact stated that when the vehicle was driven around the block, the sound was still present coming from the engine compartment. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where an oil change was performed but the failure persisted. The vehicle was then taken to the residence. The vehicle was next taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed, and metal shavings were found in the oil, possibly coming from the crank bearing or connecting rod bearing. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 100,371.
- Crash:
- No
- Fire:
- No
- Injuries:
- 0
- Deaths:
- 0
- #11663038May 27, 2025VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY
The contact owns a 2024 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated while driving approximately 65 MPH, there was an abnormal bang coming from the vehicle and the contact became aware that the front section of the sunroof had exploded. The contact stated that there was no other vehicle nearby. The contact stated that the sunroof sprayed glass fragments onto the instrument cluster, front seats, and rear seats. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the sunroof glass needed to be replaced. The vehicle was being repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 8,000.
- Crash:
- No
- Fire:
- No
- Injuries:
- 0
- Deaths:
- 0
- #11662654May 22, 2025ENGINE
Loss of propulsion, engine over consuming oil per dealership inspection.
- Crash:
- No
- Fire:
- No
- Injuries:
- 0
- Deaths:
- 0
- #11662633May 22, 2025ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2022 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated that while driving 80 MPH on an interstate, the vehicle jerked and shifted to neutral(N) unintendedly, and the engine made an abnormal sound. The contact was able to pull to the side of the road. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the engine had failed and needed to be replaced. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000(Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 62,800. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- Crash:
- No
- Fire:
- No
- Injuries:
- 0
- Deaths:
- 0
- #11662492May 22, 2025ENGINE, FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM, POWER TRAIN
In March 2025, a situation happened to me during a six hour round trip drive. I experienced a loss of acceleration. Vehicle engine felt it was stumbling when accelerating or seemed like I had ran something over. I don't remember seeing any lights coming on. Pulled over immediately, turned off the vehicle. Turned it back on and drove back home three hours worried it may happen again. I didnt see any warning lights on the trip.
- Crash:
- No
- Fire:
- No
- Injuries:
- 0
- Deaths:
- 0
- #11662402May 21, 2025ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated while her husband was driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine made an abnormal loud sound, and the vehicle became undrivable. The vehicle was taken to Midas, where an unknown repair was performed. Additionally, the contact stated while driving 50-55 MPH on the expressway, the vehicle shuddered significantly, and the engine made an abnormal loud knocking sound. Unknown warning lights were illuminated. The contact was able to exit the expressway and drove back to Midas, where the contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced, and the mechanic provided an estimated fee for the repair. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the engine needed to be replaced; however, the part was not available. The vehicle remained at the dealer for approximately three months. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Action Number: PE25001(Engine, Engine and Engine and Cooling). The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed that the part was not available. The failure mileage was approximately 73,000.
- Crash:
- No
- Fire:
- No
- Injuries:
- 0
- Deaths:
- 0
- #11662336May 21, 2025ENGINE
The engine seized on us. It only has 18,000 miles on it. This could have caused a serious accident! There was no warning, no indication, it just died and would not restart. We had to have it towed over an hour to get to our closest dealer (and don't get me started on how they treated me!). We were stopped at a stop sign at the intersection and it just died. Thankfully we weren't driving down the highway or in the middle of traffic, we just ended up blocking people from using our lane for quite sometime. The cops were called for traffic control, but no police report was filed.
- Crash:
- No
- Fire:
- No
- Injuries:
- 0
- Deaths:
- 0
- #11662162May 20, 2025ENGINE
Since purchase there has been a grinding noise when the vehicle is initially started up and put into reverse. I am worried that this is associated with the current engine recall that is on this vehicle. There is an increased risk associated with this vehicle as I am paralyzed and unable to exit the vehicle quickly, which is increased drastically when I have toddler and baby in vehicle. This risk comes from the reported 42 potential fires related to this recall in malfunctioning engines. There have been no warning lamps or indicators that have appeared to date.
- Crash:
- No
- Fire:
- No
- Injuries:
- 0
- Deaths:
- 0