GMC Yukon XL Complaints

683 consumer complaints on file.

#11719634February 21, 2026
ENGINE
On August 21, 2025, my vehicle engine died in Connecticut when I was taking my son back to college. I had to have it towed back to South Jersey, where I live. The dealer informed me that my engine failed due to a major recall. I was without my vehicle for three months while they waited for a new engine. My car was returned to me with a refurbished engine.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11719490February 20, 2026
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2024 GMC Yukon XL. While the contact's wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. In addition, the contact's wife noticed an abnormal knocking sound before the engine seized. The check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and DTC: P0305 (lifter on cylinder 5); was retrieved, and the intake valve detached and damaged the camshaft. The contact was informed that the lifters and related parts, camshaft, and the coolant pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer where it was diagnosed with engine failure due to the metal shavings found in the oil. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not diagnosed. In addition, the failure had occurred within 2,500 miles of the initial repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure ,and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 14,589.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11719486February 20, 2026
POWER TRAIN
Transmission surging. Transmission stays in one gear.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11719043February 19, 2026
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Onstar connectivity module failed after dealer updates. The onstar module controls super cruise hands free driving. Module can fail during use causing accident. Vehicle did not display any warning on display screen. Vehicle is available for inspection. GMC dealer confirmed onstar module failure and is waiting on part delivery for replacement. Several searches in online forums confirm this is an issue for thousands of GMC vehicles.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11718851February 18, 2026
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2022 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated that while driving approximately 65 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The failure was a consistent failure. No warning lights were illuminated. The message "Press START Again" was displayed, and the contact restarted the vehicle, and the message "Engine Oil HOT" was displayed on the instrument panel. The contact stated that the vehicle was repaired under an unknown recall prior to the failure to prevent the failure; however, the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was towed back to the dealer to be diagnosed; however, the diagnostic result was pending. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11718726February 18, 2026
ENGINE
Engine failure occurred while transferring passengers in a busy road. The vehicle started making noises at first I thought it was a belt that might have been going bad. I looked at all the gages which did not indicate any issues with the battery or oil pressure or any vital issues that might show and merged to the right lane. Less than 2 miles down the road engine shut off and I was able to coast into a parking lot. I took this vehicle as requested for the recall and the only recommendation was to start using OS 0W40 and a new oil cap indicating the required oil type. These vehicles should be pulled off the roads, they create a huge safety hazard on our roads and sooner or later someone is going to get killed.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11718448February 17, 2026
POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2022 GMC Yukon XL. While the contact’s wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle unexpectedly went into LIMP Mode, and the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle failed to accelerate to exceed 30 MPH. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed, and it was determined that the transmission valve body had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The approximate failure mileage was 65,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11718440February 17, 2026
ENGINE, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, SERVICE BRAKES
2023 Yukon Denali XL 6.2l: GM oil change recall performed (October 2025) and GMC dealership noted no issues. Prior to recall oil change, at aprox 5k miles interval (45K total miles), check engine oil light on dash and was over 1 quart low. Next oil change at aprox 50K miles, no check engine light came on, but certified mechanic drained and measure oil level, 1.5 quarts low. Engine often sounds odd at cold start, ticking sound. Now an oil change is $100 more, due to special oil, but not compensated for extra cost. Brake calibers failed. February 2026, engine light on, then off, then hood latch dash light warning now on and off. Huge safety concerns with the 2023 GMC Yukon 6.2L.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11718419February 17, 2026
ENGINE
I was on the interstate and when I was passing a vehicle in the middle lane the engine lost power, shifted to N. I tried going back to drive it would not shift. Stopped the suv and tried restarting it. When I pushed on the brake and tried to start it the whole vehicle would loose power to all my screens. I had this vehicle towed in back in September 2025 due to not cranking over when starting. They did the recall for the engine at that time. The engine light would randomly turn on but would go back off within the same day.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11717695February 12, 2026
ENGINE, FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
****This complaint is an addendum to ODI Complaint #11715415 **** This report updates the prior complaint to reflect complete engine seizure and pending engine replacement following post-repair loss of propulsion. I respectfully request that NHTSA include my vehicle’s failure in its ongoing evaluations related to L87 engine failures, including Recall 25V-274, Engineering Analysis EA25007, and Recall Query RQ26001. My 2024 GMC Yukon XL Denali experienced progressive internal engine failure beginning at approximately 61, 975 miles. First attempt: The vehicle required camshaft and lifter replacement due to internal mechanical damage. Immediately after 4.5 week repair, the vehicle suffered sudden loss of motive power at highway speed. The engine shut down without warning at 75 mph with children in the car. (Car was in owners possession for no more than 15 hours, and was driven 25 miles on the highway when it switched to neutral and shut down). Second attempt: The vehicle was towed back to the dealership. Additional electrical repairs were then attempted. (Fuse box) It shut down again during dealer testing. Third attempt: Subsequent internal inspection revealed cylinders 5 and 6 seized, requiring full engine replacement. This represents: • Repeated loss of motive power • Escalation from top-end failure to catastrophic lower-end seizure • Failure occurring immediately after dealer-performed repair(s) • A 2024 model-year vehicle with relatively low mileage Given NHTSA’s ongoing investigations into post-remedy failures (RQ26001) and out-of-scope bearing failures (EA25007), I request that this incident be evaluated as part of the broader defect pattern analysis.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11717610February 12, 2026
ENGINE
GM released a special warranty for the coolant control valve. My vin number does not qualify but it is currently at the dealership getting replaced because it failed. I don't understand how the same exact vehicle with a different Vin qualifies but mine does not. I am within the time frame and mileage of their warranty for their special coverage but because my vin isn't on the list I don't get the special coverage/warranty.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11717379February 11, 2026
ENGINE, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
POST-RECALL 25V274 ( & EA25007, EA25001) EXHAUST INTRUSION WITH CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING HAZARD Following the complete engine replacement under GM recall N252494000, my vehicle has developed a severe and persistent exhaust intrusion that allows toxic exhaust fumes, including carbon monoxide (CO), to enter the passenger cabin. CO levels have measured a peak of 83 PPM and consistent reading between 20-37 over multiple tests. PATTERN OF POST-RECALL EXHAUST SYSTEM FAILURES Vehicle has been in for service 6 times, over 100 days, as part of the engine replacement plus (metal found in the oil pan). Since recall, the vehicle has had an exhaust smell and noise rattle issue with the following exhaust system components deemed failed and been replaced: 1. Radiator cap (leaking onto exhaust) 2. Exhaust muffler (replaced TWICE - June 2025 and August 2025) 3. Exhaust clamps (leaking) 4. Left exhaust manifold (warped) Critical Finding: Despite replacement of virtually the entire exhaust system, the defect persists. This suggests a fundamental design or installation defect related to the engine replacement procedure, NOT isolated component failures. Documented Carbon Monoxide Levels: Between January 30 and February 3, 2026, I conducted 15+ tests using a professional-grade Klein Tools ET180 Carbon Monoxide Meter. Results: • Peak reading: 83 PPM • Multiple readings: 40-72 PPM sustained for 6+ minutes directly at my [XXX] daughter's car seat position • Testing method: Vehicle started via remote start, CO meter placed in cabin, readings recorded over 10-15 minute periods Health Impacts to Family: • Wife and [XXX] daughter consistently experience dizziness, headaches, and nausea when riding in vehicle • Daughter now refuses to ride in vehicle because it makes her feel sick • Symptoms consistent with carbon monoxide poisoning Independent service station verification on January 30th confirmed "vehicle is dangerous to operate with children inside and needs immediate service." INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMA
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
6
Deaths:
0
#11716917February 10, 2026
ENGINE
On [XXX], I was driving on the highway with my family in the vehicle and the check engine light came on, then it started running roughly. I headed off the highway on an exit ramp and the engine died about halfway down the ramp. It wouldn't restart after that. This happened about an hour away from my house in Painesville, OH. I live in Erie, PA. I had to tow it to the nearest GMC dealer. They've since concluded that the engine failed and have ordered a replacement engine from GMC. The yukon only had about 4,900 miles on it. GMC has claimed that their engine problems were fixed for the 2025 and 2026 model years, or else I would not have purchased this vehicle. Obviously there are still major issues and the 2026 6.2L engines need to be recalled. I understand that there is an ongoing investigation into these issues: RQ26001. Please see that the investigators are made aware of this incident. 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
#11716907February 10, 2026
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I am submitting this complaint to report a safety defect involving a 2026 GMC Yukon XL AT4 equipped with the GM Brembo brake upgrade. The vehicle is sold as equipped with a full-size spare tire; however, the spare tire/wheel supplied cannot be mounted due to interference from the brake calipers. This incompatibility was discovered only after a flat tire event on [XXX], during which the vehicle could not be safely returned to service. The Brembo brake upgrade is a GM-designed option that is installed by the dealer in all cases. Despite this, the vehicle was delivered with emergency equipment that is unusable in the event of a flat tire. GM has acknowledged the incompatibility and relies on a warning label placed beneath the vehicle, rather than providing a compatible spare or disclosure at the point of sale. This defect resulted in a prolonged roadside emergency involving an elderly passenger and a failure of manufacturer-provided roadside assistance. I believe this condition affects all vehicles equipped with the Brembo brake upgrade and represents a systemic safety issue involving emergency preparedness and disclosure. Supporting documentation and a detailed incident narrative are available upon request. [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
#11716813February 9, 2026
ENGINE
Purchased brand new vehicle 2026 XL Denali, hadn’t even had my first oil change, and had a complete engine failure in the middle of the road. Prior to engine failure, car ran fine without an issue - so failure came out of nowhere. Towed, where GMC and dealer determined entire engine needed to be replaced. GMC did cover and dealer did install a new engine. However: 1. I was out of a vehicle for almost a month. 2. I have incurred a depreciation cost of 10-15% on my vehicle due to this problem. 3. I have lost confidence in my brand new vehicle, as GMC has not fixed the reoccurring engine problems from previous years - despite promises to the contrary.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11716798February 9, 2026
ENGINE
On 12/22/2025 I took my 2023 GMC Yukon in for the L87 recall. After receiving information that my vehicle passed the recall they told me that the oil would be change to from OW-20 to OW-40 and that my oil changes would go up in price (double the price) due to the oil being a high performance oil. On 01/05/26 exactly two weeks and 616 miles later our engine and lights completely stopped working while driving it on the road!!! The vehicle would not start or switch into neutral so we could get the vehicle off the road due to blocking traffic! The vehicle was towed the GMC dealership and had to have a new engine replacement. We were out of our vehicle for 31 days. Now our vehicle rear view camera guidelines have stopped working and now have to put that under warranty claim.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11716530February 8, 2026
ENGINE
On two separate occasions, while driving at approximately 60 mph on New York parkways, my vehicle unexpectedly shifted into neutral and lost power without warning. During the first incident, a message appeared instructing me to “press start to continue.” I was able to restart the vehicle and drive home. Two days later, the same failure occurred again under similar conditions. This time, after pulling over and pressing the start button, the vehicle shut off completely and became totally inoperable. The vehicle had no power and would not restart. At the time of this second incident: - I had my [XXX] child in the vehicle - The outside temperature was approximately 20 degrees - Recent snow made it difficult to pull fully off the parkway - Police assistance was required to ensure our safety - We waited nearly two hours for a tow truck due to the hazardous roadside conditions This situation was frightening, dangerous, and completely unacceptable in a modern vehicle with approximately 24,000 miles. When GMC evaluated the vehicle the following day, I was informed that it requires a full engine replacement. A catastrophic engine failure at this mileage — combined with repeated, sudden loss of power at highway speeds — represents a serious safety defect that substantially impairs the use, value, and safety of the vehicle. 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
#11716513February 7, 2026
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, ENGINE, POWER TRAIN
Following a catastrophic engine failure in my 2023 GMC Yukon XL Denali, I discovered that the vehicle could not be shifted into neutral once the engine failed. This prevented the vehicle from being moved out of traffic if it had stopped in an active lane. The inability to place the vehicle into neutral after a loss-of-power event creates a serious safety hazard, particularly on high-speed roadways. In the event of a failure occurring in traffic, occupants may be left stranded in a travel lane with no ability to push or reposition the vehicle, significantly increasing the risk of a rear-end or multi-vehicle collision. This condition occurred immediately following the engine failure and was not accompanied by any prior warning or instructions to allow safe vehicle repositioning. I am unaware of any manual or mechanical override that would allow the vehicle to be shifted into neutral under these conditions. This design behavior represents a safety defect because it compounds the danger of a propulsion loss by preventing drivers from removing the vehicle from harm’s way.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11716511February 7, 2026
ENGINE, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, POWER TRAIN
I am reporting a catastrophic engine failure involving my 2023 GMC Yukon XL Denali, which was subject to a GM-issued recall related to engine failure. On January 10, 2026, at approximately 1:00 a.m., while traveling at highway speed (approximately 65+ mph) on a multi-lane highway, the engine suddenly failed without warning, resulting in a complete loss of power. I was forced to make immediate evasive maneuvers to reach the shoulder while avoiding semi-trucks and other vehicles. The sudden loss of power created an extremely dangerous situation for myself, my passengers, and surrounding traffic. After the engine failure, the vehicle could not be placed into neutral, preventing it from being moved out of traffic if it had stopped in an active lane. This design issue significantly increased the risk of a collision. I was stranded on the roadside for several hours in cold conditions awaiting a tow. The failure was later confirmed by an authorized GMC dealer, who diagnosed the engine as failed and replaced the entire engine assembly. The vehicle and replaced components should be available for inspection through the dealership. The manufacturer had previously issued a recall for this vehicle related to engine failure, and I had requested a buyback prior to this incident due to safety concerns. That request was denied unless the vehicle experienced a failure. There were no warning lamps, messages, or symptoms prior to the failure. The only warning message appeared after the engine failed, indicating an engine overheating or “engine hot” condition, which occurred after power was already lost. This incident represents a serious safety defect that resulted in loss of propulsion at highway speed with no advance warning.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11716144February 6, 2026
SEATS
Seat emblem (Denali) pulls and rips out hair while sitting in seat.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0

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