2021 GMC YUKON Engine Problems

125 NHTSA complaints on file

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Engine Issues in the 2021 GMC YUKON

125 engine complaints have been filed with NHTSA for the 2021 GMC YUKON. Of these, 0 involved a crash, 0 involved a fire, and 0 resulted in injury.

125
Complaints
0
Crashes
0
Fires
0
Injuries
0
Deaths

All Engine Complaints

#11719710 |
Oil consumption is an issue. My vehicle is using a quart of oil every 1,000 miles. Manufacturer says oil changes are 5,000 mile intervals, however at 2500 miles the dipstick is dry and the low oil light comes on. There are no leaks in the driveway, nor is it smoking. The manufacturer claims this is normal. If I were to wait the 5,000 miles for an oil change I would only have three quarts of oil left in an engine that is supposed to have 8 quarts and therefore my engine would lock up. I fear that this engine will fail and I travel with our daughter all over the state of MO and OK for horse shows and do not wanted to be stranded on the interstate with my child in the car. After much research it is obvious this is a common problem with the 6.2L engines. There...
#11715102 |
2 days after the delearship changed my oil to a heavier weight, my engine began knocking. I’m told the rod is bent but not covered by warranty
#11713956 |
I had the 25v-274 recall serviced at my GM Dealer and was never provide with any paperwork on the extended warranty that was part of the recall. as you can image, not having anything in writing is a big risk as these engines have been catastrophically failing. GM was supposed to provide a extended warranty and service manual update.
#11713798 |
The engine has started using large quantities of oil. Not dripping oil, burning oil. I have been doing oil consumption studies with GMC for months now. It burned 7 quarts in 5,000 miles. The dealership tells me it is not part of the current recall on others with the same engine, make and model. It is doing the same thing as what the recall is for and my VIN number should be added to GMC’s recall list and the motor replaced. It is a serious safety issue for me and my children,
#11713397 |
NHTSA Team, I am the current owner of a 2021 GMC Yukon Denali (VIN: [XXX] ) with the 6.2L L87 V8. At approximately 148,239 miles, I experienced a catastrophic lifter failure. My mechanic diagnosed a failed AFM lifter and metal contamination, requiring full engine replacement. This is documented under GM Case #XXX. CARFAX revealed that prior to my ownership, lifters were replaced twice (~10,469 miles and ~25,572 miles). The dealership I purchased from did not disclose these prior repairs, as they used an alternative vehicle history check. Only upon this third lifter failure did my mechanic identify this recurring defect. I submit this to NHTSA’s investigation into post-repair failures of the GM 6.2L engines. The pattern shows prior remedies were insufficient. Supporting documents (CARFAX, mechanic report) are available. Please advise if further details or inspection of the failed engine components are needed. Thanks, [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO...
#11713181 |
I habe a 2021 Yukon Denali and i have had engine failure on the road. Lifter issues and rod issues. i have paid out of pocket to fix it because my truck wasnt part of the recall. But i had the first failure in November 2024. Second failure January 2026.
#11712076 |
Loss of power while driving, no warnings, no lights on dash, no unusual noises, and no codes. The Yukon just randomly went into neutral while driving 65 mph and "Press Start Again" popped up on the dash. I struggled to get the truck to the side of the road safely. After getting the truck into park it started back up, and I was able to make it the 3 miles home. I scheduled it to go into the dealership as it still is making no noises, and had no engine light or codes, about 2 miles from my house it shut off again while driving, only this time when it restarted it now has a ticking sound coming from the engine however no warning lights and no codes being displayed. I am reporting this as I believe it falls under the open investigation EA25007, although it clearly is the same...
#11711984 |
Internal engine failure Car just shut off on expressway, putting the safety of my husband and child at risk. Waiting for a tow at 12:30 in the morning. Problem has been confirmed by dealer. No warning lamps or warnings signs prior to failure. Car just shut down and was not able to start again. Had to be towed!
#11710688 |
I have a 2021 GMC Yukon with 74,000 miles I was recently told I need a new transmission.I am am trying to understand why a car that is 5 years with all the services done by Lehman GMC in North Miami would need a new transmission they have been servicing this car and no one mention anything breaking down of need of repair until now. I spoke with the service manager Franklin and he stated to me another client had the same issue and he flush the transmission just like I am doing today and it only worked for a short time and afterwards he had to replace the transmission. I feel this is a problem with these models and GMC don't want to address it. they just want the customer to pay for the repairs. Now I spoke to the Manager and the salesman that sold me the car...
#11710038 |
I was driving down the highway at normal speeds under normal conditions and the engine light came on and started flashing. By the time I could find a safe place to pull over I heard the engine knocking. Left my wife, two young kids and myself stuck in the middle of the road with traffic coming. Managed to get it out of the road before going to get my truck and trailer to tow it home. I assume this is due to the L87 recall but mine was built in 01/21 and the recall is said to cover 03/21 and up. We don’t really know what to do at this point being its my wife and kids only way to work and school.
#11709435 |
On [XXX] driving to Denver the 52,000 mile yukon started making a clicking sound when accelerating on the interstate. Traction control light came on as well as the check engine light. Low power was noticed and we immediately pulled over as it sounded like it was going to blow up. Towed the vehicle 145 miles where we bought it and the shop confirmed the lifters and 5th cylinder are the issue and that the cams could be damaged. Recommend replacing each side. The car is basically new and under the 60K drive train warranty but about 100 days past the 5 year mark. Terrible timing. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
#11709048 |
I was driving and a message popped up "Service Traction Control", then another message popped up "Forward Collision System Unavailable". Then the car started making this knocking sound and every time I would try and accelerate there would be a loud sound and almost a pulling stopping it from picking up much speed. I took the car into the dealer/repair shop and they said it was an issue with the lifters that had to be replaced and potentially an issue with the cam. They said this repair would cost upwards of $6,000 and I have never had this issue with the car before. This came out of nowhere and the car had not been showing any signs of this occurring before. This is a 2021 GMC Yukon and I drive my Wife and three sons in that car daily.
#11708634 |
On Christmas Day while driving on the highway, I noticed a ticking sound coming from the engine. Our 21 Yukon Denali just hit 85,000 miles. I first noticed the traction control light was became disabled and then the check engine light started flashing. The sound escalates when you step on the gas. It appears that the lifters and cams are damaged on the vehicle and had to be towed to a dealership were it currently waits to avoid further damage. I was advised by the dealership that this particular vehicle is not part of the engine, recall notice, but heard that they might be expanding vin numbers to the recall as more incidents occur. They did confirm that the lifters and Cam’s are the issue.The vehicle has had a great maintenance record and was just at the same dealership five weeks earlier for oil change.
#11707664 |
Driving the vehicle on the highway when I started to hear a ticking sound from the engine. After a few minutes, the check engine light came on and started flashing, traction control shut off and some system related to the rear end shut off. After inspection, it appears to have dropped a lifter.
#11707247 |
The vehicle shifted into Neutral while driving, locked out gear selection, triggered a transmission warning, and now will not restart.
#11707007 |
traction control system ESC system Suddenly and without warning, multiple warning lights started flashing including check engine. The vehicle lost power and traction. There was a loud knocking and metallic whining sound. The vehicle began to vibrate and struggled to move forward and felt like the wheels were slipping. The loss of these functions was alarming because it was dark, we were in a construction zone, and my 15-year old daughter was driving having recently earned her driver's permit. The car following us almost rear ended us. It was such an abrupt engine failure it scared me and my daughter.
#11705091 |
Freedom, tire and automotive Inc. advised my 6.2LV8 engine has failed due to metal debris found in the new oil, indicating a mechanical failure of an internal engine component. I called GMC and they referred me to you.
#11704618 |
At the time an oil change is needed, there is a warning light that says "low oil pressure and low oil." There also has been a "slipping" of the engine at around 60mph. GMC dealer states it is a torque converter. I am worried that the engine will fail or stall while driving The fuel pump control module has been replaced. Motor is not covered under the current motor recall and taking vehicle to transmission shop to have it checked as well
#11703867 |
Engine failure
#11701140 |
I got 3 messages on the dash going off simultaneously 1. Service Traction Control System 2. Forward Collision System unavailable 3. Service ESC I could feel the truck bogging and shaking a little at this point Then soon after the check engine light was flashing and it was noticeably misfiring and rough idling. I pulled some codes at Oreillys and got back 1. P0300 misfire 2. P050D cold start rough idle
#11699629 |
On November 14,2025 my engine failed on the highway going 80 mph to 0 mph in the passing lane. Almost caused a major accident on US23. I’ve asked my dealership Bowman Chevrolet repeatedly to inspect my engine for the recall and have been denied every time. Most recent was October when I had my oil changed and I was told it wasn’t my turn and the recall for my vehicle was pending. I had my vehicle flatbed towed to the dealership where it sits dead in their parking lot. Thank God we didn’t die on the freeway that night. It was a horrible experience.
#11699201 |
While driving vehicle on 11/08/2025, vehicle made a popping noise and loss power. We were out of town and had to pay out of pocket to have vehicle towed to a dealership and hour away from our home. Dealership diagnosed issue with engine failure due to lifter fell and caused damage to cam shaft and bore. I will be without a vehicle for an additional 2 to 4 weeks waiting on a back ordered engine from GM, and continue making payments on vehicle as well. This issue seems to be an ongoing problem that GM is ignoring…….GM should compensate towing, car rental, and repair/ replacement charges due to failure.
#11698109 |
I’m not happy with just a change in oil viscosity because the car has already been on the road for 70000 miles before we were aware of the recall on the engine. Changing the oil viscosity doesn’t help when there is a underlying engine problem it should be replaced not just change your oil and send you on your way because now I’m always wondering and worried if the engine will still fail when my kids and wife are in the car. Furthermore I just had it inspected and the oil changed to new viscosity a week ago and the oil level is already half way on the dipstick so I’m taking back to the dealership to express my concern. If I would have known this was going to be an issue with this suv I would have purchased something else. I’d just like the engine replaced so that I...
#11696477 |
My GMC Yukon with 6.2 is using 1 quart of oil every 1000 miles. An oil consumption test was performed and documented with the dealer. In addition there is now a very rough idle while at a stop. The date on the engine build is just months ahead of the current recall.
#11695265 |
I purchased the vehicle in July 2024. I drove the car for 10 days, and when I was driving 65 mph, the check engine light blinked three times and then went off. After that, the engine made a sound that was not there before. I took the vehicle to the dealership and they had the car for many weeks, concluding that the lifters broke and the engine needed to be replaced. The dealership said they replaced the engine and the car was returned to me towards the end of August. Since then, the AC has been worked on three different times in the past year and on the third attempt, there is finally cool air coming out of the driver's air vents. The driver's seat AC blowers malfunctioned and were repaired. The dealership put the original engine's belt back on and then broke. The electric system inside glitches from time...
#11693229 |
GMC has not responded for the recall of the engine. My vehicle is running bad. I need the vehicle to be service as soon as possible. My saftey depends on GMC keeping there promise to repair the recall engine.
#11692107 |
I looked up recall information on NHTSA.GOV site and found my car has a recall for engine problems. My GMC app says there are no recalls related to my vehicle and I have never received a communication from GMC stating a recall has occurred.
#11690480 |
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that while the vehicle was started and running, there was a hollow clunking sound coming from the engine compartment. The vehicle was taken to a dealer and was diagnosed with crankshaft bearing failure. The contact was informed that the crankshaft bearings needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact believed that the failure was associated with an unknown recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 82,000.
#11690519 |
My 2021 GMC Yukon Denali is affected by NHTSA Recall #25V-274. The recall notice states that defects in the engine’s connecting rod and/or crankshaft can cause engine damage and failure, resulting in sudden loss of propulsion and increasing crash risk. The recall status for my vehicle is currently listed as “Incomplete – Remedy Not Available.” My dealership confirmed that no repair is available and further told me that GMC will not authorize a buyback, trade-in, or loaner vehicle until a remedy is developed. This has left me with an unsafe vehicle that cannot be repaired, yet I am still obligated to make monthly payments. This defect creates a serious crash risk because the engine may fail and the vehicle could lose all propulsion without warning. My family is forced to either risk driving a defective vehicle or go without reliable transportation. Dealer Interaction •Dealer confirmed that the recall is active...
#11690082 |
While driving on the and merging onto the highway, the check engine light and other alerts came on our 2021 GMC Yukon. There was a fluttering noise coming from the engine and the vehicle started to have decreased acceleration. We had to immediately exit the highway and park the vehicle. We then had to take our vehicle to our regular mechanic since GMC dealership was backed up and we needed the vehicle repaired. Our mechanic has identified the issue to be with the engine. The lifters in the engine broke which also damaged the cam shaft. This is a very costly repair. Our vehicle is four years old and out of warranty since we have 80k miles on our four year old Yukon. This problem with the GMC L84 5.3L V8 engines seems to be a common issue and other owners have posted their frustrations on various websites and there...
#11689931 |
I attempted to start my vehicle and it turned over and at the end of trying it sounded like it wanted to start. This repeated itself with no change. I contacted the dealer which I purchased it from and the service mgr said it was the fuel pump control module. Numerous 2021 Yukon had this problem and there is both a service bulletin and a recall for this part. N212332040. My vehicle is NOT on recall. I attempted to have it towed to the local Chevy dealer and was unable to as NO local tow company had the tool to put the transmission in neutral. They all wanted to drag it onto the trailer. Bad design that it can not be put in park if it’s not running. I purchased a replacement fuel pump control module part 13554821 from the dealership. I installed it and the problem was fixed. I...
#11687539 |
In January 2021, I purchased a new 2021 GMC Yukon Denali from a GMC dealership, which currently has only about 27,000 miles. To date, several recalls have been assigned and completed for my vehicle. per the websites for GMC and your agency. However, based on published recalls for my vehicle and a repair that is currently underway, I have reason to believe that my vehicle should have been subject to three prior recalls for which it was not [NHTSA ID Numbers: 20V735000 (Front Seat Bolts), 25V274000 (V8 Engine Failure, and 21V739000 (Fuel Power Control Module] Currently, the fuel pump control module is being replaced at a local GMC dealership because it failed last week and left my stranded at home. GMC issued a recall for this in 2021, but my vehicle was not included. Aside from risk and inconvenience, this is also costing my over $300 for a rental. Secondly,...
#11686249 |
My vehicle is currently in repair due to a known issue with GM. GM has put out a Technical Service Bulletin 20-NA-038 referencing a "well-known" problem with Cylinder 5 failing in 2021 5.3L and 6.0L engines. However, there has not been a recall. Ironically, there were other vehicles brought to the dealership (Sam Boswell GMC in Enterprise, AL) for the same repair on the same day as my vehicle. I'm hoping to get an initiative started for a recall
#11685756 |
We experienced catastrophic engine failure consistent with the current outstanding recall. A GM dealership replaced the parts that failed (crankshaft and connecting rods) however, based on the recall that was issued, the serial number on our engine would qualify under the remedies indicated by GM for a complete engine replacement, however, our VIN number is not currently included in the recall even though our year, make and model for the car and engine are consistent with other recalled vehicles. The GM dealer indicated that the catastrophic engine failure was not due to any lack or neglected maintenance and felt that our vehicle should be included in the recall. My wife and two toddler children primarily use this vehicle and I have serious concerns about their safety and would like to feel confident about their use of the vehicle.
#11683455 |
Problems with the engine shifting gears stalling delayed or won’t engage hard shifting while it’s in motion something’s going on with the engine we’ve called several and had it serviced times of times to ask them what was going on with it in Newport Oregon you can fill it still when you drive. The problem still is not fixed. It’s been happening since we purchased it took it in right away. we’ve asked if our Vin number has come up for a recall repairs we are worried for safety and are currently parking in the car because the dealership is unable to fix what is wrong with the car. They’re telling us there is something wrong and are aware of the recall and won’t fix the problem dealership refuses to take the car they don’t want it without the recall fixed due to safety concerns. you can definitely fill it...
#11683218 |
My engine is currently experiencing loud knocking/shaking. It worsens as my vehicle is accelerating it is causing my engine to lose ability to accelerate which has posed a safety concern. This vehicle is my main source of transportation for my family. We have taken this vehicle to the dealership where they were unable to service due to the recall not being open and available and i have contacted GM customer service with no remedy to be issued at this time. The dealership cannot perform any maintenance pertained to the recall and yet cannot remedy. I am concerned for my family's safety. I was advised that i shall continue to drive the vehicle until it breaks down or the recall is open for repairs.
#11682211 |
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle experienced a loss of automotive power. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed, and it was determined that the lifters needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired out of pocket. The check engine warning light became illuminated again after the repair. The vehicle was taken to the same local dealer, where it was diagnosed, and it was determined that the fuel pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was taken to another local dealer, Ed Rinke Chevrolet Buick GMC CO. (26125 Van Dyke Ave, Center Line, MI 48015) for a second opinion, and remained at the dealer for further investigation. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was made aware...
#11681169 |
ESC light came on, knocking noise started, blinking engine light, car started lagging. I was just getting onto freeway and my slow speed could have caused an accident. I have taken it to Lithia Cheverolet of Redding where they diagnosed it. All the warning lights came on as the problems happen all at once. This is message from the dealer/service center: Update: REMOVED CYLINDER HEAD AND INSPECTED CAMSHFT AND FOUND DAMAGE ON THE CYLINDER 8 LOBE.
#11679754 |
GM may be installing recalled engines into other vehicles through warranty replacements, avoiding recall accountability. I purchased a 2021 GMC Yukon built before recall N252494002. Before my ownership, the original engine failed and was replaced under warranty at 24,339 miles on 9/16/2024. The dealer verbally told me it was new, but it had salvage yard markings and no serial number—indicating it was used. This donor engine was likely from a vehicle later covered by the recall. GM appears not to track donor VINs for warranty replacements, meaning recalled engines can remain in service without repair. This creates a serious safety risk and allows defective engines to escape recall compliance. I urge NHTSA to require manufacturers to track and report donor VINs for used engines and major components installed under warranty so they remain subject to applicable recalls.
#11679949 |
Loss of some power. No haul power.
#11679669 |
Dealership refused to inspect engine and provide new oil in regards to recall, they charged me $208.75 for oil that was supposed to be completed under recall L87 for GM
#11679147 |
Engine started missing out. After taken to dealer, cylinders 5 and 6 were filled with oil. New engine is needed, and is on nationwide back order as thousands of these are effected.
#11678448 |
While driving the vehicle, the engine started to make a knocking noise and we experienced illumination of the check engine light. We also experienced engine performance issues with hesistation and reduced acceleration. We were able to take the vehicle to a GM dealer and it was determined that the lifters and crankshaft were defective and need to be replaced. There is a warranty out for 2021 GMC Yukon Denali vehicles that were manufactured less than a year after ours that have currently have a recall issued by GM for the same problems that we experienced. My wife and two young children, ages [XXX] and [XXX] , frequently ride in this car and catastrophic engine failures put their safety and livelihood at serious risk. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
#11676153 |
knocking, banging, engine noises, illumination of the check engine light, engine performance issues at high rpm and fluttering at low rpm. oil consumption but not leaking. The engine needs to be replaced as the bearing is shot, cylinder 7 is shot. I believe this is directly related to NHTSA Recall #25V-274 and Manufacturer Recall #N252494000
#11676261 |
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, the vehicle unexpectedly stopped, and the engine seized. The contact stated that there was not enough power from the engine to drive the vehicle to the shoulder of the road. No warning light was illuminated. While attempting to restart the vehicle, the vehicle failed to restart. In addition, the contact stated that his family were occupants of the vehicle during the failure. The contact stated that it was a frightening event for his family. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed with engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was informed that parts were unavailable to repair the vehicle. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the part to do the recall...
#11675737 |
Per the dealership where we purchased our vehicle, one lifter gave out and damaged the camshaft. Since there are no guarantees if we replace one lifter this will not happen again. We chose to purchase a new engine rather than purchasing a rebuilt engine. I don't know if this qualifies as a safety issue but we were afraid to drive our vehicle. It has now been at the dealership since May 15 waiting for a new engine. The following warnings showed up on our dash: leveling suspension engine failure stability control head on collision Our GMC denali has a 6.2L v8 engine
#11674635 |
Acceleration failing. Knocking of motor, winding sound, a huge clicking sound when accelerating, and engine burning very excessively. We have 4 children and its very unsettling to say the least on a 100,000 vehicle we paid for. I hope and pray you include our vin number with the 6.2 recall as the dealer is well aware of this problem long before the current recall. It's very unfortunate that our vin wasn't part of this very serious safety issue. Thank you
#11674211 |
The GMC is starting to loss power in the engine. GMC has not send me an appointment to inspect the engine. This vehicle is my only transportation to work and doctors appointment. This is not fair for a powerful company like GMC is not taking the ownership of the engine in this vehicle. I need action asap. Please assist. Thank you
#11674153 |
I received an official safety recall notice from GM (Recall Number N252494000) for my 2021 GMC Yukon due to a defect in the engine's connecting rod or crankshaft components. GM stated that this defect can cause engine failure and loss of propulsion, which significantly increases the risk of a crash. The notice also confirmed that parts to fix the issue are currently unavailable and provided no timeline for resolution. Despite the serious safety risk, GM and my local dealer have not offered a loaner vehicle while waiting for the repair, leaving me without a safe means of transportation. I am filing this complaint because I believe GM is not taking sufficient steps to protect customers from a known and documented safety hazard.
#11673788 |
Vehicle engine seized. Approx 80,000 miles. After discussion with mechanic and dealership, this problem is common with GM L87 6.2L gas engines. Engine seize likely caused from defective crank bearings. No warning light, oil was in engine, vehicle recently serviced. No oil warning light on dash or temperature sensor on dash, or check engine light. Drove car on road trip - when arrived at destination parked car - few hours later went to start vehicle and wouldn't start. My VIN is not subject to recall - currently; however, many 2021 GM engines are recalled. Why wouldn't my 2021 engine be included in this recall? Or all customers notified of potential dangers? I frequently drive carpools with many children in the car - and an engine seizure at any point while driving puts me as driver and any passengers at risk. Vehicle currently being towed to dealer for 2nd diagnosis. First...
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