2021 GMC Yukon XL fuel system problems

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

Was driving the vehicle at 70 mph on the highway without any issues for several hours and suddenly the vehicle lost power and had no propulsion. It went into neutral automatically and the engine shut off while driving. Thankfully I was on a downward slope and could steer the vehicle off the very busy highway. Once safe, I tried to restart the car but the engine would not start or turn over. Roadside assistance came to help as well as a flatbed tow truck. It was taken to a nearby GMC dealer but it remains completely dead despite the battery being fully charged and all of the electronics working. No known error codes are showing up. It’s an L87 engine and was part of the GM recall. The recall work was completed in Nov 2025.

NHTSA complaint #11758876 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

I am filing a safety complaint regarding my 2021 GMC Yukon. While driving on the highway during a long-distance trip from [XXX] to [XXX], my vehicle suddenly experienced a serious loss of power, drivability issues, and loss of propulsion. The vehicle began shaking violently, slowing down unexpectedly, and struggling to maintain speed while in active highway traffic at highway speeds. At the time of the incident, the vehicle displayed a warning message indicating “Conditions Not Correct for Shift” at approximately 127,506 miles. Shortly after, the vehicle set diagnostic trouble code P0011, which relates to the engine and transmission system not performing as expected and indicates an issue with the Variable Valve Timing (VVT) system affecting engine timing and performance. The vehicle also entered a reduced performance state, and I was advised through the vehicle’s warning system to reduce speed, avoid hard acceleration, and avoid heavy load conditions. Despite following these precautions, the vehicle continued to run poorly and became increasingly unsafe to operate in highway traffic. This created a serious and potentially life-threatening situation, as I was traveling in fast-moving traffic and the vehicle lost normal propulsion and stability. I had to carefully maneuver out of active traffic lanes to avoid a potential collision. The vehicle eventually required roadside assistance/towing due to its inability to operate normally. Diagnostic trouble codes and warning messages were present at the time of failure. After the incident, I checked my VIN through the NHTSA recall system and discovered that my vehicle has three unrepaired safety recalls. Of particular concern is: NHTSA Recall Number: 25V274 GM Manufacturer Recall Number: N252494000 This recall involves certain GM vehicles equipped with the 6.2L V8 L87 engine and describes a manufacturing defect in the connecting rod and/or crankshaft components that may result in engine damag INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA),

NHTSA complaint #11757435 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

My 2021 GMC Yukon XL recently suffered a failure of its fuel pump control module. This occurred at just 44,000 miles, mere weeks after my manufacturer warranty expired in June of 2026. This issue goes far beyond a financial inconvenience or a matter of consumer reimbursement; it is a severe, life-threatening safety hazard that GM has failed to permanently resolve. My Experience: Sudden Power Loss While Towing The gravity of this part failure became clear during a recent drive. I configuration-matched this vehicle—a heavy-duty Yukon XL with a 6.2L engine and a 4x4 towing package—specifically for its capacity to safely haul heavy loads. While traveling with a trailer attached, the vehicle experienced a sudden, catastrophic loss of engine power. Without warning, the engine sputtered and died. Had this occurred on a steep incline, a blind curve, or in heavy highway traffic, a catastrophic multi-vehicle collision would have been entirely unavoidable. Critical Safety Hazards and Concerns •Inability to Maintain Speed, Loss of Vital Assist Systems, & Compounded Towing Risks Systemic Failure and Inadequate Remediation What makes this situation entirely unacceptable is that this specific vehicle was already subject to previous GM safety campaigns regarding this exact component (including Safety Recall #N212332040 and subsequent Emission Recall #N252516900). GM is fully aware that their supplier produced defective modules that are prone to premature internal short-circuits. Yet, their remediation strategy has been entirely inadequate. By managing this through piecemeal, phased rollouts and limited VIN inclusion lists, they are leaving dangerous vehicles on the road until the point of failure. Drivers are effectively acting as crash test dummies, waiting for their engines to die in dangerous environments before GM acknowledges that their specific VIN was fitted with the defective supplier part.

NHTSA complaint #11748033 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, the engine stalled and the vehicle failed to start. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who determined that the fuel pump power control module needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V739000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. 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 59,000.

NHTSA complaint #11744517 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

Check engine light comes on and an alert says "acceleration reduced" dealer says the coolant control valve is bad but the engine never overheats but the fans are running max speed 100% of the time.

NHTSA complaint #11743664 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

The vehicle suddenly began vibrating noticeably when idling and at low speeds. About 30 minutes after this started happening a warning lamp lit up. We drove the vehicle about 2 miles to a local auto parts store to get an initial computer diagnosis of the issue. The test resulted in a code of "P0304" which detected a cylinder #4 misfire and recommended a fuel injector replacement. We brought the vehicle to a local mechanic to get the issue further evaluated. After this evaluation, it was determined that the cylinder #4 misfire was related to a lifter failure. The mechanic explained that this situation could possibly have caused more damage, specifically to the camshaft, but that job was bigger than he was willing to take on. He recommended we get the vehicle towed to the dealership for further evaluation. He also informed us that this situation was common with the engine in this vehicle and GMC is aware of it. He directed us to some articles online that elaborated on the potential known issues related to the automatic fuel management (AFM) system and the related engine damage. The vehicle was towed to a local GMC dealership for evaluation. They found the failed cylinder #4 with associated lifter failure and damaged camshaft. We went forward with the repair at the dealership. We asked the dealership about the known engine issues with this vehicle. They acknowledged the widespread issues but informed us that our particular VIN has not been included in any recalls or safety notifications, so we were responsible for the repairs. The vehicle spent nearly 3 weeks at the dealership. One of the parts was on backorder due to a national shortage, which delayed the repair by about one week. That seems to imply that the parts involved in this repair are in high demand, which raises the question of this being a manufacturing/parts issue that may need to be investigated further.

NHTSA complaint #11739769 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

The vehicle drove normally earlier in the day with no major drivability concerns. Later, reverse gear suddenly stopped functioning and the engine would rev abnormally without the vehicle moving properly while in reverse. Shortly afterward, while driving, the vehicle displayed the warning message “Reduce Acceleration – Drive with Care” and began losing acceleration and propulsion. The vehicle would not accelerate normally and later could not exceed approximately 20-35 MPH. The condition created a significant safety concern due to sudden loss of acceleration and propulsion while operating in traffic. The engine RPM would increase abnormally while the vehicle failed to respond properly in drive and reverse. An independent mechanic inspected the transmission and found diagnostic trouble codes P0747, P0776, and P0700 related to transmission pressure control and valve body operation. Inspection also revealed significant metal contamination, sludge, and clutch material inside the transmission pan and filter. Reverse and 2nd gear were determined to be failed/burnt internally. The vehicle was later transported to an authorized GMC dealer for inspection. Dealer confirmed reverse gear would not engage even after adding transmission fluid. Vehicle is currently available for inspection.

NHTSA complaint #11737062 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

*gas tank had become partially dislodged from the undercarriage. *Entire family was in vehicle at time of incident, including three small children. The safety of an entire family along with any others that may have been on the road, if the car would have combusted due to the gas tank which had just been filled to capacity. *vehicle has been at Mark Christopher GM dealership for over one month. *dealership service dept claims someone tried to steal gas tank. *Mercury insurance company claims mechanical failure. *No warning given from vehicle. We heard a dragging noise while we were driving, pulled over as soon as possible. Upon inspection, it was observed that fuel tank had begun to leak fuel from dragging on the freeway.

NHTSA complaint #11736218 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

The vehicle experienced a major engine failure involving the 6.2L engine. The failure appeared sudden and premature and is not consistent with normal wear and tear for a vehicle of this type. Prior to the failure, there were intermittent performance concerns and warning indicators suggesting potential engine or drivetrain issues. The vehicle had previously undergone repair related to similar concerns, indicating a possible recurring problem. The failure created a potential safety risk due to the possibility of loss of power while driving, which could increase the risk of an accident, especially at highway speeds or in traffic. The issue has been confirmed by a service provider, and the vehicle requires significant repair. General Motors has been notified but has declined repair assistance, classifying the issue as wear and tear. While no active recall is currently associated with this specific vehicle, similar vehicles with the same engine platform have documented issues, raising concerns about reliability and safety. The failed components are available for inspection upon request.

NHTSA complaint #11731580 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

March 29th 2026 my 2021 Yukon XL engine stalled while driving at 45mph (No prior warning lamps or messages, restart engine came on dash) causing me to immediately pull over and come to a stop still in traffic, it shifted my vehicle into park, I was in an in an un-safe spot and was stuck in park (conditions not correct for shift on dash) because my vehicle would not allow me to shift to neutral and push it to the side of the road, (could not jump start) Had towed to dealership and mentioned Engine Failure and Fuel pump control module Recalls but according to them it was a starter issue, I asked them to still check the fuel pump control module regardless. Picked up vehicle and a week later April 14th the exact same thing happened vehicle stalled while driving dash said Restart Engine while coasting (No prior warning lamps or messages) forcing me to pull over where it rolled to a stop and locked itself into park leaving me in unsafe conditions again. Had towed back to the same dealership and waiting to hear back from them.

NHTSA complaint #11731169 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

While driving on a two lane road, my vehicle put itself into Neutral without me doing anything and the engine stopped. All things powered down. The engine stopped. not propulsion, nothing. I tried to pull over to edge of road. Car would not start - no activity. The vehicle had to be towed to the dealership. My safety was put at risk by my car simply stopping while driving down the road. The dealership has confirmed the engine needs to be replaced. There was no warning of engine problems or ANY indicators.

NHTSA complaint #11707473 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

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.

NHTSA complaint #11704023 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

My 2021 GMC Yukon XL Denali is part of the April 2025 recall for the 6.2L V8 engine defect. The dealership confirmed the engine must be replaced, but the part is on backorder, potentially for several months. In the meantime, GMC only authorized a GMC Acadia as a courtesy vehicle. The Acadia is not comparable to our Yukon XL. We are a family of six, and while the Acadia has a third row, there is almost no cargo space with it in use. Our Yukon XL has over three times the cargo capacity, which is necessary for safely transporting luggage and sports equipment during our frequent trips (2–3 times per month). Because of this, we have already been forced to rent a larger SUV at our own expense for a recent trip. GMC’s Courtesy Transportation Program states that owners should receive comparable transportation during recall repairs. Despite escalating through the dealership, GMC Customer Assistance, and even the regional manager, we were denied a comparable loaner or guaranteed rental coverage. This leaves our family in an unsafe and impractical situation while waiting months for the recall repair.

NHTSA complaint #11684664 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

Fuel pump power control module failed while driving. This part was included in a recall in 2021 but our VIN appears to not have been impacted.

NHTSA complaint #11682320 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

Vehicle stalled while driving and would not turn back on. I had to have it towed over 45 minutes.

NHTSA complaint #11678442 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated that while driving approximately 55 MPH, the vehicle decelerated and stalled. During the failure, the check engine warning light was illuminated, and the vehicle was pulled over to the shoulder of the roadway. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, who diagnosed and determined that the fuel pump control module had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. 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: 21V739000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was 80,000.

NHTSA complaint #11674970 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

I was driving home from a long trip and heard a large pop. Several warning signs and messages began popping up and the vehicle was shaking and struggling to maintain speed. I was able to get home and get my family out of the vehicle and get it to a dealer down the road. They stated the Fuel injector and harness had failed.

NHTSA complaint #11669733 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

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.

NHTSA complaint #11662492 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

Noticeable ticking from the motor, loss of power while driving and smoking. Took to dealership to for repairs. Lifters replaced on one side, within 30 miles after leaving dealership vehicle lost power and would not crank. Per dealership same issue with spun bearing and crankshaft. New lifters and crankshaft placed. While driving 3 weeks later vehicle shifted into neutral and lost power and hand to coast to side of the road. Replace battery and still would not crank, had to be jumped off and able to drive home. 3 codes were retrieved from reader.

NHTSA complaint #11661064 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

I am the owner of a 2021 GMC Yukon Denali with the 6.2L V8 engine (VIN: [XXX] ). This vehicle has exhibited multiple serious issues affecting safety, drivability, and reliability. 1. Engine Noise & Oil Consumption: Since purchase, the vehicle has had a persistent loud knocking/tapping sound, especially under acceleration. The engine also consumes an excessive amount of oil between scheduled oil changes, with no visible leaks. I reported this to the dealership multiple times, but since there is no active recall or TSB, they refused to diagnose or repair the issue under warranty. I have since learned that many other 2021 Yukon Denali owners with the same 6.2L engine are experiencing similar issues and some have had repairs or engine replacements covered by GM. I have received no such support. 2. Braking Problems: The vehicle has ongoing brake performance issues. Despite replacing the brake components multiple times, the brakes feel inconsistent and unsafe, especially during highway driving or sudden stops. There is vibration and uneven response, and the braking system does not inspire confidence. These problems have persisted despite attempts to correct them. 3. Suspension/Handling Concerns: The suspension feels unstable and loose, especially at highway speeds or when turning. The ride quality is poor, and there is noticeable sway and body roll, which creates discomfort and concern for vehicle control. 4. Fuel/Propulsion System: The engine does not always respond smoothly to throttle input. I’ve noticed occasional hesitation or surging, which may be related to the previously mentioned oil consumption or fuel delivery. Again, the dealership has been unable or unwilling to resolve these issues without charging diagnostic fees. I’ve reported these issues to my local GMC dealer on multiple occasions, but no lasting solution has been provided, and I have not been able to afford expensive diagnostic costs out of pocket—especially for a vehicle of this price INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATIO

NHTSA complaint #11659747 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

I was driving on a highway at speeds of 65 mph and the engine stalled on the left lane. I almost got struck by a tracker trailer. The dealer supposedly fixed the issue and a few months went by and the vehicle died again engine failure in middle of the highway.

NHTSA complaint #11656936 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

I was driving with my [XXX] son and my car just stalled out in the middle of the road. I couldn’t start it and we were stuck in the middle of the road. My husband arranged for a tow and the repair shop (safe auto repair Mont Belvieu) told me that this type of thing they have seen a lot of. The fuel pump power control module needed to be repaired and they said when that happens it sometimes shorts out the fuel pump system too. They said they had to repair 4 like this already during the week. My neighbor said the exact same thing happened to her friend gmc at4 a month ago and was also driving and the car just stopped. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA complaint #11651172 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP:CONTROL/DRIVE MODULE

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start up. The vehicle was towed to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the fuel pump power control module was inoperable. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact believed that the failure was associated with NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V739000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 63,000.

NHTSA complaint #11612212 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

I was driving on a normal local highway and my car started to slow and an indicator to 'press start' to restart the engine came up. I tried to do that and the engine wouldn't turn over. My car sputtered to a stop during rush hour traffic as I was able to drift over to side of the road. The car wouldn't start after that, waiting for 10-20 minutes and re-trying wouldn't work either. I had to have it towed and am now awaiting a fuel pump module that is on back order. No warnings to me that it would happen and I fear that this could have happened on the highway at high speeds, causing a crash. My car is a large SUV that takes a lot to stop, the car just sputtering and dying is unacceptable. I see my car wasn't included in the recall of this issue back in 2021, but I believe it was manufactured during the impacted window and I took deliver in May of 2021 of the new car. I think more cars should be recalled to prevent this from happening to other people. Very scary when it happens and the alternative situations it can happen in, especially for such a large vehicle that typically is carrying multiple passengers.

NHTSA complaint #11565828 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

1. Fuel pump power control module Code #P129F 2. Sudden stalling of engine at potential high speeds/ dense traffic areas. This created a major safety hazard for a potential FATAL accident. 3. It has been currently confirmed by the dealer Gerry Lane Buick GMC after initial the breakdown it was sent there for investigation. 4. No, It has only been inspected at the dealership in Gerry Lane Buick GMC in Baton Rouge Louisiana. 5. NO warning lamps or symptoms before COMPLETE and INSTANT vehicle failure at NIGHT on 10/1/2023. Additional Information: Please see NHTSA Recall #N212332040 After our own investigation we have found a recall report for the same year make and model for the same issue of the fuel pump power control module. Our VIN was not included in this recall but has the exact issue and year as the recall. This is very dangerous to have these vehicles driving around without the owners knowledge of the potential FATAL Danger.

NHTSA complaint #11548545 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

Vehicle without any warning quit running, had to be towed, 19,400 miles on vehicle. could have had a wreck since I was on a heavily traveled 4 lane highway. Dealer Heyward Allen in Athens Ga. determined that it was the fuel pump and is on national backorder. This would tell me that there are other vehicles with this issue. There was another recall for these types of vehicles that could have also included this one N212332040. GMC could not answer why my vehicle was not included in the recall. GMC has of today done nothing about this issue except to say that the NHTSA issued recalls and they did not. Would not even take responsibility for manufacturing the part.

NHTSA complaint #11528739 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

Car lost power while driving at high speed. Luckily was able to coast to the side of a busy controlled access highway. This was the second time for this to happen while driving, first was on a surface road driving at lower speeds. Very first instance was trouble staring the car. This all took place over a month and half. Dealer could never replacate while the had the card the first time. They are saying now that this is due to a failed Fuel Pump Power Control Module, which there has been a recall on but my VIN was not in the recall. There were no warning light that come on before or when this happened. After multiple time trying to start the car the check engine light would come on.

NHTSA complaint #11520377 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

My vehicle lost power while driving on the highway. It was later determined that the fuel pump controller module required replacement. Losing power while driving 65 mph was not enjoyable or safe. The GMC Dealer Service department made the assessment, replaced the module, and the vehicle is now in my possession and functioning as normal. Once I was able to pull over there was a service light. One note... it appears that this Safety recall N212332040, covers my issue. When searching the database with my VIN, this recall did not come up, or was I ever contacted. I am submitting this to make sure that a broader search is performed for this defect.

NHTSA complaint #11504005 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated while stopped in traffic, the contact felt the vehicle shaking. The contact stated that the vehicle stalled and lost motive power. After several attempts, the contact was able to restart the vehicle and shifted into neutral(N) to move the vehicle to the side of the roadway to safety. The contact stated that the vehicle was running rough before losing motive power and stalling. The contact was unable to restart the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to the dealer and fuel pump was replaced. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 15,658.

NHTSA complaint #11488411 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

I was traveling on the highway and the vehicle started to jolt, sputter and speed acceleration was reduced in a highly congested area with little room to maneuver. I had to quickly shift lanes and get off at the first exit I could as I figure out what the issue was. I immediately contacted my Dealership and they were able to get me an emergency appointment so my vehicle could be inspected that day. After the Dealers analysis they said that a lifter needed to be replaced. I have a brand new vehicle with less than 8,611 miles on it. The lifter issue puzzled me so I went to the GMC Yukon message and sure enough there are ALOT of 2021 Yukon/Tahoe owners that have had this exact same issue with even worse stories than mine.

NHTSA complaint #11447127 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.