2021 GMC Yukon problems

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Water is entering the passenger cabin through failed front sunroof drain tubes on both the left and right sides. The drains discharge inside the A pillars rather than to the exterior, pooling in the driver's side floorboard. An authorized GMC dealer diagnosed the cause in writing on August 12, 2026 as rubber grommet shrinkage and hardened internal buildup preventing water from flowing through, on both the left and right sides simultaneously. The identical bilateral failure mode indicates a component or assembly defect rather than debris blockage. Water is accumulating in the driver's footwell in proximity to cabin electrical components and the fuse block area, creating a risk of electrical shorting, connector corrosion, and circuit failure. Mold has developed in the front carpet and padding on the driver's side, and water intrusion staining is present on the passenger side. The dealer has quoted $2,727.16 to replace the drain tubes and the mold-damaged carpet and padding. The vehicle entered service on February 5, 2025 and has 45,211 miles. GM has issued service bulletin 20-NA-219 addressing sunroof drain hoses on 2021 Yukon, Yukon XL, Tahoe, Suburban, and Escalade models.

NHTSA complaint #11763591 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

Crankshaft / Camshaft caused catastrophic engine failure while on a family road trip leaving family and kids stranded on the side of the highway for hours. 2021 GMCs are notoriously having this issue but they refused to include our VIN in the recall. It cost us almost $13,000 to replace with a brand new engine and only 4 days after picking up from dealership the vehicle stopped working and shut off at a light in the middle of the road. GMC has been no help and won’t cover anything.

NHTSA complaint #11763546 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS

Crankshaft / Camshaft caused catastrophic engine failure while on a family road trip leaving family and kids stranded on the side of the highway for hours. 2021 GMCs are notoriously having this issue but they refused to include our VIN in the recall. It cost us almost $13,000 to replace with a brand new engine and only 4 days after picking up from dealership the vehicle stopped working and shut off at a light in the middle of the road. GMC has been no help and won’t cover anything.

NHTSA complaint #11763546 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

POWER TRAIN

Had a valve body failure in mid XXX. The vehicle would not go into reverse and drove it in limp mode to a dealership about 5 miles away. Fortunately they were able to get a new valve body and repair it in one day. Cost was approximately $3,500 and not covered by warranty. The vehicle had about 110,000 miles on it at the time. This is a known defect on this vehicle and a recall should be initiated. Had we started our trip from [XXX] back to [XXX] before the failure occurred, we likely would have been stranded on the highway, or worse. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA complaint #11763438 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

My 2021 Yukon Denali received the Recall 25V-274 oil fix and I am now experiencing an active light engine knock. My gas mileage has reduced significantly and I am having to add oil in between regular oil changes. Not only does it burn through oil and fuel faster but I now get charged an extra fee for "Premium oil". My oil changes cost me roughly $40 dollars more now. ($140 instead of $100) I don't feel as if this fix with the oil change has improved anything and that the cost to maintain the vehicle has only gone up. I am still worried this vehicle will break down on my next road trip.

NHTSA complaint #11762672 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

Fraud and gross negligence by General Motors, Orr GMC and Sewell Buick GMC.

NHTSA complaint #11762930 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

My 2021 GMC Yukon began experiencing severe engine problems, including shaking/rough running, a noticeable ticking/knocking noise from the engine, and a flashing check-engine light. The vehicle also displayed Service ESC and traction control warnings and exhibited symptoms of an engine misfire. I took the vehicle to a dealership for evaluation. I was advised that the problem may involve failed lifters and that the vehicle could be out of service for several weeks for repairs. I was also advised that the repair could be very costly. At this time, I have not been given a final diagnosis, so the exact internal engine component responsible for the failure is UNKNOWN. I am concerned that the condition presents a safety risk because the engine is running extremely rough and the check-engine light is flashing. I am afraid the engine could lose power or fail while the vehicle is being driven, potentially putting me, my passengers, and other motorists at risk. I have also become aware of NHTSA's investigation involving failures of the 6.2-liter L87 V8 engine in GM vehicles, including the GMC Yukon, as well as reports of engine failures occurring after certain repairs or recall remedies. This has increased my concern about whether repairing or replacing individual engine components will permanently resolve the problem. I am submitting this complaint so that my vehicle's symptoms, dealer evaluation, and potential engine failure are documented. The vehicle and affected components are available for inspection upon request. The dealership has evaluated the vehicle, but a final determination of the exact cause has not yet been provided.

NHTSA complaint #11761792 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

While driving my 2021 GMC Yukon Denali with the 6.2L L87 V8 on a high-speed highway near Somers Point, New Jersey, the vehicle suddenly began bucking and the accelerator stopped responding normally. The vehicle rapidly lost propulsion while I was surrounded by highway traffic and approaching a bridge. I was fortunate to get the vehicle onto the shoulder before reaching the bridge. I was then stranded on the shoulder of a high-speed highway, where the disabled vehicle created a serious safety risk to me and other motorists. The engine shut down and would not restart. It initially cranked as though it was attempting to start, but it did not start. I received a diagnostic alert stating, “Service the engine and transmission system immediately.” The vehicle required a tow. The tow operator later reported that it appeared locked up and could not be shifted into neutral. The vehicle has approximately 77,000 miles and has been serviced regularly. Its most recent oil-change sticker indicated the next oil service was due at approximately 81,000 miles. While safely pulled over, I checked the engine-oil dipstick and confirmed that the engine had oil, with oil visible across the dipstick’s normal measuring area. Despite this vehicle having the 6.2L L87 engine and experiencing a sudden loss of propulsion and no-start condition, its VIN does not currently appear in GM’s public recall lookup for the existing L87 recall. The vehicle is being transported to an authorized GMC dealer, and the precise failed component has not yet been confirmed. This sudden loss of propulsion created an immediate risk of a serious highway collision, particularly because it occurred immediately before a bridge. I understand NHTSA is investigating continuing L87 engine failures, including failures involving vehicles outside the original recall population. I am submitting this complaint so this incident is formally documented and considered as part of that investigation.

NHTSA complaint #11761614 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

Lifters failed under 80k miles. Had lifters replaced with gm parts and engine is continuing to eat up oil and lifters are failing again in less than 3 months after the repair. Vehicle was out of warranty and all costs were out of pocket including a rental for over a month bc parts were on backorder

NHTSA complaint #11761777 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

My 2021 GMC Yukon Denali with approximately 88,000 miles developed a significant engine knocking noise and was towed to a GMC dealership for diagnosis. The dealership confirmed diagnostic trouble code P0301 (engine misfire) and documented a “knocking noise in lower end at piston rod crankshaft area.” The dealership advised that my vehicle is not currently included in the existing GM recall for certain 6.2L L87 engines. The vehicle has the 6.2L L87 V8 engine. I am concerned because the documented knocking is located in the lower engine area involving the piston/connecting rod/crankshaft area, which is consistent with the type of internal engine failure associated with the L87 engine investigation and recall. I am concerned about the possibility of sudden engine failure and loss of propulsion while driving. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate this failure and consider whether vehicles outside the current recall population should also be included. I also recently experienced an engine replacement on another 2024 GMC vehicle. I am providing that information as additional customer experience, but I am not claiming that the two failures are necessarily caused by the same defect.

NHTSA complaint #11761322 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

this year model was recalled do to engine problems. Ours wasn't one that was on the recall list. We ended up having to have the motor rebuilt and cost us around $7000. We have seen where these models are still having problems, so i wanted to report our problem and the money spent to get it fixed.

NHTSA complaint #11761391 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

While driving the vehicle on the interstate, the vehicle shifted to neutral without warning. Our daughter was able to fortunately coast to the side of the interstate without incident. The vehicle was shut off and attempted to turn back on without success, so vehicle was towed to Lugoff Chevy dealership where repairs are always performed. The dealership stated the problem was related to fuse block melted and shorted. The problem was fixed; however, I am not convinced that this shouldn't be something requiring a recall and needs further investigation. There was no warning lamps, messages, or symptoms prior to the failure.

NHTSA complaint #11761018 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

While driving the vehicle on the interstate, the vehicle shifted to neutral without warning. Our daughter was able to fortunately coast to the side of the interstate without incident. The vehicle was shut off and attempted to turn back on without success, so vehicle was towed to Lugoff Chevy dealership where repairs are always performed. The dealership stated the problem was related to fuse block melted and shorted. The problem was fixed; however, I am not convinced that this shouldn't be something requiring a recall and needs further investigation. There was no warning lamps, messages, or symptoms prior to the failure.

NHTSA complaint #11761018 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

Engine making a loud ticking noise. Lifters broke in the engine. No warnings, no lights. I turned on the vehicle and it started making the noises. Dealer wanted to do an engine swap. Independent service center is changing out the lifters.

NHTSA complaint #11760952 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

Was taken in for recall at 74,000 they put on a new oil fill cap, did oil change and had catastrophic engine failure at 77,000 miles. Engine replaced by dealership.

NHTSA complaint #11760777 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

POWER TRAIN

Took car in to have it checked for recall on engine and have oil changed to new standards with WD40 was told the engine and car was fine “just use this new oil” A MONTH later was driving and engine would not shift come to find out our transmission was going out it was replaced thanks to our extended warranty (even tho it only had 98,000 miles on it) a week after a fuel pump was out and we had to pay to replace it. There were never check engine signs and no signs of the car having failure truly it ran great until the new oil.

NHTSA complaint #11760681 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

I’m currently on my third motor as a result of the L87 engine loss. When I bought the vehicle, I was not aware that the engine had already been replaced however, due to hearing a tick, I brought my vehicle to the dealership for the recall and was told that this is not the original engine, but they had the paperwork for this engine as well. Nonetheless, the engine “passed” their inspection. They changed my oil and replaced my cap. Within six months, I threw a Rod. Not only did I have a horrible experience with the dealership, my new motor is also ticking.

NHTSA complaint #11760671 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

Took car in to have it checked for recall on engine and have oil changed to new standards with WD40 was told the engine and car was fine “just use this new oil” A MONTH later was driving and engine would not shift come to find out our transmission was going out it was replaced thanks to our extended warranty (even tho it only had 98,000 miles on it) a week after a fuel pump was out and we had to pay to replace it. There were never check engine signs and no signs of the car having failure truly it ran great until the new oil.

NHTSA complaint #11760681 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

Took car in to have it checked for recall on engine and have oil changed to new standards with WD40 was told the engine and car was fine “just use this new oil” A MONTH later was driving and engine would not shift come to find out our transmission was going out it was replaced thanks to our extended warranty (even tho it only had 98,000 miles on it) a week after a fuel pump was out and we had to pay to replace it. There were never check engine signs and no signs of the car having failure truly it ran great until the new oil.

NHTSA complaint #11760681 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that while pulling into a parking space at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The vehicle was towed to a dealer, where it was diagnosed that the fuel pump control module had failed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 81,000.

NHTSA complaint #11760378 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that while driving at 70 MPH with family members in the vehicle, the transmission independently shifted into neutral. No warning lights illuminated. The contact was able to steer the vehicle into a residential driveway, where the vehicle failed to restart. The contact requested towing services; however, the initial tow driver failed to arrive after nearly three hours, requiring the contact to call a second tow company. The vehicle was towed to a dealer, where it was diagnosed with engine failure, and it was determined that the engine needed replacement. The vehicle was not repaired, but replacement parts were ordered. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The contact stated that in January 2026, the vehicle was taken to the dealer for the recall repair, but the contact was informed that the vehicle had passed the recall inspection. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a case was opened. The manufacturer offered a 90% discount on the repair costs; however, the contact declined the offer and requested a full refund for both towing service fees. The failure mileage was approximately 151,017.

NHTSA complaint #11759996 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

Once we learned about the 6.2L Engine Failure we took the vehicle to Mckinney GMC in [XXX], test were run and were told the engine needed to be replaced, but would take several months to repair. We could not wait months for the vehicle so we had the vehicle towed to Sewell GMC in [XXX] (we bought the vehicle CPO from there) they ran test and said we didn't need a new engine but that they would just replace the oil weight and it would be fine. The engine has not run right since, it shakes and idles hard, and was never given a clear answer as to how metal shavings were found in the oil at McKinney GMC but magically disappeared at the Sewell dealership. Its very unsettling that at any moment while driving the engine could seize and blow. I feel like we have a lemon vehicle and the oil weight change is simply a band aid for this situation. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA complaint #11760143 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

My vehicle is making a knocking sound and has the L87 6.2 V8 engine that is under recall for catastrophic failure. It has been evaluated by 2 mechanics that say it needs a new engine. Yes it is available for inspection upon request. Although it has not shutdown yet, both mechanics have said it is eventually going to be a catastrophic failure. My safety and families safety is at risk of it shuts down and causes an accident. There is no warning light currently displayed.

NHTSA complaint #11760157 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

1. What component or system failed or malfunctioned. The Fuel Pump Module failed unexpectedly while the vehicle was being driven. Failure caused the engine to stall, resulting in a complete loss of power and mobility. Unsure if part is available for inspection. 2021 GMC Yukon have a recall N252516900, but our VIN is not included in this. Can our VIN be added to this recall please? 2. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? The vehicle abruptly stalled while being driven through a parking lot, causing a complete loss of power and leaving the vehicle disabled in an active traffic area. Because the vehicle could not be shifted out of PARK, it became an obstruction, creating a hazard for other drivers navigating the parking lot and increasing the risk of a collision. 3. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes. After the vehicle was towed to a local mechanic on a flatbed truck, the dealer diagnosed and confirmed that the Fuel Pump Module had failed, which caused the vehicle to stall and lose power. 4. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives, or others? The vehicle was inspected by a local repair shot, which diagnosed the failed Fuel Pump Module. The vehicle was also evaluated during the towing process. To my knowledge, the manufacturer, police, or insurance representatives have not separately inspected the vehicle or component. 5. Were there any warning lamps, messages, or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? Prior to the failure, there were no significant symptoms indicating an imminent fuel system failure. When the incident occurred, the vehicle abruptly stalled, lost all power, and displayed a message indicating that the vehicle was "not in a condition to shift," preventing it from being shifted out of PARK. This message first appeared immediately following event.

NHTSA complaint #11759643 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

1. What component or system failed or malfunctioned. The Fuel Pump Module failed unexpectedly while the vehicle was being driven. Failure caused the engine to stall, resulting in a complete loss of power and mobility. Unsure if part is available for inspection. 2021 GMC Yukon have a recall N252516900, but our VIN is not included in this. Can our VIN be added to this recall please? 2. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? The vehicle abruptly stalled while being driven through a parking lot, causing a complete loss of power and leaving the vehicle disabled in an active traffic area. Because the vehicle could not be shifted out of PARK, it became an obstruction, creating a hazard for other drivers navigating the parking lot and increasing the risk of a collision. 3. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes. After the vehicle was towed to a local mechanic on a flatbed truck, the dealer diagnosed and confirmed that the Fuel Pump Module had failed, which caused the vehicle to stall and lose power. 4. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives, or others? The vehicle was inspected by a local repair shot, which diagnosed the failed Fuel Pump Module. The vehicle was also evaluated during the towing process. To my knowledge, the manufacturer, police, or insurance representatives have not separately inspected the vehicle or component. 5. Were there any warning lamps, messages, or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? Prior to the failure, there were no significant symptoms indicating an imminent fuel system failure. When the incident occurred, the vehicle abruptly stalled, lost all power, and displayed a message indicating that the vehicle was "not in a condition to shift," preventing it from being shifted out of PARK. This message first appeared immediately following event.

NHTSA complaint #11759643 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.