GMC Yukon Denali engine failure problems

Filed May 1, 2025 · Engine · 74,000 miles · CO

The contact owns a 2016 GMC Yukon Denali. The contact stated that since owning the vehicle, the engine had failed on three separate occasions. The contact stated that prior to each failure, there was an abnormal rattling sound coming from the engine. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated on the instrument panel prior to the last two failures. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic after each failure, and the engine was replaced twice. Recently, the contact was informed that the catalytic converter needed to be replaced; however, the vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and the contact was informed that there were no recalls on the VIN for the engine. A complaint was filed with the manufacturer. The failure mileage was 74,000.

Filed Sep 5, 2024 · Engine · 150,150 miles · VA

The contact owns a 2015 GMC Yukon Denali. The contact stated while driving at approximately 20 MPH, the vehicle started decelerating with a slight clunking sound coming from underneath the front passenger’s side of the vehicle. The vehicle then lost motive power. The contact coasted to the side of the road and turned off the vehicle. After waiting for a while, the vehicle was started and the contact became aware that the instrument panel and all other electrical systems were activated as expected; however, the engine failed to start. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed that there was a failure with the engine. The vehicle had not been repaired. The vehicle was then towed to an independent mechanic where it was confirmed that the engine had failed, and the starter needed to be replaced. The starter had been replaced; however, while starting the vehicle the engine emitted a loud rumbling noise which the dealer described as rocks being tossed around. The contact stated that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer had not been made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 150,150.

Filed Sep 29, 2017 · Brakes, Wheels · 92,431 miles · SC

Tl* the contact owns a 2011 gmc yukon denali. The contact stated that the driver side wheel seized and the brakes independently engaged. The dealer and manufacturer were not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 92,431.

Filed Sep 8, 2017 · 52,000 miles · TN

A strong vibration or "shudder" resonates throughout the body of the entire cabin. Feels like you are driving over large rumble strips, even when the road is completely smooth. Appears to occur at speeds greater than 30 miles per hour and when the rpms exceed 1,000 RPM. The RPM needle "jumps" repeatedly while the vibration/shudder occurs. When we took it to the local gmc dealer, they told us it we needed a new wheel for which we bought and it accomplished nothing. Then, we returned it, described the problem in excruciating detail - even referencing known public service bulletins - which prompted them to "balance the tires." left the gmc dealership again and it was obvious the dealership did not address the problem and that it had nothing to do with the wheels. We returned and advised them they did not fix the problem. The kept the denali again and then advised us they were "100% sure" the problem was the "shocks". They replaced the shocks for nearly $2,000 and advised us by phone the problem was "fixed." I asked the representative if they had confirmed it was fixed and he said "yes", the technician had driven the vehicle and there were no further issues. Minutes later, I got a call from the service manager who advised the customer service representatives call to me was "premature" (I guess he finally decided to drive the vehicle) and advised there was a problem with the torque converter and that he needed to keep it for a few more days. I asked why he they had told me they were "100% sure" the problem was the shocks and he advised he drove it and they "seized" up. We are still awaiting some resolution to this $75,000 new vehicle disaster. This is the first american vehicle we have purchased and are certainly regretting that decision and are currently researching other full-size suvs for better safety and reliability.

Filed Jun 12, 2017 · Engine · 97,000 miles · NJ

@ 97,000 miles, getting cylinder #4 miss fire codes, replaced all plugs and affected coils packs. Now motor is making a ticking sound form lifters. Dealer said it needs new engine due to the afm system problems.

Filed Mar 16, 2016 · Seat belts · 148,000 miles · AR

Left rear seat belt fails to extract. Was told by dealer that the lock bar was seized up and could not be released and that the entire seatbelt would have to be replaced. This is only a 6 year old vehicle and at 6'4 270 I don't have anyone ever sit behind me. This is probably the least used seatbelt in my yukon. . Safety devices such as seat belts & air bags should never fail ever ! If they do they should be replaced at no charge due to poor design. I just thank god it didn't malfunction during an accident. Gmc's seat belt design needs to be redesigned.

Filed Mar 9, 2015 · Engine · 103,000 miles · NJ

Truck started making metal on metal sound. Engine block was cracked and anti-freeze was bleeding into oil. Mechanic and dealership agreed new engine was needed. Cost - $8,000. Truck had 103,000 miles - warranty expired at 100,000. We had been experiencing oil problems since nov. 2014 when we were still under warranty- oil was gunky despite being changed each time. Dealership called gmc and gmc refused to budge on the warranty. I called gm 5 times - initially spoke to someone who said "they would work with me" and kicked it up t o a senior advisor named [xxx] who never returned any of my calls despite other gmc employees sending her "urgent" emails to call me. We eventually decided not to do the repair and purchased an audi q7 because we needed a vehicle and couldn't wait for [xxx]. We had purchased 4 gmc vehicles (corvette, 2 suburbans, and the yukon). Will never buy another gmc product again based upon their complete disregard for us. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6).

Filed Apr 26, 2013 · Engine · 106,273 miles · CO

I was driving my vehicle. The traction control light came on, and the check engine light came on right after. The truck then began to idle strange like it was going to stall. I drove it home while talking to my husband he stated since I just filled up the tank maybe it was bad gas. I drove it home which was about 5 miles down the road. As soon as I pulled into the driveway , the service brake system came up on the dash and the my truck started making this horrible clicking. I later found out the motor is gone and threw a rod. I think its pretty odd that all these people are having issues with the traction control light coming on then the engine acts up. This is a problem gmc needs to fix, they don't feel its their problem to deal with.

Filed Mar 13, 2012 · Suspension · 11,000 miles · WV

Tl* the contact owns a 2011 gmc yukon denali. The contact stated that while driving 30 MPH, there was a loud grinding noise coming from the vehicle. The contact was able to slow down and stop the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who diagnosed that the passenger side wheel bearing seized and as a result, the wheel bearing, calipers and rotors needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure who stated that they would contact him at a later date. The vehicle was repaired. The failure and the current mileage was 11,000.

Filed Nov 28, 2011 · Brakes, Engine · 100,000 miles · NY

Tl* the contact owns a 2007 gmc yukon denali. The contact stated that the vehicle stalled after the brakes seized independently. The dealer diagnosed that the vehicle would need a new engine. The manufacturer was notified, but denied any assistance with repairs to the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure and the current mileage was 100,000.