INCIDENT 4: Fuel Injector Internal Short (Cylinder #6) Component / System Failed: Fuel Injection System / Cylinder #6 Fuel Injector & Wiring Harness Failure Description: Cylinder 6 fuel injector failed due to an internal electrical short circuit, causing immediate engine misfires and severe power reduction. Repair required replacing the Bank 2 fuel rail, four fuel injectors, and the injector wiring harness. Safety Risk: Immediate engine shuddering and abrupt drop in drive power while operating in active traffic creates a serious loss-of-acceleration hazard and heightened risk of a rear-end collision. Dealer / Repair Shop Confirmation: Official diagnosis confirmed by Service Center Technician via electronic diagnostics verifying the internal electrical short circuit. Warning Symptoms: Check Engine Light illuminated simultaneously with engine shaking and sudden power loss; no prior symptoms existed before the failure. Inspection Availability: Confirmed via technician diagnostics; Check Engine light illuminated along with four other warning lights- car had to be towed to dealership to be fixed
2021 GMC Yukon XL engine problems
166 complaints (70% of all complaints for this car). Typical mileage when it fails: 73,000.
- owner complaints
- 166
- of this car's complaints
- 70%
- typical mileage
- 73,000
- crashes
- 0
- recalls
- 1
Which part fails
Owners did not name a specific part.
At what mileage
Complaints by mileage at the time of the problem.
GMC Yukon XL engine problems in other years
Specific symptoms reported on the 2021 GMC Yukon XL engine
Phrases found in the owners' own descriptions, so one complaint can mention several symptoms.
Engine failure 80Check engine light 39Loss of power 33Knocking 28Stalling 20Oil consumption 16Misfire 11Won't start 6
Related recalls
Engine and engine cooling: engine: hard parts internal/mechanical
- What is wrong
- General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, and Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles equipped with a 6.2L V8 gas engine. The connecting rod and/or crankshaft engine components may have manufacturing defects that can lead to engine damage and engine failure.
- Risk
- Engine failure increases the risk of a crash.
- Remedy
- Dealers will inspect the engine, and as necessary, repair or replace the engine. For vehicles that pass inspection, dealers will add higher viscosity oil, install 6 oil fill cap, replace the oil filter, and update the owner's manual. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 18, 2025. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1‑800‑333‑4223, Chevrolet customer service at 1‑800‑222‑1020, or GMC customer service at 1‑800‑462‑8782. GM's number for this recall is N252494000.
Recall number 25V274000 · Recall details
Related investigations
Loss of motive power due to engine failure post recall remedy
On January 16, 2026, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Recall Query RQ26001. This investigation was opened to assess the remedy effectiveness of Recall 25V‑274. ODI has received complaints alleging engine failure in vehicles after the recall remedy had been completed, whether that remedy involved an oil viscosity change or a complete engine replacement. General Motors (GM) issued Recall 25V‑274 to address concerns of engine failure in the L87 engines produced between March 1, 2021 and May 31, 2024. GM cited the root cause as a supplier manufacturing and quality issue. GMâs recall remedy for Recall 25V‑274 consisted of two different repairs, either an oil viscosity change or an engine replacement, based on the results of the remedy inspection procedure. ODI continues to receive reports of engine failures after the completion of the recall remedy. To date, ODI has received 499 complaints alleging post-remedy engine failure in vehicles subject to Recall 25V‑274, 473 of which involved an oil viscosity change and 26 a complete engine replacement. Additionally, ODI has received 191 reports of L87 engine failures in engines produced after the production period cited in Recall 25V‑274. GM reported receiving 6,953 complaints of post-remedy engine failure. ODI is opening this Engineering Analysisto continue investigating complaints of post-remedy engine failure. ODI is expanding the scope of this Investigation to include engines produced after the production period cited in the recall. To review the ODI reports cited in the Opening Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to
EA26005
Loss of motive power due to engine failure post recall remedy
On January 16, 2026, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Recall Query RQ26001. This investigation was opened to assess the remedy effectiveness of Recall 25V‑274. ODI has received complaints alleging engine failure in vehicles after the recall remedy had been completed, whether that remedy involved an oil viscosity change or a complete engine replacement. General Motors (GM) issued Recall 25V‑274 to address concerns of engine failure in the L87 engines produced between March 1, 2021 and May 31, 2024. GM cited the root cause as a supplier manufacturing and quality issue. GMâs recall remedy for Recall 25V‑274 consisted of two different repairs, either an oil viscosity change or an engine replacement, based on the results of the remedy inspection procedure. ODI continues to receive reports of engine failures after the completion of the recall remedy. To date, ODI has received 499 complaints alleging post-remedy engine failure in vehicles subject to Recall 25V‑274, 473 of which involved an oil viscosity change and 26 a complete engine replacement. GM reported receiving 6,953 complaints of post-remedy engine failure. ODI will close this RQ and continue to investigate complaints of post-remedy engine failure for Recall 25V‑274 as part of an Engineering Analysis (EA26005). To review the ODI reports cited in the Opening Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to
RQ26001
Loss of motive power due to engine failure
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received 1,157 reports of engine bearing failure failures in the L87 6.2L engine produced by General Motors (GM). Of the 1,157 reports received, 173 are outside of the scope of recall 25V‑274. These engines are installed in Model Years (MY) 2019â2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500, and 2021-2024MY Chevrolet Suburban and Tahoe, GMC Yukon/Yukon XL, and Cadillac Escalade/Escalade ESV vehicles. The subject engine failures were investigated as part of a Preliminary Evaluation (PE25001). GM determined that these engine failures were due to multiple supplier manufacturing and quality issues. GM issued recall 25V‑274 to address the supplier manufacturing and quality issues produced between March 1, 2021, and May 31, 2024. Based on the issuance of recall 25V‑274, the federal safety agency has closed PE25001. ODI continues to receive a significant number of reports of engine failure in vehicles outside the scope of 25V‑274. This presents a potential safety risk that warrants further investigation. ODI is opening this Engineering Analysis (EA) to further evaluate the scope and severity of the potential problem and to fully assess the potential safety-related issues of vehicles built outside the recall scope. To review the ODI reports cited in the Opening Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to
EA25007
Loss of motive power due to engine failure
On January 16, 2025, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Preliminary Evaluation PE25001 after receiving complaints and field reports concerning engine failures in MY2019-2024 GMâs full-size truck and SUV T1XX platform equipped with the L87 6.2L V8 engine. These complainants alleged engine bearing failures resulting in knocking and growling noises from the engineâs bottom end and in some cases more severe consequences such as broken connecting rods leading to engine damage, or engine failure. If the engine fails during vehicle operation, the vehicle will lose propulsion, increasing the risk of a crash. On April 24, 2025, GM issued recall 25V‑274 to address the concern with L87 engines produced between March 1, 2021, and May 31, 2024. GM cited the root cause as a supplier manufacturing and quality issues. GMâs recall remedy will be either an oil change to an oil with a different viscosity or engine replacement depending on the results of the remedy inspection procedure. To date, ODI has received 1,157 allegations of engine bearing failure. GM submitted 55,464 reports in total, with 29,752 unique VINs. ODI continues to receive allegations of L87 engine failures which fall outside of the scope of recall 25V‑274. Based on GMâs recall, ODI will close this PE. the federal safety agency will continue to investigate complaints of engine failure outside the scope of recall 25V‑274 as part ofEngineering Analysis (EA25007). To review the ODI reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to
PE25001
What 2021 GMC Yukon XL owners say
Most recent owner complaints, unedited.
INCIDENT 3: Fuel Pump Driver Module (FPDM) Failure Component / System Failed: Fuel Pump Driver Module (FPDM - Part #13554821) / Engine Control Module (ECM) Communication Failure Description: Total loss of communication between the ECM and FPDM, causing the engine to abruptly die while idling at a traffic light. Subsequent attempt to restart using push-to-start produced a severe mechanical screeching noise. Safety Risk: Unexpected stall in active traffic left the vehicle stranded and unable to restart safely, exposing occupants to collision hazards. Dealer / Repair Shop Confirmation: Confirmed by Service Technician. Diagnostic Code P129F ("ECM lost communication with fuel pump driver module") logged; verified power and ground failures at the module. Replaced FPDM (Part #13554821). Warning Symptoms: None prior to failure. Sudden engine shutdown followed by screeching sound on attempted restart. Inspection Availability: Vehicle and replaced module are available for inspection upon request.
INCIDENT 2: Total Electrical / Power System Shutdown Component / System Failed: Electrical / Power Control System (Auto-Stop/Start System) Failure Description: Total loss of electrical power causing the main dashboard and display screen to go completely dark, stalling the vehicle during an autostop event at a traffic light and preventing the engine from restarting. Safety Risk: Sudden total electrical shutdown leaves the vehicle completely dead, unresponsive, and immobilized in active traffic lanes/intersections, creating a high risk of rear-end or multi-vehicle collisions. Dealer / Repair Shop Confirmation: Customer complaint and active fault codes confirmed by dealership service department following standard maintenance schedule. Warning Symptoms: Display screen went blank; failure occurred instantly during autostop/traffic light stop without prior warning. Inspection Availability: Vehicle and affected systems are available for inspection upon request. INCIDENT 3: Fuel Pump Driver Module (FPDM) Failure Component / System Failed: Fuel Pump Driver Module (FPDM - Part #13554821) / Engine Control Module (ECM) Communication Failure Description: Total loss of communication between the ECM and FPDM, causing the engine to abruptly die while idling at a traffic light. Subsequent attempt to restart using push-to-start produced a severe mechanical screeching noise. Safety Risk: Unexpected stall in active traffic leaves the vehicle stranded and unable to restart safely, exposing occupants to collision hazards. Dealer / Repair Shop Confirmation: Confirmed by Service Technician. Diagnostic Code P129F ("ECM lost communication with fuel pump driver module") logged; verified power and ground failures at the module. Replaced FPDM (Part #13554821). Warning Symptoms: None prior to failure. Sudden engine shutdown followed by screeching sound on attempted restart. Inspection Availability: Vehicle and replaced module are available for inspection upon request.
INCIDENT 1: Internal Engine Failure & Excessive Oil Consumption Component / System Failed: Engine Internal Components (Piston Rings, Valve Guide Seals, Spark Plugs) Failure Description: Excessive oil consumption (1.5 to 2.0 quarts burned every 2,000 miles) leading to heavy oil-fouling on spark plugs #5 and #7. Required complete cylinder head, oil pan, and piston teardown to replace all pistons, rings, connecting rod bearings, lifters, guides, valve guide seals, and spark plugs. Safety Risk: Severe internal engine oil consumption and plug fouling create an immediate risk of engine misfires, unexpected loss of power, or catastrophic engine failure while driving at highway speeds. Dealer / Repair Shop Confirmation: Confirmed by Dealership Service Department via oil consumption tests, spark plug inspection with oil dye, compression tests, cylinder leak-down tests, and physical teardown. Warning Symptoms: Low oil warning lamp illuminated; continuous need to top off oil between routine maintenance services. Inspection Availability: Vehicle and replaced components are available for inspection upon request.
The contact owned a 2021 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated that while driving 75 MPH, the vehicle suddenly shut off and lost power in the middle of traffic. The contact attempted to restart the vehicle, but the vehicle failed to restart. The contact stated that the emissions warning light and the drivetrain warning light were illuminated. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and offered to pay half of the cost of the engine repair. The vehicle was towed to a dealer, where it was diagnosed with lifter and rod failures. The contact stated that the manufacturer was aware of the 6.2L engine failures. The failure mileage was 9,000.
I own a 2021 GMC Yukon XL Denali equipped with the 6.2L L87 V8 engine (VIN: [XXX]). At approximately 149,000 miles, the engine developed a significant internal mechanical failure requiring complete replacement. The vehicle was diagnosed by Lexington Park Chevrolet Buick GMC, an authorized GM dealership in [XXX]. The technician identified a misfire in cylinder #5, significant oil contamination of the combustion chamber and spark plug, and broken oil-control rings on piston #5. The technician also documented bottom-end engine noise and determined that replacement of the engine assembly was necessary. The dealership replaced the engine with a GM remanufactured 6.2L L87 engine (part number 19420611), at an estimated cost of $10,950. Although my vehicle was not included in GM Safety Recall 25V‑274 (N252494000), I am concerned that this significant internal engine failure may be relevant to the federal safety agency's ongoing investigation of L87 engine failures, particularly those occurring in vehicles outside the original recall population. I request that the federal safety agency review and document this failure as part of its ongoing evaluation of the L87 engine and the scope of the existing recall. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Engine failure at approximately 72,000 miles. The vehicle had been inspected by GM dealer and passed the pico test at approximately 60,000 miles. GM suggested repair of 0w40 oil with new oil cap and driver's manual insert was completed.
**Mileage at repair:** 76,165 miles **Component:** Fuel Pump Power Control Module While driving my 2021 GMC Yukon XL on [XXX] on a treacherous stretch decending [XXX] the engine unexpectedly stopped running, resulting in a complete loss of propulsion. This occurred on a section of interstate where there was no safe shoulder or suitable location to pull off the roadway. The unexpected failure created an extremely dangerous situation, exposing me and other motorists to the risk of a serious collision. The vehicle was subsequently towed, diagnosed and repaired by Darrell Waltrip Buick GMC in [XXX]. The dealership documented diagnostic trouble code P129F, "Fuel Pump Driver Control Module Fuel Pump Speed Signal Incorrect." The technician verified that the control module had proper electrical power, that there was no pin damage or connector fitment issue, and that the module required replacement. The dealership's written diagnosis specifically acknowledges that a failing fuel pump driver module can cause the engine to shut down. The original factory-installed module was replaced with GM part number 13554821, and the vehicle was subsequently tested and confirmed to operate correctly. The repair was performed at no charge, and GM provided a loaner vehicle while the replacement part was unavailable. I am particularly concerned that General Motors has previously acknowledged this same type of safety hazard under the federal safety agency Safety Recall 21V‑739 (GM N212332040), involving fuel pump power control modules on certain 2021 GM full-size SUVs. That recall identifies unexpected engine stalling and increased crash risk as consequences of module failure. My experience demonstrates the potentially catastrophic consequences of this failure in actual highway operation. I request that the federal safety agency investigate whether a mandatory recall and replacement of these defective components is necessary as the consequences of immediate complete unexpected loss of propulsion. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C.
On September 21, 2026, my 2021 GMC Yukon XL Denali with the 6.2L V8 engine experienced a serious engine failure at approximately 83,330 miles while traveling on Interstate 10 near Litchfield Road in Arizona. The vehicle developed engine knocking and subsequently stalled, leaving my family and me at risk on the highway. This was a serious safety concern because the engine failed unexpectedly during operation. The GMC dealership determined that the engine needed to be replaced under warranty. The replacement engine was installed in October 2026, and I received the vehicle back on October 13, 2026. My concern is that the dealership installed a remanufactured engine, and I have not received sufficient documentation confirming whether the replacement addresses the underlying defect associated with the GM 6.2L engine failures. I am concerned about the possibility of another catastrophic engine failure, particularly while traveling at highway speeds with my family. I am requesting that the federal safety agency investigate this engine failure and determine whether the replacement engine adequately addresses the safety defect. I believe these failures present a serious risk to drivers, passengers, and other motorists.
High oil consumption, will have oil changed and days later need oil, catalyst converter failed causing what was said for the check engine light to come on, truck now has a shutter around 50 mph, my radio is in and out, and sometimes it sounds like a computer shutting down. It has been one thing after the next.
Questions about the 2021 GMC Yukon XL engine
Does the 2021 GMC Yukon XL have engine problems?
Owners have filed 166 complaints about the engine of the 2021 GMC Yukon XL, 70% of all its complaints, more than any other problem.
At what mileage do 2021 GMC Yukon XL engine problems start?
The typical (median) mileage in owner complaints is 73,000 miles.
Was there a recall on the 2021 GMC Yukon XL engine?
Yes, 1 recall: 25V274000. Check your VIN to see if your car still needs the free repair.
What year does the GMC Yukon XL have bad engine?
The GMC Yukon XL model years with the most engine complaints are 2021 (166 complaints), 2023 (166 complaints) and 2022 (128 complaints).
Other 2021 GMC Yukon XL problems
Transmission 49Fuel system 38Electrical 15Driver assistance 9Acceleration 7Brakes 6Suspension 6Visibility 6Airbags 4Steering 4Seat belts 3Body 2Wheels 2Lights 1
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