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.
2021 GMC Yukon XL engine complaints
Page 3 of 7: complaints 41 to 70 of 166, newest first, as owners wrote them.
I took my GMC Yukon in for a recall. They changed the oil, programmed my module, changed the cap, and tested the engine, saying it was good. I took it on a trip, 7000 miles later engine locked up.
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.
We brought vehicle in while still in warranty complaining of rough running engine and dealership said they couldn't find anything wrong. 2000 miles over warranty the Engine fails with all characteristics of the L87 bearing lifter issue. Now GMC does not want to replace without charging us a ton of money.
Our 2021 GMC Yukon XL with the 6.2L engine suffered a catastrophic failure requiring the engine to be replaced. The diagnosis was very similar to the GMC 6.2L engines that have been recalled for safety and failure reasons however our vehicle was not included in the recall. The engine only had 75,924 miles and was maintained to the manufacturer's maintenance schedule. The cost to replace the engine was $11,309.87.
Without any warning, the V8 L87 6.2 liter engine suddenly seized up, began shaking with significant reduced power. I was fortunate that I could drive slowly to safety and was not on the expressway. In my research, I understand this is related to a design/manufacturing issue with the connecting rods and crankshafts in this type of engine. As I investigated the issue, I found that 600,000 vehicles were recalled with the recall either completely replacing the engine or upgrading the oil type from standard to a thicker, higher-viscosity 0W-40 full synthetic to provide better protection under high stress, along with a new oil cap and filter. In our case, we were directed to change the oil and even with that change, we experienced this dangerous engine failure which cost us $12K ! For that cost of repair, we elected to have the engine replaced for about $1K more to get a 100K mile warranty on the engine. However, our additional concern with the replacement engine is they gave us a remanufactured version of the L87 and we have not found confirmation that they have adequately addressed the design/manufacturing flaws so may be vulnerable to the same seizing issue. We appreciate your attention to this widespread GM issue.
On April 20th, 2025 while accelerating from a stop light, my vehicle (2021 GMC Yukon Denali XL, 6.2L V8) started making a ticking noise and the service engine light started flashing. I was within a few minutes of my house and limped my vehicle home. The next morning, I started it and it exhibited the same symptoms. I called my local GMC Dealer, Wright Buick GMC, and was advised to have the vehicle towed to them. It was towed to the dealership and within a few days I was advised that the engine needed replaced. I had heard a story that there was a pending recall, so I had hoped that this would resolve itself without a bill to me. unfortunately I was advised that there was no actual outcome on how to handle recalls, so if I wanted my vehicle back, I would have to pay the $11K for replacement as I was outside of my power train warranty (I had roughly 73,000 miles on my car). I have hoped for some resolution to include my vehicle in this recall but I have not yet received any word from GMC.
I previously opened the federal safety agency Complaint Number11637208 on January 20, 2025 regarding the internal engine failure of my 2021 Yukon Denial XL on January 3, 2025. After filing that Complaint, the engine in my Yukon was replaced by GMC in February 2025. After replacement, the engine was allegedly tested, given an oil cap change, and OK'd by the GMC dealership. On Sunday, April 12, 2026, the replacement engine in my Yukon failed without warning and left me (and my family members, who were also in the Yukon) stranded in the lane of traffic on the westbound College Drive exit of I-10. We had it towed to the GMC dealership (Royal Buick GMC) the same day, they diagnosed it, and according to text communications I received from them on April 14, 2026, the Yukon's engine needs to be replaced again because the engine internally failed - likely due to the failure of the engine's internal rod bearing. No one in my family feels safe in the Yukon anymore. GMC should not be allowed to replace these engines with more faulty engines. If something more is not done soon, people are going to die because of the wrecks caused by these faulty engines.
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.
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.
I was driving my yukon xl with my family and as I was coming to a stop at a stop light my Yukon started to shake violently and make a pinging noise. The check engine light came on and as I drove the car smoke started to come out the exhaust. Luckily I was not on the highway as this could have been a serious safety issue for me and my family. I had my car towed to the dealership and they said the 8th cylinder was completely seized and that it was due to the connecting rod and crankshaft. The engine needs to be replaced. I have maintained my Yukon regularly as recommended by the manufacturer and the car was driving great with no issues or warning of having issues until this engine failure suddenly happened.
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated that while driving approximately 70 MPH, the vehicle started shuddering and was losing automotive power. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed, and it was determined that the transmission needed to be replaced. The contact stated that it was the second transmission failure in less than 2 months. The vehicle was repaired. The contact was advised by the mechanic that the manufacturer had recommended a diagnostic test on the engine. The diagnostic test had not yet been performed. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 64,000.
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated that while driving approximately 50 MPH and merging onto the freeway, the check engine warning started flashing and the vehicle started losing automotive power. The vehicle was driven back to the residence. After stopping the vehicle, the vehicle was idling roughly and was shaking abnormally. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer. The dealer diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The contact researched online and became aware that there were two open investigations for engine failure that included the year and the model vehicle. The failure mileage was approximately 94,000.
I have 60k miles on my 2021 yukon xl denali. the transmission went out in it in January. i have it in the shop in january for a new transmission. i got it back and the transmssion went out again in it. its currently in the shop. the transmission is a 10 speed and has been nothing but issues.
2021 Yukon Denali 6.2L V8, 137k miles- engine failure—driving down road 55mph and engine light came on, along with check esc and check traction warnings, vehicle began to rough idle and shake, motor knocking. Personally feel this is related to recall but my vin not included says dealership- I feel this recall is affecting way more vehicles than vin’s included. Dealership charged 220$ to plug it in, codes weren’t specific for problem. They are stating “lifter is bad and possibly cam, won’t know if the lifters scarred the cam until they take it apart” and charge me at least 6k is price quoted. No warnings at all before this happened. 137k miles so out of warranty. This put myself and kids in dangerous riding condition as I had to stop and have vehicle towed to dealership.
engine failure from the connecting rod and/or crankshaft. There is a current recall for this and my vehicle should be a part of it. I broke down on the side of a highway and had the vehicle towed to GMC dealership. There are now warning lights on with code P0016 and P0324
Vehicle was on highway when alerts started going off and a weird noise started. It scared the occupants as they were going 70mph on the highway when it happened. Luckily they were able to maneuver off the road in time and parked at a convenient store. Towed vehicle to dealership and metal was in the oil as a part failed in the engine. New engine was ordered by the dealership and installed. There were no prior warnings and the vehicle was completely maintained by the dealership. Engine failure in less than 5 years.
Lifter failure, resulting in costly repairs and possible catastrophic engine failure while driving. Vehicle has 78,000 miles and has been regularly serviced.
I experienced complete engine failure at around 76000 miles similar to a current engine recall for 2021 to 2024 6.2L V8 engines. However, my engine isn't included in the current recall. I also experienced the fuel pump control module problem requiring replacement. Again there is a recall for 2021 to 2024 6.2L V8 engines and again my engine wasn't included in this recall.
On August 21, 2025, my vehicle engine died in Connecticut when I was taking my son back to college. I had to have it towed back to South Jersey, where I live. The dealer informed me that my engine failed due to a major recall. I was without my vehicle for three months while they waited for a new engine. My car was returned to me with a refurbished engine.
Right as I was coming up on my powertrain warranty, I began to have lifter issues. I had two repairs of the original lifters that ultimately were not successful. I ended up replacing all lifters with the updated version that apparently repaired previous lifter issues. That repair cost around ~$6K. After six weeks of reasonable driving, I noticed engine oil notices for low engine oil. I was told today at a local dealership that the vehicle now needs engine replacement at $14K-16K. Both the dealer and corporate confirmed my vehicle VIN didn't qualify for the propulsion recall. GMC corporate also said nothing can be done now that the vehicle is out of drive train warranty.
While driving my Yukon it felt like there was an issue while it was trying to shift gears. the vehicle would sort of jerk while it was shifting. there also began to have a knocking sound as I drove. I had my children in the car, making this a more stressful situation. Having issues while driving on a highway with other vehicles driving at high speeds. Your vehicle having issues accelerating onto said highway as well. This all happened with only 68,445 miles on the vehicle. I called to schedule an appointment, drove it into the GM dealership. They stated that the lifters needed to be replaced and it would not be covered. As well as a rental vehicle not being covered, so both items came out of pocket. As I drove home from the dealership after they assured me everything was great, the engine light came on. Brought it back into the dealership to fixed again! This time it was the catalyst converter. This issue was covered by warranty somehow even though they stated it was tied together.
The car suddenly experienced engine failure while driving at highway speed (about 70 mph). The check engine light, as well as several other warning lights (Traction control, electronic stability control, etc) came on immediately before a metal-on-metal clunking sound and then loss of power. I was able to pull the car over to the side of the highway, and because of the clunking sound, felt it was unsafe to drive further and had it towed to a local dealer. The car has about 42,000 miles on it, in perfectly maintained condition, with all services performed at the Dealer per the recommended schedule.
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost drive power with several unknown warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who determined that the engine had seized and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to report the failure to the federal safety agency Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 22,000.
12/16/25 (evening): Warnings began cycling across the screen: 1) Service ESC, 2) Vehicle Leveling for Stability, 3) Rear Axel System Off, 4) Engine symbol began flashing, and 5) Service Traction Control. I felt vibration/bouncing while driving as well. 12/17/25 9 AM: Took 2021 GMC Yukon Denali to GMC dealership. They ran a computer scan and reported a misfire, but nothing else appeared to be wrong. They told me that sometimes a low battery can cause the warning lights and messages to cycle. They recommended that I keep driving it and return if the warnings appeared again. 12/17/25 9:18 AM: I left the dealership. I drove 4.5 miles, and all the same warning lights came back on. When I pulled into a parking lot, it smelled like my engine was on fire, and dark smoke was coming from my rear exhaust pipe. I called a flatbed tow truck and had the car returned to the dealership. Mileage: 52,285 GMC 2021Yukon Denali XL 6.2L V8 engine Well-maintained with regular oil changes. The dealership told me there was a lifter failure and that the engine could be damaged and would need to be replaced if the cam, pushrods, etc., were damaged. They also told me I was out of warranty by less than 60 days. The dealership said my warranty expired in October 2025, even though my vehicle is a 2021 with only 52,285 miles. They just informed me that the left lifter was replaced at 6,000 miles and that they will replace the right lifter. I am concerned about further damage down the road, given the recalls on the GMC 6.2L engines.
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.
Lifter failure with cylinder #6. Car violently shook prior to this failure. No engine lights or messages until the next day when tried to drive. Ended up towing car to dealer. Car had 76k miles on it. Recall on 6.2L, but not on the 5.3L which is not immune to this same issue as the 6.2L engine.
On December 1, 2025 at around 5pm CST, my 2021 GMC Yukon XL started making a squeeling noise then stopped while driving down the road. It left me stranded in the middle of the road. A P0016 CODE was produced and the engine light came on. I had the vehicle towed the next day to Stew Hanses GMC in Clive, Iowa. The engine was torn down for inspection and was told the rod bearing went bad and it had low oil even though I was within the window since the last oil change and having documented all necessary required maintenance. I was told the engine needs to be replaced and am in the process currently of Stew Hanson GMC replacing all necessary parts. I was told I do not have a recall on the vehicles vin number by GMC corporate and the GMC dealer. It is coming up on a month since the incident happened and vehicle towed to dealership. I do not have pictures from the dealer yet or final invoice as this is still in process. I wanted to document this somewhere.
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated that while driving at 30 MPH, the gear shifter independently shifted to neutral(N), and the vehicle speed decreased. The contact stated that upon depressing the brake pedal, the vehicle lost drive power. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed, and the dealer determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure the federal safety agency Campaign Number:25V274000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and filed a case. The contact was also referred to the federal safety agency Hotline to file a complaint. The failure mileage was 120,000.
Low engine oil message keeps flashing after less than 2,000 miles of driver. Excessive oil consumption. Took vehicle to GMC dealership and it was confirmed that an engine replacement or replacement of the pistons and rings is necessary. Only 77,000 miles on the vehicle. My car is currently not a part of the massive recall.
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