2021 GMC Yukon XL: engine stalls while driving

Filed Nov 4, 2026 · Electrical, Engine · MI

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.

Filed Nov 4, 2026 · Engine, Fuel system · MI

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.

Filed Oct 27, 2026 · Electrical, Engine · TN

**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.

Filed Oct 14, 2026 · Engine · AZ

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.

Filed Aug 23, 2026 · Acceleration, Engine · OH

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.

Filed Jul 3, 2026 · Engine, Transmission · SC

My family and were traveling to visit family, and the transmission stalled on me on the interstate. I almost had a horrible accident with my kids in the vehicle. The vehicle is in the shop currently and dx with transmission issues. GMC needs to recall and or fix the transmissions in all of their vehicle.

Filed Jun 16, 2026 · Fuel system · 59,000 miles · MA

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 the federal safety agency 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 federal safety agency Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 59,000.

Filed Jun 6, 2026 · Engine, Seat belts · OR

While I was driving home from the grocery store with my 4 kids our 2021 GMC Yukon XL (5.3L V8 engine), the vehicle suffered a sudden, catastrophic mechanical engine failure without warning. The engine began violently shaking, lost major propulsion, and dropped into a severe misfire state when we were coming down the highway. This created an immediate safety hazard on the road, as I suddenly lost the ability to safely accelerate or maintain highway speeds while hauling my children.A certified technician diagnosed the issue as a complete failure of the active fuel management hydraulic valve lifters and bent pushrods, a known manufacturing defect explicitly documented in GM Technical Service Bulletin PIP5776F. The internal failure required a total engine teardown and valvetrain replacement, costing over $10,000 out of pocket.General Motors has failed to issue a safety recall for this specific 5.3L valvetrain defect, despite it causing unexpected engine stalls, severe power loss, and immediate traffic hazards for drivers. This defective component poses an ongoing safety risk to families and should be upgraded to a mandatory safety recall. I am afraid to drive it every time I get on the highway in fear it could shut down again.

Filed Apr 14, 2026 · Electrical, Engine · MI

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.

Filed Oct 9, 2025 · Engine · IN

Subject: Assistance Request – Vehicle Engine Failure Shortly After Purchase I am reaching out for assistance regarding a serious issue with a vehicle I recently purchased. Approximately two weeks after purchasing the vehicle, the engine failed completely. I was driving it to pick up my daughter from school and when I went to go from stopping at a red light the engine light started flashing, the car said lowering for stabilization, and it started smoking and wouldn't go. I was almost hit due to the engine just stalling. When I was able to drive it was shaking and I couldn't go past 30. I made it to the dealership that was 7 mins away and had a guy from service come out. There wasn't any warnings before the engine went out. The dealership has informed me that I am responsible for the repair cost even though vehicles of the same year, make, and model have an active engine recall for this exact issue. Despite this, the dealership and manufacturer have refused to cover or assist with the repair, and there is currently no estimated time for replacement parts or a loaner vehicle. I have documentation from Greg Hubler on there diagnosis. I believe this situation may involve a warranty, recall, or consumer protection concern, and I would like to know what steps I can take or if your office can assist with resolving this matter.

Filed Aug 21, 2025 · Engine · 50,000 miles · MN

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated that after start-up, the vehicle was driving roughly before the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, who diagnosed the vehicle with engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The contact had previously received notification of the federal safety agency Campaign Number: 25V274000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING). The mechanic related the failure to the recall, but parts were not yet available for the recall repair. The failure mileage was 50,000.

Filed Aug 5, 2025 · Fuel system · NJ

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