The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated that while accelerating approximately 35 - 40 MPH from a stoplight, the contact believed that the engine was going to seize. The message Low Power Mode was displayed on the instrument panel, and the vehicle went into LIMP Mode. The vehicle was immediately taken to the dealer, who retrieved DTC: P0700, P0776, and P1881. The contact researched and became aware of GMC Recall Number: N22382220; however, the VIN was not included. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and confirmed that the VIN was not included. The manufacturer referred the contact to the federal safety agency Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 167,000.
2021 GMC Yukon XL transmission complaints
Page 2 of 3: complaints 11 to 40 of 49, newest first, as owners wrote them.
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated that while driving approximately 55 MPH, the vehicle decelerated unintentionally and failed to accelerate above 35 MPH. The vehicle failed to respond when the accelerator pedal was depressed. The contact arrived at the residence and was able to coast into the driveway; however, the vehicle failed to drive forward or reverse. The check engine warning light was illuminated at the time of the failure, with the message “Reduce Acceleration - Drive with Care” displayed. The contact waited for a while and then attempted to move the vehicle, and the vehicle drove forward slowly, and while attempting to reverse(R), the engine revved abnormally but failed to respond. The gear shifter was shifted to drive, but the vehicle failed to respond, and the engine continued to rev until depressing the brake pedal. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, and the contact was informed that the valve body needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired because the part was on back order. The contact researched and associated the failure with the federal safety agency Campaign Number: 24V797000 (Power Train). The manufacturer was informed of the failure, and it was confirmed that the VIN was not included in the federal safety agency Campaign Number: 24V797000 (Power Train), and it opened a case. The manufacturer referred the contact to the federal safety agency Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 82,000.
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.
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.
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated that while his wife was driving approximately 30 MPH, the vehicle started to lose motive power with the message "Service Transmission Now" displayed. The driver was unable to shift the vehicle into reverse(R) and turned around and returned to the residence. The contact and his wife researched online and found that there was a recall for the transmission for the year and model under the federal safety agency Campaign Number: 24V797000 (Power Train). The contact had the vehicle towed to a dealer, who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the transmission valve body had failed and needed to be replaced. The contact discussed the recall and was advised by the dealer that the VIN was not included in the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.
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.
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.
While driving my 2021 GMC Yukon XL, the vehicle unexpectedly lost acceleration. After lifting off the gas pedal, it jolted forward, triggered a “Reduced Performance” dashboard warning, and remained in what felt like second gear, refusing to shift. I immediately pulled into a parking spot; when I attempted to reverse, the vehicle would not move backward. As you may imagine, this was a major safety concern, as I had my [XXX] and [XXX] children in the vehicle with me. I had the Yukon inspected at a GMC dealership, where a technician confirmed the issue originated from a faulty transmission valve body. My independent research has revealed this to be a widespread defect in the 2021 Yukon XL, prompting GM to issue Special CoverageXXX, which explicitly covers valve-body replacements for 2021 Yukon XLs experiencing reduced performance. Despite meeting these criteria and receiving identical diagnostic alerts, I was informed that my VIN is not covered. I am formally requesting that this safety-related defect—widespread among this model year—be recognized and my VIN included under Special Coverage XXX. The valve body causing the loss of propulsion in my Yukon XL is exactly the same defective component GM has acknowledged and is covering under this program. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
I'm vehicle has experience both active recalls for similar model year but my VIN isn't listed as been one that is covered by the call. 25V274000 and 21V739000.
Routine oil change by professional local mechanic. Upon completion we were told that the vehicle would not turnover. The mechanic diagnosed and found that were 2 recalls for our vehicle - one for the fuel pump module and one for the engine. We had our vehicle towed to the local GM dealership. They then replaced the fuel control module. GM tried to manually crank over but engine seized once again. We spoke to the GM Advisor prior to this and were told that our vehicle was not part of the engine recall because our VIN was not listed as part of it even though our vehicle had the same exact issues as described in the engine recall and was for the exact year/make/model of the engine. The dealer quoted us $14,896 to replace the engine. They stated they would submit a Goodwill claim to GMC to help discount the cost to repair/replace the engine. The dealer called back later that day and said GMC would be willing to cover 30% of the cost so our expense would be around $10,000. All this for a vehicle we've only driven for less than a year and a half. The vehicle went in for a routine oil change and has never had any issues prior to this. This happened suddenly without any sort of warning. To make matters worse, our powertrain warranty expired a day or two before this occurred. We are still trying to fight with GMC to cover this engine failure. The car has less than 75,000 miles and is only used for basic personal needs like driving to school and the store so it is shocking that the engine would suddenly fail like this and to make matters, the manufacturer refuses to take responsibility for it and to cover it under the recall even though there has been known widespread issues with this engine.
Vehicle Information Make: GMC Model: Yukon XL Denali Year: 2021 VIN: [XXX] 1. What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The engine failed due to defective lifters and camshaft components, along with excessive oil consumption. These issues rendered the vehicle inoperable and required over $10,000 in repairs. The failed components are available for inspection upon request. 2. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? The engine failure occurred while the vehicle was in motion, creating a dangerous situation for my family and other drivers. Sudden loss of engine power could have led to a collision or left us stranded in unsafe conditions. 3. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes. The issue was diagnosed and confirmed by DeFouw GMC in Lafayette, Indiana. GMC has acknowledged the defect and agreed to cover all but $2,000 of the repair costs. 4. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? The vehicle has been inspected by DeFouw GMC. GMC is aware of the issue under Case #[XXX]. No inspections have been conducted by police or insurance representatives. 5. Were there any warning lamps, messages, or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? No, it all happened at once. The vehicle was extremely well cared for, and GM has all of the oil change records. Additional Comments: We have been without our family vehicle since [XXX], and GMC has not provided an estimated arrival date for the replacement engine. We are now entering month four without a vehicle, which has severely impacted our family’s mobility and safety. This delay is unacceptable and reflects poorly on GMC’s commitment to customer safety and service. Has also cost us over $10,000 out of pocket, which I will seek reimbursement for legally, if I must. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U
Lifters failed
My 2021 GMC Yukon XL Denali is part of the April 2025 recall for the 6.2L V8 engine defect. The dealership confirmed the engine must be replaced, but the part is on backorder, potentially for several months. In the meantime, GMC only authorized a GMC Acadia as a courtesy vehicle. The Acadia is not comparable to our Yukon XL. We are a family of six, and while the Acadia has a third row, there is almost no cargo space with it in use. Our Yukon XL has over three times the cargo capacity, which is necessary for safely transporting luggage and sports equipment during our frequent trips (2–3 times per month). Because of this, we have already been forced to rent a larger SUV at our own expense for a recent trip. GMC’s Courtesy Transportation Program states that owners should receive comparable transportation during recall repairs. Despite escalating through the dealership, GMC Customer Assistance, and even the regional manager, we were denied a comparable loaner or guaranteed rental coverage. This leaves our family in an unsafe and impractical situation while waiting months for the recall repair.
The Yukon has stopped while driving twice. The check engine light came on, the dealership says there is an oil problem and the oil pump is bad along with bad lifters. There is wear to the motor as well.
10 speed transmission It’s been at the dealer for a month and they checked it today. Same issues as the mass recall Dash alert for reduced speed drive with caution. It was extremely dangerous because it malfunctioned on curvy winding roads
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated while driving 70 MPH, the vehicle shuddered abnormally with the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact received notification of the federal safety agency Campaign Number: 24V797000 (Power Train); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the transmission control valve had failed and needed to the replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 66,000. Parts distribution disconnect.
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, there was a whining sound coming from the transmission. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who diagnosed that the transmission pump had failed, causing severe damages to the transmission. The contact was advised that the transmission needed to be replaced. The transmission was replaced but while retrieving the vehicle from the dealer the vehicle failed to start. The vehicle was inspected by the dealer, and it was determined that the engine had seized and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The contact was informed that the VIN was not included in the federal safety agency Campaign Number: 25V274000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING). The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was 73,000.
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated while driving approximately 45–50 MPH, the engine was making an abnormal sound. The contact stopped and lightly depressed the accelerator pedal and continued driving. The contact stated that the transmission failed to shift gear. The RPM increased to high. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired under warranty, but the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken back to the same dealer who determined that the failure was related to the transmission. The vehicle was repaired but the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken to another local dealer, Hennessy GMC (145 Industrial Blvd, McDonough, GA 30253); where it was diagnosed and the contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 66,000.
Transmission issue - 2021 Yukon XL broke down 5/6/25 while driving with 2 of our children in the vehicle. the RPMs skyrocketed but the vehicle wouldn't go. was hard shifting and speed would not exceed 35ish MPH. message popped up on vehicle that said acceleration throttled and engine light came on. Took it to dealership and it is a known problem. Transmission needs a valve body replacement. This part is on national backorder for months. Spoke with the dealership on 6/5/25 and they still do not have an ETA. They ordered one on 3/19/25 that still has not arrived. I received a case number from GM but they are extremely unhelpful.
In March 2025, a situation happened to me during a six hour round trip drive. I experienced a loss of acceleration. Vehicle engine felt it was stumbling when accelerating or seemed like I had ran something over. I don't remember seeing any lights coming on. Pulled over immediately, turned off the vehicle. Turned it back on and drove back home three hours worried it may happen again. I didnt see any warning lights on the trip.
Driving at 55MPH and suddenly the car starts to shack and warning/notification lights copme up on the dash. Check Engine Traction Control Service light Suspension service Was able to drive it to GMC dealership nearby 2.6Mile
My lifters collapsed and camshaft got damaged AND my cylinder in the bottom of my engine failed also. I know there is a recall for engine failure on the exact year make and model as my vehicle, the only difference is the liter engine. Mine and my 3 children’s safety were all put at risk when we were left stranded on the side of the road 6 hours from home The problem was inspected by GMC themselves and the tech admitted to this being a big problem with motors like mine yet they are offering ZERO help to make it right with me because my liter engine isn’t on the recall list even though many are acknowledging its happening with the 5.3 liter engines as well. My engine has failed as part of GMCs negligence. There were absolutely zero warning signs prior to this happening
Vehicle would not go in Reverse. Rear tires locked up. When I went forward an error came up "Reduce acceleration" and went into limp mode while driving down the highway and shifted hard and almost caused an accident. Bought into dealer and they found that it needs a valve body assembly Part which is on backorder with no ETA. Currently been waiting for a month and still no ETA on Part. This should be a recall for 5.3L 10 speed. .
I am writing to formally report a serious issue with my 2021 GMC Yukon XL. The vehicle has developed multiple severe problems, including: •Significant loss of engine power •Noticeable engine knocking noises •Transmission slipping while driving •Transmission movement even when the vehicle is at a full stop These issues not only impair the performance of the vehicle but also raise serious safety concerns. The loss of power and the slipping transmission could lead to a dangerous situation while driving, placing both myself and other motorists at risk.
I am writing to express my concern regarding a serious issue with my 2021 GMC Yukon. Recently, while driving, I experienced a sudden surge in power. About five minutes later, when attempting to shift into reverse, the vehicle would not respond. I tried multiple times with no success. Afterward, while driving it briefly around the block, it made a clunking sound, which raised further concern. Ultimately, I had to call a tow truck, and the vehicle was taken to George Gee GMC in Liberty Lake, Washington. Unfortunately, the next day the dealership was unable to duplicate the issue. There were no warning messages on the screen at the time of the incident, and no diagnostic codes were found, so they could not move forward with any repair. I later discovered that this exact issue is addressed in Technical Service Bulletin N242454441-02. However, I was informed that my VIN is not included in the special coverage, despite my vehicle being the same year and equipped with the same transmission mentioned in the bulletin. I am deeply concerned that this problem could happen again—possibly while I am driving in Canada, transporting my children, or in a location where calling a tow truck would be very difficult. My safety and my family’s safety are at risk, and frankly, I am now anxious about driving a vehicle I used to trust. I also have an extended warranty, but when I contacted GM service, I was told that unless the problem can be duplicated, it would not be covered. This is extremely frustrating given the severity of the issue and the fact that it is already documented in an official bulletin. I am requesting that this situation be escalated. I would appreciate any additional support, coverage, or guidance GM can offer to help ensure this issue is resolved and does not put me or my family at risk again.
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated while driving approximately 3-5 MPH, the vehicle unintendedly shifted to neutral, and the vehicle stalled immediately. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to restart. The vehicle was towed to the dealer and was diagnosed with engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired because the engine was on backorder. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and confirmed that the VIN was not under recall. The manufacturer opened a case for the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000. The VIN was unavailable.
Vehicle wont go in reverse and skips gears and an error came up to reduce acceleration. - Valve body Control assembly needing to be replaced.
On [XXX], my wife and our children were driving back home from Barstow when the vehicle stalled on the [XXX] freeway near Colton, CA. While driving at approximately 50–65 mph, we heard a clanking noise coming from the engine, followed by multiple warning and maintenance lights illuminating on the dash. The vehicle then lost all acceleration power and shut off, leaving my wife and children stranded in the middle lane of moving traffic. All of this happened in a matter of seconds. This situation quickly became a life-threatening incident. Vehicles, including large semi-trucks, were swerving and honking to avoid colliding with our stalled Yukon. Fearing for my family’s safety, I was forced to exit the vehicle in the middle of traffic and physically push the Yukon to the side of the freeway, while trying to keep my wife and children calm inside the vehicle. The panic and distress this caused my family—especially my wife, whose anxiety skyrocketed—is beyond unacceptable. Highway law enforcement arrived and remained there until we were able to get a safety tow off the freeway and out to a service shop with GMC. Just before that, we had received our vehicle back on February 20th, 2025 after being with the GMC dealership since January 3rd, 2025, for engine replacement. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
The 6.2 engine started ticking now. It needs to be rebuilt. It's ridiculous. We service it every 3000 miles. Our 2017 Sierra had a valve stick that ruined the cam. It has the same 6.2 engine with only 78,000 miles on it.
The transmission went out. Torque converter put metal all through the transmission. While driving at highway speeds in traffic almost got rear ended
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