2021 GMC Yukon XL: complete transmission failure

Filed Sep 1, 2026 · Engine, Transmission · IL

Vehicle is equipped with the 6.2L L87 V8 engine. Prior to receiving the dealer service for Recall 25V‑274, the vehicle experienced a distinct highway vibration, powertrain shudder, and fluctuating/jumping RPMs on the highway. The dealer subsequently performed the recall remedy by updating the vehicle to the thicker 0W-40 oil specification. However, the underlying transmission torque converter had already suffered catastrophic failure due to the powertrain stress/shudder and required a complete transmission replacement at 84,000 miles. I am reporting this because the initial 6.2L engine defect and subsequent recall remedy overlap heavily with severe powertrain and torque converter failures at low mileage

Filed Aug 24, 2026 · Transmission · TX

2022 GMC Yukon XL suffered catastrophic transmission failure at approximately 87,000 miles. An ASE-certified transmission repair facility determined that the torque converter failed, resulting in transmission damage requiring over $7,000 in repairs. GM declined any assistance solely because the repair was performed by an independent ASE-certified facility. I am concerned that a major transmission component failure at this mileage may represent a broader defect, particularly given transmission-related service bulletins and the federal safety agency Recall 26V085 affecting certain 2022 Yukon XL vehicles.

Filed Apr 9, 2026 · Engine, Transmission · 64,000 miles · IL

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.

Filed Apr 7, 2026 · Engine, Transmission · IL

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.

Filed Jun 24, 2025 · Engine, Transmission · 73,000 miles · KY

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.

Filed Jun 10, 2025 · Engine, Transmission · 66,000 miles · GA

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.

Filed Apr 2, 2025 · Transmission · SC

The transmission went out. Torque converter put metal all through the transmission. While driving at highway speeds in traffic almost got rear ended

Filed Nov 2, 2022 · Engine, Transmission · TX

GM has consistently failed to deliver safe and reliable vehicles to the american public. I purchased a 2021 GMC Yukon Denali XL and the transmission needs to be replaced completely after the valve body was already replaced once. This issue proves to me that GM is not a reliable and trustworthy brand, with poor business ethics and a track record of having to be bailed out by our very own government for low quality vehicles. I am asking for the Federal department to investigate thoroughly and recall all transmissions that could negatively impact american families. These vehicles are not affordable for the average household and the quality of workmanship does not match the price point. Please find attached a document from GM directly that covers all recalls and previous repairs done to my vehicle. I am now fighting to get my down payment refunded as well as the payments that I have made on my vehicle.