GMC Yukon XL knocking problems

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

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.

Filed Oct 23, 2026 · Engine · NC

While driving at about 35-40 mph, vehicle went into limp mode and then stalled. Vehicle would not restart until hours later after being towed. When vehicle started there is the sound of a rod(s) knocking in the engine.

Filed Oct 19, 2026 · Engine · NY

Loud engine knocking. Told by dealer it was the 6.2 recall issue. Previously cleared as ok.

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 Oct 1, 2026 · Engine, Transmission · KY

The vehicle was being driven from work to home on the interstate, when a loud ticking/knocking noise was heard while exiting the interstate. The motor lost power when trying to accelerate while pulling into our driveway. It was noticed that the "Service Transmission" light came on as well. It was towed to the Chevrolet dealership in Bardstown, KY where they did diagnostic testing and stated that the motor had "locked up" and will have to be replaced. The service person at the Chevrolet dealership stated that the transmission could have been affected also because the service transmission light was on as well. We are lucky the loss of power and the engine locking up did not occur on the interstate where multiple people could have been injured. The ticking/knocking and the complete engine locking up occurred within a 5 minute time span. The check engine light and service transmission lights did not come on until the vehicle coasted into our driveway. The vehicle had participated in the recall of putting a higher viscosity oil in by the Chevrolet dealership.

Filed Sep 29, 2026 · Engine · 117,200 miles · FL

The contact owns a 2019 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated that while driving, there was a loud knocking sound coming from the engine compartment. The vehicle was cautiously driven to the residence and parked. The vehicle was later towed to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed, and it was determined that the engine active fuel management lifter in cylinder #1 had failed, and the contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The engine was replaced, and the vehicle was repaired. The local dealer and manufacturer were notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was 117,200.

Filed Sep 29, 2026 · Engine · OK

The vehicle is consuming every bit of oil at about 1500 to 1800 miles of the 3000 mile guidelines before the next oil change. No leaks. No smoke. No knocking in motor.

Filed Sep 22, 2026 · Engine · PA

I had the recall remedy of the v8 completed. They said it only required thicker oil which now lowers fuel economy and costs more for oil changes. After the recall, the engine still makes a knocking sound

Filed Sep 18, 2026 · Engine · MT

Vehicle has been consuming engine oil at a rate of approximately 1 quart per 500 miles. On XXX, owner added 1 quart of oil in [XXX], then drove a round trip to [XXX] and back (approx. 860 miles). On XXX at 55,329 miles — only 9 days and roughly 860 miles after that quart was added — an oil change was performed at an independent shop; the technician noted no oil was present on the dipstick prior to service. On XXX at 55,829 miles — exactly 500 miles later — the vehicle was taken to an authorized GMC dealership, and the dipstick again showed no oil prior to service. The dealer began the manufacturer's oil consumption test protocol, performing an oil and filter change and other maintenance. Within approximately 74 miles of this service (current mileage 55,903), the engine began making an audible knocking noise. Oil level was checked and confirmed full/normal, ruling out low oil as the cause. The knock has been intermittent — not present at cold idle start, but returning during driving conditions, raising concern about potential engine failure or loss of power while driving. They can not get it back in till XXX. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Sep 15, 2026 · Engine · TN

The rod bearing failed while traveling at highway speeds, so yes our safety as well as others traveling on the interstate. It is available for inspection. A dealership inspected and confirmed the reported problem. The manufacturer is aware of the persistent problems with these vehicles' engine components, reliability and safety. There were not any symptoms, warning lights, etc. prior to failure. I had just purchased the vehicle and it was inspected by two independent mechanics prior to failure. I have contacted the manufacture to find that my VIN was not covered under the recall. The recall covers vehicles manufactured starting 3/1/2021, my vehicle was manufactured 10/2020. THE RECALL SHOULD BE EXPANDED TO COVER ALL OF THESE VEHICLES.