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GMC Yukon XL stalling problems

107 of the 2,462 owner complaints about the GMC Yukon XL describe engine stalls while driving, most of them for the 2021 model year.

owner complaints
107
worst model year
2021
typical mileage
70,000
Is there a fix? There are 2 recalls for this area of the car. See below

By model year

Often reported together

Engine failure 29Check engine light 21Fuel pump 19Loss of power 9Knocking 9Won't start 7Shudder 4Transmission failure 3

Trouble codes mentioned

P129F 4U3018 1P2635 1P2534 1P2135 1P0300 1P018B 1P0016 1

What owners say

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 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 20, 2026 · Engine · FL

vehicle keeps stall and loose power , I've been to the dealer many times and they replaced many parts (paid out of pocket)and the problem still , so after all of that and the struggle for months that i need to replace the engine . so i did replace the engine that cost me over 6k (out of pocket) and the problem is still , i went back and forth to the dealership and couldn't figure it out or reimburse me for anything.

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 13, 2026 · Engine · KY · crash · 2 injuries

On XXX, I was driving my 2022 GMC Yukon XL Denali equipped with the 6.2L L87 V8 engine, with my [XXX] stepson as a passenger, when the engine malfunctioned and stalled, leaving the vehicle disabled in traffic. The vehicle registered diagnostic trouble code P0016 (Crankshaft Position–Camshaft Position Correlation, Bank 1 Sensor A). Prior to this incident, the vehicle had undergone GM's L87 Engine Loss of Propulsion Safety Recall 25V‑274 (GM Campaign N252494000). The vehicle passed the required engine inspection and was cleared to receive the prescribed oil viscosity change from 0W-20 to 0W-40. Under GM's recall service procedure, vehicles displaying P0016 during the inspection were required to be quarantined rather than proceeding with the oil-change remedy. Therefore, the completion of the prescribed remedy indicates that P0016 was not identified during the earlier recall screening. Despite passing GM's engine inspection and receiving the recall remedy, the engine subsequently experienced a failure involving P0016 and a complete loss of propulsion. This raises significant concerns about whether GM's inspection procedures and oil viscosity remedy adequately identify and prevent engine failures in affected vehicles. While our Yukon was disabled in traffic due to the engine stall, another motorist failed to stop and struck the vehicle from behind. The collision caused extensive damage, and the vehicle was subsequently declared a total loss. Although the other driver failed to stop, the engine failure was the initiating event that left our vehicle stranded and exposed to approaching traffic. At the time of the collision, I was [XXX] pregnant and required ambulance transportation, emergency medical evaluation, head imaging, and fetal monitoring. I subsequently experienced post-concussion symptoms and a mandibular-joint injury. My [XXX] stepson was also inside the vehicle. Vehicle can be held for inspection w/letter sent. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Oct 5, 2026 · Engine · 33,500 miles · PA

The contact owns a 2025 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated that while driving 35 MPH, there was a tapping sound coming from the vehicle and the vehicle stalled. The check engine warning light illuminated and then turned off. The vehicle was driven to the residence. The dealer was contacted by phone and made aware of the failure. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the failure was not duplicated. The failure reoccurred. The contact stated that the tapping sound was louder and more persistent. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, but the vehicle was not diagnosed. The contact stated that the failure had occurred while out of state. The contact stated that the vehicle was unsafe to drive. The failure mileage was approximately 33,500.

Filed Sep 9, 2026 · Engine · 34,000 miles · LA

The contact owns a 2023 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated that while driving 70 MPH, the vehicle stalled, and the engine seized. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was coasted to the side of the road. The vehicle failed to restart and was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that the vehicle had previously been repaired under an oil consumption-related recall. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure by telephone, and a case was opened. The failure mileage was approximately 34,000.

Filed Aug 30, 2026 · Electrical, Engine · IA

I was Driving down the interstate when the RPMS on my car increased and my car started to shutter. I went to get off the roadway and it put itself into neutral and lowered my speed. when i got On the shoulder it stalled and would not turn back on. I had To be towed. To this point, my car has been in the shop for over a week with no solution.

Related recalls

Engine and engine cooling: engine: hard parts internal/mechanicalReported April 24, 2025 · 597,571 vehicles affected
What is wrong
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, and Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles equipped with a 6.2L V8 gas engine. The connecting rod and/or crankshaft engine components may have manufacturing defects that can lead to engine damage and engine failure.
Risk
Engine failure increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the engine, and as necessary, repair or replace the engine. For vehicles that pass inspection, dealers will add higher viscosity oil, install 6 oil fill cap, replace the oil filter, and update the owner's manual. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 18, 2025. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1‑800‑333‑4223, Chevrolet customer service at 1‑800‑222‑1020, or GMC customer service at 1‑800‑462‑8782. GM's number for this recall is N252494000.

Recall number 25V274000 · Recall details

Engine and engine coolingReported August 3, 2006 · 38,439 vehicles affected
What is wrong
On certain trucks equipped with an 8.1l v8 (rpo l8-VIN g) engine have a condition in which the engine fuel rail pulse damper retainer clip may fracture resulting in inadequate retention of the damper.
Risk
If the damper comes loose, a fuel leak may result. Fuel leakage, in the presence of an ignition source, could result in a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the engine fuel rail pulse damper retainer clip free of charge. The recall began on august 31, 2006. Owners may contact chevrolet at 1‑800‑630‑2438 and gmc trucks at 1‑866‑996‑9463.

Recall number 06V289000 · Recall details

Questions about the GMC Yukon XL stalling

Which GMC Yukon XL years have engine stalls while driving problems?

The model years with the most reports are 2021 (20 complaints), 2023 (17 complaints) and 2022 (11 complaints).

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