What 295 owners told NHTSA about the 2021 GMC Yukon Denali Xl 1500

See attached document for complaint.

NHTSA ODI 11676093

The contact owns a 2022 GMC Yukon. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled, and the engine seized. The contact attempted to restart the vehicle however, the vehicle failed to restart. There were several family members inside the vehicle during the failure. No warning lights were illuminated. A nearby driver attempted to jumpstart the vehicle; however, the vehicle failed to start. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with a failed fuel pump modulator. The contact was referred to the dealer for assistance. The vehicle was then towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a failed fuel pump modulator. The contact was informed that the fuel pump modulator needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V739000 (Fuel system, Gasoline); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 52,000.

NHTSA ODI 11676126

knocking, banging, engine noises, illumination of the check engine light, engine performance issues at high rpm and fluttering at low rpm. oil consumption but not leaking. The engine needs to be replaced as the bearing is shot, cylinder 7 is shot. I believe this is directly related to NHTSA Recall #25V-274 and Manufacturer Recall #N252494000

NHTSA ODI 11676153

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, the vehicle unexpectedly stopped, and the engine seized. The contact stated that there was not enough power from the engine to drive the vehicle to the shoulder of the road. No warning light was illuminated. While attempting to restart the vehicle, the vehicle failed to restart. In addition, the contact stated that his family were occupants of the vehicle during the failure. The contact stated that it was a frightening event for his family. The vehicle 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 not repaired. The contact was informed that parts were unavailable to repair the vehicle. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 89,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

NHTSA ODI 11676261

Per the dealership where we purchased our vehicle, one lifter gave out and damaged the camshaft. Since there are no guarantees if we replace one lifter this will not happen again. We chose to purchase a new engine rather than purchasing a rebuilt engine. I don't know if this qualifies as a safety issue but we were afraid to drive our vehicle. It has now been at the dealership since May 15 waiting for a new engine. The following warnings showed up on our dash: leveling suspension engine failure stability control head on collision Our GMC denali has a 6.2L v8 engine

NHTSA ODI 11675737

Acceleration failing. Knocking of motor, winding sound, a huge clicking sound when accelerating, and engine burning very excessively. We have 4 children and its very unsettling to say the least on a 100,000 vehicle we paid for. I hope and pray you include our vin number with the 6.2 recall as the dealer is well aware of this problem long before the current recall. It's very unfortunate that our vin wasn't part of this very serious safety issue. Thank you

NHTSA ODI 11674635

The GMC is starting to loss power in the engine. GMC has not send me an appointment to inspect the engine. This vehicle is my only transportation to work and doctors appointment. This is not fair for a powerful company like GMC is not taking the ownership of the engine in this vehicle. I need action asap. Please assist. Thank you

NHTSA ODI 11674211

Vehicle: 2021 GMC Yukon Denali Component: Fuel System, Gasoline – Fuel Pump Control Module Incident Date: 7-10-2025 Mileage 61,263 Location: SR 2006 Coats, NC Summary of Complaint: While my wife was pulling out of our neighborhood in our 2021 Yukon Denali, the vehicle suddenly shut off while navigating a slight curve. It came to a complete stop in the roadway and could not be restarted. The engine would not crank, and the vehicle could not be shifted into neutral, making it impossible to move out of traffic. The Yukon remained disabled in the roadway for over an hour and ultimately had to be towed. Upon inspection, the dealership mechanic immediately identified the issue without even running diagnostics. He confirmed it was a failed fuel pump control module, which he stated is a common issue with this model. This failure represents a serious safety risk, particularly had it occurred on a high-speed interstate or in dense traffic. A sudden loss of power and inability to move the vehicle can result in dangerous roadside situations or collisions. GMC needs to address this recurring defect before it leads to more severe incidents or injuries. No warning lights or indicators appeared prior to the failure.

NHTSA ODI 11673975

I received an official safety recall notice from GM (Recall Number N252494000) for my 2021 GMC Yukon due to a defect in the engine's connecting rod or crankshaft components. GM stated that this defect can cause engine failure and loss of propulsion, which significantly increases the risk of a crash. The notice also confirmed that parts to fix the issue are currently unavailable and provided no timeline for resolution. Despite the serious safety risk, GM and my local dealer have not offered a loaner vehicle while waiting for the repair, leaving me without a safe means of transportation. I am filing this complaint because I believe GM is not taking sufficient steps to protect customers from a known and documented safety hazard.

NHTSA ODI 11674153

Vehicle engine seized. Approx 80,000 miles. After discussion with mechanic and dealership, this problem is common with GM L87 6.2L gas engines. Engine seize likely caused from defective crank bearings. No warning light, oil was in engine, vehicle recently serviced. No oil warning light on dash or temperature sensor on dash, or check engine light. Drove car on road trip - when arrived at destination parked car - few hours later went to start vehicle and wouldn't start. My VIN is not subject to recall - currently; however, many 2021 GM engines are recalled. Why wouldn't my 2021 engine be included in this recall? Or all customers notified of potential dangers? I frequently drive carpools with many children in the car - and an engine seizure at any point while driving puts me as driver and any passengers at risk. Vehicle currently being towed to dealer for 2nd diagnosis. First autobody shop diagnosed with engine seizure.

NHTSA ODI 11673788

I have again taken my vehicle in for about 8th time trying to get an understanding of why my vehicle vibrates. Again, I was told that the problem could not be duplicated. However, when picking up, I had a discussion with the service manager whom had driven the vehicle as well.. He stated that he felt and heard something from the rear end. I explained that I had the differential fluid change about 2 months ago due to a growling noise when making a left turn. He printed the service bulletin for the differential and put it with my paper. I was told I would receive a call from him the following Monday to bring my truck back in to further investigate because it sounded like the vehicle has a bad rear end. I have not received a call back and have attempted to make contact with service manager twice. My powertrain warranty is almost up and fear that after is when they will finally make a diagnosis of the issue. My engine and transmission vibrates and the whole vehicle shakes when cranking and turning off. This is in addition when driving at any speed. At idle it vibrates and can be felt throughout the entire vehicle. I am afraid that this vehicle is going to stall or fail why traveling with my family. The problem is only getting worst, transmission fluid temperature is starting to rise higher than normal. I am just afraid at this point that I have wasted thousands of dollars on a vehicle and GMC is not willing to fix the problem. I have the L87 and just not understanding with the problems I am having why my truck hasn't been recalled. It was built before 07/2021 when the Arlington plant had to stop make on rear axle drive shaft for propulsion. This truck is a safety hazard. 3rd notice to NHTSA

NHTSA ODI 11673375

While driving the vehicle shut off, leaving my family stranded in the middle of traffic. It was a 90+ degree day and my family was stuck in a hot car unable to move off the roadway. This was very unsafe. No warning lights prior, the engine just stopped. After multiple times trying to restart the vehicle, the battery died. After waiting several hours, the vehicle was towed to the local dealership where it was determined that the driver fuel control module needed replaced and re programmed.

NHTSA ODI 11672290

My Denali had no previous problems, I pull out of the driveway and I felt a hard Lunge forward without me pushing the gas. Almost like the car accelerated like a hard jerk. I pulled over because I thought I had been hit by another car. After checking no cars around, I pull back out and I felt it again a hard lunge forward. If someone would have been in front of me I would have hit the car in front of me without even pushing the gas. These GMC are dangerous and can’t trust my vehicle. After getting stranded on the road found out the transmission went out. My suv is now being repaired at GMC at my expense. Only had the vehicle 6 months. Recall the transmission.

NHTSA ODI 11671846

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal knocking sound coming from the engine compartment before the vehicle lost motive power. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact pulled over to the shoulder of the roadway, where the failure persisted. The vehicle returned to normal functionality, but the failure became a regular occurrence. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who determined that the engine was extremely low on oil even after a recent oil change but was unable to determine the cause of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000 (Engine and Engine Cooling), but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 70,000.

NHTSA ODI 11670482

Recall N212332040 Car lost power and stalled on highway, at highway speed Dangerous Recall on fuel pump PCM did not cover this year vehicle based on VIN.

NHTSA ODI 11670267

Knocking coming from engine, seems like engine failure

NHTSA ODI 11670400

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

NHTSA ODI 11669224

Purchased certified used from Davis Chevrolet in 2023 with multi-point inspection. Had motor replaced due to engine lifter failure in July 24, 2024. Electronic fuel module failed June 22, 2025. I have had multiple issues in between including alternator, belt/pulley system, rear end issues costing thousands of dollars all while paying a large amount monthly. The vehicle is giving constant issues and is not safe.

NHTSA ODI 11668930

Had the engine replaced at 10,342 and the engine just went out again at 85,343 Old engine #N1210061cu8x0090 replaced at 10,342 Faulty replacement engine #t2211729l92x0913 I show this engine is part of the recall from but GMC is telling me my engine isn’t part of this recall and won’t cover my faulty engine that just went out.

NHTSA ODI 11668983

The engine and transmission shakes and they say all this normal. Vibration occurs throughout vehicle at idle or driving at any speed. Also, rpm hand slightly moves up and down while idling in park. The vibration is more prominent in 2 and 3 row seats. I have taken it in about 7 or 8 times for the same issue to 4 different dealerships. Only one has actually felt the issue and visually saw the vibration/hop in rear of vehicle. The technician could not determine the problem as GM only allowed a visual inspection. He was not allowed to take anything apart so I am still left with the issue and it is getting worse. In addition, vehicle taken to collision shop to inspect frame, vehicle was within spec. Vehicle is now back at another dealership to address the issue. The only thing that all the dealerships have done is road force balance tires, alignment, and changed out driveshaft axle from a prior recall. I paid to have to have a differential fluid change still has vibration. At this point, it is concerning because as I stated the problem is getting worse. Also, dealers are looking for a computerized answer and I dont think a powertrain issue will be diagnosed this way. My truck should be under recalls but none has applied to it.

NHTSA ODI 11668549

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon. The contact stated while driving 68 MPH, the vehicle stalled. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact was able to pull over to the shoulder of the road. The vehicle failed to restart and was pushed into a parking lot, where a mobile mechanic determined that the battery and the starter needed to be replaced. The parts were replaced; however, the failure persisted. The mechanic determined that the engine had seized. The vehicle was towed to Pruneda Auto Mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the engine had seized and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

NHTSA ODI 11667646

On 05.29.25 my 2021 GMC Yukon Denali with 24,000 experienced engine issues and ultimately a total failure. While driving at 65 miles an hour the engine light began blinking and a thumping/knocking noise began on the front passenger side of the vehicle. I was 1 mile away from the GM dealership and went there immediately. They called me two hours later confirming the engine failure and that it would have to be replaced. They stated, however, the engine is experiencing a national backorder. No timeline has been provided for the engine to be received or replaced. I am curious to know if the new engine will come from the same engine group that is currently having issues, and if this can happen again.

NHTSA ODI 11667419

The oil level reads way below from what the engine percentage tell me. The vehicle Oil consumption happens to fast. My last two oil changes have been within a month

NHTSA ODI 11667293

The #3 lifter on my cars engine failed with 80101 miles on it. The engine started to run weak by shuttering. My wife was driving and the car was shaking at a stop and vibrated upon acceleration. I took the car to the dealer and they said the #3 lifter collapsed and could have caused engine failure. The dealer replaced the lifters on that side of the engine.

NHTSA ODI 11666922

For whatever reason our 2021 GMC Yukon Denali is not listed in the current 2025 GMC motor recall including cams and lifters and accompanying parts. While driving our truck about a mile from the house the vehicle began seizing and shaking (almost as if we had blown several tires); we immediately pulled over and accessed. Called Dealership and had truck towed there immediately. We are told that it needs cams and lifters and that b/c our VIN does not pull up a recall that the repairs will cost ~$9800.

NHTSA ODI 11664389