Home · 2023 GMC Yukon Denali Xl 1500 · Complaints

What 211 owners told NHTSA about the 2023 GMC Yukon Denali Xl 1500

These are the actual owner complaints behind this car’s reliability verdict, filed with the federal government, unedited. They’re unverified reports, not confirmed defects: read them as leads for your pre-purchase inspection, not a diagnosis.

All (211)Crash / fire / injury (2)Engine (137)Transmission & drivetrain (36)Electrical system (24)Engine & cooling (12)Brakes (11)Fuel system (11)Speed control (7)Driver assistance (6)Visibility & wipers (6)Backup camera & sensors (5)

Newest first · 211 complaints · page 4 of 9

Nov 10, 2025Engine

I was driving down 85 South bound at mile marker 16 the engine started messing up causing me and my family to be pushed over to the median. Once I was able to fight it over to the median it started smoking and i was afraid it was going to catch fire, so me and my family had to get out on the side of the interstate until help showed up and said it was safe to get back into the car. I had to use OnStar to get a tow truck, after the tow truck got there and i made it to the closest dealership to find out that the so called recall that the GM dealership fixed did not help the fact that the engine was messed up. So i tried to get a loaner or rental car for my family of 6 and they rented me a small SUV that I can not get all my kids into, I was told they did not have anything that bigger so now I am having to make multiple trips getting my kids to school. Plus they are saying it is going to be months before I can get my car back because the engine is on back order.

NHTSA ODI 11698529

Oct 20, 2025Electrical systemSpeed control

Purchased 2023 GMC Yukon on August 21, 2025 and after starting the vehicle on October 2, 2025 the whole instrument panel cluster malfunctioned, failed to turn on, currently does not work and is available for inspection upon request. The instrument panel cluster is all black, it shows glitching flashing white lines on the right side of it therefore being unable to read the speedometer, fuel gauges, tire pressure, oil life, engine temperature, etc.. Prior to the instrument panel cluster malfunction, there were no warning indicators. Being unable to view the instrument cluster, makes the vehicle hazardous & risky to utilize for me and my family. This vehicle has not been confirmed or inspected at this time.

NHTSA ODI 11694475

Oct 18, 2025Electrical system

Onstar module bad

NHTSA ODI 11694252

Oct 8, 2025

On star module completely out No internet on vehicle No ability to use OnStar during an emergency Unable to connect to vehicle Noticed it all stopped after a vehicle update

NHTSA ODI 11692004

Oct 8, 2025Engine

my 2023 GMC Yukon Denali (VIN: [XXX] ), which is included in Safety Recall N252494003 for a known defect affecting the L87 6.2L V8 engine. My vehicle was first inspected under warranty in December 2024 at Serra Traverse City Buick GMC due to a burning smell. I was informed at that time that no issues were found. I was later told by the former service manager that the technician who evaluated my vehicle during that visit was let go due to poor workmanship and lack of product knowledge. Since that time, on two separate oil changes — January 8, 2025 and May 9, 2025 — my engine was found completely out of oil, with no oil on the dipstick. The documentation had to be retroactively added after my request. This pattern raises serious concerns about oil consumption or internal engine damage consistent with the recall defect. The dealership declined to replace the engine or perform any further diagnostics beyond the standard recall inspection. I was advised to retrieve the vehicle. However, I remain deeply concerned about the long-term safety and reliability of this vehicle, especially given GM’s acknowledgment that this defect may lead to engine failure and loss of propulsion. I have made multiple efforts to escalate this issue through both the dealership and GM’s customer service line. I was advised by Service Advisor [XXX] to contact the GM representative for regional review. He directed me to file a bbb claim.. Both GM and bbb denied my claim, stating out of warranty. However, the dealer explained that my issue were documented under warranty and would be handled appropriately if the issue persisted. GM contacted me an offered a $4000 credit. Unfortunately the problem still persist. I’m 3000 miles from being due for an oil change and again have no oil on my dipstick. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11692212

Oct 1, 2025

Electric trailer brake control module intermittently disabled trailer electric brakes while towing electric brake equipped trailers. This is the same issue addressed in GM service bulletin N232414840 which addressed a similar issue associated with GM pickup trucks. The loss of trailer brake utilization may create a safety hazard resulting from longer stopping distances. The factory control module was replaced with a redesigned module purchased from GM and the problem went away. I am of the opinion that the factory-provided module is a deficient design which warrants replacement by the vehicle manufacture.

NHTSA ODI 11690814

Sep 29, 2025Driver assistanceBackup camera & sensorsCrash

The contact owns a 2023 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the Forward Collision Avoidance sensor failed to function as intended. The contact stated that the failure occurred while exiting a parking space. The contact stated that the images on the screen displayed a wider distance between the two vehicles. The contact stated that because of the failure, the passenger’s side rear bumper crashed into the front driver’s side bumper of another vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer. The vehicle was repaired. The failure reoccurred. In addition, the contact stated that the Forward Collision Avoidance sensor and the back-over prevention camera system were not functioning as intended. The contact stated that the failure had occurred while reversing and while driving forward. The contact stated that the images were displayed at an incorrect distance. The contact stated that the failure was persistent. The dealer was made aware of the failure; however, the contact was informed that the repair was not covered under an unknown recall. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

NHTSA ODI 11690420

Sep 19, 2025Transmission & drivetrain

The contact owns a 2023 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that while driving 75 MPH and depressing the accelerator pedal, there was an abnormal clunking sound coming from the front of the vehicle; however, the contact was unsure if the failure was coming from the engine or transmission. The contact pulled over to the right side of the road, exited the vehicle, and inspected the vehicle, but found no failure. There was an unknown warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the failure had occurred on four occasions. An unknown dealer was contacted. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was diagnosed, and determined that the valve body needed to be replaced. The valve body was replaced. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 33,395.

NHTSA ODI 11688466

Sep 2, 2025Engine

After stopping at a stop sign, I accelerated for a few seconds, but then it shifted to Neutral and the screen said "Press Start Again". I pressed Start, accelerated for a few seconds, and again it shifted to Neutral and the screen said "Press Start Again." I repeated this process a few times and luckily made it to the end of our driveway. I could no longer move the car nor could I shift gears. When trying to shift gears, the screen said "Conditions Not Correct for Shift." I requested Roadside Assistance. There is no way to get this car into neutral so he had to manually pull it onto the tow truck bed. The nearest dealership diagnosed it as engine failure and replaced the engine. There were no warning signs prior to this incident.

NHTSA ODI 11684451

Aug 29, 2025Electrical system

we brought my 2023 gmc yukon into Parks GMC in greenville sc on july 26, 2025 for the engine recall that we received a letter from. We left it as we were going on vacation for the week and picked it up the following saturday august 2nd. the next week my engine light started lighting up and my husband contacted the dealership and we were asked to bring it back in. We did and were told that we now had a bad Telematics Communication Interface Control Module that was causing my engine light to come on and that we were going to have to pay $600.00 out of our pocket to have this repaired. After researching we found that this is a VERY common and widespread problem with a lot of owners right after they bring their vehicles in to be serviced. We declined the repair, one because they did not have the part in stock as that apparently is also a big problem of not being able to get the part in stock and two because we feel like we should not have to pay to have this part replaced as it appears to be a widespread issue that is happening. The dealership also charged me $182 for diagnostic charges that I once again feel like we should not have had ton pay. Please advise us asap. our contact info is [XXX] [XXX] & [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11683839

Aug 29, 2025Engine

Recall issued in April states that the Engine could experience a catastrophic failure and needs to be inspected for possible replacement. At this time (8-30-25) they are not allowing the dealers to perform these inspections. Why can't they at least perform the inspection to see if in fact the Engine will not need to be replaced? They are being irresponsible with their approach to this issue.

NHTSA ODI 11683857

Aug 11, 2025SteeringBrakes

1.    First incident While driving, the brakes failed and the entire infotainment/tablet system locked up. This presented a severe safety risk to my family and others on the road. The vehicle had to be towed to DEALER where I was told that “no problems were found.” I documented the incident with photos and videos showing the warning messages and system status.     2.    Second incident Approximately one week ago, after shutting off the vehicle, a “steering wheel lock” warning appeared and the truck became completely disabled. Even with jumper cables, it would not start. The vehicle had to be flatbed towed to DEALER. I again documented the incident with photos and videos showing the warnings.

NHTSA ODI 11679904

Aug 4, 2025Engine & cooling

The contact owns a 2023 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 contact stated that while starting the vehicle there was an abnormal sputtering sound coming from the engine. Additionally, several attempts were needed to start the vehicle. 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 not made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was unknown.

NHTSA ODI 11678363

Jul 29, 2025EngineFuel system

Driving on the highway and the engine completely shut down. The car was automatically placed into neutral and I coasted off the highway to a nearby gas station. The car was taken to the dealer, and they confirmed that it requires a brand new engine.

NHTSA ODI 11676972

Jul 15, 2025Engine & cooling

I am writing to formally express my concern and frustration regarding the prolonged delay in implementing a remedy for General Motors Safety Recall N252494000, which affects vehicles equipped with the L87 6.2-liter VB engine. This recall, issued in April 2025, was prompted by serious safety concerns involving sudden engine failure and loss of propulsion-conditions that significantly increase the risk of a crash. Despite the recall being acknowledged and a Special Coverage Bulletin (N252494003) issued in May 2025, there has been no clear timeline or actionable fix provided to affected vehicle owners like myself. The root causes, as identified by GM, include rod-bearing damage due to sediment and out-of-spec crankshaft dimensions-both stemming from supplier manufacturing defects. Given the severity of the issue and the number of vehicles involved (nearly 600,000), the lack of timely resolution is unacceptable. I urge the NHTSA to take further action to ensure that GM expedites the development and deployment of a permanent fix. Vehicle owners deserve transparency, accountability, and above all, safety.

NHTSA ODI 11673572

Jul 6, 2025EngineFuel system

There is a safety recall but it has not yet been resolved, risking lives.

NHTSA ODI 11671417

Jul 2, 2025Electrical system

The contact owns a 2023 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that on several occasions, the vehicle failed to immediately start. During the failure, the contact received a message that the battery power was low. The contact stated that the vehicle was jumpstarted. The battery was replaced, but the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer on several occasions, but the cause of the failure was not yet determined. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 11,000.

NHTSA ODI 11670779

Jul 2, 2025Engine & cooling

The contact owns a 2023 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 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 11670839

Jun 28, 2025Engine

There's a recall on my SUV ... recall ID 25V274. The dealer told me that there is no part available currently so they refuse to inspect my SUV. I believe if the inspection revealed that there is no defect relating to the recall, the dealer is required to use higher viscosity oil. I've asked them to perform this inspection while they wait for the parts, but they refuse to do so. As summer vacation is here, what if the defect in fact does exist in my SUV that will cause a dead engine while driving on the highway, and we get hit by a semitruck killing me and my family. That would be too late isn't it!? How long must I wait for the parts and continue to put my me and my family's safety at risk?

NHTSA ODI 11669908

Jun 25, 2025Engine & cooling

The contact owns a 2023 GMC Yukon. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that while driving approximately 2-3 MPH and depressing the brake pedal, the vehicle failed to stop. The vehicle was driven in circles until the vehicle coasted to a stop. The contact was able to get the vehicle back to the residence and parked the vehicle. The following morning during start-up, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed that software update that was performed on the vehicle was properly performed. The dealer was contacted. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 24,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

NHTSA ODI 11669113

Jun 25, 2025Engine & coolingTransmission & drivetrain

The contact owns a 2023 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that while driving 40 MPH, the vehicle unintendedly decelerated and failed to exceed 10 MPH. The message "Reduced Acceleration" was displayed. The vehicle was driven to the residence. The vehicle was then towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that an unknown transmission part needed to be replaced; however, the part was on backorder. Additionally, the contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000 (Engine and Engine Cooling), which the contact related to the failure; however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not repaired and remained at the dealer for 11 months. 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, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 37,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

NHTSA ODI 11669205

Jun 24, 2025Transmission & drivetrain

On April 30, 2025, my 2023 GMC Yukon with 68,000 miles on it (8,000 miles outside of the warranty and that I had purchased on 4/27/2024) randomly downshifted as I was turning into a parking lot and gave me a computer notification stating "Service transmission now, unable to shift soon." I immediately put my car in park and called OnStar for her to read me the computer code. She said it came up with two codes so we brought it to Wyatt Johnson GMC in Clarksville Tennessee. They plugged in their computer reader and that's when the service provider informed me that my car was un-drivable because it was unsafe. We left it there for them to do a diagnostic test on it to see exactly what is wrong with it. A few days later they contacted us and informed us that it was a malfunction in the transmission valve body. The dealership informed us that it would cost $2754.25 to fix but the issue is the part is on back order and they don't know when it will be available. We have been in contact with the dealership and with General Motors customer service almost weekly trying to find out, when the part will be available and where I am on "the list" and no one has an answer. With the personal research that I have done, I have seen that people have been waiting for over a year. I also know that there are current class-action lawsuits for GM's Yukons for years a little older than mine and currently multiple complaints for the newer Yukons for the same transmission valve body issues. The dealership does not give out loaners anymore after Covid. I have asked, general motors. Customer service has informed me that it's up to the dealership if they will give me one General Motors said they would look into a possible reimbursement program if I have to purchase a rental, but they will only cover a car that cost $44 a day and that is not including taxes and extra fees, but I can't afford to rent anything and I'm missing work.

NHTSA ODI 11668999

Jun 19, 20252 injuries

The sunroof exploded while driving down the highway.

NHTSA ODI 11667985

Jun 18, 2025Transmission & drivetrainEngine

Vehicle was brought to dealership Fountain Buick GMC 8701 S Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, FL 32809 (866) 465-4364 for recall on engine. Dealership told our company that they were unable to repair or diagnose the recall this month June 2025. Vehicle has had an intermittent check engine light from time to time. I was instructed that it was safe to still drive the vehicle.

NHTSA ODI 11667605

Jun 16, 2025Engine

I am filing a complaint regarding my 2023 GMC Yukon Denali Ultimate, equipped with the 6.2L L87 V8 engine, which is currently under NHTSA Recall 24V-266 for a potential engine failure due to defective bottom-end components. I received the official recall notice indicating that the issue poses a serious safety risk, including possible loss of propulsion and engine failure without warning. However, despite this being a mandatory safety recall, I’ve been informed by my dealership that no remedy is currently available, and I have been provided no timeline for repair or inspection. This effectively renders my $115,000 vehicle unsafe for normal use, yet I am left with no clear recourse, no loaner vehicle, and no repair timeline. I am now forced to restrict my driving to short errands only to reduce risk—completely unacceptable for a vehicle of this cost, class, and usage expectation. I am requesting that NHTSA formally investigate the timeliness and adequacy of GM's response to this recall and consider enforcing provisions of the Motor Vehicle Safety Act that require manufacturers to remedy defects within a reasonable timeframe. Thousands of affected owners are currently left without a fix for a potentially dangerous engine flaw. Vehicle: 2023 GMC Yukon Denali Ultimate Mileage: ~28,000 miles VIN: [XXX] Recall #: 24V-266 (GM internal reference N232414720) INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11667271

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Working with the data? Download all 211 complaints as CSV · fetched from NHTSA July 25, 2026

How to use these: a complaint is one owner’s report, filed voluntarily and published unverified. Patterns matter more than any single story. If several owners describe the same failure at similar mileage, put that system at the top of your pre-purchase inspection list. Back to the full 2023 GMC Yukon Denali Xl 1500 verdict →