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2021 GMC Yukon XL complaints

Owner reports filed with NHTSA about this vehicle, newest first and reproduced as filed. They are unverified accounts: one proves nothing, and a pattern across many is the thing worth reading. Back to the full 2021 record →

Unknown or Other
Filed Aug 31, 2025WI

The blinker randomly stops alerting. The blinker will still flash but the audio will cut off and stop working randomly. I have brought this to my local GMC dealer, whom I bought the car from, twice now with no resolution. The service department can’t figure out what is causing the issue. I have video evidence upon request.

Engine
Filed Aug 25, 2025OK

On Thursday August 14 while driving our traction control light and engine light came on along with the ESC light while traveling out of state. The car felt like we were driving on a rumble strip. We immediately took it to the nearest auto repair shop, only a few minutes away. They reset the battery and dash lights and we took it for a test drive. All the lights came back on after a couple of feet and loud knocking sounds started. Our emissions light then also came on and a strong exhaust smell was emitted. Each time the engine was started the knocking grew louder and the engine was severely struggling and sounded very wrong . The shop put their diagnostic tool to use and identified misfiring on cylinder 5. Upon further inspection they identified camshaft irreparable failure. We had it towed to the Platteville WI GMC Dealership Friday Aug 15. Where they confirmed camshaft failure and informed us our engine needed total replacement. Our safety was at risk since our engine failed while exiting the highway.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Aug 22, 2025NC

Fuel pump power control module failed while driving. This part was included in a recall in 2021 but our VIN appears to not have been impacted.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Aug 21, 202550,000 milesMN

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated that after start-up, the vehicle was driving roughly before the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, who diagnosed the vehicle with engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The contact had previously received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING). The mechanic related the failure to the recall, but parts were not yet available for the recall repair. The failure mileage was 50,000.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Aug 19, 2025IL

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon XL. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING). The dealer was contacted; however, the contact was informed that parts were not yet available. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted about parts not being available. The contact stated that while driving at 70 MPH, the vehicle lost automotive power. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact pulled over, and the vehicle was towed to a local dealer. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was unknown.

Engine
Filed Aug 18, 2025LA

I was driving from New Orleans with my family when traveling at 75 mph when it’s like the transmission started straining and the engine was losing power/pressure it’s like the engine or transmission was struggling I’m not sure what was causing it but it was a scary experience knowing I’d my kids and my wife with me and we were out in the middle of nowhere.

Engine
Filed Aug 16, 2025VA

GM is unable to remedy this recall. I have been waiting since April 2025 (when the recall was issued) to our family vehicle in to be corrected. This is a serious recall that GM is not taking serious, and this is our family car.

Engine
Filed Aug 15, 2025MO

Complete engine failure and lock up driving 70MPH. I was very lucky to not wreck the vehicle when this occurred with my family of 5 present. Had towed to the dealership and diagnostics performed. Diagnostics confirmed crankshaft issue and complete engine failure requiring engine replacement. I was informed that this was the same issue that is under current recall, but the 5.3L is not part of it. This is the same crankshaft issue that has been recalled in over 700K 6.2L GM motors. I am being told that the 5.3L engine is not covered under the recall and i am 100% responsible for all costs related. I want this 5.3L issue reported and documented to help extend the recall to the 5.3L engines in the future

Engine
Filed Aug 13, 2025AZ

The Yukon has stopped while driving twice. The check engine light came on, the dealership says there is an oil problem and the oil pump is bad along with bad lifters. There is wear to the motor as well.

Power Train
Filed Aug 11, 2025WV

10 speed transmission It’s been at the dealer for a month and they checked it today. Same issues as the mass recall Dash alert for reduced speed drive with caution. It was extremely dangerous because it malfunctioned on curvy winding roads

Engine
Filed Aug 7, 2025MI

Been working with dealership on engine performance for a year, recall is delayed because of no available parts. I had bought a warranty that replaced the lifters and cam. Also this year the transmission, radiator, pully and belt were all replaced. Engine blew up last night and is back at dealership. I paid $80,000 for this vehicle and have had major issue after major issue with it. Looking into seeing if it qualifies as a lemon. Lucky was going slow when it happened and it didn't cause an accident. Could not get the vehicle into neutral to tow it.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Aug 5, 2025NJ

Vehicle stalled while driving and would not turn back on. I had to have it towed over 45 minutes.

Engine
Filed Jul 31, 2025FL

Vehicle: 2021 GMC Yukon XL VIN: [XXX] Recall ID: 25V274 (GM Recall N25249400) Mileage: Approx. 35,000 My 2021 GMC Yukon XL was recalled for a potential engine defect. On June 9, 2025, the dealership (Carol Buick GMC in Florida) determined that my vehicle was unsafe to drive and that the engine needed to be replaced under GM Recall N25249400. GM has not delivered a timely fix. The engine remains on national backorder, and as of July 31, 2025, the vehicle has been out of service for over 6 weeks. I was provided a loaner vehicle, but my own vehicle remains undrivable, and no repair ETA has been provided. GM opened two internal case numbers (#[XXX] and #[XXX]), but despite repeated follow-ups, I have received no estimated return date or formal remedy timeline. I believe this delay violates the federal requirement to provide a timely recall remedy under NHTSA regulations, and I am requesting an investigation or compliance review of GM's handling of this recall. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Jul 25, 2025LA

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon XL. 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.

Fuel System, Gasoline
Filed Jul 21, 202580,000 milesMD

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated that while driving approximately 55 MPH, the vehicle decelerated and stalled. During the failure, the check engine warning light was illuminated, and the vehicle was pulled over to the shoulder of the roadway. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, who diagnosed and determined that the fuel pump control module had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The contact was informed that the VIN was not included in the NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V739000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was 80,000.

Engine
Filed Jul 13, 2025NC

GMC does not seem to care about fixing this major recall. It has been 3 months and they have no fix yet.

Power Train
Filed Jul 11, 202566,000 milesOR

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated while driving 70 MPH, the vehicle shuddered abnormally with the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V797000 (Power Train); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the transmission control valve had failed and needed to the replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 66,000. Parts distribution disconnect.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Jul 9, 2025MD

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon XL. 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.

Engine
Filed Jul 4, 2025LA

Engine started taking extra oil then weeks later cam shaft & lifters when out

Engine
Filed Jun 27, 2025MI

I was driving home from a long trip and heard a large pop. Several warning signs and messages began popping up and the vehicle was shaking and struggling to maintain speed. I was able to get home and get my family out of the vehicle and get it to a dealer down the road. They stated the Fuel injector and harness had failed.

Engine
Filed Jun 25, 202579,000 milesMN

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormally loud sound coming from the engine compartment. The contact stated that the vehicle lost motive power, prompting the contact to pull over to the shoulder of the roadway. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the lifter in cylinder #8, resulting in damages to the engine. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to Technical Service Bulletin: N212353840. 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 79,000.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Jun 24, 202573,000 milesKY

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 NHTSA 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.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Jun 23, 202535,000 milesSD

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon XL. 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 vehicle was experiencing excessive oil consumption, and the engine made an abnormal sound while driving at undisclosed speeds. The vehicle was taken to the dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired. 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 failure. The failure mileage was approximately 35,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Engine
Filed Jun 20, 2025FL

Check engine light on, Abnormal engine noise and very significant loss of power. Info registered in the repair invoice: tech verify customer concern, check for code found code p0300 and looking to the live data found miss fire on cylinder number 6, tech swap the coil and spark plug with wire, miss fire still on the same cylinder, tech inspect the injector no problem found, remove the valve cover for inspection found, that the rocker arms is loose, customer approve tear down, tech remove the head on the right side to inspect the lifter and the camshaft, tech found damage on the camshaft, camshaft replacement and lifter is necessary, customer decline repair, tech assemble the engine back and returned to the customer. Customer decide to replace the engine, tech replace the engine test to verify repair vehicle working as design

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Jun 20, 202560,000 milesMD

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated while his wife was driving 25 MPH and depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle failed to respond. The contact pulled over to the side of a parking lot waiting for towing assistance. A dealer was contacted. The vehicle was towed to a dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the engine 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 manufacturer was notified of the failure but offered no assistance. The contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 60,000.

Engine
Filed Jun 16, 2025TX

I am writing to formally file a complaint regarding a serious issue with my 2021 GMC Yukon XL, which is equipped with the 6.2L V8 gasoline engine and falls under Recall N252494000. The vehicle is losing power during operation and the engine is producing a loud clattering noise, raising major concerns about its safety, drivability, and long-term reliability. Despite these issues being clearly present, the vehicle recently passed an inspection, which raises questions about the adequacy of the diagnostic and repair procedures related to this recall. This situation is both frustrating and alarming. I am concerned that either the inspection was insufficient or the recall-related defect has not been properly identified or addressed. I respectfully request the following: A thorough re-inspection and diagnosis of the engine under the scope of Recall N252494000. Immediate repairs or replacement of defective parts at no cost. A clear explanation of why the vehicle passed inspection despite these evident issues. Reimbursement for any costs incurred if the recall defect caused further engine damage.

Engine
Filed Jun 16, 2025TX

I am writing to formally file a complaint regarding a serious issue with my 2021 GMC Yukon XL, equipped with the 6.2L V8 gasoline engine and covered under Recall N252494000. The vehicle is experiencing significant power loss while driving, and the engine is making a loud clattering noise, which raises serious concerns about the vehicle’s safety, performance, and long-term durability. These symptoms are ongoing and have severely affected the drivability of the vehicle. Despite these clear issues, the vehicle recently passed a dealership inspection. In an effort to improve performance, a higher viscosity oil change was performed and a new oil cap installed. Unfortunately, these measures have not resolved the problem. The vehicle continues to run poorly and does not perform as expected from a vehicle of this age and mileage. I respectfully request the following: A thorough re-evaluation of the vehicle in relation to Recall N252494000. Immediate corrective action, including repair or replacement of any defective engine components. A detailed explanation of how the vehicle could have passed inspection with such evident performance and mechanical issues. Reimbursement for any out-of-pocket expenses incurred due to this ongoing problem.

Engine
Filed Jun 15, 2025ID

While my [XXX] son was driving my 2021 GMC Yukon Denali XL, the engine failed suddenly without warning. The vehicle lost power completely and became inoperable, leaving them stranded far from home. This posed a significant safety risk to my family, especially given the location and time of day. There were no warning lights or messages prior to the failure. The vehicle was towed to a GMC-certified dealership, where the issue was diagnosed as a complete engine failure. The dealer confirmed that internal engine components were damaged and the entire engine required replacement. The dealership performed the repair and confirmed that the issue was consistent with known defects now acknowledged by GM in their 2025 recall affecting vehicles with the 6.2L V8 engine. The problem has been reproduced and confirmed by the dealership. The defective engine is no longer available for inspection, as it was removed and replaced during service. The repair was performed at my personal expense prior to the recall. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Engine
Filed Jun 10, 2025125,000 milesTX

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, there was grey smoke coming from the exhaust pipes. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was taken to a local independent mechanic for a second opinion, and it was diagnosed and determined that the engine and brake pads needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. Upon further investigation, the contact related the failure to an unstated recall; however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 125,000.

Power Train
Filed Jun 10, 202566,000 milesGA

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.

Engine
Filed Jun 9, 2025TX

Vehicle has almost 75000 miles. No warnings whatsoever, the GMC app actually reported the vehicle has no issues and all systems are working. The engine began to knock, the transmission was not shifting well, traction control stopped working. Took the vehicle to the local dealership who called me and said it was complete engine failure that is going to require a brand new engine. All of the maintenance is up to date.

Power Train
Filed Jun 5, 2025IL

Transmission issue - 2021 Yukon XL broke down 5/6/25 while driving with 2 of our children in the vehicle. the RPMs skyrocketed but the vehicle wouldn't go. was hard shifting and speed would not exceed 35ish MPH. message popped up on vehicle that said acceleration throttled and engine light came on. Took it to dealership and it is a known problem. Transmission needs a valve body replacement. This part is on national backorder for months. Spoke with the dealership on 6/5/25 and they still do not have an ETA. They ordered one on 3/19/25 that still has not arrived. I received a case number from GM but they are extremely unhelpful.

Engine
Filed May 30, 2025TN

Subject: Formal Complaint – Engine Failure in 2021 GMC Yukon Denali XL VIN: [XXX] Defect Number (GM): [XXX] GM Case Numbers: [XXX] / [XXX] / [XXX] Dear NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation, I am writing to formally report a critical mechanical failure in my 2021 GMC Yukon Denali XL, which resulted in a complete engine failure, rendering the vehicle inoperable and exposing my family to significant safety and financial risks. Despite following the recommended maintenance schedule and driving under normal conditions, the engine failed prematurely. The vehicle has been out of service for over four months, and I have yet to receive a definitive resolution or timeline from General Motors. I have incurred over $13,000 in out-of-pocket costs, including towing, repair estimates, rental vehicles, and continued loan payments on a non-functional vehicle. Key Details: Vehicle: 2021 GMC Yukon Denali XL VIN: [XXX] Failure Type: Total engine failure requiring full rebuild or replacement Time Out of Service: 4+ months and ongoing Financial Impact: $13,335.58 in documented costs GM Defect Number: [XXX] (noted internally by GM) Dealer(s) Involved: Midas Auto Service, Beaman GMC (Nashville, TN) I have made repeated efforts to escalate this through GM’s Case Advisors and Executive Team, but have received no meaningful resolution or written acknowledgment of my request for either reimbursement or a good faith vehicle buyback. Given the safety implications of such a catastrophic failure in a relat

Engine
Filed May 29, 2025100,371 milesTX

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated that when the vehicle was started, there was a loud sound coming from the engine compartment. The contact stated that when the vehicle was driven around the block, the sound was still present coming from the engine compartment. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where an oil change was performed but the failure persisted. The vehicle was then taken to the residence. The vehicle was next taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed, and metal shavings were found in the oil, possibly coming from the crank bearing or connecting rod bearing. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 100,371.

Engine
Filed May 22, 2025TX

In March 2025, a situation happened to me during a six hour round trip drive. I experienced a loss of acceleration. Vehicle engine felt it was stumbling when accelerating or seemed like I had ran something over. I don't remember seeing any lights coming on. Pulled over immediately, turned off the vehicle. Turned it back on and drove back home three hours worried it may happen again. I didnt see any warning lights on the trip.

Engine
Filed May 22, 2025OK

Loss of propulsion, engine over consuming oil per dealership inspection.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed May 21, 202573,000 milesTN

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated while her husband was driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine made an abnormal loud sound, and the vehicle became undrivable. The vehicle was taken to Midas, where an unknown repair was performed. Additionally, the contact stated while driving 50-55 MPH on the expressway, the vehicle shuddered significantly, and the engine made an abnormal loud knocking sound. Unknown warning lights were illuminated. The contact was able to exit the expressway and drove back to Midas, where the contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced, and the mechanic provided an estimated fee for the repair. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the engine needed to be replaced; however, the part was not available. The vehicle remained at the dealer for approximately three months. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Action Number: PE25001(Engine, Engine and Engine and Cooling). The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed that the part was not available. The failure mileage was approximately 73,000.

Electrical System
Filed May 16, 2025FL

Rear view camera fails to display on screen when vehicle is shifted to reverse. Failure remains during the remainder of ignition on cycle. The failures does not generate system error codes. Dealer service unable to diagnose failure

Engine
Filed May 14, 2025FL

The engine failed while driving. Dealership reviewed the issue and a new engine had to be installed to replace the defective motor. It failed due to a camshaft/lifter failure. After talking with the dealership, this appears to be a common failure in the 6.2L motors. It resulted in a bill in excess of $12,000 to repair. Similar to recall N252494000, the 6.2L motor has defective components causing premature failure that should be recalled.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed May 14, 2025AR

Noticeable ticking from the motor, loss of power while driving and smoking. Took to dealership to for repairs. Lifters replaced on one side, within 30 miles after leaving dealership vehicle lost power and would not crank. Per dealership same issue with spun bearing and crankshaft. New lifters and crankshaft placed. While driving 3 weeks later vehicle shifted into neutral and lost power and hand to coast to side of the road. Replace battery and still would not crank, had to be jumped off and able to drive home. 3 codes were retrieved from reader.

Engine
Filed May 9, 202558,000 milesAL

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the engine oil light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where the vehicle was diagnosed and the contact was advised that the engine was consuming an excessive amount of oil; however, the contact was informed that there was no repair available because the oil consumption had not met the requirements for a repair. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 58,000.

Engine
Filed May 8, 2025MO

This vehicle is not included in the L87 engine recall, yet I have lifter noise and excessive oil consumption. They might have the dates and lots wrong.

Service Brakes
Filed May 8, 2025IL

I am the owner of a 2021 GMC Yukon Denali with the 6.2L V8 engine (VIN: [XXX] ). This vehicle has exhibited multiple serious issues affecting safety, drivability, and reliability. 1. Engine Noise & Oil Consumption: Since purchase, the vehicle has had a persistent loud knocking/tapping sound, especially under acceleration. The engine also consumes an excessive amount of oil between scheduled oil changes, with no visible leaks. I reported this to the dealership multiple times, but since there is no active recall or TSB, they refused to diagnose or repair the issue under warranty. I have since learned that many other 2021 Yukon Denali owners with the same 6.2L engine are experiencing similar issues and some have had repairs or engine replacements covered by GM. I have received no such support. 2. Braking Problems: The vehicle has ongoing brake performance issues. Despite replacing the brake components multiple times, the brakes feel inconsistent and unsafe, especially during highway driving or sudden stops. There is vibration and uneven response, and the braking system does not inspire confidence. These problems have persisted despite attempts to correct them. 3. Suspension/Handling Concerns: The suspension feels unstable and loose, especially at highway speeds or when turning. The ride quality is poor, and there is noticeable sway and body roll, which creates discomfort and concern for vehicle control. 4. Fuel/Propulsion System: The engine does not always respond smoothly to th

Engine
Filed May 8, 2025MI

My vehicle is equipped with a 6.2L L87 engine. I have taken this to the gmc dealership in complaint of non consistent power of the engine and a vibration of the engine. The dealership believes it was the brakes and they were replaced along with the rotors. The problem still persists I feel after reading the stories of how other engines have failed that are L87, this is a similar problem but not covered under the recent recall.

Engine
Filed May 7, 2025109,000 milesGA

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated while driving 80 MPH, the engine was running unusually rough, and there were several unknown warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and was diagnosed with a fractured valve push down lifter. The contact was informed that the valve push down lifter needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was advised to take the vehicle to the dealer for assistance. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a fractured valve push down lifter and a failed cam shaft. The contact was informed that the valve push down lifter and the cam shaft needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact referenced an unknown recall repair, which had a similar failure description, however the VIN was not associated with the recall. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 109,000.

Engine
Filed May 7, 2025WY

Driving at 55MPH and suddenly the car starts to shack and warning/notification lights copme up on the dash. Check Engine Traction Control Service light Suspension service Was able to drive it to GMC dealership nearby 2.6Mile

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed May 5, 2025100,000 milesFL

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power, prompting the contact to discontinue driving the vehicle. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed failures with the lifters and camshaft, resulting in damages to the engine. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. 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 but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was 100,000.

Engine
Filed May 3, 2025FL

My lifters collapsed and camshaft got damaged AND my cylinder in the bottom of my engine failed also. I know there is a recall for engine failure on the exact year make and model as my vehicle, the only difference is the liter engine. Mine and my 3 children’s safety were all put at risk when we were left stranded on the side of the road 6 hours from home The problem was inspected by GMC themselves and the tech admitted to this being a big problem with motors like mine yet they are offering ZERO help to make it right with me because my liter engine isn’t on the recall list even though many are acknowledging its happening with the 5.3 liter engines as well. My engine has failed as part of GMCs negligence. There were absolutely zero warning signs prior to this happening

Power Train
Filed May 2, 2025MN

Vehicle would not go in Reverse. Rear tires locked up. When I went forward an error came up "Reduce acceleration" and went into limp mode while driving down the highway and shifted hard and almost caused an accident. Bought into dealer and they found that it needs a valve body assembly Part which is on backorder with no ETA. Currently been waiting for a month and still no ETA on Part. This should be a recall for 5.3L 10 speed. .

Engine
Filed May 1, 2025TX

I am writing to formally report a serious issue with my 2021 GMC Yukon XL. The vehicle has developed multiple severe problems, including: •Significant loss of engine power •Noticeable engine knocking noises •Transmission slipping while driving •Transmission movement even when the vehicle is at a full stop These issues not only impair the performance of the vehicle but also raise serious safety concerns. The loss of power and the slipping transmission could lead to a dangerous situation while driving, placing both myself and other motorists at risk.

Reading these

NHTSA publishes every complaint as the owner wrote it and investigates only a fraction. Spelling, capitalisation and judgement are the filer’s own. What carries weight is repetition: the same component failing the same way across many filings, and whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

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