2019 GMC Yukon

Do not drive

Owners filed 55 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the engine. It has been recalled 2 times.

Not among the GMC Yukon years to avoid. Which GMC Yukon years to avoid →

Most common 2019 GMC Yukon problems

25 of the 55 complaints (45%) are about the engine.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Engine24
002
Power Train · transmission12
000
Service Brakes · brakes4
000
Steering3
000
Electrical System3
000
Unknown or Other2
010
Suspension1
000
Structure › Body · body and frame1
000
Seat Belts1
000
Exterior Lighting · headlights1
000

2019 GMC Yukon engine problems

45% of all complaints

25 of the 55 complaints are about the engine. This is what owners describe:

  • sets off warning lights on the dash44% · 11
  • turns on the check engine light32% · 8
  • knocks, grinds or clunks32% · 8
  • loses power12% · 3

Share of the 25 engine complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Typical mileage
76,300 mi
median of 6 reports
Peak year of filing
2025
12 engine complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
0 · 0 · 2
in these complaints
Recalls on the engine
None
“Yukon would not idle without turning off on its own. Check engine light came on. Took it to my mechanic. Check engine light was flashing which indicated an active misfire. A running compression test found little to no compression from cylinder 6. Further investigation found that cylinder 5 had been repaired in 2022. Mechanic recommends engine replacement.”
Owner complaint, filed Aug 28, 2026
“Complete engine failure. The dealership kept the engine. This happened at a low rate of speed but it would have been much worse if on the highway. Yes the engine was completely replaced. The check engine light came on and their was a loud ticking noise coming from the engine.”
Owner complaint, filed Apr 11, 2026

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
2019: 4 complaints, 1 about the engine'192020: 3 complaints, 0 about the engine'202021: 1 complaints, 0 about the engine'212022: 4 complaints, 1 about the engine'222023: 4 complaints, 0 about the engine'232024: 5 complaints, 2 about the engine'242025: 18 complaints, 12 about the engine'252026: 16 complaints, 9 about the engine'26Recall 19V761000 (brakes)Recall 26V289000 (transmission)
All complaintsAbout the engineRecall (red: the engine)

Complaints about the 2019 Yukon peaked in 2025, with 18 filed that year. No recall on file covers the engine, the subject of 45% of the complaints. In 2026 owners filed 16 so far.

2 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Power Train › Transfer Case (4-wheel Drive)26V289000Do not drive
Filed May 7, 202666 vehiclesGeneral Motors, LLC

Defect. General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2026 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, and Tahoe, and GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles with four-wheel (4WD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), and certain 2015-2020 Suburban, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Yukon, Yukon XL, and Tahoe vehicles. A component missing from the drivetrain transfer case may cause the front and/or rear wheels to lock up without warning to the driver.

Risk. Front or rear wheel lockup increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Owners are advised not to drive their vehicle until the remedy is completed. Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the transfer case assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 18, 2026. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223. GM's number for this recall is N262557620. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on May 7, 2026.

Service Brakes19V761000
Filed Oct 24, 2019652,967 vehiclesGeneral Motors LLC

Defect. General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2015-2020 Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe, and GMC Yukon, and 2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 vehicles equipped with a 5.3-liter engine, a 3.08-ratio rear axle and four-wheel drive. If a wheel-speed sensor fails, while the vehicle is traveling between 41 and 60 mph in four-wheel or automatic mode, the Electronic-Brake Control Module (EBCM) software may activate the driveline-protection system.

Risk. Unintended activation of the driveline-protection system will cause unintended braking on the wheel on the opposite side of the failed sensor, causing the vehicle to pull to one side unexpectedly, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. GM will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the EBCM, free of charge. The recall began December 11, 2019. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-630-2438 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N192261050.

All 2 campaigns on file, newest first.

Technical service bulletins

826 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2019 Yukon. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

equipment 189engine 156electrical system 97transmission 84body and frame 39wheels 24fuel system 19equipment adaptive/mobility 18
N252494770-01Service campaignJun 20, 2025unknown or other

Amendments to the Song-Beverly Act (SBA) California warranty law provides vehicle owners with an opportunity to submit a written notice to GM before filing a lawsuit seeking a vehicle repurchase. If such a notice is not provided to GM, then the vehicle owner is prevented from seeking civil penalties in litigation. Vehicle owners of the affected vehicles …

N252494770Service campaignJun 17, 2025unknown or other

Amendments to the Song-Beverly Act (SBA) California warranty law provides vehicle owners with an opportunity to submit a written notice to GM before filing a lawsuit seeking a vehicle repurchase. If such a notice is not provided to GM, then the vehicle owner is prevented from seeking civil penalties in litigation. Vehicle owners of the applicable vehicles …

General CommunicationService campaignAug 26, 2024electrical system

Vehicle Wide Programming (VWP) is a new process to update software on GM Vehicles. It provides the ability via a single selection within Techline Connect to first identify which modules need updating and then proceed to updating affected modules (with some exceptions). The updating of modules is completed in parallel instead of the technician needing to …

22-NA-244Warranty extensionMay 3, 2024electrical system

This service bulletin provides information about GM Accessories - Dealer-Installed, Repaired or Replaced During Warranty Coverage Period.

22-NA-080Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsSep 6, 2025engine

This technical bulletin provides a procedure to replace the camshaft actuator magnet to correct customer concerns of engine related shudder.

00-06-01-026RService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJun 5, 2025engine

This service bulletin provides information on replacing the intake manifold when the engine is replaced after severe internal engine damage.

23-NA-153Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsMay 15, 2025engine

The service bulletin advises the tech of a normal transmission shift condition and the delay in throttle response when the throttle plate is opened rapidly and advises the customer that it is normal for the delay.

15-NA-010Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsMay 7, 2025engine

This service bulletin provides information to dealership personnel for new vehicles with less than 1,000 miles that may not pass California smog inspection or smog inspection in other states.

25-NA-100Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsApr 18, 2025engine

This warranty administration bulletin provides policy information on vehicles outside of a California Emissions State who move to and register their vehicle in a California Emission State may be entitled to the 7 year, 70,000-mile Emission Select State Component Limited Warranty.

25-NA-052Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsMar 25, 2025engine

This bulletin advises the technician to flush the cooling system multiple times if oil has been found in the cooling system and replace the parts that may be contaminated due to oil in system.

Showing the newest 6 of 156 bulletins about the engine, and any warranty extensions or service campaigns.

Crash test ratings

NHTSA 5-star safety ratings
Version testedOverallFrontalSideRolloverRollover risk
2019 GMC Yukon SUV 4WD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★21.9%
2019 GMC Yukon SUV RWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★22.8%

New Car Assessment Program results for this model year. Ratings compare cars of similar size and weight only.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Power Train
Filed Sep 18, 2026WA

Lifters failed

Engine
Filed Aug 28, 2026WI

Yukon would not idle without turning off on its own. Check engine light came on. Took it to my mechanic. Check engine light was flashing which indicated an active misfire. A running compression test found little to no compression from cylinder 6. Further investigation found that cylinder 5 had been repaired in 2022. Mechanic recommends engine replacement.

Engine
Filed Aug 4, 2026TX

My wife drives this vehicle to work, it has started to experience reduced engine power driving on the highway causing her to pull to the side of the road due to no throttle to maneuver the vehicle in and out of traffic, leaving her on the side of the busy highway, we have now parked the vehicle after investigating problem there is a knocking noise coming from the lower part of the engine, after research of this 6.2l engine there are reports of the crankshaft and connecting rods seizing up and coming through the side of the engine block, knowing this we are hesitant to continue driving the vehicle. We continue to make payments on a vehicle that we can't use and can't afford to make a engine replacement at the moment. Very frustrating to say the least, as expensive as these vehicles are we have lost faith in the gm name.

Power Train
Filed Aug 1, 2026CT

Vehicle shudders at acceleration at times making merging onto highways and passing vehicles dangerous.

Power Train
Filed Jul 6, 2026TX

The vehicle experienced a sudden and rapid mechanical failure of the 6-speed automatic transmission (6L80 model) within a span of less than two weeks. The light did not come on until the transmission was past salvage. The failure escalated rapidly from initial minor slipping to a severe loss of vehicle propulsion. A loss of acceleration while driving poses an immediate crash hazard, as the vehicle cannot safely maintain speed with surrounding traffic or accelerate out of dangerous situations. The failure required towing and a complete out-of-pocket replacement of the transmission unit at 116,374 miles to restore safe operation. The manufacturer has failed to issue a safety recall despite widespread failures of this component causing unexpected power loss on public roadways.

Power Train
Filed Jun 27, 2026IN

Transmission is acting funny. Stuck in low gear /not shifting at low speeds. Vibration sometimes at higher speeds when shifting gears. 8 9 10 gears.

Power Train
Filed Jun 23, 2026SC

I was driving home on the interstate from vacation and I was set on cruise control it was 1 am so not a lot of traffic was on the road thank god. It could have been really terrible if lots of traffic was present as the engine just died without notice! The vehicle was decelerating nothing was working I could not speed up. I was able to get over to the side of the road. I got a notification on my phone that said battery critically low start vehicle to charge battery. Well nothing would start at this point. I lot all power seconds later. I thought that the cruise control was locked up and restarting it would reset it. I called roadside assistance to get a jump and that did not work. I got towed into an auto repair shop. They called me and told me that the engine is locked up that they drained the oil and found metal in it and metal pieces in the oil filter as well. They checked for leaks and said there was none that they could find. They said there was a recall but it was for the exact same symptoms that was diagnosed here but only starting with year 2021. Mine is a 2019 Yukon Denali with low mileage so not sure if all the other Yukons were aged out or already past engine death and that’s why they were not part of this but this should be included in with the open recall considering how everything is the same that is effecting this year that I have and they should pay for a new engine! Clearly the v8 6.2 gmc engines are having major issues I’m just glad I wasn’t going that fast a

Engine
Filed Jun 19, 2026CA

Getting the valve ticking noise.

Engine
Filed May 28, 2026170,000 milesTN

The contact owns a 2019 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that after starting and exiting the vehicle to allow it to warm up, the contact later noticed that the vehicle had turned off. The vehicle was towed to a first mechanic, who was unable to restart the vehicle or determine the cause of the failure. The vehicle was towed to a second mechanic, where it was diagnosed and determined that the engine had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. The dealer was contacted and provided an estimate for the repair, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that the dealer's estimate was higher than the mechanic's estimate. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and suggested purchasing a new vehicle. The failure mileage was approximately 170,000.

Engine
Filed Apr 11, 2026FL

Complete engine failure. The dealership kept the engine. This happened at a low rate of speed but it would have been much worse if on the highway. Yes the engine was completely replaced. The check engine light came on and their was a loud ticking noise coming from the engine.

Power Train
Filed Apr 3, 2026125,870 milesTX

The contact owns a 2019 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that while driving at slow speeds in a parking lot, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted and the vehicle jerked abnormally. The contact stated that when the gear shift lever was shifted to drive(D), the vehicle failed to function as designed. The contact was unable to drive the vehicle, and the vehicle was towed to the residence. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that metal shavings were found in the oil and the transmission needed to be replaced. The warranty had expired, and the vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the failure persisted. The vehicle was then taken to a transmission specialty shop, where it was confirmed that metal shavings were found in the oil and that the transmission was defective and needed to be replaced. The contact took the vehicle back to the private dealer where the vehicle was purchased. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 125,870.

Engine
Filed Mar 18, 2026NJ

I was driving on RT80 in NJ and my 2019 GMC Yukon lost power. I took it to my local Chevy dealer. The scan code was p0300 engine misfire. They removed right side valve cover and found no bent pushrods. Inspected camshaft and found damage from failed lifter. I had to get a new engine and pay out of pocket $14,435.44

Engine
Filed Mar 18, 2026TX

2019 GMC Youkon with 94,659 miles. I am the second owner of this vehicle. I purchased it used in February 2025. Check engine light came on in route to work on March 5, 2026. Immediately took vehicle to Auto Zone to scan for codes. Multiple codes were returned. I drove it directly to a repair shop for further diagnostics. Return Results were massive lifter failure and cam shaft damage. Why would the check engine light not come on sooner to prevent TOTAL FAILURE. Vehicle was towed to a GMC certified mechanic where it was confirmed that all Lifters and cam shaft were damaged beyond repair and must all be replaced. Estimated Cost of repairs so far: $8,596.80 Labor: Remove & Replace Left And Right Valve Lifter (Both Sides) Coolant Service Oil Change Labor Parts: Engine Camshaft 1 , Genuine GM Engine Valve Lifter Oil Manifold Gasket 1 , Genuine GM Fuel Pump Gasket 1 Engine Timing Cover Gasket Set 1 Engine Valve Lifter Guide 1 Engine Valve Lifter Guide 1 Coolant/Antifreeze Orange Dex-Cool 1 Gal 3 Engine Push Rod 8 Engine Oil Filter 1 0W-20 Full Syn 8 Engine Cylinder Head Bolt Set 1 Engine Valve Lifter Guide 1 Engine Valve Lifter Guide 1 Stock Engine Valve Lifter 4 Stock Engine Valve Lifter 4 Engine Cylinder Head Gasket Kit 1 Engine Cylinder Head Bolt 10 APPROVED Subtotal $8,422.71 + est. Tax $174.09 $8,596.80 Estimated time for repair: going on three weeks

Service Brakes
Filed Feb 9, 2026SC

Automatic emergency braking system deployed unexpectedly on acceleration from a traffic light stop. Vehicle was about 10-15 MPH and system operated with no brake pedal input. A vehicle behind had to do a panic stop to avoid collision. Deployment disengaged when accelerator pedal was released. My wife, principal driver, was in the car. She advised this had occurred two times before. No recalls are presently listed for the vehicle.

Engine
Filed Feb 6, 2026AR

Check engine light came on. Went off a little later and then came back on. Took it to the dealership where they ran codes. They changed the fuel injector and spark plugs based on the codes listed. They heard a noise coming from under the engine and felt like it was the same failure that it happened in the 2021 to 2024 Yukon models those engines had been recalled. Was quoted $15,000 for a new engine was also charged $1000 for the fuel injector and spark plugs.

Engine
Filed Jan 10, 2026CA

Engine lifter spring failure followed by bent valve push rod experienced on or about 11/6/2025. Engine repaired/re-built at independent auto mechanic for a total of $6,450. Parts not available but have pictures. Depending on where this incident could have occurred (freeway, long trips, while towing (boat, horses), etc.) safety concerns include being stranded in traffic or remote areas. Engine lost significant power and wouldn't have been able to tow. Engine knock warning light.

Engine
Filed Dec 18, 2025LA

My name is [XXX] I have a 2019 GMC Yukon Denali with 226,000 miles my engine has went out do to the same issues that's going on with the GM motors right now. I have brought it in to Courtsey GMC and they told me my engine needed to be replace do to oil pressure problem cylinder 8 was bad. After taking the engine apart they notice the problem. my phone number [XXX] email [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Engine
Filed Dec 10, 2025TX

Engine failure at 114k miles required replacement.

Engine
Filed Nov 18, 2025IL

MEMORANDUM To: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Subject: Safety Defect Report – 2019 GMC Yukon Denali 6.2L V8 (L87) with AFM/DFM I am reporting a serious and recurring safety defect involving my 2019 GMC Yukon Denali equipped with the 6.2L V8 L87 engine and GM’s AFM/DFM system. In the past twelve months, I have experienced two separate engine failures, both occurring at highway speeds and both involving valve-train/VLOM failures on the same side of the engine. In each incident, the vehicle suddenly lost power, misfired violently, and became unable to maintain speed. This created an extremely dangerous situation for my family. One failure occurred while my wife was driving; the other occurred while my [XXX] son was driving. Both were forced to maneuver across high-speed traffic with a failing engine to reach the shoulder. These events posed a clear risk of a high-speed crash, injury or even a fatality. There are hundreds—possibly thousands—of documented complaints from owners of GM vehicles with AFM/DFM-equipped engines reporting the same issues: collapsed lifters, valve failures, VLOM malfunctions, and sudden loss of propulsion. These failures often occur without warning and show a consistent pattern across multiple model years and engine variants, including the L87. The sudden loss of power at highway speeds represents a significant safety hazard. The frequency of similar reports suggests a systemic mechanical defect rather than isolated incidents. I re

Engine
Filed Nov 10, 2025TX

Four of the eight oil lifters in my 6.2L engine in my 2019 GMC Yukon failed. The car has around 53,000 miles. The issue was confirmed by an independent service center. There were no warning lamps or messages prior to the issue. Zero. The service center even ran diagnostics with no result and could not confirm the issue until after it partially took apart the engine. I noticed a noise similar to a card flapping in the wind and took it to the service center that same day. The car had been properly serviced with oil changes and still had 44% oil life that same day. Repairs are currently being made and estimated at $4,000.

Electrical System
Filed Nov 7, 2025NC

Driving out a town 400 miles away, with a young passenger in my car on [XXX] in rush hour traffic, i started hearing a slight ticking sound then moved into a full blown knock on my drivers side ( I recorded it). within minutes, my oil light came on and my dash notification reading "engine overheating idle" with the knocking really load. I had to cross 3 lanes to traffic quickly to get to the shoulder of the road, which was NOT a safe place. I smelled smoke and cut the the engine off. I popped the hood to see that there was now no coolant (that is all I knew to look for). I immediately called OnStar Roadside assistance. 2 hours later, I was towed to a local hotel room. Car completely dead. not lights, couldn't lock it, nothing. I had to pay a large fee (almost $2k) to have my car towed back to NC from AL not to mention having rent a rental car to get us home. the car is now at a GMC dealership in Monroe NC. of course the Powertrain extended warranty doesn't cover the Battery replacement, belt replacement and water pump replacement so now I'm out of pocket $1300 just to get those install to be able to try and start the engine to further diagnose if my I have complete engine failure AND without transportation. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Service Brakes
Filed Aug 26, 2025NC

I JUST PURCHASED THIS 2019 GMC YUKON DENALI. ABOUT 3 WEEKS AFTER; THE MESSAGE "SERVICE TRAILER BRAKE SYSTEM" STARTED BEEPING...DIDN'T REALLY PAY BOTHER ME AT 1ST SINCE I WEREN'T PLANNING TO PULL ANYTHING. THEN IT STARTED DOING IT MORE FREQUENTLY. NOW IT IS CONSTANTLY DOING IT EVERY FEW DAYS. CAN'T SEEM TO GET IT TO STOP. VERY ANNOYING... ANY SUGGESTIONS?

Power Train
Filed Aug 19, 2025111,000 milesCA

The contact owns a 2019 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle briefly hesitated and jerked before returning to normal functionality. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the transmission. The contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. 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 111,000.

Engine
Filed Aug 15, 202576,300 milesNC

The contact owns a 2019 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, there was an abnormal knocking sound coming from the engine, and the engine failed to run. The message "Shut off Vehicle - Service at Local Dealer" was displayed; however, no warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer where it was diagnosed, and the contact was advised that the lifters, cam shaft, and push rods were faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 76,300.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Jun 3, 20257,000 milesAZ

The contact owns a 2019 GMC Yukon. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, there was an abnormal ticking sound coming from the vehicle. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the water pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with engine failure, and lifters and cam phaser failures. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 7,000.

Engine
Filed May 27, 2025TX

Engine lights and all other warning lights came on, and lost total power in engine while driving. Engine knocked bad and had to limp to a repair center to check out engine problem. Service department says total engine failure at 72k miles, no warning. Apparently this 2019 GMC Yukon is not within the recall for engine replacement that appears it needs to be covered as well.

Engine
Filed May 15, 2025OK

Driving home from work, with no signs my oil pressure guage dropped to zero and RPMs went to zero and I had to pull over in full on traffic going 70mph with my boat hooked to my 2019 gmc yukon denal almost causing me to wreck. Towed vehicle and boat to closest towing service and then took vehicle to mechanic and the engine was seized up

Engine
Filed Apr 28, 202573,000 milesLA

The contact owns a 2019 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that after starting the vehicle, her husband noticed an abnormal tapping sound coming from the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, who determined that the drive belt needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken to another local dealer, Gerry Lane Buick GMC (6615 Florida Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70806) to be diagnosed and it was determined that the lifters had failed. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and provided a partial reimbursement for the repair. The failure mileage was approximately 73,000.

Engine
Filed Apr 25, 2025170,000 milesKY

The contact owns a 2019 GMC Yukon. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal rattling sound coming from the engine compartment, prompting the contact to discontinue driving the vehicle. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the cam shaft. The vehicle was repaired. 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 170,000. The VIN was not available.

Engine
Filed Apr 24, 2025MI

Was driving home at highway speeds and my 2019 yukon denalis engine just shut off in traffic and had to come to a stop in the middle of traffic and it wouldn't restart, had to have it towed to dealer and they told me the engine was siezed.

Power Train
Filed Apr 8, 2025PA

Power steering going in and out while driving

Power Train
Filed Feb 14, 2025IN

Transmission failed at 90,100 miles. Left me stranded in middle of a busy intersection as I was making a left turn, it was like it was in neutral no matter how much I tried to accelerate. Very dangerous situation, scary and helpless feeling as cars approaching and I could not get out of their way. Near miss accident. This should not be happening at this low mileage

Engine
Filed Jan 22, 2025IL

The car was clicking when it was first started up, a short time later it started to shake terribly which forced my [XXX] son who was driving the vehicle at the time to pull over, on a major toll-way in heavy traffic. Engine light started to blink and traction control light came on. I immediately took the car into the dealer and was told I need new lifters ($3800 + Tax) and most likely a new engine (they quoted me $15,865). From what I am reading this issue is common place with the 6.2L engine...frightening and very lucky my son was not injured. I have filed a case with GMC - Case #[XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Electrical System
Filed Jan 11, 2025CA

We received an alert/warning that is nearly constantly beeping and servicing the trailer brake system. We have never used the wiring or towed anything, and the trailer brake system is unused. The beeping is near constant, even after we “dismiss” the alert and is very distracting when driving.

Seat Belts
Filed Jul 31, 2024UT

The seatbelt on the second row driver side captain chair no longer works. It started not retracting about a year ago and now it won’t retract or pull out so it is stuck and cannot be used. The $85k Yukon is only five years old, seat belts should last longer than that. GMC wants us to pay $500 to fix a safety concern seat belt. I would understand if the vehicle was 10+ years old but we are still less than 100k miles and we just hit 5 years.

Power Train
Filed May 28, 202482,000 milesCA

The contact owns a 2019 GMC Yukon. The contact stated while driving at various speeds and depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle hesitated to respond and jolted while responding. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and an independent mechanic; however, the failure could not be duplicated. The contact stated while driving 65 MPH, the vehicle decelerated to 25 MPH independently while the RPMS were significantly high. The contact depressed the accelerator pedal, and the engine revved. The vehicle jolted and accelerated to 65 MPH; however, the failure recurred. The contact depressed the accelerator pedal and the vehicle resumed speed, then the vehicle jerked and lost motive power. The contact was able to pull to the side of the road. The contact restarted the vehicle and continued driving; however, the vehicle stalled. The contact pulled over to the emergency lane. The contact parked and restarted the vehicle. The contact was able to drive into a parking lot, where the failure recurred. The vehicle failed to restart with the check engine warning light illuminated. The messages "Transmission Hot - Idle Engine" and "Action Required" were displayed. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The dealer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 82,000.

Engine
Filed Apr 8, 2024GA

The engine continues to slip and slows down when driving. The following codes are returned back from the onstar diagnostics, Transmission Control Module Requested Malfunction Indicator Lamp Illumination. The DTC is an informational DTC. The DTC indicates an emission related DTC set in the Transmission Control Module. The vehicle has only 132,000 miles, and I have maitain the vehicle in excellent shape. With maitainance, the transmission should last at least 300,000 miles. The Engine and Transmission System is not performing as expected. An issue has been detected in the Transmission System that transfers power from the engine to the drive wheels.

Power Train
Filed Mar 20, 2024MA

-Automatic transmission failed. Slipped, skipped, and bucked while driving. -Taking a left turn into traffic transmission hesitated and just started slipping almost causing an accident. -Dealer confirmed torque converter failed and transmission needed replacement. -No warnings. No towing. Just 89,000 highway miles commuting to work. No heavy loads or abuse. -Had to replace the transmission, not covered under warranty due to mileage. Not available for inspection.

Engine
Filed Jan 10, 2024LA

Engine Lifters failing and vehicle making a squeaking type noise. Check engine light came on briefly 2 weeks ago and went off. Problem confirmed by GMC dealer whom also reports they have multiple vehicles at shop right now with lifters and cam shaft problems

Electrical System
Filed Sep 8, 202334,000 milesNC

The contact owns a 2019 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that the third-row seats electrically controlled failed to function as needed. The contact stated that that the seats failed to move forward or backwards. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the third-row seat unit needed to be replaced. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The contact researched online and related the failure TSB: PIT5550C (Left Side Third Row Seat will not Power Fold/Unfold Seats, Electrical System). The failure mileage was approximately 34,000.

Power Train
Filed May 4, 2023TN

Transmission failed while driving down the road. Trasmission reved up while driving and would not go faster then the car started slowing down. Thank goodness this was not on an interstate or it could have caused an accident. Check engine light came on as I was getting to the shoulder of the road.

Steering
Filed Mar 13, 2023LA

The steering gear box became disassemble, steering wheel when to twelve o'clock, gears in steering gear box jump gear insurance inspector said a bolt back out,there was 439 recall for steering box recall in 2019 the part number changed several times with multiple bullets for same part.

Electrical System › Integrated Trailer Brake Control
Filed Jan 10, 202313,000 milesNJ

The contact owns a 2019 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the service trailer brake system warning light illuminated and alerted the contact. The contact stated that there was no trailer brake. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was advised to take the vehicle to the dealer. The failure mileage was approximately 13,000. The VIN was unavailable.

Suspension
Filed Dec 8, 2022IL

Rear shocks are frozen (seized) Makes the vehicle hard to control on bumpy surfaces.

Engine
Filed Aug 7, 2022WI

The intake valve spring broke and destroyed the cylinder and engine. The damage was verified by a certified GMC dealer and submitted to GMC who said they would replace the engine under the warranty. No warnings or symptoms occurred prior to the total engine failure. The vehicle is under the 60000 warranty and has been at the dealer for going on 7 months.

Exterior Lighting
Filed Jul 2, 2022CA

Tailights are not working as per the dealer (Thompsons GMC of Placerville, CA). Unable to drive the car at night or near sunset.

Service Brakes
Filed May 11, 2022MO

Received a message on driver information system that states service trailer brake system. When towing a trailer, the trailer brakes are inoperable and pose a safety risk in the event of a sudden brake event. GM apparently has a service bulletin published for this message which indicated a replacement of the connector in the wire harness should be performed. Although I don't tow trailers often, I should be able to rely on this feature in my vehicle. My vehicle only has 70,000 miles and this is too soon for such a part to become faulty.

Unknown or OtherFire
Filed Mar 29, 202115,500 milesFL

VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE IN MY DRIVEWAY AND BURNED TO THE GROUND. MY WIFE AND I DROVE TO DINNER AND CAME HOME AROUND 830PM ON FRIDAY NIGHT (03/26/2021). THE NEXT MORNING (SATURDAY, 03/27/2021), I WAS WALKING PAST THE FRONT DOOR AROUND 8AM AND NOTICED FLAMES COMING OUT OF THE GRILLE (UNDER THE HOOD) WHEN I LOOKED OUTSIDE. TOLD MY WIFE TO CALL 911 AND I RAN OUTSIDE AND TRIED TO PUT IT OUT WITH THE FIRE HOUSE, BUT IT WAS TOO LATE AND THE FIRE TOOK OVER. THE FIRE MARSHALL STATED IT WAS AN ELECTRICAL SYSTEM FAILURE THAT CAUSED THE FIRE.

Service Brakes
Filed Jul 16, 2020NC

BRAKE LIGHTS COMPLETELY STOPPED WORKING. CAR IS 1 YEAR OLD.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jul 16, 2020NC

AIR CONDITIONER BLOWING OUT HOT AIR.

Complaints 1-50 of 55, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2015
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
20271000Routine
202644300Do not drive
202558200Routine
2024106300Routine
2023246400Above average
2022185510Routine
20213451300Above average
202037400Do not drive
2019 — this page55210Do not drive
201870300Routine
2017196310Routine
2016271500Do not drive
20155291040Above average
201456310Routine
2013117400Routine
201263300Routine
2011158502Fatalities reported
2010105420Routine
200994500Routine
2008188450Routine
2007428452Fatalities reported
200627300Routine
200585530Routine
2004159410Routine
2003204620Above average
2002158530Routine
2001197801Fatalities reported
2000166901Fatalities reported
1999204200Above average
199880313Fatalities reported
1997133130Routine
199670410Routine
199590730Routine
199458400Routine
199317100Routine
199219201Fatalities reported

Compare every Yukon year →

2019 GMC Yukon: questions buyers ask

Is the 2019 GMC Yukon a good car?

It is not among the Yukon years to avoid. Owners filed 55 complaints, against about 133 for a typical Yukon year. The most common complaint is about the engine (45%). In NHTSA crash tests it scored 4 stars overall.

What is the most common problem with the 2019 GMC Yukon?

The engine: 25 of the 55 complaints (45%) are about it. Owners most often say it sets off warning lights on the dash (44%), turns on the check engine light (32%) and knocks, grinds or clunks (32%). The typical report comes at 76,300 miles.

How many recalls does the 2019 GMC Yukon have?

2 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed May 7, 2026. 1 of them carries a do-not-drive or park-outside warning. The largest, 19V761000, covered 652,967 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

At what mileage do 2019 GMC Yukon problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 34,800 miles. For the engine the midpoint is 76,300 miles.

Are there service bulletins for the 2019 GMC Yukon?

The manufacturer filed 826 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the engine (156), the electrical system (97) and the transmission (84). They include a service campaign, N252494770-01, filed Jun 20, 2025. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

Reading this record

NHTSA has issued a do-not-drive warning for a recall on this vehicle.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: May 7, 2026. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.