2026 GMC Yukon

Do not drive

Owners filed 44 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the engine. It has been recalled 3 times.

Too new to rank against other GMC Yukon years; complaints take a few years to arrive. Which GMC Yukon years to avoid →

Most common 2026 GMC Yukon problems

29 of the 44 complaints (66%) are about the engine.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Engine29
000
Power Train · transmission5
000
Electrical System3
000
Unknown or Other2
000
Wheels1
000
Visibility/Wiper · wipers1
001
Structure › Body · body and frame1
000
Seats1
000
Latches/Locks/Linkages · door locks and latches1
000

2026 GMC Yukon engine problems

66% of all complaints

29 of the 44 complaints are about the engine. This is what owners describe:

  • loses power17% · 5
  • stalls17% · 5
  • turns on the check engine light10% · 3
  • sets off warning lights on the dash10% · 3
  • knocks, grinds or clunks10% · 3
  • smokes or smells of burning10% · 3

Share of the 29 engine complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Typical mileage
4,700 mi
median of 4 reports
Peak year of filing
2026
29 engine complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
0 · 0 · 0
in these complaints
Recalls on the engine
None
“While traveling at highway speeds of approximately 82 mph in a 2026 GMC Yukon Denali (6.2L V8 L87 engine), the engine experienced a sudden, catastrophic internal failure and completely seized without warning. This resulted in an immediate, total loss of motive power, power steering assist, and power braking assist while surrounded by high-speed traffic.”
Owner complaint, filed Sep 2, 2026
“The engine issue was caused by a misfire in cylinder #5, which resulted in white smoke coming from the vehicle’s exhaust. While driving on the highway, the vehicle lost power and would not accelerate properly, creating a serious safety hazard due to the inability to maintain speed and safely respond to traffic conditions.”
Owner complaint, filed Aug 30, 2026

3 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Wheels › Hub26V304000
Filed May 14, 20262,457 vehiclesGeneral Motors, LLC

Defect. General Motors, LLC is recalling certain 2025–2026 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban 1500, Tahoe, GMC Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles with 24-inch wheels. Incorrect bolts may have been installed on the left and right front wheel hubs, which can result in the bolts loosening or deforming over time.

Risk. A bolt that loosens or breaks during vehicle operation can result in loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Dealers will replace the front left and right wheel hub bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 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 N262554630. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on May 14, 2026.

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.

Equipment › Other › Owners/Service/Other Manual26V114000
Filed Feb 26, 20265,861 vehiclesGeneral Motors, LLC

Defect. General Motors has decided that certain 2027 Chevrolet Bolt EV, 2025-2026 Cadillac OPTIQ, Chevrolet Colorado, Equinox EV, GMC Canyon, 2026 Buick Enclave, Envision, Cadillac CT5, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Escalade IQ, Escalade IQL, LYRIQ, VISTIQ, Chevrolet Blazer EV, Corvette Convertible, Corvette Coupe, Corvette Convertible E-Ray, Equinox, Silverado 1500, 2500, 3500, Silverado EV, Suburban 1500, Tahoe, Traverse, GMC Acadia, Hummer EV Pickup, Hummer EV SUV, Sierra 1500, 2500, 3500, Sierra EV, Terrain, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles. The radio may not have been set to the correct status to download the electronic owner's manual during production. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, “Occupant Protection.”

Risk. Without an owner's manual to consult, owners may not know how to safely use and operate the vehicle, increasing the risk of injury in a crash.

Remedy. Dealers will reset the vehicle radio, which will facilitate automatic download of the electronic owner’s manual, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 16, 2026. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1-866-467-9700, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223. The manufacturer's number for this recall is N252540430. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on February 26, 2026.

All 3 campaigns on file, newest first.

NHTSA investigations

Office of Defects Investigation

Before a recall there is often an investigation: NHTSA opens one when complaints or manufacturer data point to a safety defect. One names the 2026 Yukon.

Loss of motive power due to engine failure post recall remedyEngineering analysis EA26005Open
Opened Aug 20, 2026engine

On January 16, 2026, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Recall Query RQ26001. This investigation was opened to assess the remedy effectiveness of Recall 25V-274. ODI has received complaints alleging engine failure in vehicles after the recall remedy had been completed, whether that remedy involved an oil viscosity change or a complete engine replacement. General Motors (GM) issued Recall 25V-274 to address concerns of engine failure in the L87 engines produced between March 1, 2021 and May 31, 2024. GM cited the root cause as a supplier manufacturing and quality issue. GM’s …

Technical service bulletins

221 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2026 Yukon. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

electrical system 4engine 2brakes 1wheels 1automatic emergency braking 1steering 1
N252521591-03Service campaignFeb 11, 2026unknown or other

Certain vehicles listed above may have a condition in which hard braking may unexpectedly engage. Dealers will re-program the IPM or Front View Camera depending on what the vehicle is equipped with.

N252521591-02Service campaignFeb 10, 2026unknown or other

Certain vehicles listed above may have a condition in which hard braking may unexpectedly engage. Dealers will reprogram the Image Processing Module.

N252521591-01Service campaignNov 20, 2025unknown or other

Certain vehicles listed above may have a condition in which hard braking may unexpectedly engage. Dealers will reprogram the Image Processing Module.

N252521591Service campaignNov 19, 2025unknown or other

Certain vehicles listed above may have a condition in which hard braking may unexpectedly engage. Dealers will reprogram the Image Processing Module.

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.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Unknown or Other
Filed Oct 25, 2026WA

I am writing to formally report what I believe is a design flaw in my new GMC Denali involving the center console lid. The lid does not have a stopper, dampening mechanism, or other means of holding it securely in the open position. When I lift the lid to reach for an item inside the console, it can fall closed unexpectedly and slam down on my hand. This creates an avoidable risk of injury during ordinary use of the vehicle. Accessing a center console storage compartment is a routine activity, and the lid should not unexpectedly close on the user’s hand. I am concerned that this design may affect other owners of the same vehicle model. I believe the issue warrants review by GMC’s product engineering and vehicle safety teams

Electrical System
Filed Oct 21, 2026MI

My 2026 GMC Yukon Denali Ultimate has had the vadar chrome peel in the first 7000 miles. After that a wiring pinch made the 4 wheel drive unusable during the winter months that I needed it to get into my driveway During summer months the infotainment center completely failed to a black screen and since does not function having the dealership tell me that it will need to be replaced. The 6.2 motor started ticking at 25000 miles, I took it to the dealership yesterday 10/14, the dealership is keeping the vehicle for an estimated 6 weeks to tear the motor apart. The motor is making the noise where it is reported to shut down at high speeds had I not got it in when I did. The vehicle has had no warning to indicate problems.

Engine
Filed Oct 16, 2026NY

Was operating Yukon on st route 5 doing 55mph when the Yukons engine blew up and the vehicle shut down on me in the middle of the road.

Engine
Filed Oct 12, 2026PA

While traveling on a state route in Pennsylvania the engine unexpectedly locked up. This was confirmed by the dealer once it was towed to their lot and they were able to inspect it. To date, a replacement engine has not been able to be located yet, its been four weeks and no updates have been received.

Engine
Filed Sep 30, 2026FL

This engine failed while I was driving. You need to speed up the process and make GM know that their 6.2 engines are failing still to this day . People can get in accidents due to this happening. GM needs to be held accountable for their mistakes. I was lucky my vehicle engine failed near my home and not on the interstate. Please get to the bottom of this . There is no reason that these engines are failing in 2026.

Engine
Filed Sep 29, 2026WA

On 7/25/26 (a Saturday), we started to hear a noise in my vehicle and shortly thereafter, were sent a service alert through the GMC app and the check engine light came on. We immediately parked the vehicle and took it to the dealership when they opened on 7/27/2026 (Monday). Later that day, we were informed that my Yukon Denali, with 9,226 miles on it, has metal fragments in the oil caused by some sort of failure in the bottom half of the engine and the engine needs to be replaced. The engine was replaced and I picked up my car on 8/17/2026. The check engine light came on again on 8/20/2026 and after three trips to the dealership, my catalytic converter was replaced. Since purchasing my car on December 4, 2025, I have taken it back to the dealership 5 times for non-routine services (and once for a routine oil change). Since purchasing a BRAND NEW 2026 GMC Denali (a car that cost over $100,000) less than 10 months ago, I have been without my car for 33 days for manufacturing related issues that are all under warranty. I still don't think the engine issues are fixed (or I have another bad engine). My vehicle sounds metallic at start up (different than it sounded when I purchased the vehicle and different than other 2024-2026 GMC Yukons with the same engine) and idles rougher than it used to. I am nervous driving my car on road trips now, which is one of the primary reasons we purchased the vehicle. I did my research before purchasing this vehicle and based on information from G

Engine
Filed Sep 29, 2026FL

Engine failed . Stalled in the middle of the road . Engine ran bad . Shaking knocking and trebling. No engine lights on .

Engine
Filed Sep 14, 2026MI

Engine stopped. Would not restart. I had it towed to dealership. They told me the engine is blown. There is only 7700 miles on the truck.

Engine
Filed Sep 12, 2026IN

Engine failed on this 2026 GMC Yukon Denali.. It had only 18000 miles on it, it failed in middle of hwy in Indiana. Got it towed to dealership.. they haven’t touched it since last 2 days.

Engine
Filed Sep 2, 2026TX

While traveling at highway speeds of approximately 82 mph in a 2026 GMC Yukon Denali (6.2L V8 L87 engine), the engine experienced a sudden, catastrophic internal failure and completely seized without warning. This resulted in an immediate, total loss of motive power, power steering assist, and power braking assist while surrounded by high-speed traffic. The sudden deceleration and lack of vehicle control created an extreme, life-threatening safety hazard, forcing an emergency maneuver across multiple lanes to reach the shoulder. Stranded on shoulder at night(pitch black) with lots of 18 wheelers passing.

Engine
Filed Aug 31, 2026AL

-Transmission started to slip when shifting above 2000rpms -Engine light came on and took to dealership -Error code confirmed for valve body, valve #3 failure -New valve body installed after order but also failed as I left the dealership -New valve body currently on order

Engine
Filed Aug 30, 2026TX

The engine issue was caused by a misfire in cylinder #5, which resulted in white smoke coming from the vehicle’s exhaust. While driving on the highway, the vehicle lost power and would not accelerate properly, creating a serious safety hazard due to the inability to maintain speed and safely respond to traffic conditions.

Engine
Filed Aug 30, 2026TX

The engine issue was caused by a misfire in cylinder #5, which resulted in white smoke coming from the vehicle’s exhaust. While driving on the highway, the vehicle lost power and would not accelerate properly, creating a serious safety hazard due to the inability to maintain speed and safely respond to traffic conditions.

Engine
Filed Aug 30, 2026TX

The engine issue was caused by a misfire in cylinder #5, which resulted in white smoke coming from the vehicle’s exhaust. While driving on the highway, the vehicle lost power and would not accelerate properly, creating a serious safety hazard due to the inability to maintain speed and safely respond to traffic conditions.

Engine
Filed Aug 29, 2026TN

The engine failed at 5383 miles while driving on remote highway in Nebraska.

Engine
Filed Aug 28, 2026NE

Driving down highway the engine made a squeeling noise. The engine shuttered and kept making noise then said to reduce speed. Then quit running all together.

Engine
Filed Aug 26, 20264,700 milesNE

The contact owns a 2026 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that while driving approximately 15-20 MPH and approaching a stop in Nebraska, there was an abnormal sound coming from the vehicle. The vehicle was shaking and vibrating abnormally. The contact called the local dealer, and an appointment was scheduled. The failures persisted while waiting for the appointment. While driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power and stalled. The driver alerted OnStar about the failure. The vehicle failed to restart. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed with complete engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the contact no longer wanted the vehicle. The manufacturer was contacted and opened a case and escalated the concerns. The failure mileage was approximately 4,700.

Engine
Filed Aug 23, 2026PA

While we were visiting Canada, our GMC Yukon had fewer than 5,000 miles when its engine seized on the highway. The vehicle was taken to a GMC dealership in Canada. The dealer advised that the engine needed to be replaced, and it has now been replaced. We need to back to Canada to pick up the vehicle.

Power Train
Filed Aug 22, 2026TX

While traveling on [XXX] from Houston back to San Antonio, my truck engine just blew up without any warning whatsoever. We purchased the truck with 3 miles on it, and we have only put 5,000 miles on it. New cars that cost early $100K shouldn’t be having engine failures like this. I’m lost for words now! INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Engine
Filed Aug 21, 2026PA

My yukon denali ultimate had only 3,788 miles on it and on 7/27 while merging onto a highway my vehicle made a sound like it was trying to shift into gear but couldn't and then while I'm pressing the accelerator pedal it's slowing down. There were tractor trailer and vehicles speeding up behind me but I couldn't speed up and I was able to pull over on the shoulder luckily and I'm thankful it did not cause an accident. My yukon would not start no matter what I tried and I ended calling a tow truck and had it towed to my local GMC delearship where I was informed that the engine had seized and they would order a new replacement engine. My yukon is still sitting at the dealership waiting for the repair.

Engine
Filed Aug 10, 2026TX

GMC should be haulted from selling trucks with the 6.2L engine. My brand new 2026 GMC Yukon Denali engine imploded on the Interstate going 75mph that nearly killed my entire family. No warning, just out of no where died on the highway, with 4K miles on it. This is sadly going to get someone critically injured and when is enough going to be enough? GMC has some explaining to do, when they charge $85K-$100K for trucks that blow up as soon as you buy them.

Engine
Filed Aug 10, 2026TX

GMC should be haulted from selling trucks with the 6.2L engine. My brand new 2026 GMC Yukon Denali engine imploded on the Interstate going 75mph that nearly killed my entire family. No warning, just out of no where died on the highway, with 4K miles on it. This is sadly going to get someone critically injured and when is enough going to be enough? GMC has some explaining to do, when they charge $85K-$100K for trucks that blow up as soon as you buy them.

Latches/Locks/Linkages
Filed Aug 10, 202660 milesMO

The contact owns a 2026 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that while walking alongside the rear end of the parked vehicle, the hands free function of the lift gate opened up unintentionally, no warning lights were illuminated. The contact was not injured, however expressed concern for safety as the lift gate will open without user consent while walking along the rear end of the vehicle. The local dealer was contacted however the vehicle was not diagnosed as the contact was advised that the vehicle was manufactured with the feature. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 60.

Engine
Filed Aug 4, 20263,788 milesPA

The contact owns a 2026 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that while driving 55 MPH and depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle failed to respond as intended. The contact pulled over to the side of the road, turned off and restarted the vehicle; however, the failure persisted. A dealer was contacted. The vehicle was towed to the dealer to be diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that there was a wait for the replacement engine. The approximate failure mileage was 3,788.

Engine
Filed Aug 4, 2026AZ

On July 30th 2026, I was Driving on the highway at about 75 miles per hour and the engine shut down. We were fortunate that we could pull over to the side of the highway. We had the truck towed to Oxendale gmc. Today 8/4/26 I was informed that in fact the engine needs to be replace. No warnings no symptoms, the truck just shut down while driving.

Structure › Body
Filed Jul 8, 2026UT

The vehicle was parked and turned off for approximately 45 minutes on a residential street along the curb in front of a house when the rear window suddenly shattered. I was inside a nearby house at the time. A landscaper working in the area reported hearing a single loud pop and then my vehicle’s alarm sounding. He stated he was not close to the vehicle and did not see any object strike it. When I inspected the Yukon, the entire rear window had exploded outward and inward, leaving no glass remaining in place. Glass was scattered both inside the cargo area and outside behind the vehicle. The upper liftgate section had also popped open, which is consistent with the sudden pressure release that occurs during spontaneous tempered‑glass failure. There are no impact marks, dents, or paint damage that would indicate a rock strike or external force. Given the circumstances, the debris pattern, and the absence of an impact point, this appears to be a spontaneous failure of the tempered liftgate glass, likely due to internal stress or a manufacturing defect. I am requesting that the dealership inspect the liftgate assembly, confirm the cause, and consider warranty coverage for the glass replacement and any related components.

Electrical System
Filed Jun 28, 2026SC

The center screen (infotainment), which shows controls for cabin climate (A/C, heat) and many more functions of the vehicle fails to turn on at random times. It is available for inspection. The external air temperature is in the upper 90s; temperature inside the car’s cabin is easily 115 or higher. This makes safe operation of the car not possible. Additionally passengers cannot occupy the vehicle safely at these extreme temperatures. The problem has been reproduced by dealers. UNKNOWN whether the components have been inspected by the manufacturer. No warning lamps or lights.

Engine
Filed Jun 24, 2026MD

Engine failed at 12, 430 miles. Dealer said it required a new engine. This happened on 06/06/2026 and I am still without my very expensive vehicle. There were no wanring lamps or other engine failure notificatioins before this occurred.

Electrical System
Filed Jun 12, 2026NC

**Incident / vehicle info:** - **Year / Make / Model:** 2026 / GMC / Yukon (Elevation) - **Date incident began:** ~mid-March 2026 - **Odometer / mileage:** under 1,000 - **Component:** Back Over Prevention: Rearview Camera (and/or Electrical System / Visibility) - **Crash? Fire? Injuries? Deaths?** No / No / No / No - **Vehicle still owned:** Yes - **Dealer or manufacturer contacted?** Yes — servicing dealer Rick Hendrick City Chevrolet (Charlotte); GM Customer Care cases 101763052 and 102071761 - **Description (paste this — ~1,700 characters, under the ~2,000 limit):** My 2026 GMC Yukon Elevation experiences intermittent total failure of the center infotainment/display screen, beginning around mid-March 2026. The failure is heat-related and intermittent: the screen functions on cool days, and on hot days it fails the vast majority of the time, unpredictably, after the vehicle heat-soaks in the sun. When it fails, the entire screen goes dark and I lose the backup camera and surround-view cameras, all HVAC/climate controls, audio, navigation, and most secondary controls. Steering, brakes, and engine are unaffected. This creates two safety hazards. First, loss of the rearview camera image eliminates rear visibility when backing — the exact risk FMVSS 111 is intended to prevent — raising the chance of a backover crash. Second, loss of all climate control in extreme heat endangers occupants in North Carolina summer temperatures, and a blank, unresponsive screen is a driver distra

Engine
Filed Jun 1, 2026NC

So the ultimate failure is from a catastrophically failed crankshaft journal thrust bearing. Which could be caused from one of two things: 1) The crankshaft thrust bearings they are putting in these motors are made with inferior materials, probably cheap Chinese crap or 2) The crankshaft end play tolerance was never set properly, giving the crankshaft the ability to move forward and backward in the engine more than it was designed to. Which will over time beat up on the thrust bearing until it fails. In either case it would result in the same progressive issue showing itself. It will start as a squeak here and there. Which, as the soft thrust bearing material is unable to hold the proper oil film thickness for lubrication, will spiral into more and more heat being sent into the adjacent components, plus the buildup of metal particles being sent through the entire engine oiling system. Which will then start killing connecting rod and crankshaft bearings one by one. If the engine survived to this point, it’s now a ticking time bomb. It is either going to just seize up and not run anymore or the exciting route would be a connecting rod breaks and makes a window sized hole in the side of the engine block.

Engine
Filed May 28, 2026VA

My engine with less than 5,000 miles died (engine was blown). While driving on highway engine died and wheels locked and almost caused a major accident. I had to get a tow and bill cost me 700.00. GMC is giving me the run around. Dealer stated that engine will need to be replaced. GMC is doing nothing to assist me, I have a car note with no truck GMC is the biggest scam.

Engine
Filed May 27, 202610,000 milesNJ

The contact owns a 2026 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that while driving at 65 MPH the engine seized. All the warning lights illuminated after the failure. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that an engine replacement was needed. The vehicle was not repaired due to the part being backordered. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 10,000.

Wheels
Filed May 18, 2026IL

The contact owns a 2026 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that the vehicle was purchased, the contact stated that, because of the open recall, the vehicle was not released to the contact. The contact referenced the open recall, NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V304000 (Wheels) however the parts were unavailable. The dealer informed the contact that the parts were unavailable. The manufacturer was not contacted. The contact had not experienced any failure.

Visibility/Wiper1 injured
Filed May 18, 2026DC

While operating my 2026 GMC Yukon AT4 (VIN [XXX] ) on [XXX] Pelahatchie, Mississippi, the panoramic moonroof spontaneously shattered at highway speed. No impact, no debris strike, no external cause. The failure produced a violent report and showered tempered glass into the cabin, forcing an emergency stop on the shoulder during heavy commercial truck traffic — a serious secondary-collision risk caused directly by the failure. I spent hours roadside clearing glass and duct-taping the open roof aperture to make the vehicle minimally drivable. Nighttime wind forced an unplanned overnight stay in north Alabama before a multi-hundred-mile drive back to Washington, DC with the vehicle compromised. In DC, I was forced to park the visibly compromised vehicle in a high-foot-traffic area with work valuables that could not be removed, then drive 20 miles to the dealer in heavy rain the next morning — exposing cabin, electrical systems, child seating positions, and headliner to water intrusion. The shattered glass fell directly above the second-row positions where my [XXX] and [XXX] daughters ride daily. They were not present. Had they been, close-range tempered glass would have created serious risk of injury to face, eyes, and airway, plus driver-distraction crash risk at highway speed. The vehicle is approximately [XXX] weeks old. This is the second manufacturing safety defect in under one month — the first a second-row driver-side captain's chair latch defect, filed separately. Replac

Seats
Filed May 18, 2026DC

My 2026 GMC Yukon AT4 (VIN [XXX] ) has a manufacturing defect in the second-row driver-side captain's chair. The C-clamp / latch mechanism that secures the seat to the floor was depressed (partially released position) at delivery on [XXX]. I was able to manipulate the latch enough to work but the release trigger then would not depress to release the seat back from a tumble position. My [XXX] daughter's car seat usually sits in this seat. This is safety-critical for two reasons. First, the second-row captain's chair is the anchored platform for my child's car seat. A seat not fully and correctly latched to the floor compromises the LATCH and tether load path that every car-seat manufacturer's certified installation depends on. Second, a captain's chair that will not fold or tumble blocks emergency egress for third-row occupants in a crash, fire, or rollover, and blocks rescue access to a trapped child in the second row. This appears to implicate FMVSS 207 (Seating Systems) and FMVSS 225 (Child Restraint Anchorage Systems). The vehicle is approximately 16 weeks old and was sold to me with this defect present from delivery. This is one of two manufacturing safety defects on this vehicle within thirty days; the other is a spontaneously shattered panoramic moonroof (NHTSA #11738557) on [XXX] in Mississippi, filed separately. Both defects involve the same area — directly above and at the seating position where my [XXX] daughter rides daily. The vehicle is at the dealer awaiting par

Unknown or Other
Filed May 15, 2026GA

The vehicle experienced repeated failures involving the Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System, and Check Engine system. Warning indicators for the ESC, traction control, and check engine illuminated while operating the vehicle. The issue has occurred on two separate occasions. The first incident occurred on May 4, 2026. The vehicle was taken to the dealership for inspection and repair, and the dealership advised that the issue had been corrected. However, the same problem reoccurred on May 7, 2026. The vehicle has been inspected by the dealership service department, and the malfunction was confirmed. The affected components and vehicle are available for inspection upon request. The failure created a significant safety concern because the ESC and traction control systems are critical safety features designed to assist with vehicle stability, traction, and driver control, particularly during emergency maneuvers or adverse road conditions. The warning indicators raised concerns that the vehicle could unexpectedly lose stability assistance, traction management, or engine performance while driving. This placed the driver and others at risk because the vehicle’s ability to respond safely during normal or emergency driving conditions could have been compromised. The repeated recurrence of the issue, even after dealership repair attempts, raises concern regarding the reliability and effectiveness of the corrective action performed.

Power Train
Filed Apr 10, 2026WI

Vehicle lost power on highway with my sons family in the car. Vehicle was towed to dealer from which it was purchased . outcome was the motor failed and a remedy could be months out with gm only offering a 35/a day rental from enterprise which no vehicle that compares can be rented at that cost.

Power Train
Filed Apr 5, 2026TX

Nothing has happened yet. However, after only 308 miles… my 2026 Denali is knocking and ticking very loud. Why? How is this possible? We’ve only had it 2 weeks! I have only driven it 5-6 times in the past 14-15 days, too worried that this might happen. But I was reassured by the dealership it wouldn’t. But here I am now. I am so disappointed. Being a Disabled Vet I thought we could have something that we both liked. Now I am upset because I feel betrayed and lied to. I did a video but it’s too large to upload so I can’t get it under 10MB.

Engine
Filed Mar 23, 2026NY

Engine starting clicking during highway drive then engine failed mid-drive and engine was trying to restart on its own mid drive. Vehicle totally stalled out in the street, with numerous attempts the engine did not start. Total mileage on car was 2,900.

Power Train
Filed Mar 19, 2026MD

Motor blown up, truck shut off while driving. Loss of all power.

Engine
Filed Mar 9, 2026TX

The engine started a soft, cyclic tapping sound intermittently on 2/28/26 while I was out of town on a trip. No alerts showed on the GM systems app. On 3/1, while driving home from the trip, the car started hard braking at cruising speed and the engine died and would not restart. I had the car towed to the closest GM dealership and have been told the engine locked up. I just rolled 6000 miles and showed 18% oil life from the original engine oil it came with from the factory. I had been watching the engine problems for years now and waiting for them to be resolved before buying a new GM; only to be lied to that the issue was resolved. Now they're going to install yet another defective engine.

Power Train
Filed Mar 1, 2026GA

2026 Yukon Elevation with 3,957miles. I was driving down the road and pulled into the turn lane at an intersection. Vehicle cut off with the Auto Start/Stop function and would not start back up. I continued and tried to restart the vehicle but would not start; I was blocking the lane with cars continuously going around me. Vehicle stated service transmission on the display- I was unable to put it into neutral to push it out of traffic; You are only allowed to put it into neutral when crank and couldnt get the accessory mode to come on without the vehicle trying to start. I called the local police department and they sent an officer to direct traffic until a tow truck showed up. Both observed the vehicle not starting. There were no symptoms prior to the vehicle cutting off, only once auto start/stop initiated did the vehicle not restart. Vehicle will be sent back to the dealership tomorrow to resolve this issue. I have dash cam footage of the incident and photos of the display on the screen.

Engine
Filed Feb 7, 2026AL

Engine failure while driving 75 miles per hour in highway in brand new Yukon Denali. 3,000 miles and got a “decreased acceleration” warning. Then couldn’t accelerate and loud knocking noise from the engine, likely a lifter issue. I will have to get a new engine according to GMC. Unbelievable. Recall was for 2021-2024, but my 2026 is havin the same issue.

Engine
Filed Feb 4, 20263,303 milesKY

The contact owns a 2026 GMC Yukon Denali. The contact stated that while driving approximately 55 MPH, the vehicle stalled and failed to return to normal operation. The message "Shifting to Neutral" was displayed on the instrument panel. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed, and determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact researched and became aware of an unknown recall however, the VIN was not under recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 3,303.

All 44 complaints, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2015
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
20271000Routine
2026 — this page44300Do not drive
202558200Routine
2024106300Routine
2023246400Above average
2022185510Routine
20213451300Above average
202037400Do not drive
201955210Do 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 →

2026 GMC Yukon: questions buyers ask

Is the 2026 GMC Yukon a good car?

It is too new to judge: owners have filed 44 complaints so far, and complaints take a few years to arrive. The most common complaint is about the engine (66%).

What is the most common problem with the 2026 GMC Yukon?

The engine: 29 of the 44 complaints (66%) are about it. Owners most often say it loses power (17%), stalls (17%) and turns on the check engine light (10%). The typical report comes at 4,700 miles.

How many recalls does the 2026 GMC Yukon have?

3 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed May 14, 2026. 1 of them carries a do-not-drive or park-outside warning. The largest, 26V114000, covered 5,861 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

At what mileage do 2026 GMC Yukon problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 3,788 miles. For the engine the midpoint is 4,700 miles.

Has NHTSA investigated the 2026 GMC Yukon?

Yes, once. EA26005 ("Loss of motive power due to engine failure post recall remedy") was opened Aug 20, 2026 and is still open.

Are there service bulletins for the 2026 GMC Yukon?

The manufacturer filed 221 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the electrical system (4), the engine (2) and the brakes (1). They include a service campaign, N252521591-03, filed Feb 11, 2026. 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 14, 2026. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.