RoadVitals

2021 GMC Yukon Owner Complaints

Reports submitted to NHTSA by owners and drivers, shown in full

Data refreshed

Complaints on fileComplaints are reports submitted to NHTSA by owners and drivers. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a complaint does not establish that a defect exists. Volume is influenced by how many of a vehicle were sold, how long it has been on the road, and how much attention an issue has received.
329
+16 complaints in 30 days
Crash or fire reportedComplaints whose submitter recorded that a crash or a fire occurred. These are the reporter's own answers on the NHTSA form, not verified findings.
9
Filed in the last 12 monthsReports filed with NHTSA in the trailing 365 days. Recent volume reflects attention and vehicle age as much as anything else.
126
Reports on file since Oct 1, 2020

What this page shows

Our database holds 329 NHTSA owner-reported complaints for the 2021 GMC Yukon. Each one is a report filed by an owner or driver and published by NHTSA without most of them being verified. A complaint is not a confirmed defect, not a recall and not a manufacturer bulletin. Narratives are shown exactly as filed.

Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.

Complaints, most recent first

Showing 1–25 of 329 · page 1 of 14

Fuel system
Filed Sep 21, 2026

My 2021 GMC Yukon has approximately 36,900 miles. On September 12, 2026, the vehicle was at an authorized GMC dealership and passed a state safety inspection. On September 19, 2026, the check-engine warning light illuminated and I returned to the dealership. The dealer performed diagnostic testing and told me the fuel pump pressure was approximately 400 PSI when it should be approximately 700 PSI. I was told the fuel pump needs to be replaced. The vehicle is currently at the dealership awaiting the replacement part: Fuel pump I was not aware of a fuel-pump failure before the warning light appeared. I am particularly concerned because this failure occurred at only approximately 36,900 miles. GM previously recalled 3,386 2021 GMC Yukons under NHTSA Campaign 21V-739/GM Recall N212332040 for a fuel-pump power-control-module defect that can cause the fuel pump to fail or operate intermittently, interrupt fuel flow and potentially cause the engine to stall. My 2021 Yukon is not included in that recall and currently shows no unrepaired recalls associated with my VIN. I believe this represents a potential safety concern because inadequate fuel delivery or a fuel-system failure while driving could cause reduced engine power or an unexpected stall, increasing the risk of a crash. Given the low mileage, the dealer-confirmed fuel-pressure problem, and the existing fuel-pump-related safety recall affecting other 2021 Yukons, I am concerned that my vehicle may have the same or a related defect despite not being included in the recalled population. I believe NHTSA should evaluate whether additional 2021 Yukons should be included in a safety investigation or recall. I am paying out of pocket to have the fuel pump replaced and am filing this complaint to document the failure.A fuel-pump failure at only 36,900 miles is extremely concerning. I ask NHTSA to determine whether my vehicle has the same or a related defect and whether the existing recall population should be expanded.

NHTSA ID
11765898
Incident
Sep 21, 2026
Engine
Filed Sep 21, 2026

I am filing this complaint regarding severe, excessive oil consumption in my 2021 GMC Yukon equipped with the 6.2L V8 engine (VIN: [XXX]). The vehicle is consuming oil at an accelerated and hazardous rate. Specifically, the engine oil level drops completely below the viewable crosshatches on the oil dipstick well before the vehicle’s automated Oil Life Monitoring system reaches 50%. This level of rapid oil depletion creates a significant safety risk, as it puts the vehicle at risk of sudden engine stalling, severe mechanical failure, or total engine lockup while driving at highway speeds, potentially causing a crash. General Motors has issued Safety Recall N252494000 to address internal manufacturing defects within the 6.2L engine that lead to mechanical damage and heavy oil loss. Although my vehicle is a 2021 model with the exact 6.2L V8 engine experiencing the identical, severe oil loss symptoms detailed in the recall, my specific VIN is currently excluded from the recall list. I request that the NHTSA investigate this issue and pressure General Motors to expand the parameters of Recall N252494000 to include all affected 6.2L engines exhibiting this dangerous defect. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID
11765877
Incident
Sep 17, 2026
Powertrain (other)
Filed Sep 15, 2026

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds on several occasions, the vehicle jerked and the transmission shifted hard into 1st and 2nd gears. The message "Service Safety Restraint" was displayed. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with a failed valve body. The contact was informed that the valve body or the transmission needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 88,000.

NHTSA ID
11764503
Incident
Aug 1, 2026
Mileage
88,000 mi
Engine
Filed Sep 15, 2026

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that while his wife was driving 65 MPH on the highway at higher speeds, the vehicle shuddered abnormally. The check engine, ECU, and traction control warning lights illuminated, and the message "Shut off Vehicle as soon as Possible" was displayed. The contact's wife pulled over to the shoulder of the road, and the vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic for diagnosis. The mechanic retrieved dDTCs: P0307 and P050D, indicating a failed roller lifter, valve spring, and valve roller lifters. The vehicle was later towed to a local dealer, where the dealer diagnosed that the lifters had failed and needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 95,000.

NHTSA ID
11764399
Incident
Sep 12, 2026
Mileage
95,000 mi
Electrical
Filed Sep 11, 2026

Water is entering the passenger cabin through failed front sunroof drain tubes on both the left and right sides. The drains discharge inside the A pillars rather than to the exterior, pooling in the driver's side floorboard. An authorized GMC dealer diagnosed the cause in writing on August 12, 2026 as rubber grommet shrinkage and hardened internal buildup preventing water from flowing through, on both the left and right sides simultaneously. The identical bilateral failure mode indicates a component or assembly defect rather than debris blockage. Water is accumulating in the driver's footwell in proximity to cabin electrical components and the fuse block area, creating a risk of electrical shorting, connector corrosion, and circuit failure. Mold has developed in the front carpet and padding on the driver's side, and water intrusion staining is present on the passenger side. The dealer has quoted $2,727.16 to replace the drain tubes and the mold-damaged carpet and padding. The vehicle entered service on February 5, 2025 and has 45,211 miles. GM has issued service bulletin 20-NA-219 addressing sunroof drain hoses on 2021 Yukon, Yukon XL, Tahoe, Suburban, and Escalade models.

NHTSA ID
11763591
Incident
Aug 12, 2026
Driver assistanceEngine
Filed Sep 11, 2026

Crankshaft / Camshaft caused catastrophic engine failure while on a family road trip leaving family and kids stranded on the side of the highway for hours. 2021 GMCs are notoriously having this issue but they refused to include our VIN in the recall. It cost us almost $13,000 to replace with a brand new engine and only 4 days after picking up from dealership the vehicle stopped working and shut off at a light in the middle of the road. GMC has been no help and won’t cover anything.

NHTSA ID
11763546
Incident
Aug 6, 2026
Powertrain (other)
Filed Sep 10, 2026

Had a valve body failure in mid XXX. The vehicle would not go into reverse and drove it in limp mode to a dealership about 5 miles away. Fortunately they were able to get a new valve body and repair it in one day. Cost was approximately $3,500 and not covered by warranty. The vehicle had about 110,000 miles on it at the time. This is a known defect on this vehicle and a recall should be initiated. Had we started our trip from [XXX] back to [XXX] before the failure occurred, we likely would have been stranded on the highway, or worse. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID
11763438
Incident
Apr 16, 2026
Engine
Filed Sep 8, 2026

Fraud and gross negligence by General Motors, Orr GMC and Sewell Buick GMC.

NHTSA ID
11762930
Incident
Mar 1, 2025
Engine
Filed Sep 8, 2026

My 2021 Yukon Denali received the Recall 25V-274 oil fix and I am now experiencing an active light engine knock. My gas mileage has reduced significantly and I am having to add oil in between regular oil changes. Not only does it burn through oil and fuel faster but I now get charged an extra fee for "Premium oil". My oil changes cost me roughly $40 dollars more now. ($140 instead of $100) I don't feel as if this fix with the oil change has improved anything and that the cost to maintain the vehicle has only gone up. I am still worried this vehicle will break down on my next road trip.

NHTSA ID
11762672
Incident
Sep 5, 2026
Engine
Filed Sep 3, 2026

My 2021 GMC Yukon began experiencing severe engine problems, including shaking/rough running, a noticeable ticking/knocking noise from the engine, and a flashing check-engine light. The vehicle also displayed Service ESC and traction control warnings and exhibited symptoms of an engine misfire. I took the vehicle to a dealership for evaluation. I was advised that the problem may involve failed lifters and that the vehicle could be out of service for several weeks for repairs. I was also advised that the repair could be very costly. At this time, I have not been given a final diagnosis, so the exact internal engine component responsible for the failure is UNKNOWN. I am concerned that the condition presents a safety risk because the engine is running extremely rough and the check-engine light is flashing. I am afraid the engine could lose power or fail while the vehicle is being driven, potentially putting me, my passengers, and other motorists at risk. I have also become aware of NHTSA's investigation involving failures of the 6.2-liter L87 V8 engine in GM vehicles, including the GMC Yukon, as well as reports of engine failures occurring after certain repairs or recall remedies. This has increased my concern about whether repairing or replacing individual engine components will permanently resolve the problem. I am submitting this complaint so that my vehicle's symptoms, dealer evaluation, and potential engine failure are documented. The vehicle and affected components are available for inspection upon request. The dealership has evaluated the vehicle, but a final determination of the exact cause has not yet been provided.

NHTSA ID
11761792
Incident
Aug 28, 2026
Engine
Filed Sep 2, 2026

Lifters failed under 80k miles. Had lifters replaced with gm parts and engine is continuing to eat up oil and lifters are failing again in less than 3 months after the repair. Vehicle was out of warranty and all costs were out of pocket including a rental for over a month bc parts were on backorder

NHTSA ID
11761777
Incident
Apr 1, 2026
Engine
Filed Sep 2, 2026

While driving my 2021 GMC Yukon Denali with the 6.2L L87 V8 on a high-speed highway near Somers Point, New Jersey, the vehicle suddenly began bucking and the accelerator stopped responding normally. The vehicle rapidly lost propulsion while I was surrounded by highway traffic and approaching a bridge. I was fortunate to get the vehicle onto the shoulder before reaching the bridge. I was then stranded on the shoulder of a high-speed highway, where the disabled vehicle created a serious safety risk to me and other motorists. The engine shut down and would not restart. It initially cranked as though it was attempting to start, but it did not start. I received a diagnostic alert stating, “Service the engine and transmission system immediately.” The vehicle required a tow. The tow operator later reported that it appeared locked up and could not be shifted into neutral. The vehicle has approximately 77,000 miles and has been serviced regularly. Its most recent oil-change sticker indicated the next oil service was due at approximately 81,000 miles. While safely pulled over, I checked the engine-oil dipstick and confirmed that the engine had oil, with oil visible across the dipstick’s normal measuring area. Despite this vehicle having the 6.2L L87 engine and experiencing a sudden loss of propulsion and no-start condition, its VIN does not currently appear in GM’s public recall lookup for the existing L87 recall. The vehicle is being transported to an authorized GMC dealer, and the precise failed component has not yet been confirmed. This sudden loss of propulsion created an immediate risk of a serious highway collision, particularly because it occurred immediately before a bridge. I understand NHTSA is investigating continuing L87 engine failures, including failures involving vehicles outside the original recall population. I am submitting this complaint so this incident is formally documented and considered as part of that investigation.

NHTSA ID
11761614
Incident
Sep 2, 2026
Engine
Filed Sep 1, 2026

this year model was recalled do to engine problems. Ours wasn't one that was on the recall list. We ended up having to have the motor rebuilt and cost us around $7000. We have seen where these models are still having problems, so i wanted to report our problem and the money spent to get it fixed.

NHTSA ID
11761391
Incident
Apr 12, 2024
Engine
Filed Sep 1, 2026

My 2021 GMC Yukon Denali with approximately 88,000 miles developed a significant engine knocking noise and was towed to a GMC dealership for diagnosis. The dealership confirmed diagnostic trouble code P0301 (engine misfire) and documented a “knocking noise in lower end at piston rod crankshaft area.” The dealership advised that my vehicle is not currently included in the existing GM recall for certain 6.2L L87 engines. The vehicle has the 6.2L L87 V8 engine. I am concerned because the documented knocking is located in the lower engine area involving the piston/connecting rod/crankshaft area, which is consistent with the type of internal engine failure associated with the L87 engine investigation and recall. I am concerned about the possibility of sudden engine failure and loss of propulsion while driving. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate this failure and consider whether vehicles outside the current recall population should also be included. I also recently experienced an engine replacement on another 2024 GMC vehicle. I am providing that information as additional customer experience, but I am not claiming that the two failures are necessarily caused by the same defect.

NHTSA ID
11761322
Incident
Aug 27, 2026
Electrical
Filed Aug 31, 2026

While driving the vehicle on the interstate, the vehicle shifted to neutral without warning. Our daughter was able to fortunately coast to the side of the interstate without incident. The vehicle was shut off and attempted to turn back on without success, so vehicle was towed to Lugoff Chevy dealership where repairs are always performed. The dealership stated the problem was related to fuse block melted and shorted. The problem was fixed; however, I am not convinced that this shouldn't be something requiring a recall and needs further investigation. There was no warning lamps, messages, or symptoms prior to the failure.

NHTSA ID
11761018
Incident
Jul 28, 2026
Engine
Filed Aug 31, 2026

Engine making a loud ticking noise. Lifters broke in the engine. No warnings, no lights. I turned on the vehicle and it started making the noises. Dealer wanted to do an engine swap. Independent service center is changing out the lifters.

NHTSA ID
11760952
Incident
Aug 12, 2026
Engine
Filed Aug 30, 2026

Was taken in for recall at 74,000 they put on a new oil fill cap, did oil change and had catastrophic engine failure at 77,000 miles. Engine replaced by dealership.

NHTSA ID
11760777
Incident
Jun 26, 2026
EngineFuel systemPowertrain (other)
Filed Aug 29, 2026

Took car in to have it checked for recall on engine and have oil changed to new standards with WD40 was told the engine and car was fine “just use this new oil” A MONTH later was driving and engine would not shift come to find out our transmission was going out it was replaced thanks to our extended warranty (even tho it only had 98,000 miles on it) a week after a fuel pump was out and we had to pay to replace it. There were never check engine signs and no signs of the car having failure truly it ran great until the new oil.

NHTSA ID
11760681
Incident
Jun 5, 2026
Engine
Filed Aug 29, 2026

I’m currently on my third motor as a result of the L87 engine loss. When I bought the vehicle, I was not aware that the engine had already been replaced however, due to hearing a tick, I brought my vehicle to the dealership for the recall and was told that this is not the original engine, but they had the paperwork for this engine as well. Nonetheless, the engine “passed” their inspection. They changed my oil and replaced my cap. Within six months, I threw a Rod. Not only did I have a horrible experience with the dealership, my new motor is also ticking.

NHTSA ID
11760671
Incident
Aug 1, 2026
Engine
Filed Aug 28, 2026

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that while pulling into a parking space at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The vehicle was towed to a dealer, where it was diagnosed that the fuel pump control module had failed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 81,000.

NHTSA ID
11760378
Incident
Aug 25, 2026
Mileage
81,000 mi
Engine
Filed Aug 27, 2026

My vehicle is making a knocking sound and has the L87 6.2 V8 engine that is under recall for catastrophic failure. It has been evaluated by 2 mechanics that say it needs a new engine. Yes it is available for inspection upon request. Although it has not shutdown yet, both mechanics have said it is eventually going to be a catastrophic failure. My safety and families safety is at risk of it shuts down and causes an accident. There is no warning light currently displayed.

NHTSA ID
11760157
Incident
Jul 27, 2026
Engine
Filed Aug 27, 2026

Once we learned about the 6.2L Engine Failure we took the vehicle to Mckinney GMC in [XXX], test were run and were told the engine needed to be replaced, but would take several months to repair. We could not wait months for the vehicle so we had the vehicle towed to Sewell GMC in [XXX] (we bought the vehicle CPO from there) they ran test and said we didn't need a new engine but that they would just replace the oil weight and it would be fine. The engine has not run right since, it shakes and idles hard, and was never given a clear answer as to how metal shavings were found in the oil at McKinney GMC but magically disappeared at the Sewell dealership. Its very unsettling that at any moment while driving the engine could seize and blow. I feel like we have a lemon vehicle and the oil weight change is simply a band aid for this situation. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID
11760143
Incident
Jun 1, 2025
Engine
Filed Aug 27, 2026

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that while driving at 70 MPH with family members in the vehicle, the transmission independently shifted into neutral. No warning lights illuminated. The contact was able to steer the vehicle into a residential driveway, where the vehicle failed to restart. The contact requested towing services; however, the initial tow driver failed to arrive after nearly three hours, requiring the contact to call a second tow company. The vehicle was towed to a dealer, where it was diagnosed with engine failure, and it was determined that the engine needed replacement. The vehicle was not repaired, but replacement parts were ordered. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The contact stated that in January 2026, the vehicle was taken to the dealer for the recall repair, but the contact was informed that the vehicle had passed the recall inspection. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a case was opened. The manufacturer offered a 90% discount on the repair costs; however, the contact declined the offer and requested a full refund for both towing service fees. The failure mileage was approximately 151,017.

NHTSA ID
11759996
Incident
Aug 13, 2026
Mileage
151,017 mi
ElectricalFuel system
Filed Aug 26, 2026

1. What component or system failed or malfunctioned. The Fuel Pump Module failed unexpectedly while the vehicle was being driven. Failure caused the engine to stall, resulting in a complete loss of power and mobility. Unsure if part is available for inspection. 2021 GMC Yukon have a recall N252516900, but our VIN is not included in this. Can our VIN be added to this recall please? 2. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? The vehicle abruptly stalled while being driven through a parking lot, causing a complete loss of power and leaving the vehicle disabled in an active traffic area. Because the vehicle could not be shifted out of PARK, it became an obstruction, creating a hazard for other drivers navigating the parking lot and increasing the risk of a collision. 3. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes. After the vehicle was towed to a local mechanic on a flatbed truck, the dealer diagnosed and confirmed that the Fuel Pump Module had failed, which caused the vehicle to stall and lose power. 4. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives, or others? The vehicle was inspected by a local repair shot, which diagnosed the failed Fuel Pump Module. The vehicle was also evaluated during the towing process. To my knowledge, the manufacturer, police, or insurance representatives have not separately inspected the vehicle or component. 5. Were there any warning lamps, messages, or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? Prior to the failure, there were no significant symptoms indicating an imminent fuel system failure. When the incident occurred, the vehicle abruptly stalled, lost all power, and displayed a message indicating that the vehicle was "not in a condition to shift," preventing it from being shifted out of PARK. This message first appeared immediately following event.

NHTSA ID
11759643
Incident
Aug 22, 2026
EngineFuel system
Filed Aug 24, 2026

I was driving down the highway and all at once a bunch of different lights and emergency warnings started flashing on my dashboard and my car was almost like sputtering like it wasn’t getting the gas it needed or something. You could feel lots of movement right up front and I was forced to pull over and get towed. They said the engine would need to be completely replaced.

NHTSA ID
11759232
Incident
Jun 26, 2026

Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers.

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