2023 GMC Yukon Engine Problems

My vehicle was subject to the GM recall involving the 6.2L L87 engine. The dealer completed the required recall inspection, determined that the engine passed, and performed the prescribed remedy for passing vehicles, which included changing to the specified higher-viscosity oil. After the recall inspection and remedy were completed, the engine subsequently failed. While driving on an interstate at approximately 70 mph, the engine failed without any prior warning lamps, messages, or noticeable symptoms. There was an audible warning tone and the instrument cluster displayed a message instructing me to restart the vehicle. I then noticed that the vehicle was in Neutral and the engine showed no RPMs or response when the accelerator was pressed. Pressing the start button did not restart the engine. When I attempted to select Drive, the vehicle displayed a warning indicating that conditions were not sufficient to change gears. The sudden loss of engine power and propulsion while traveling at approximately 70 mph on an interstate created a significant safety risk to myself, vehicle occupants, and others on the interstate. The vehicle could no longer maintain speed with surrounding highway traffic and had to be navigated to a safe location without engine power. The vehicle was towed to the local GM dealer who diagnosed the vehicle with engine failure, stating the engine was seized and the oil filter was full of shredded metal. The vehicle is currently with the GM dealer waiting a replacement engine. I am reporting this incident because the engine failure occurred despite the vehicle passing GM’s recall inspection and receiving the recommended remedy. This raises concern that the recall inspection and/or remedy may not adequately identify or prevent engine failures. The potential inadequacy of the recall remedy is especially concerning from a safety standpoint.

NHTSA ID

11766495

Incident

Sep 5, 2026

ENGINE SEIZED UP ON THE HIGHWAY AFTER RECALL WAS PERFORMED. I NEARLY AVOIDED A WRECKED GETTING IT OFF THE ROAD. I HAD TO WAIT OVER 5 HOURS FOR GM TO TOW ME THEN ENDED UP HAVING IT TOWED MYSELF. NOW THE CAR IS AT THE DEALERSHIP WITH BACKORDERED PARTS, THEY AGREEDTO PAY FOR THE TOW NOW IT SEEMS TO BE AN ISSUE THAT I PAID THE TO TRCUK DRIVER CASH, & PARTS HAVE NO SHIP DATE. GM CUSTOMER SERVIVE AGENTS ARE RUDE & DO NOT SEEM TO AVE ANY SENCE OF CARE IN THE WORLD ABOUT ANYTHING

NHTSA ID

11766119

Incident

Sep 3, 2026

Vehicle passed the recall inspection and service information was updated to reflect new engine oil viscosity requirements. Now just a few months later we experienced an issue and are told the engine needs replaced as part of the L87 recall. All service and oil changes have been completed by the dealership. This fits under the EA26005 investigation into post-recall failures. Vehicle is currently at Freeman GMC awaiting a replacement engine.

NHTSA ID

11765071

Incident

Sep 12, 2026

Heard a ticking sound whenever I was driving down the street then all of the sudden it got louder & SUV suddenly put itself into neutral. I was barely able to pull onto side of road to try and switch gears when hazard lights went on by themselves. Car wouldn’t turn on or start and whenever I tried again the check engine light appeared. Got the SUV towed to local, nearest GMC dealership who just called and said it was the engine failure and needed to be replaced.

NHTSA ID

11764936

Incident

Sep 15, 2026

On May 8th of 2026 my 2023 GMC Yukon with approximately 42,900 miles experienced an complete failure of the 6.2L engine requiring replacement. The engine failure occurred despite the engine having recently undergone inspection and special oil being used related to NHTSA 25V274 / GM N252494000 recall. When the engine failed, the vehicle could not be towed or pushed out of the flow of traffic because the computer will not allow the vehicle to be shifted into neutral, only showing "Conditions not correct for shift" in the instrument cluster. This sudden and unexpected loss of engine power combined with the inability to remove the vehicle from the lane of traffic creates a dangerous situation.

NHTSA ID

11764052

Incident

May 8, 2026

I am filing this complaint regarding a catastrophic engine failure in my 2023 GMC Yukon Denali. I purchased the vehicle on January 30, 2026. Shortly after purchasing it, the vehicle suffered a catastrophic engine failure. The failure was severe enough that the engine had to be completely replaced. My vehicle was out of service for approximately 38 days as a result. This was not a minor mechanical issue or routine repair. It was a catastrophic failure of a major component in a relatively new vehicle. I am extremely concerned about the safety implications of an engine failing without warning. An unexpected engine failure can result in a sudden loss of power and the inability to safely accelerate or maneuver, particularly when traveling at highway speeds or in traffic. The fact that the engine required complete replacement raises serious concerns regarding the reliability and safety of this engine and whether other GMC and Chevrolet vehicles equipped with the same or related engine may be experiencing similar failures. I am requesting that NHTSA formally document this catastrophic engine failure and investigate whether it is part of a broader pattern of engine failures involving these GM vehicles. I have documentation showing the engine failure, dealership diagnosis, complete engine replacement, repair history, and the approximately 38 days the vehicle was out of service. I can provide these records upon request.

NHTSA ID

11762433

Incident

Mar 6, 2026

The check-engine light first appeared at approximately 42,000 miles. I dropped the vehicle off at the dealership on August 22 and picked it up on September 1. Within TWO MILES of leaving the dealership, the check-engine light came right back on. The dealership initially diagnosed the problem as a lifter and wiring-harness failure. They later determined that the #7 oil-lifter solenoid had an internal short, and the wiring harness was replaced because of damage related to that short. What I still don’t have is an answer to the most important question: What actually caused the failure? Based on everything I’ve read about the problems surrounding GM’s 6.2L engines, I’m concerned this is only the beginning. These are extremely expensive vehicles—with monthly payments that can rival a mortgage—and owners shouldn’t have to wonder whether the engine is going to become an ongoing problem at 42,000 miles. Extending the warranty is helpful, but it doesn’t address the underlying issue or restore confidence in the vehicle. If these 6.2L engines have a known systemic defect, GM should be required to provide a permanent solution—whether that means replacing the affected engines or offering owners a fair buyback. Consumers paid a premium price. They should be able to expect a premium vehicle that is dependable.

NHTSA ID

11762430

Incident

Aug 21, 2026

1.Description of the Incident: On 6/28/26, while driving my 2023 GMC Yukon Denali at approximately 70 miles per hour with cruise control engaged, I attempted to take an exit. As I approached the exit, the vehicle’s display indicated that it was not in gear, despite being in motion. This malfunction occurred in heavy traffic, and I narrowly avoided a collision with a semi-truck as I maneuvered towards the shoulder of the road. Once safely on the shoulder, I attempted to shift the vehicle into Drive and Park, but the system reported that the application was not available, rendering the vehicle inoperable. After several unsuccessful attempts to restart the vehicle, I lost all power, leading me to suspect a battery or alternator issue. 2. Component/System Failure: The component that failed is the engine, which was subsequently diagnosed as having failed by the dealership. The failed engine is available for inspection upon request. 3. Safety Risks: This incident posed significant safety risks, including: •Risk of Collision: The sudden loss of power at high speed nearly resulted in a collision with a semi-truck and other vehicles, putting my life and the lives of others at risk. •Stranded in Dangerous Conditions: Being stranded on the side of the road in 100°F weather further exacerbated the situation, creating a potential health hazard. 4. Confirmation of the Problem: The problem was confirmed by the dealership that serviced my vehicle. They conducted a thorough inspection and determined that the engine had failed. Independent verification of the engine failure is available upon request. 5. Inspections by Authorities: The vehicle has been inspected by the dealership; however, it has not been inspected by police or insurance representatives. Documentation from the dealership regarding the inspection and engine replacement is available. 6. Warning Signs Prior to Failure: Prior to this, there were no warning lamps, messages, or symptoms indicating a problem prior.

NHTSA ID

11762311

Incident

Jun 28, 2026

2023 Yukon Denali, 6.2 Engine. Owner complied with first GM recall and the engine passed inspection. 8/16/26 Engine started making a knocking sound. 8/17/26 Yukon was taken to the dealership and diagnosed as complete engine failure. There were no warnings indicated on the dash. Yukon is currently still at the Dealership with no repair date issued. Today is 9/3/26. I have contacted GM regarding a possible buy-back. GM said they would email in 24-48 hours. I have not heard from GM and it is now 72 hours since my initial phone call.

NHTSA ID

11761941

Incident

Aug 16, 2026

My vehicle was with ANCIRA GMC Boerne for approximately three weeks where they replaced the transmission control system/module, the centralized OnStar module, and diagnosed both rear screens for replacement. Approximately one month after getting it back, at only 49,800 miles, I experienced a complete loss of propulsion. The vehicle shut down while I was driving. Given the recent transmission repair and the fact that this failure occurred while the vehicle was in motion, I no longer have confidence in the safety or reliability of this vehicle. I have young children riding in this vehicle daily and I’m not comfortable accepting another repair and simply being told it’s safe to drive.

NHTSA ID

11761530

Incident

Sep 1, 2026

The contact owns a 2023 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that while driving 65 MPH and depressing the accelerator pedal, the transmission shifted into neutral. The contact pulled over to the right side of the road and attempted to shift into drive; however, the failure persisted, and the vehicle lost power. No warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle was towed to the dealer and was diagnosed with engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was serviced under NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING); by the owner of the vehicle, but the remedy failed to fix the vehicle. The contact stated that the failure had occurred after the recall repair. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the dealer to replace the engine. The engine was replaced, and the vehicle was repaired. The failure mileage was 56,600.

NHTSA ID

11761283

Incident

Jun 15, 2026

Mileage

56,600 mi

I have a 2023 GMC Yukon that has been to the dealership 3 times in a weeks time, and as of today, 8/31/26 will be the fouth time. On 2 occasions, the SUV has entered Limp Mode while driving. I had the SUV towed for the first limp mode, and the dealer claimed it needed recalibration modules. I picked up the car and drove home eight miles, and the check engine light came on. I returned the next day for readings and TCM P0700, P1789, U0101, U220F. The dealer's solution was to recalibrate the gateway module this time. I drove the car about 20-ish miles, and at highway speeds on the freeway, I got limp mode again. Off to the dealership, having the SUV towed again. The dealership has claimed the electrionic car codes clear themselves and because of that they can't re-create the codes to find a solution. I am scared to drive my SUV, I do not feel safe in it let alone my children.

NHTSA ID

11760969

Incident

Aug 20, 2026

Recall notice received, went to dealer to have inspected and was told it passed the recall inspection. Oil changed from 0w20 to 0w40. Motor locked up less than 3000 miles later. My wife was 2 hours from home on the interstate on a Saturday night. Was forced to the left shoulder of the road pinned between concrete dividers and the fast lane. Had to wait 2 hours for a tow truck, $500 later the Yukon was delivered back to our driveway. Mind you, the electronic transmission can’t be shifted so it was dragged on and off a rollback in park 4 times. Dealer had it towed to their shop where they discovered the blown motor. 2 months later the replacement motor was installed.

NHTSA ID

11760804

Incident

May 10, 2026

At approximately 58,565 miles, my 2023 GMC Yukon Denali equipped with the 6.2L L87 V8 experienced an internal engine failure. The vehicle had previously completed the applicable L87 engine recall remedy earlier in 2026. The vehicle developed a thumping noise and was inspected by an authorized GMC dealership. The dealer confirmed metal contamination in the engine oil and diagnosed a main thrust bearing failure. The condition was confirmed by the dealer and required complete engine replacement rather than a minor repair. The vehicle was out of service for approximately 31 days while the engine replacement was completed. GM authorized and covered installation of a complete factory replacement engine. The failed engine is available for inspection if requested. The failure created a significant safety concern because an internal engine failure of this type can result in loss of motive power while driving, potentially creating a hazard for the occupants and other motorists. I am aware that NHTSA is currently investigating L87 engine failures occurring after recall remedies. I am submitting this complaint because my vehicle experienced a documented internal engine failure after the vehicle had already received the applicable recall remedy and subsequently required a complete engine replacement. The replacement engine has not currently failed, and I am not reporting a failure of the replacement engine. However, I am concerned about the effectiveness of the remedy and whether the replacement engine incorporates updated or revised components intended to address the underlying failure condition. I have requested documentation from the dealership regarding the exact replacement engine assembly and whether it incorporates engineering or production changes related to the original bearing failure. That information has not yet been provided. No crash or injury occurred as a result of this failure.

NHTSA ID

11760432

Incident

Jun 30, 2026

My 2023 GMC Yukon AT4 with the 6.2L V8 has experienced multiple serious engine-related failures. The original engine previously was making a whining / knocking noise, then seized and required complete engine replacement under a GM recall/campaign involving 6.2L engine failures. The replacement engine later developed a lifter/valvetrain failure and required lifter replacement. The vehicle is now again exhibiting a pronounced rhythmic mechanical knocking/tapping noise, primarily during cold starts after sitting for an extended period. The noise occurs on most cold starts and has been documented in multiple videos. The vehicle is currently at a GMC dealership for inspection. I provided the dealer with several videos clearly demonstrating the noise. The dealer has stated that it has not yet been able to reproduce the condition and is attempting additional cold-start testing. The exact cause is currently UNKNOWN. No consistent warning lights or dashboard messages have appeared with the current knocking condition. My concern is that this vehicle has already experienced a catastrophic engine seizure, followed by internal valvetrain/lifter failure in the replacement engine, and is now again exhibiting abnormal mechanical engine noise. I am concerned this may indicate another developing internal engine failure that could potentially result in engine seizure or sudden loss of power while driving, including at highway speeds or in traffic. The vehicle and engine remain available for inspection, and multiple video recordings of the recurring cold-start knocking are available.

NHTSA ID

11760082

Incident

Sep 17, 2025

Vehicle became disabled. GM service center determined that the crankshaft failed and lifter rods bent causing total engine failure. GM service center unable to determine cause and the engine is being replaced at a significant out of pocket cost.

NHTSA ID

11759547

Incident

Aug 11, 2026

While driving down [XXX] in [XXX] engine had a major failure causing the loss of power and control of the vehicle going interstate speed. Luckily no accidents and no injuries or fatalities. All the these vehicles using the 6.2L engines made by GM should be bought back by GM at full purchase price. A few months ago my vehicle underwent the recall procedure and passed. So the recall process is incomplete and shows no real problem solving procedures, These vehicles are a ticking time bomb to all the owners and fellow motorists. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11759282

Incident

Jul 20, 2026

This car was subject to the GM Recall N2524940000 – This is related to engine failure in the vehicle. My Yukon Denali received the recall service on XXX at Liberty Buick GMC in XXX. It was determined that my engine would not fail and the car needed the heavier oil and a new oil filter. The car also received a 10 year warranty on the engine as part of the recall. XXX We were traveling down XXX Southbound on XXX headed to Atlanta to see family for Easter Break. My wife, son CJ (Age -XXX), XXX (XXX), and our English Cream Golden Retriever , Goose. We were traveling at 75 MPH on cruise control when a car came out in front of me. The car slowed down to adjust for the car moving out in front of us and then the engine completely shut-off and the car shifted into neutral. The car electronics turned off briefly, then came back on, with the dashboard saying “Push Start to turn on”. I hit the start button and nothing happens, I pushed the button several more times and still nothing happened. This occurred between 1:45 - 2:00 At this point, I begin to move into the right lane as we are approaching Exit XXX in [XXX]. I pull off on the exit, go about half way down and pull to the side, stopping the car. I place the car into Park and then push start on the car, nothing happens. I attempt to do this for about 5 Minutes and the engine still will not start and the car will not shut off completely (All electronics are still working). There were no warning signs that the vehicle would fail. The vehicle was inspected by GMC who determined that the engine had failed and would require full replacement. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11759162

Incident

Apr 3, 2026

On August 22, 2026, I was driving my 2023 GMC Yukon Denali with the 6.2L V8 at highway speed when the vehicle began struggling to maintain power while climbing a hill. The engine then developed a noticeable knocking sound. Shortly afterward, the engine shut off completely while the vehicle was moving, causing a sudden loss of propulsion. I was able to bring the vehicle to a stop, but the engine would not restart. The electronic transmission also would not shift into Neutral and displayed a message indicating that the conditions required to shift were not met. Because the vehicle could not be shifted out of Park, the towing company had difficulty loading and unloading the vehicle. The failure occurred during normal highway driving and created a significant safety concern because the engine shut down without warning while the vehicle was in motion. I am aware of NHTSA Recall 25V-274 / GM Recall N252494000 involving certain GM vehicles equipped with the 6.2L L87 engine, as well as NHTSA Engineering Analysis EA25-007 concerning engine failures and loss of propulsion. At the time of this complaint, the dealership has not yet confirmed the specific mechanical cause of my vehicle’s failure. The vehicle is being taken to an authorized GMC dealership for diagnosis. I am submitting this complaint because of the sudden engine failure and loss of propulsion while traveling on a highway.

NHTSA ID

11758992

Incident

Aug 22, 2026

The contact owns a 2023 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle made an abnormal clunking sound. The contact pulled over and inspected under the hood. The vehicle was restarted, and the engine revved six times with smoke coming from under the hood. The contact stated that the transmission was previously replaced. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, who discovered that Jiffy Lube had used an incorrect engine oil during an oil change. The contact was informed to contact Jiffy Lube and file a claim. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 36,000.

NHTSA ID

11758478

Incident

Aug 15, 2026

Mileage

36,000 mi

2023 Yukon with 6.2; was "tested" at a local dealership in November 2025. Engine passed. Was given oil change with new oil/oil cap. In June of 2026, engine seized despite passing test in November & running the new oil since then.

NHTSA ID

11752303

Incident

Jun 12, 2026

The engine tries to die when in park. While stopped at a red light, it died and stated conditions not met to shift. Had to hit park button then restart it. This has happened 4 times. With & without auto start feature on

NHTSA ID

11751858

Incident

Jul 21, 2026

am filing a formal complaint regarding my 2023 GMC Yukon Denali, which experienced a catastrophic engine failure while I was driving on the highway with my family. The sudden failure created a dangerous situation, placing both my family and me at significant risk. As a result of the breakdown, I was forced to pay $260 out of pocket to have the vehicle towed to the dealership. After inspecting the vehicle, the dealership advised me that the engine requires complete replacement. There was no indication that the engine was going to go. Thankfully there was a shoulder on the highway and we were able to pull over. This could have caused an accident could've been fatal.

NHTSA ID

11750642

Incident

Jul 10, 2026

The contact owns a 2023 GMC Yukon. While the contact's wife was driving approximately 5-10 MPH on a city street and approaching a stop sign, the vehicle experienced a failure and became inoperable. The contact stated that while the driver was attempting to restart the vehicle, the battery warning light and engine warning light illuminated, and the "Low Battery - Start Engine" message was displayed. The vehicle was towed directly to a dealer to be diagnosed. The dealer was unable to determine the cause of the failure but provided an estimate for the valve springs inspection. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and was working with the dealer to determine how to repair the vehicle. The failure mileage was approximately 71,481.

NHTSA ID

11747346

Incident

Jun 28, 2026

Mileage

71,481 mi

My car started making a knocking noise under the hood 2 days prior to it breaking down (6/19 & 6/20). On 6/21/26, I was driving down the interstate WITH my kids in the car and it shut down on its own. Lights came on my dash and the vehicle quickly slowed itself down and when I pulled over to a complete stop, the vehicle shifted into neutral and shut off. I was not able to crank it back up and had to pay a tow company $243 out of pocket to tow it to our local dealership in town. My insurance only covers $200 for towing. I am a week without a vehicle and just found out Friday (6/26) that a new motor will have to be ordered but it is on back order with no idea on when it may arrive. I cannot get an answer from GM or my local dealership on if a rental will be provided. I cannot make 2 car payments but I also have a job and cannot proceed without having a vehicle to drive. This has put me in a bind for a week already with no solution in sight. I expect GM to fix my problem asap since it is theirs to fix!!

NHTSA ID

11747033

Incident

Jun 21, 2026