general problems of the 2020 GMC Yukon

I took my vehicle to a dealer to repair something unrelated to the engine. They said the oil pan was leaking and pulled the pan to discover the crank shaft bearings were failing. The vehicle has 53,765 miles at this point. This appears to be the same defect being recalled on the 2022 through 2024 models.

Engine started with a rough idle, I attributed this to mileage. Check engine light did not come on until days before scheduling service. Per diagnostic from Chevrolet service department: lifter roller damaged and camshaft damaged on lobe. Need to replace camshaft and lifters. This has been diagnosed by Chevrolet dealer mechanics at ferman Chevrolet north tampa, in tampa florida. Check engine light came on 4 days before I took it for diagnostic. Chevrolet and GMC have issued a recall on 2021+ but this remains outside that recall. I'm quoted for an $11,343 repair on a vehicle that has gotten regular synthetic oil changes at the dealership since I bought it with approx 80k miles on it. Metal was not noticed in the prior oil changes, latest which was.

The 2020 Yukon started to have serious loss of speed and decelerating issue when the vehicle would slow down and down shift to a lower gear. The issue with this is that once it downshifted it woul not engage in a gear again and leave me stranded on the road. I had to turn off the car and restart it for it to reengage in a gear enough to get it moving again and sometimes I had to try more than once to get it moving once it no longer wanted to engage in a gear. So in the 10 mile drive, I was left stranded at least 15 times. Each time I had to restart and restart again for the vehicle to engage in a lower gear. Once moving, it would sometimes it would engage in a higher gear and sometimes it would not. Thank goodness I wasn't traveling on the highway when this happened. Beware to anyone if this was to happen on the highway while in the middle lane while in traffic. And the check engine light never turned on and thus no code to help detect the issue. Took it the day before to have it looked at and was told nothing was wrong with it since there was a code and they could not duplicate the issue I described. What?? they reset some transmission computer setting but it only made it worse by the next day. Now this 6 yr on 2020 gm Yukon is at the dealership service department requiring a new transmission for $7200. Said that the transmission fluid was showing particles of stuff and color was 'burnt', I think. Transmission fluid was changed at it's regular check up time so that didn't cause the issue and nor should it have bits and pieces in it and discolored. Is there any recourse to gm and it's crappy transmissions??.

The contact owns a 2020 GMC Yukon xl. The contact stated that while driving at 35 mph, there was an abnormally loud ticking sound coming from the vehicle. The driver was able to pull over safely. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic who determined that the lifter was stuck in the bore, and there was a misfire in cylinder #7 due to a stuck camshaft. The local dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 113,997.

My 2020 GMC Yukon xl denali 6. 2l with 59,000 miles developed a ticking noise and slight power loss diagnosed by three different garages as a "collapsed lifter" on #4 cylinder. It's one of the afm/dod cylinders that shuts down to save fuel. $8,000 repair estimate, or $12,000 if the failed lifter damaged the camshaft. All three garages said "we see a lot of these. " internet forums are loaded with lifter problems on this engine: specifically afm/dod lifters. Safety is not affected. Noise/diagnosis reproduced by three independent garages. Has not been inspected by mfg, police, or insurance rep. No warning lamps or messages, no odb2 "codes" found by garages. Seven months ago the water pump exploded on interstate 70, putting us at serious risk. Now this lifter trouble at 59,000 miles. Both should have been covered by the 60,000 mile powertrain warranty, but I'm beyond the 5-year limit.

Complete engine failure while driving on i25 in new mexico, lost all power was able to roll into a airport parking lot. If I had not been close to the off ramp it could have been catastrophic with the truck traffic on the interstate. The vehicle has completed all of its normal maintenance on time, and as of January 30, 2026 had a complete review from GMC that everything was in great shape including the engine. There was never a warning light, a maintenance message or any other indication.

Misfire on #6 cylinder. Diagnosis revealed the intake valve is not opening due to collapsed valve lifter. No message prior to engine light coming on and car shaking after driving back from the store (speed less than 45 mph).

The contact owns a 2020 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the residence, the contact exited the vehicle and discovered white smoke coming from the exhaust and started to smell coolant and then discovered that the coolant level was low. The contact added coolant, and the check engine warning light was no longer illuminated. The contact’s husband and son, who were knowledgeable about vehicles, had self-diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the head gasket or the lifters might need to be replaced. The contact stated that the failure had occurred on several occasions and the contact consistently added coolant; however, the check engine warning light was illuminated every 300 miles once again. The contact researched and was made aware of an unknown NHTSA campaign number; however, the VIN was not included. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed and determined that there was an unknown internal issue with the engine that was possibly associated with coolant leaking into the engine. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 52,000.

This concerns a 2020 GMC Yukon xl denali motor (6. 2l gas) 118,000 miles. Regular maintenance performed every 5 k miles and per request of original dealer. Beginning 2 weeks ago a new regular pinging developed and the vehicle was taken to the dealer (at which time new tires were installed routinely). No clear issues were found upon brief inspection/auscultation and advised to return if the sound was recurrent. The sound persisted on a fairly frequent though intermittent basis. A recording was made and another appt made for routine spark plug replacement. Upon return and repeat inspection it was discovered that oil filter was full of metal shavings and advised it was very likely necessary for a complete engine overhaul (with $18-20 k price tag). Checking online it was discovered that this gm motor had a 580,000 vehicle recall for 2021-2024 models. A new odi study is being done for similar complaints for 2019-2021 year models (additional 280,000 vehicles). The 6. 2l motors have been found to have a crankshaft/bearing issue leading to motor failure and even sudden loss of power often presenting with metal particulate matter being discovered. Awaiting resolution.

Total engine failure with 90,000 miles on the car.

I purchased a new 2020 GMC Yukon in may of 2020. Between may 2020 and November 2025 the vehicle was routinely serviced on or before the due date recommend by the manufacturer. I had not experienced issues with the vehicle until November 2020 when the check engine light abruptly appeared and the vehicle began driving very rough. I immediately took the vehicle to the local mechanic who identified two codes (p0300 and p050d) related to the engine issues. The vehicle was towed to the dealership due to the fact that I was instructed it was unsafe to drive long distances without additional diagnostics. The dealership disassembled the engine and found coolant leaking into cylinder six. There were no cracks or otherwise clear means of entry for the coolant into the engine. The dealership instructed us that we would need a complete engine replacement. Upon further research of this issue, it was uncovered that a service bulletin had been issued for this very issue. The reference number is 20-na-166, updated March 2024.

We have owned the car for five years. We bought it new in 2020. Now, the engine has completely failed. It has the same problems all the recalled GMC Yukon denali xl 6. 2l v8 engines have; lifters are not functioning, cam shaft is destroyed, rods are bent, oil is pooling and the aluminum engine has melted. The engine light suddenly went off and we didn’t have acceleration. The vehicle started “puttering” and didn’t drive well. No warning at all. This is a known issue with GMC (which I just found out about) and I find it absurd I have to pay $26,000 for a new engine which will most likely have the same problem. Luckily nothing happened, but if that happened on the highway with my wife and three young kids in the car it could have been a nightmare situation.

Knocking noise from engine-no check engine light initially. Next time it was started knocking was still present and the check engine light was on. Contacted champion Chevrolet in lagrange ky. Dealership diagnosed problem (code p0308 - cylinder 8 misfire). Compression test on cylinder 8 failed. Removed valve cover and confirmed loud tick in the rocker shaft and worn camshaft lobes. Was told I would need a new engine and that repairing the existing engine was not cost effective. So, $22,722. 14 later, I have a new engine in my 2020 GMC Yukon and have the original engine (core charge) in my shop in case it is needed for evaluation to help determine if the gm recall should be expanded to 2020 model year (and others not covered by the current recall).

Driving today and car started rattling and pouring transmission fluid on the way home today. Barely made it home.

Complete engine failure at 83,986 miles and no prior signs that it was defective. Had gm initially look at it and they refused to cover the repair and indicated that it was due to faulty lifters. Took it to an independent shop, they tore it all down and indicated the lifters had trays that were not tight, which allowed the lifters to eat away at the camshaft. Due to that, metal shavings got into the main engine bearings and that is what ultimately caused the engine failure. While questioning how a new engine would be any more reliable than the one that failed, I was told that all engine suppliers were aware of the sloppy lifter play and the needed cam changes and new parts were all maid to a tighter spec so that this would not happen in the future. Gm is fully aware of this issue and fortunately for me it did not result in my engine failing on the highway like others have. I was left with a $14,969. 74 repair bill on something that should have never happened. I talked with current gm master technicians, and they indicated to me to stay away from anything pre 2025 because all engines were made to the same spec and they don't know why a change was not made sooner.

I was driving down the highway, and my wife and I decided to stop at costco to get protein bars and gas for the drive home. We also had a [xxx] , [xxx] old, and [xxx] in the car. As we were approaching the end of the exit ramp at approximately 30 miles per hour, the engine jerked the car two or three times then died. When it died, I lost power steering and the car slammed to a stop. The car also displayed an alert about my tow breaking system. I tried to restart it, and smoke began rising from my engine bay. I stopped trying to restart, and got my family onto the hill beside the exit while waiting for a tow. The tech at the GMC dealer stated that the engine had seized on me while driving. The cam shaft can rotate a small amount one way before getting blocked, and likewise the other way. Tech believes that the bearing is responsible, but will not be doing a tear down until September 2. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

My vehicle went from driving perfectly to startling and not going pass 45 in a matter of two days. I was getting all maintenance done at dealer always on time had just service it. When all of a sudden it started making a jerking/ skipping feel as if I was accelerating too hard. Took it to get checked and the code that came up was (tcc)torque converter clutch. I spent 6000 to rebuild the transmission and kno the engine has a tap tap noise. Once again I took it in and now it’s the lifters in the engine. No warning light have ever popped up.

[xxx] [xxx] phone: [xxx] email: [xxx] [date] national highway traffic safety administration office of defects investigation (odi) 1200 new jersey avenue, se washington, d. C. 20590 subject: safety complaint regarding 2020 GMC Yukon xl denali – repeated engine failures (VIN: [xxx] ) to whom it may concern: I am writing to formally file a safety complaint regarding my 2020 GMC Yukon xl denali (VIN: [xxx] ) which I purchased in 2021. This vehicle has experienced repeated and dangerous mechanical failures that raise significant safety concerns. •March 2024: the oil pump failed, resulting in immediate engine issues. Repairs were completed under warranty, but the check engine light remained on afterward. •April 2024: the vehicle broke down again. At that time, the cams and lifters were replaced in addition to other service, but the underlying issues were not resolved. •August 2025: the vehicle failed once again. After taking it in, the service department could not determine the cause. When they believed they had identified the issue and took it for a test drive, the vehicle broke down again and had to be towed back to the shop. At that point, I was informed that the vehicle now requires a complete motor replacement and a new fuel pump. Each of these failures has left me stranded and placed me and my family in unsafe situations on the road. Despite contacting the dealership (joseph Cadillac of dublin), general motors, and the warranty company, none have taken responsibility to properly resolve the issues. I believe this represents a potential defect in the engine or related systems that could impact many other consumers. I respectfully request that the NHTSA investigate this matter to determine whether a broader safety recall or manufacturer action is warranted. Thank you for your attention to this matter and for helping ensure consumer safety. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

We purchased the vehicle used in April 2025 with 79,851 miles. All service records were documented via carfax. Vehicle was in impeccable condition. We drove it for approx. 8,000 miles until July 10, 2025, when a loud knocking sound started coming from the engine - approx. Mileage 87,600. We drove the vehicle home 350 miles. The knocking sound continued and got slightly worse. We drove it to the nearest dealer (30 miles) and the mechanic said it sounded like a camshaft problem. However, they could not get it in for over 60 days. We drove to another dealer (45 miles). The mechanic said he thought the entire engine was bad. We left the vehicle there and about a week later they were able to confirm that it was total bearing failure. Mileage 88,054. We were told that a new engine was needed as well as a radiator and new oil lines, etc. Total estimate $18,000. They also said there was no timeline they could guarantee because of the current gm recall. Of particular note and concern. . . At no time did the 'check engine' light come on or any other warning system activate. Both mechanics were genuinely perplexed at this. The repairs were ordered and the vehicle is now repaired. However, gm has not confirmed a cost share for the repair billing and we are now almost 60 days since they received the paperwork from the dealer so we still do not have our vehicle back. We filed a complaint with gm and a case number was assigned so they are fully aware of the issue as is the dealer who did the repair.

Driving and vehicle started making noise and lost ability to accelerate fully. Mechanic stated he’s had numerous issues with this model with lifter and camshaft damage especially with the 6. 2l engine which has a recall on the 2021-25 models but not the 2020. $5,000+ to fix at this point.

While driving to lake placid, NY, I experienced sudden loss of propulsion as I was driving approximately 60 mph. I was able to brake and pull over to the shoulder. I was not able to restart the vehicle - engine was dead. We were flat bed towed to a garage in lake placid where it was confirmed that the engine was inoperable. The vehicle is now at. Gm dealer in potsdam, NY. I believe this engine should be part of the recall!!.

The vehicle suddenly stopped working while driving with my family of 5 in the vehicle. There was no warning, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to this. We had no idea there was anything wrong until it just stopped working. Then the engine light came on. Thankfully we were close to an exit and were able to pull off the road. We had it towed to a GMC dealer they found cylinder 7 intake lifter collapsed causing p0300 to set in ecm. Upon disassembly of bank one found lifter guide failed due to lifter collapse leading to camshaft lobe damage. The engine required replacement of camshaft and all lifters. The total cost of repairs was $10,115. 72. When I reported this to GMC they said that our vehicle was not part of the current recall for engine failure because it was a 2020.

I was driving 75 mph on the interstate passing a semi. The Yukon did not respond to pedal pressure so I used my blinker, moved to right lane and coasted into the grass area. The engine was completely off. As I changed lanes the low oil pressure light came on and the truck demanded that I shut the vehicle down immediately. I called for a tow truck and had to be towed 27 miles to my home area.

The contact owns a 2020 GMC Yukon xl. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle experienced a loss of automotive power, and an abnormal rattling sound was coming from under the hood. The contact stated that the message "action needed - oil pressure" was displayed on the screen. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed with catastrophic engine failure due to metal shavings inside the engine. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 52,000.

Vehicle suddenly lost power without warning or engine light coming on. Vehicle was inspected and found that the transmission fluid pump failing caused low transmission pressure and replacement was required. 70k transmission fluid change was done per maintenance recommendations. Vehicle had 112k miles.

Engine failure had to replace the motor.

I purchased my 2020 Yukon denali on July 8, 2024 from classic Buick GMC in painesville, ohio. The check engine light started going on and off a few months after purchasing the vehicle. When I called a mechanic he stated that I should wait until the light is on and then bring in the vehicle. In early may 2025, I took my vehicle to mike’s automotive in middlefield, ohio after the check engine light began coming on during extended drives (approximately five hours or more). The shop ran a diagnostic scan and advised that the oil pump needed to be replaced. Seeking another opinion, on may 14, 2025, I brought my vehicle to classic Buick GMC service, the dealership where I purchased my GMC Yukon. After diagnosing the vehicle, they advised that the check engine light was related to an engine oil pressure control solenoid stuck in the off position (p06dd). This fix would cost $3,584. This fix would require the oil pump to be replaced as indicated by the previous repair shop. On may 29, 2025, I took the vehicle to avenue auto clinic in painesville, OH, where the oil pressure valve and sensors were replaced. The mechanic also advised that I change the oil every 3,000 miles, use oem oil filters, and thicker oil. He also advised me to check the oil every 1,000 oil and add as needed. I do have to add oil approximately every 1,500 miles and I change the oil every 3,000 miles. I am concerned that my vehicle has the same engine-related defect as the Yukon engines currently under recall. Multiple mechanics have informed me that my vehicle is equipped with the same engine as those affected by the recall. I am requesting that my vehicle be added to the recall. Yes, my vehicle is available for inspection.

Lifters broke and destroyed the camshaft at 99,000 miles. Total repair cost $8,200.

The contact owns a 2020 GMC Yukon xl. The contact stated that while his wife was driving approximately 65 mph, the transmission started to slip out gear and the vehicle was losing motive power. The contact's wife had not observed any warning lights. The contact’s wife drove the vehicle back to the residence and while attempting to place the vehicle in park(p), the vehicle failed to respond. The contact had the vehicle towed to an independent mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the contact stated while driving approximately 65 mph, the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact was able to drive the vehicle to the residence. The contact stated that while attempting to restart the vehicle, the vehicle was idling roughly with white smoke coming from the exhaust pipe. The contact drove the vehicle to a different independent mechanic who performed an engine pressure test and determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 102,000.

The contact owns a 2020 GMC Yukon the contact stated while driving the vehicle at 10 mph the vehicle began to stalled in which the vehicle completely shut off, no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was not able to restart. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the barring was worn out in the drive shift in which the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 107,000.

Pressed the air condition button and engine turned off while driving. Vehicle engine knocking and engine shaking. Will not go over 30 miles an hour take it to the dealership and all they say is it's the air filter. Engine light turns on traction control light stays on warning of decrease engine speed engine not shifting properly high rpm's dealer says there's nothing wrong.

The contact owns a 2020 GMC Yukon xl. The contact stated that upon attempting to start the vehicle with the key fob, messages that the key fob was not connected, to put the key fob in the compartment, to push the brake, and that the battery light was low, were displayed. The contact stated that he was able to start the vehicle by pressing the push to start button. The contact stated that the failure occurred intermittently. Additionally, the contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the engine made an abnormally loud banging sound, and then the engine made an abnormal clunking sound that persisted while the vehicle was idling. The contact turned off the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that two pistons had separated from the engine. The dealer recommended an engine replacement. The dealer also informed the contact that a manufacturer field technician would perform an additional inspection of the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 11,000.

Transmissions issues. Not transitioning/ shifting into gears smoothly or at all. When it does transition/shift it is rough and harsh. When my car transitions to a lower gear then it will not transition back up to a higher gear causing my vehicle to drop speed significantly that I am a safety hazard on the road. Example: when it shifts to a gear high enough that the vehicle can reach 40 mph and there is a need to decelerate it does but once it drop to lower gears it cannot engage again to a higher gear leaving me stuck going at most 10 mph with not opportunity to excelerate in traffic to a higher speed. The transmission control module (tcm) software was updated with no improvement.