general problems of the 2021 GMC Yukon - part 2

296 problems related to engine and engine cooling have been reported for the 2021 GMC Yukon. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2021 GMC Yukon based on all problems reported for the 2021 Yukon.

36 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 03/06/2026

The contact's daughter owns a 2021 GMC Yukon. While the owner was driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal ticking sound coming from the engine compartment. The sound was intermittent but frequent. The vehicle stalled intermittently with several unknown warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who advised that the vehicle needed to be taken to a dealer for additional assistance. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, but it was not yet diagnosed. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA campaign number: 25v274000 (engine and engine cooling); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and confirmed that the VIN was not associated with the recall. The failure mileage was approximately 154,000.

37 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 03/05/2026

Engine shut down in 2022 due to faulty lifters. Repairs were made. Same problem again in 2026.

38 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 03/01/2026

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that the vehicle had a rough idle. There was an abnormal ticking and rattling sound detected. The vehicle lost oil pressure. The contact located smoke emerging from the vehicle. The engine light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed with a failure with cylinder five, no compression, and bearing failure. The dealer suggested the engine be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact indicated that the failure was related to NHTSA campaign number: 25v274000 (engine and engine cooling) but was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was contacted who referred to the NHTSA hotline. The failure mileage was unknown.

39 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 03/01/2026

My vehicle started making a weird noise and when I took it to the shop, they told me my crankshaft has gone bad and I was lucky I caught it before the entire engine blew.

40 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 02/28/2026

Lifter failure, resulting in costly repairs and possible catastrophic engine failure while driving. Vehicle has 78,000 miles and has been regularly serviced.

41 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 02/27/2026

I had just pulled off from street light, hit button to turn auto engine shutoff off, all of sudden I lose power as if I'm in neutral, engines reving up but won't go. Then kicks in but with less power like gears will not shift. I get to my destination but car will not go in reverse.

42 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 02/21/2026

My 2021 GMC Yukon suffered the same engine failure that is the subject of the recall. It has just over 70,000 miles. I'm now told I need a new engine. The dealer confirmed that this is the same issue that has impacted other similar vintage Yukons.

43 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 02/12/2026

The vehicle experienced a major engine failure involving the 6. 2l engine. The failure appeared sudden and premature and is not consistent with normal wear and tear for a vehicle of this type. Prior to the failure, there were intermittent performance concerns and warning indicators suggesting potential engine or drivetrain issues. The vehicle had previously undergone repair related to similar concerns, indicating a possible recurring problem. The failure created a potential safety risk due to the possibility of loss of power while driving, which could increase the risk of an accident, especially at highway speeds or in traffic. The issue has been confirmed by a service provider, and the vehicle requires significant repair. General motors has been notified but has declined repair assistance, classifying the issue as wear and tear. While no active recall is currently associated with this specific vehicle, similar vehicles with the same engine platform have documented issues, raising concerns about reliability and safety. The failed components are available for inspection upon request.

44 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 02/04/2026

Right as I was coming up on my powertrain warranty, I began to have lifter issues. I had two repairs of the original lifters that ultimately were not successful. I ended up replacing all lifters with the updated version that apparently repaired previous lifter issues. That repair cost around ~$6k. After six weeks of reasonable driving, I noticed engine oil notices for low engine oil. I was told today at a local dealership that the vehicle now needs engine replacement at $14k-16k. Both the dealer and corporate confirmed my vehicle VIN didn't qualify for the propulsion recall. GMC corporate also said nothing can be done now that the vehicle is out of drive train warranty.

45 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 01/27/2026

The engine has started using large quantities of oil. Not dripping oil, burning oil. I have been doing oil consumption studies with GMC for months now. It burned 7 quarts in 5,000 miles. The dealership tells me it is not part of the current recall on others with the same engine, make and model. It is doing the same thing as what the recall is for and my VIN number should be added to GMC’s recall list and the motor replaced. It is a serious safety issue for me and my children,.

46 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 01/18/2026

Loss of power while driving, no warnings, no lights on dash, no unusual noises, and no codes. The Yukon just randomly went into neutral while driving 65 mph and "press start again" popped up on the dash. I struggled to get the truck to the side of the road safely. After getting the truck into park it started back up, and I was able to make it the 3 miles home. I scheduled it to go into the dealership as it still is making no noises, and had no engine light or codes, about 2 miles from my house it shut off again while driving, only this time when it restarted it now has a ticking sound coming from the engine however no warning lights and no codes being displayed. I am reporting this as I believe it falls under the open investigation ea25007, although it clearly is the same failures others have experienced on models that were included in the recall 25v-274. I am also attempting to contact gm as my vehicle is no longer under the powertrain warranty that was not extended for the vehicles that were not included in the recall.

47 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 01/16/2026

Internal engine failure car just shut off on expressway, putting the safety of my husband and child at risk. Waiting for a tow at 12:30 in the morning. Problem has been confirmed by dealer. No warning lamps or warnings signs prior to failure. Car just shut down and was not able to start again. Had to be towed!.

48 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 01/11/2026

Post-recall low oil warning + performance issues on 2021 GMC Yukon denali – campaign 25v274000 vehicle: 2021 GMC Yukon denali, 6. 2l v8 recall: 25v274000 owner: one owner since new (purchased 2021) I had recall campaign 25v274000 performed on my vehicle. This was the first low oil warning I have ever received since purchasing the SUV new in 2021. I have always followed the vehicle’s oil life monitor with no prior issues. The change oil light appeared at roughly 7,500 miles after the recall service (when I already had a service appointment scheduled). About one week later, the low oil warning came on. I had the vehicle towed to the dealership and did not drive it after the warning. Since the recall service, I have also experienced performance issues including noticeable stuttering that was really evident before I towed it in. The dealership initially agreed to a consumption test but later acted like it was not needed, said everything was fine, and were dismissive — blaming me for not following their sticker. I am concerned the recall remedy is not fully effective. Please investigate this matter. Thank you, [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

49 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 01/10/2026

Engine is leaking alot of oil from crankshaft. . I was informed there was a recall on the same type and years for the problem I am having but I do not have a recall on mine.

50 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 01/09/2026

I have a 2021 GMC Yukon with 74,000 miles I was recently told I need a new transmission. I am am trying to understand why a car that is 5 years with all the services done by lehman GMC in north miami would need a new transmission they have been servicing this car and no one mention anything breaking down of need of repair until now. I spoke with the service manager franklin and he stated to me another client had the same issue and he flush the transmission just like I am doing today and it only worked for a short time and afterwards he had to replace the transmission. I feel this is a problem with these models and GMC don't want to address it. They just want the customer to pay for the repairs. Now I spoke to the manager and the salesman that sold me the car and nicely told me he was sorry and he could get us out of this into a 2026. Now why would I buy a new car if they cannot get the 2021 right. I have included my invoice below I feel some one should look into this I feel this is a recall matter and GMC is trying to pass the buck. Thank you [xxx] [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

51 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 01/09/2026

I was driving down the highway at normal speeds under normal conditions and the engine light came on and started flashing. By the time I could find a safe place to pull over I heard the engine knocking. Left my wife, two young kids and myself stuck in the middle of the road with traffic coming. Managed to get it out of the road before going to get my truck and trailer to tow it home. I assume this is due to the l87 recall but mine was built in 01/21 and the recall is said to cover 03/21 and up. We don’t really know what to do at this point being its my wife and kids only way to work and school.

52 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 01/05/2026

I have 60k miles on my 2021 Yukon xl denali. The transmission went out in it in January. I have it in the shop in January for a new transmission. I got it back and the transmssion went out again in it. Its currently in the shop. The transmission is a 10 speed and has been nothing but issues.

53 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 01/05/2026

I habe a 2021 Yukon denali and I have had engine failure on the road. Lifter issues and rod issues. I have paid out of pocket to fix it because my truck wasnt part of the recall. But I had the first failure in November 2024. Second failure January 2026.

54 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 01/05/2026

2 days after the delearship changed my oil to a heavier weight, my engine began knocking. I’m told the rod is bent but not covered by warranty.

55 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 01/04/2026

On [xxx] driving to denver the 52,000 mile Yukon started making a clicking sound when accelerating on the interstate. Traction control light came on as well as the check engine light. Low power was noticed and we immediately pulled over as it sounded like it was going to blow up. Towed the vehicle 145 miles where we bought it and the shop confirmed the lifters and 5th cylinder are the issue and that the cams could be damaged. Recommend replacing each side. The car is basically new and under the 60k drive train warranty but about 100 days past the 5 year mark. Terrible timing. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

56 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 01/02/2026

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon xl. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost drive power with several unknown warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who determined that the engine had seized and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to report the failure to the NHTSA hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 22,000.

57 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 01/02/2026

I was driving and a message popped up "service traction control", then another message popped up "forward collision system unavailable". Then the car started making this knocking sound and every time I would try and accelerate there would be a loud sound and almost a pulling stopping it from picking up much speed. I took the car into the dealer/repair shop and they said it was an issue with the lifters that had to be replaced and potentially an issue with the cam. They said this repair would cost upwards of $6,000 and I have never had this issue with the car before. This came out of nowhere and the car had not been showing any signs of this occurring before. This is a 2021 GMC Yukon and I drive my wife and three sons in that car daily.

58 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 12/30/2025

Nhtsa team, I am the current owner of a 2021 GMC Yukon denali (VIN: [xxx] ) with the 6. 2l l87 v8. At approximately 148,239 miles, I experienced a catastrophic lifter failure. My mechanic diagnosed a failed afm lifter and metal contamination, requiring full engine replacement. This is documented under gm case #xxx. Carfax revealed that prior to my ownership, lifters were replaced twice (~10,469 miles and ~25,572 miles). The dealership I purchased from did not disclose these prior repairs, as they used an alternative vehicle history check. Only upon this third lifter failure did my mechanic identify this recurring defect. I submit this to NHTSA’s investigation into post-repair failures of the gm 6. 2l engines. The pattern shows prior remedies were insufficient. Supporting documents (carfax, mechanic report) are available. Please advise if further details or inspection of the failed engine components are needed. Thanks, [xxx] [xxx] [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

59 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 12/29/2025

Driving the vehicle on the highway when I started to hear a ticking sound from the engine. After a few minutes, the check engine light came on and started flashing, traction control shut off and some system related to the rear end shut off. After inspection, it appears to have dropped a lifter.

60 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 12/26/2025

The vehicle shifted into neutral while driving, locked out gear selection, triggered a transmission warning, and now will not restart.

61 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 12/25/2025

On christmas day while driving on the highway, I noticed a ticking sound coming from the engine. Our 21 Yukon denali just hit 85,000 miles. I first noticed the traction control light was became disabled and then the check engine light started flashing. The sound escalates when you step on the gas. It appears that the lifters and cams are damaged on the vehicle and had to be towed to a dealership were it currently waits to avoid further damage. I was advised by the dealership that this particular vehicle is not part of the engine, recall notice, but heard that they might be expanding VIN numbers to the recall as more incidents occur. They did confirm that the lifters and cam’s are the issue. The vehicle has had a great maintenance record and was just at the same dealership five weeks earlier for oil change.

62 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 12/22/2025

Traction control system esc system suddenly and without warning, multiple warning lights started flashing including check engine. The vehicle lost power and traction. There was a loud knocking and metallic whining sound. The vehicle began to vibrate and struggled to move forward and felt like the wheels were slipping. The loss of these functions was alarming because it was dark, we were in a construction zone, and my 15-year old daughter was driving having recently earned her driver's permit. The car following us almost rear ended us. It was such an abrupt engine failure it scared me and my daughter.

63 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 12/22/2025

The car suddenly experienced engine failure while driving at highway speed (about 70 mph). The check engine light, as well as several other warning lights (traction control, electronic stability control, etc) came on immediately before a metal-on-metal clunking sound and then loss of power. I was able to pull the car over to the side of the highway, and because of the clunking sound, felt it was unsafe to drive further and had it towed to a local dealer. The car has about 42,000 miles on it, in perfectly maintained condition, with all services performed at the dealer per the recommended schedule.

64 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 12/16/2025

12/16/25 (evening): warnings began cycling across the screen: 1) service esc, 2) vehicle leveling for stability, 3) rear axel system off, 4) engine symbol began flashing, and 5) service traction control. I felt vibration/bouncing while driving as well. 12/17/25 9 took 2021 GMC Yukon denali to GMC dealership. They ran a computer scan and reported a misfire, but nothing else appeared to be wrong. They told me that sometimes a low battery can cause the warning lights and messages to cycle. They recommended that I keep driving it and return if the warnings appeared again. 12/17/25 9:18 I left the dealership. I drove 4. 5 miles, and all the same warning lights came back on. When I pulled into a parking lot, it smelled like my engine was on fire, and dark smoke was coming from my rear exhaust pipe. I called a flatbed tow truck and had the car returned to the dealership. Mileage: 52,285 GMC 2021yukon denali xl 6. 2l v8 engine well-maintained with regular oil changes. The dealership told me there was a lifter failure and that the engine could be damaged and would need to be replaced if the cam, pushrods, etc. , were damaged. They also told me I was out of warranty by less than 60 days. The dealership said my warranty expired in October 2025, even though my vehicle is a 2021 with only 52,285 miles. They just informed me that the left lifter was replaced at 6,000 miles and that they will replace the right lifter. I am concerned about further damage down the road, given the recalls on the GMC 6. 2l engines.

65 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 12/15/2025

I had the 25v-274 recall serviced at my gm dealer and was never provide with any paperwork on the extended warranty that was part of the recall. As you can image, not having anything in writing is a big risk as these engines have been catastrophically failing. Gm was supposed to provide a extended warranty and service manual update.

66 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 12/15/2025

While driving on a two lane road, my vehicle put itself into neutral without me doing anything and the engine stopped. All things powered down. The engine stopped. Not propulsion, nothing. I tried to pull over to edge of road. Car would not start - no activity. The vehicle had to be towed to the dealership. My safety was put at risk by my car simply stopping while driving down the road. The dealership has confirmed the engine needs to be replaced. There was no warning of engine problems or any indicators.

67 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 12/12/2025

Freedom, tire and automotive inc. Advised my 6. 2lv8 engine has failed due to metal debris found in the new oil, indicating a mechanical failure of an internal engine component. I called GMC and they referred me to you.

68 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 12/05/2025

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon xl. The contact stated that while driving at 30 mph, the gear shifter independently shifted to neutral(n), and the vehicle speed decreased. The contact stated that upon depressing the brake pedal, the vehicle lost drive power. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed, and the dealer determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure NHTSA campaign number:25v274000 (engine and engine cooling); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and filed a case. The contact was also referred to the NHTSA hotline to file a complaint. The failure mileage was 120,000.

69 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 12/01/2025

On December 1, 2025 at around 5pm cst, my 2021 GMC Yukon xl started making a squeeling noise then stopped while driving down the road. It left me stranded in the middle of the road. A p0016 code was produced and the engine light came on. I had the vehicle towed the next day to stew hanses GMC in clive, iowa. The engine was torn down for inspection and was told the rod bearing went bad and it had low oil even though I was within the window since the last oil change and having documented all necessary required maintenance. I was told the engine needs to be replaced and am in the process currently of stew hanson GMC replacing all necessary parts. I was told I do not have a recall on the vehicles VIN number by GMC corporate and the GMC dealer. It is coming up on a month since the incident happened and vehicle towed to dealership. I do not have pictures from the dealer yet or final invoice as this is still in process. I wanted to document this somewhere.

70 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 12/01/2025

I experienced complete engine failure at around 76000 miles similar to a current engine recall for 2021 to 2024 6. 2l v8 engines. However, my engine isn't included in the current recall. I also experienced the fuel pump control module problem requiring replacement. Again there is a recall for 2021 to 2024 6. 2l v8 engines and again my engine wasn't included in this recall.



Yukon Service Bulletins
Yukon Safety Recalls
Yukon Defect Investigations