general problems of the 2021 GMC Yukon - part 1

Check engine light comes on and an alert says "acceleration reduced" dealer says the coolant control valve is bad but the engine never overheats but the fans are running max speed 100% of the time.

Engine overheated and performed an emergency shutdown while driving through atlanta on my way to vacation with my family. We lost propulsion and had to cross 5 lanes of traffic to find a shoulder to pull over to. The engine shut down and we were left stranded 500 miles from home with our 3 children in a boiling car. The vehicle was inspected and passed the recall test 6 weeks prior to this incident. After the first failure we attempted to extend our power train warranty to which we were told it had too many miles by gm. The gm dealership and service center where the vehicle was towed confirmed the engine needed to be replaced and gm confirmed it falls under their extended warranty. However, gm refuses to cover any additional expenses incurred from their engine failure.

I was driving in the left lane on [xxx] , a 4 lane interstate just outside of cleveland when I lost engine propulsion. Engine rpms dropped to under 1000rpm, and quit responding to throttle. I had to change lanes and coast until there was a shoulder available to stall out at while I awaited a tow. No warning lamps until I tried to restart vehicle. Engine cranked but wouldnt start. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

The vehicle suddenly began vibrating noticeably when idling and at low speeds. About 30 minutes after this started happening a warning lamp lit up. We drove the vehicle about 2 miles to a local auto parts store to get an initial computer diagnosis of the issue. The test resulted in a code of "p0304" which detected a cylinder #4 misfire and recommended a fuel injector replacement. We brought the vehicle to a local mechanic to get the issue further evaluated. After this evaluation, it was determined that the cylinder #4 misfire was related to a lifter failure. The mechanic explained that this situation could possibly have caused more damage, specifically to the camshaft, but that job was bigger than he was willing to take on. He recommended we get the vehicle towed to the dealership for further evaluation. He also informed us that this situation was common with the engine in this vehicle and GMC is aware of it. He directed us to some articles online that elaborated on the potential known issues related to the automatic fuel management (afm) system and the related engine damage. The vehicle was towed to a local GMC dealership for evaluation. They found the failed cylinder #4 with associated lifter failure and damaged camshaft. We went forward with the repair at the dealership. We asked the dealership about the known engine issues with this vehicle. They acknowledged the widespread issues but informed us that our particular VIN has not been included in any recalls or safety notifications, so we were responsible for the repairs. The vehicle spent nearly 3 weeks at the dealership. One of the parts was on backorder due to a national shortage, which delayed the repair by about one week. That seems to imply that the parts involved in this repair are in high demand, which raises the question of this being a manufacturing/parts issue that may need to be investigated further.

The vehicle drove normally earlier in the day with no major drivability concerns. Later, reverse gear suddenly stopped functioning and the engine would rev abnormally without the vehicle moving properly while in reverse. Shortly afterward, while driving, the vehicle displayed the warning message “reduce acceleration – drive with care” and began losing acceleration and propulsion. The vehicle would not accelerate normally and later could not exceed approximately 20-35 mph. The condition created a significant safety concern due to sudden loss of acceleration and propulsion while operating in traffic. The engine rpm would increase abnormally while the vehicle failed to respond properly in drive and reverse. An independent mechanic inspected the transmission and found diagnostic trouble codes p0747, p0776, and p0700 related to transmission pressure control and valve body operation. Inspection also revealed significant metal contamination, sludge, and clutch material inside the transmission pan and filter. Reverse and 2nd gear were determined to be failed/burnt internally. The vehicle was later transported to an authorized GMC dealer for inspection. Dealer confirmed reverse gear would not engage even after adding transmission fluid. Vehicle is currently available for inspection.

2021 Yukon denali. Inspected by dealer under recall. Passed dealership test and new oil viscosity adjustment completed by dealer at 39k miles. Told no issues with vehicle continue to drive it. Today 4-14-26 on the interstate traveling 75mph the engine seized and lost all power. Instrument panel showed 0rpm as I coasted to a stop and the engine lost all power. I placed the vehicle in park on the shoulder and attempted to restart. Nothing! engine would crank. Towed to olathe GMC dealer and they took one looke at it , diagnosed it said it had all symptoms of total engine failure. Ordered me an engine and told 6 weeks out. Sent me home in a loaner. Service department told me they get one everyday sometime more than 1. They have hertz rental on standby for warranty loaner vehicle. I find it spilling that these vehicles come time to be sold. They’re all bad according to the service department. I also find it very frustrating that they park the broken defective vehicles at the very back of the dealer lot to hide the graveyard of 6. 2’s from the public. My vehicle is under 5 year 60k warranty and engine is being replaced, but the tech could not share the extent of what would be replaced. All he mentioned was the block. Zero warning engine just went up like a grenade at 75mpg on the highway. Wife’s vehicle and left me stranded 2 hours from home on a work trip.

Tank had become partially dislodged from the undercarriage. *entire family was in vehicle at time of incident, including three small children. The safety of an entire family along with any others that may have been on the road, if the car would have combusted due to the gas tank which had just been filled to capacity. *vehicle has been at mark christopher gm dealership for over one month. *dealership service dept claims someone tried to steal gas tank. *Mercury insurance company claims mechanical failure. Warning given from vehicle. We heard a dragging noise while we were driving, pulled over as soon as possible. Upon inspection, it was observed that fuel tank had begun to leak fuel from dragging on the freeway.

March 29th 2026 my 2021 Yukon xl engine stalled while driving at 45mph (no prior warning lamps or messages, restart engine came on dash) causing me to immediately pull over and come to a stop still in traffic, it shifted my vehicle into park, I was in an in an un-safe spot and was stuck in park (conditions not correct for shift on dash) because my vehicle would not allow me to shift to neutral and push it to the side of the road, (could not jump start) had towed to dealership and mentioned engine failure and fuel pump control module recalls but according to them it was a starter issue, I asked them to still check the fuel pump control module regardless. Picked up vehicle and a week later April 14th the exact same thing happened vehicle stalled while driving dash said restart engine while coasting (no prior warning lamps or messages) forcing me to pull over where it rolled to a stop and locked itself into park leaving me in unsafe conditions again. Had towed back to the same dealership and waiting to hear back from them.

Exhaust fumes and stink on cold start . Vehicle only has 40,000 mi and I have exhaust smells coming in through hvac system!!.

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.

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).

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).

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.

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.

I'm vehicle has experience both active recalls for similar model year but my VIN isn't listed as been one that is covered by the call. 25v274000 and 21v739000.

I got 3 messages on the dash going off simultaneously 1. Service traction control system 2. Forward collision system unavailable 3. Service esc I could feel the truck bogging and shaking a little at this point then soon after the check engine light was flashing and it was noticeably misfiring and rough idling. I pulled some codes at oreillys and got back 1. P0300 misfire 2. P050d cold start rough idle.

On November 14,2025 my engine failed on the highway going 80 mph to 0 mph in the passing lane. Almost caused a major accident on us23. I’ve asked my dealership bowman Chevrolet repeatedly to inspect my engine for the recall and have been denied every time. Most recent was October when I had my oil changed and I was told it wasn’t my turn and the recall for my vehicle was pending. I had my vehicle flatbed towed to the dealership where it sits dead in their parking lot. Thank god we didn’t die on the freeway that night. It was a horrible experience.

My vehicle fuel pump control module has failed. GMC has an open recall for my year, make and model however claims that my vehicle is not listed on the recall list that came out around 9/15/2025. I contacted GMC and they cannot provide me with a specific reason as to why it’s not included.

Vehicle would not start. Vehicle was towed to GMC dealership for inspection. Vehicle diagnosed with "fuel pump driver control module" issue and needed to be replaced. This was a known issue for the 2021 GMC Yukon: GMC service bulletin: #24-na-139 (release date August 2024) emission recall: n212332040 (release date September 2021) emission recall: n252516900 (release date September 2025) however, this VIN was not covered under the recalls and payment was required out of pocket. Recall(s) need to be expanded to include additional 2021 GMC Yukon vins - including this one.

In January 2021, I purchased a new 2021 GMC Yukon denali from a GMC dealership, which currently has only about 27,000 miles. To date, several recalls have been assigned and completed for my vehicle. Per the websites for GMC and your agency. However, based on published recalls for my vehicle and a repair that is currently underway, I have reason to believe that my vehicle should have been subject to three prior recalls for which it was not [NHTSA id numbers: 20v735000 (front seat bolts), 25v274000 (v8 engine failure, and 21v739000 (fuel power control module] currently, the fuel pump control module is being replaced at a local GMC dealership because it failed last week and left my stranded at home. GMC issued a recall for this in 2021, but my vehicle was not included. Aside from risk and inconvenience, this is also costing my over $300 for a rental. Secondly, though my vehicle's make/model/year is cited in GMC's ongoing engine failure recall, which you are investigating, I have not received a recall notice. I note GMC's financial interest in minimizing vehicle's it recalls for such a costly repair. I have inquired with GMC and two of its dealers and have only received reiterations that my vehicle has not been subject to GMC's recall, which I already knew. I have not been given any explanation for why my Yukon has not been recalled despite my inquiries. Lastly, GMC issued a 2021 recall for front seat bolts; however, I did not receive a notice for my Yukon. I have occasionally felt slight movement in the driver's seat since buying the vehicle. Based on reason and facts, I am alleging that GMC appears to be artificially minimizing recalls and notifications for vehicles that are in fact impacted by defects in their vehicles.

Fuel pump power control module failed while driving. This part was included in a recall in 2021 but our VIN appears to not have been impacted.

Dealership refused to inspect engine and provide new oil in regards to recall, they charged me $208. 75 for oil that was supposed to be completed under recall l87 for gm.

My 2021 Yukon denali (83264 miles), fuel pump control module failed causing car to lock up without any warning as my son was turning vehicle onto a main street. Car would not restart and wasn’t able to be put into neutral to push it to side of road to a safer location. Police came and put cones around it until tow truck came the next morning. Tow operator got it onto a flatbed, which was difficult due to weight of the vehicle and not being able to put into neutral (fortunately it was in 2wd which helped). It scares me to think what would’ve have happened if my son had been on the busy highway that he was planning to be on the next day or when it was on earlier that day. Vehicle is still at the dealership waiting on the replacement part which apparently is hard to get.

My 2021 GMC Yukon xl denali is part of the April 2025 recall for the 6. 2l v8 engine defect. The dealership confirmed the engine must be replaced, but the part is on backorder, potentially for several months. In the meantime, GMC only authorized a GMC acadia as a courtesy vehicle. The acadia is not comparable to our Yukon xl. We are a family of six, and while the acadia has a third row, there is almost no cargo space with it in use. Our Yukon xl has over three times the cargo capacity, which is necessary for safely transporting luggage and sports equipment during our frequent trips (2–3 times per month). Because of this, we have already been forced to rent a larger SUV at our own expense for a recent trip. GMC’s courtesy transportation program states that owners should receive comparable transportation during recall repairs. Despite escalating through the dealership, GMC customer assistance, and even the regional manager, we were denied a comparable loaner or guaranteed rental coverage. This leaves our family in an unsafe and impractical situation while waiting months for the recall repair.

Vehicle: 2021 GMC Yukon denali component: fuel system, gasoline – fuel pump control module incident date: 7-10-2025 mileage 61,263 location: sr 2006 coats, nc summary of complaint: while my wife was pulling out of our neighborhood in our 2021 Yukon denali, the vehicle suddenly shut off while navigating a slight curve. It came to a complete stop in the roadway and could not be restarted. The engine would not crank, and the vehicle could not be shifted into neutral, making it impossible to move out of traffic. The Yukon remained disabled in the roadway for over an hour and ultimately had to be towed. Upon inspection, the dealership mechanic immediately identified the issue without even running diagnostics. He confirmed it was a failed fuel pump control module, which he stated is a common issue with this model. This failure represents a serious safety risk, particularly had it occurred on a high-speed interstate or in dense traffic. A sudden loss of power and inability to move the vehicle can result in dangerous roadside situations or collisions. GMC needs to address this recurring defect before it leads to more severe incidents or injuries. No warning lights or indicators appeared prior to the failure.

While driving the vehicle shut off, leaving my family stranded in the middle of traffic. It was a 90+ degree day and my family was stuck in a hot car unable to move off the roadway. This was very unsafe. No warning lights prior, the engine just stopped. After multiple times trying to restart the vehicle, the battery died. After waiting several hours, the vehicle was towed to the local dealership where it was determined that the driver fuel control module needed replaced and re programmed.

Vehicle stalled while driving and would not turn back on. I had to have it towed over 45 minutes.

Purchased certified used from davis Chevrolet in 2023 with multi-point inspection. Had motor replaced due to engine lifter failure in July 24, 2024. Electronic fuel module failed June 22, 2025. I have had multiple issues in between including alternator, belt/pulley system, rear end issues costing thousands of dollars all while paying a large amount monthly. The vehicle is giving constant issues and is not safe.

For whatever reason our 2021 GMC Yukon denali is not listed in the current 2025 GMC motor recall including cams and lifters and accompanying parts. While driving our truck about a mile from the house the vehicle began seizing and shaking (almost as if we had blown several tires); we immediately pulled over and accessed. Called dealership and had truck towed there immediately. We are told that it needs cams and lifters and that b/c our VIN does not pull up a recall that the repairs will cost ~$9800.

Recall n212332040 car lost power and stalled on highway, at highway speed dangerous recall on fuel pump pcm did not cover this year vehicle based on VIN.

We are back on shop for lifter replacement for the 3rd timeand possibly more once they open the project. Valve springs replaced and lifters.

My 2021 GMC Yukon denali is affected by NHTSA recall #25v-274. The recall notice states that defects in the engine’s connecting rod and/or crankshaft can cause engine damage and failure, resulting in sudden loss of propulsion and increasing crash risk. The recall status for my vehicle is currently listed as “incomplete – remedy not available. ” my dealership confirmed that no repair is available and further told me that GMC will not authorize a buyback, trade-in, or loaner vehicle until a remedy is developed. This has left me with an unsafe vehicle that cannot be repaired, yet I am still obligated to make monthly payments. This defect creates a serious crash risk because the engine may fail and the vehicle could lose all propulsion without warning. My family is forced to either risk driving a defective vehicle or go without reliable transportation. Dealer interaction •dealer confirmed that the recall is active but has no available remedy. •dealer stated GMC will not authorize a buyback, trade-in, or loaner vehicle until the recall repair is developed. •I am effectively stranded with an unsafe vehicle and no safe options. Remedy I am requesting that GMC be required 1. Buy back my vehicle under federal recall and warranty obligations; or 2. Provide a safe, comparable loaner or replacement vehicle at no cost until the defect is remedied. If a loaner is provided, I will continue making my monthly payments on my Yukon denali.

I was driving with my [xxx] son and my car just stalled out in the middle of the road. I couldn’t start it and we were stuck in the middle of the road. My husband arranged for a tow and the repair shop (safe auto repair mont belvieu) told me that this type of thing they have seen a lot of. The fuel pump power control module needed to be repaired and they said when that happens it sometimes shorts out the fuel pump system too. They said they had to repair 4 like this already during the week. My neighbor said the exact same thing happened to her friend GMC at4 a month ago and was also driving and the car just stopped. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

Noticeable ticking from the motor, loss of power while driving and smoking. Took to dealership to for repairs. Lifters replaced on one side, within 30 miles after leaving dealership vehicle lost power and would not crank. Per dealership same issue with spun bearing and crankshaft. New lifters and crankshaft placed. While driving 3 weeks later vehicle shifted into neutral and lost power and hand to coast to side of the road. Replace battery and still would not crank, had to be jumped off and able to drive home. 3 codes were retrieved from reader.

Vehicle engine stalled while driving in school parking lot. Safety concern as car when from “r” to “n” while backing up (2x). Engine would not turn on afterwards. Vehicle code p129f showed trouble with fuel pump power flow control module.