GMC Yukon XL
Reliability, NHTSA Complaints & Recall History
10 model years analyzed (2017–2026). All data sourced directly from the NHTSA public complaints and recall database — the same data used by federal regulators.
Checking a specific GMC Yukon XL? Run a VIN check for its exact history.
⭐ NHTSA NCAP Crash Test Ratings
New Car Assessment ProgramNCAP crash tests measure how well a vehicle protects occupants in controlled frontal crash, side crash, and rollover scenarios. Stars are awarded per category (5 = safest). These laboratory results are independent of owner complaints and are performed by NHTSA engineers on new production vehicles.
AI Interpretation
High ConfidenceBelow AverageComplaints for the GMC Yukon XL are heavily concentrated in the engine and power train systems, with a notable spike in 2021 and 2023. Crash-related reports are relatively low, but the high volume of engine complaints suggests a recurring theme that buyers may want to investigate.
- Engine complaints account for the largest share of total complaints.
- The 2021 model year has the highest number of complaints.
- Power train and electrical system complaints are also significant.
- Engine issues, including possible stalling or loss of power.
- Power train problems, such as transmission or driveline failures.
- Electrical system malfunctions, potentially affecting vehicle operation.
The 2021 model year shows the highest complaint volume, driven primarily by engine and power train issues. The 2023 model year also has elevated complaints.
The 2017, 2018, and 2019 model years have zero reported complaints, which may indicate fewer issues or lower owner reporting for those years.
- Request service records for engine and power train repairs.
- Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
- Have a mechanic inspect the vehicle, focusing on engine and transmission.
- Check for any electrical system issues during test drive.
🔔 NHTSA Safety Recalls
31 recalls foundSafety recalls are mandatory repair campaigns ordered by NHTSA when a vehicle defect poses an unreasonable risk to safety. Manufacturers are required to fix recalled vehicles free of charge. Always verify open recalls before buying a used car.
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Source: NHTSA Recalls Database. Data covers model years 2017–2026. Always run a VIN-specific check below for the most up-to-date open recall status.
🔧 Most-Reported Problem Areas
Based on component keywords extracted from all 638 NHTSA complaints.
📋 NHTSA Complaint Reports
638 totalThese are consumer-submitted safety complaints filed directly with NHTSA. Each complaint describes a real owner's experience. Complaints flagged as crash-related or fire-related are highlighted.
The contact owns a 2026 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated while parked and occupied in the vehicle or driving at night he can only see out of the bottom of the windshield. a dealer was contacted. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, and they offered no assistance. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and they informed him they will call the dealer to take a look at the vehicle at night. The failure mileage was 150.
Catastrophic engine failure of 3.0l Diesel engine with only 2000 miles on it.
On 3/14/26, on I-75 in Troy, Michigan at 70mph the vehicle, with 4000k miles on the odometer completely shut off. I pushed to restart the engine and it would not restart. My whole family was in the car and we were on a curve. I was able to coast to a flat shoulder. The vehicle would not restart or shift out of park. OnStar took seven hours to tow the vehicle. The dealer is installing a new L87 6.2L engine. I do not have the vehicle back yet. I received an economy car as a loaner. The dealer says GM will not extend the factory warranty despite the engine replacement. My family could have been easily killed.
I was on the Highway and had the vehicle on cruise control, the super cruise was not available the entire trip. Suddenly a warning came on saying that supper cruise was not available please take the wheel, the truck started slowing down drastically while I’m doing 70mph which is the speed limit. I put my foot on the brake to disengage the cruise control but that did not work. I had to push the cancel button on the wheel to take it off. This has happened to me twice while on the highway.
In the 2026 Yukons, almost all physical buttons have been replaced by the giant center touchscreen. When starting my vehicle, about a third of the time the screen will not come on, and can’t be turned back on by any means. It will randomly come back on after a few more trips/restarts. This renders several critical systems inoperable. All HVAC does not work, defrosters aren’t available, back up cameras and parking assist is not available, and control of any navigation functions or options (ie heated/cooled seats) are not possible. There are no physical buttons for these items, so there are no other options. Voice commands do not function properly when the screen is black, so no option there. After my third visit to the dealership and an open case with GM, they are finally authorizing a screen replacement. We will see if this fixes it. However, my previous explanations from GM pointed to a nebulous future software release, with no date or detail.
Engine failed with just 3,633 miles. Covert GMC is replacing the entire engine.
2026 GMC Yukon XL Denali, VIN [XXX] , 6.2L V8 L87 engine. At 3,168 miles, vehicle developed rough idle and knocking noise. Delivered to Sewell Buick GMC Dallas on 3/2/26. Dealer diagnosed crankshaft thrust bearing spun. Tech pinpointed bottom-end noise via stethoscope, found excessive metal debris in oil and oil filter. Engine teardown confirmed thrust bearing failure. Required complete engine replacement (GM #xxx), plus oil cooler/radiator, oil cooler lines, torque converter bolts, and all one-time-use parts due to metal contamination. Old engine serial [XXX] , new engine [XXX] . Repaired under warranty 3/9/26, RO #XXX. This is the identical failure mode that caused NHTSA Recall 25V-274 covering ~597,630 L87-equipped vehicles (MY 2021-2024). GM stated manufacturing improvements were completed by 6/1/24 and 2025+ models were not affected. My 2026 model year failure directly contradicts this claim and suggests the defect persists in current production. SAFETY CONCERN: Bearing failure causes sudden complete loss of propulsion at any speed. NHTSA investigation PE25001 notes most failures occur without warning. Loss of power at highway speed creates serious crash risk due to loss of ability to accelerate and reduced power braking/steering. Had this failure progressed further while driving with my family, consequences could have been severe. No crash or injury occurred in this instance. This 2026 model year failure indicates NHTSA's investigation scope should expand to include current production vehicles. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Engine lost power, making noises that sounded like an exhaust leak. Had vehicle towed to dealership. Advised the next day the main bearing had failed and engine needed to be replaced.
I am submitting supplemental information regarding Complaint #11716907 involving a 2026 GMC Yukon XL AT4 equipped with the Brembo brake package. Following my original submission, GM's Executive Resolution Office provided written clarification of its disclosure position. GM states that the spare tire compatibility limitation associated with the Performance Brake Upgrade is disclosed through a hang tag affixed to the spare tire/wheel assembly mounted beneath the vehicle; and the owner’s manual. GM has not indicated that this limitation appears on the Monroney label, buyer’s order, or delivery documentation. The hang tag provided to me as an example states that the original spare tire/wheel does not fit the front axle when the performance brakes are installed. It instructs that, in the event of a front-axle flat, the consumer must install the spare on a rear wheel position & move a rear wheel to the front axle; and stow the flat tire. The spare tire is mounted underneath the vehicle. The tag is attached to the spare assembly and exposed to road conditions. In my case, when the spare was accessed following a roadside flat tire event, only a small piece of yellow plastic remained. Additionally, no printed owner’s manual is provided at delivery. During my roadside event, the dispatched service provider was unaware of any two-wheel rotation procedure and attempted to install the spare directly on the affected axle. The incompatibility rendered the spare unusable at that time. My concern is that current owners of vehicles equipped with the Performance Brake Upgrade may reasonably assume that a “full-size spare” is compatible with all wheel positions. Unless the undercarriage hang tag remains intact and is specifically read at the time of a flat tire, the incompatibility and required rotation procedure is not apparent. GM has not indicated it intends to notify new or existing owners regarding the spare tire limitation and required rotation procedure.
I am submitting this complaint to report a safety defect involving a 2026 GMC Yukon XL AT4 equipped with the GM Brembo brake upgrade. The vehicle is sold as equipped with a full-size spare tire; however, the spare tire/wheel supplied cannot be mounted due to interference from the brake calipers. This incompatibility was discovered only after a flat tire event on [XXX], during which the vehicle could not be safely returned to service. The Brembo brake upgrade is a GM-designed option that is installed by the dealer in all cases. Despite this, the vehicle was delivered with emergency equipment that is unusable in the event of a flat tire. GM has acknowledged the incompatibility and relies on a warning label placed beneath the vehicle, rather than providing a compatible spare or disclosure at the point of sale. This defect resulted in a prolonged roadside emergency involving an elderly passenger and a failure of manufacturer-provided roadside assistance. I believe this condition affects all vehicles equipped with the Brembo brake upgrade and represents a systemic safety issue involving emergency preparedness and disclosure. Supporting documentation and a detailed incident narrative are available upon request. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
On [XXX], I was driving on the highway with my family in the vehicle and the check engine light came on, then it started running roughly. I headed off the highway on an exit ramp and the engine died about halfway down the ramp. It wouldn't restart after that. This happened about an hour away from my house in Painesville, OH. I live in Erie, PA. I had to tow it to the nearest GMC dealer. They've since concluded that the engine failed and have ordered a replacement engine from GMC. The yukon only had about 4,900 miles on it. GMC has claimed that their engine problems were fixed for the 2025 and 2026 model years, or else I would not have purchased this vehicle. Obviously there are still major issues and the 2026 6.2L engines need to be recalled. I understand that there is an ongoing investigation into these issues: RQ26001. Please see that the investigators are made aware of this incident. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Purchased brand new vehicle 2026 XL Denali, hadn’t even had my first oil change, and had a complete engine failure in the middle of the road. Prior to engine failure, car ran fine without an issue - so failure came out of nowhere. Towed, where GMC and dealer determined entire engine needed to be replaced. GMC did cover and dealer did install a new engine. However: 1. I was out of a vehicle for almost a month. 2. I have incurred a depreciation cost of 10-15% on my vehicle due to this problem. 3. I have lost confidence in my brand new vehicle, as GMC has not fixed the reoccurring engine problems from previous years - despite promises to the contrary.
Seat emblem (Denali) pulls and rips out hair while sitting in seat.
Vehicle has 2200 miles, equipped with the Diesel engine and failed at a red light. GM has to install a new engine.
Vehicle engine stopped working at 5200 miles. Was driving on highway and immediately stopped. Vehicle would not start. Towed to dealership and next day dealer confirmed that the engine needed to be replaced.
The Infotainment screen which controls the A/C, heating, defrost, cameras and all other info for the vehicle does not come on in th vehicle. This began happening after owning the vehicle for 3 days. After taking to the dealer, Delray GMC, we were informed by the service personnel on our second trip in for the recurring problem that General Motors knows this is a problem and are selling the vehicles with this factory engineering design defect and currently there is no repair. Living in Florida this is a problem in the extreme heat with no A/C, being from Illinois, when we return this will be a serious problem, Not knowing if we will or will not have access to heat, cannot control the temperature or the defrost on the vehicle and having a infotainment center that is non functional. We consider this a hazard to our safety and feel that GM is fraudulently selling consumers defective vehicles knowing this may be a safety hazard.
The contact owns a 2026 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, there was an abnormal sound coming from the engine. The abnormal sound disappeared after the engine had warmed up. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the engine had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle remained at the dealer unrepaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 3,500.
This issue affects all vehicles in the GMC lineup. The forward collision alert system is so sensitive that it gives false positives constantly which causes 2 major safety issues with the vehicle. First is that it brakes without warning and when completely unnecessary. The 2nd is that vehicles like mine with a heads up display, have the entire display flash a very bright yellow blocking the field of vision to the front of the vehicle. The system is not able to be disengaged permanently and can cause rear end collisions by braking when no obstacle exists and blocks the ability to see in front of you via the heads up display warning.
Driving 79 mph total engine seizure. Check engine light came on and seconds later a low oil pressure light and turn off engine. Engine died and went into neutral and had to coast to side of highway in middle of nowhere at 11pm at night.
Im hearing ticking sounds when starting the engine and I reported it to my dealership service department and thay said thay don't see any issue
Showing 20 of 638 total NHTSA complaints. Source: NHTSA Complaints Database
Check a Specific GMC Yukon XL
This page shows fleet averages across all 10 model years. Enter a VIN to see the exact accident history, odometer records, title brands, and open recall status for a specific car.
📖 Understanding This Data
What is an NHTSA Complaint?
An NHTSA safety complaint is a report filed directly by a vehicle owner or driver describing a safety-related issue. Anyone can submit a complaint at NHTSA.gov. The number of complaints is a signal of how common a problem is — but complaints per model-year matter more than raw totals, since popular vehicles naturally receive more reports. The GMC Yukon XL has 638 complaints on record across 10 model years.
What is a Safety Recall?
A safety recall is a mandatory campaign issued by NHTSA when a vehicle component poses an unreasonable risk to safety or does not comply with federal motor vehicle safety standards. Unlike complaints (which are owner-reported), recalls are formally investigated and confirmed by regulators. Manufacturers must fix recalled vehicles free of charge. The GMC Yukon XL has 31 recall campaigns in the NHTSA database.
What Are Crash Complaints?
Crash complaints are NHTSA filings where the owner indicates a crash occurred as part of the incident. 9 of the GMC Yukon XL's 638 complaints involved a crash. This metric is particularly important because it indicates how often defects resulted in actual collisions — a key safety signal beyond general reliability.
How Is the AI Rating Calculated?
The AI reliability rating (Below Average) is generated by analyzing the vehicle's total complaints, recall history, crash complaint ratio, fire complaint ratio, and top component failures relative to class averages. The rating provides a plain-English summary for buyers who want a quick verdict without parsing raw numbers. It is one input in your buying decision — always verify with a VIN-specific report.
Why Do Newer Years Have Fewer Complaints?
Newer model years appear to have fewer complaints because there has been less time for owners to file them. Complaints accumulate over years of ownership. A 2020 model year vehicle will typically show fewer complaints than a 2015 model year even if it is less reliable — simply because fewer owners have had time to report issues. Focus on complaints per year of market presence when comparing across model years.
Fleet Data vs. Individual VIN
Everything on this page reflects aggregated data across all GMC Yukon XL vehicles on the road — not any specific car. Two GMC Yukon XL vehicles of the same year can have very different histories: one may have been in three accidents and have an open recall; another may be clean. A VIN check gives you the individual car's history: accidents, title brands, odometer records, service history, and real-time recall status.
What Are NHTSA Investigations?
When NHTSA receives a pattern of related safety complaints, it opens a formal investigation. A Preliminary Evaluation (PE) is the first stage — NHTSA determines if a safety defect may exist. If evidence is strong, it escalates to an Engineering Analysis (EA), which can result in a mandatory recall. The GMC Yukon XL has 0 investigations on record (0 active). Investigations listed above may have already led to the recalls shown on this page.