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KLUNK
KLUNK

2021 Gmc Yukon

The Verdict

44 Proceed with Caution

The 2021 Gmc Yukon has 290 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. The most reported issues are engine (207 complaints) and transmission (31 complaints). With a Klunk Score of 44/100, it earns a "Proceed with Caution" rating. If you're shopping for a Gmc Yukon, consider the 2020 model year which has 88% fewer complaints.

Safe Bet

The 2020 has 88% fewer complaints

View the 2020 Gmc Yukon dashboard →

44

Klunk Score: Proceed with Caution

About average for complaint volume. Research the specific issues before buying.

How is this calculated?

The Klunk Score ranks this vehicle year against all others in our database based on total owner complaints filed with NHTSA. 100 = fewest complaints (top tier), 0 = most complained-about. Scores above 60 are better than average; below 40 means more problems than most.

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Under the Hood

Each number is a complaint. Darker = bigger problem.

YearBodyBrakesElectricalEngineTransmission
200097108293615
2001109200416216
200271166384521
20031151351638518
200498901796810
2005201228187
2006321412187
2007230194019129
200811262384013
2009824100197
20101030105210
20111907170255
201277243123
201394268153
201432314102
201585812914643
201631471203629
20172740523639
201820452812
2019746277
20206301311
20212572020731
20222621710611
20232291514516
202411261159
20251023301

By Category

Engine
207
Transmission
31
Body
25
Electrical
20
Brakes
7

By Severity

1
133
2
148
4
9

Worst Problems

Complaints

Engine 1

I bought the vehicle used with 40,000 miles it’s has 100,856 now the engine shot off while I was driving and brought it to the GMC dealer that GM instructed me to the dealer had me pay 284.95 for inspection and then try to charge me 1284.95 for a complete tar down of the engine because of misfiring and ESC error codes.

18d ago
Transmission 2

Transmission abruptly failed after only 110k well maintained miles

22d ago
Engine 2

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.

23d ago
Engine 2

engine failure causing vehicle to be unsafe to drive. our vehicle was not included in the L-87 loss of propulsion GMC recall even though it is a 2021 Yukon 6.2L. the engine failure is same as those being recalled. vehicle is currently at Cardinale GMC in Seaside CA waiting repair. the only warning of the impending failure was loud noises coming from engine compartment while driving on the freeway. Cardinale confirmed the problem and our extended warranty is covering repair costs. it seems that GMC should have included our VIN in the recall.

25d ago
Electrical 1

The driver's seat inboard airbag assembly and internal structural wiring harness failed due to a direct short circuit, completely deactivating the vehicle's supplemental restraint system. General Motors has a known engineering bulletin for this issue (#23-NA-085), noting that sharp internal seat frame components slice the airbag wiring harness. Rather than permanently fixing this structural design flaw while under warranty, dealership technicians repeatedly executed temporary, non-compliant field patches, including plastic zip-ties and Velcro tape inside the cushion. These temporary patches continuously failed, leaving the airbags disabled. Furthermore, the vehicle was sold under "Certified Pre-Owned" designation with an active, uncompleted 2020 manufacturer Customer Satisfaction Program Campaign (#N202310850-02) for this exact airbag circuit defect. Component failed & available for inspection: The driver's seat inboard airbag assembly and internal structural wiring harness failed due to a direct short circuit. The components are available for inspection inside the vehicle at the servicing dealership. Safety risk: Safety was put at extreme risk because active Diagnostic Trouble Code B14DC completely deactivates the airbags. This means the airbags may fail to deploy in a collision, leaving the driver completely unprotected in an accident. Confirmed by dealer: The problem has been explicitly reproduced and confirmed by an authorized franchise dealership across seven separate service visits spanning from August 2025 to June 2026. Inspected by manufacturer/others: The components have been physically inspected multiple times by authorized franchise dealership technicians acting on behalf of the manufacturer. Warning lamps & symptoms: The vehicle displays "Service Safety Restraint System" warning message on the dashboard. The warning lamp first appeared on August 26, 2025, at 78,472 miles while the vehicle was strictly within its CPO warranty

25d ago
Engine 1

Took my vehicle in for general maintenance upkeep (oil change, tire rotation, vehicle inspection) and was notified my engine is already showing signs persistent with the recall on the 6.2L L87, specifically not holding oil. The dipstick was not showing signs of any fluid being in the vehicle.

1mo ago
Transmission 2

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that while driving approximately 50-60 MPH, the vehicle was shuddering abnormally. The message "Restraint Safety System" was displayed, and the air bag warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to file a complaint with the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 138,000.

1mo ago
Electrical 2

1. Component / System Failed: The Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) / Driver’s Inboard Seat Airbag circuit has chronically failed, leaving the vehicle's primary safety restraint systems disabled. The faulty components and the physical service records documenting the failure are fully available for inspection upon request. 2. Safety Risk: The driver's safety and the safety of passengers are put at extreme, immediate risk. Whenever this failure occurs, the "Service Safety Restraint System" warning illuminates, which completely disables the airbag deployment system. Driving a heavy passenger vehicle (2021 GMC Yukon) without active driver-side airbag protection leaves the operator exposed to severe injury or fatality in the event of a collision. 3. Dealer Confirmation / Reproduction: The problem has been reproduced, diagnosed, and confirmed by an authorized dealership (Quirk GMC in Manchester, NH) on five separate occasions spanning from August 2025 to June 2026. 4. Inspections: The component has been repeatedly inspected by the manufacturer’s authorized dealer technicians at Quirk GMC. It has not yet been inspected by police or insurance representatives, as no crash has occurred. 5. Warning Lamps / Symptoms: The failure is preceded by the "Service Safety Restraint System" dashboard warning lamp and message illuminating. This symptom first appeared in August 2025 at 78,472 miles and has continuously reappeared shortly after every subsequent repair attempt made by the dealership, indicating a continuous, unresolved defect in the vehicle's safety manufacturing or a severe failure in the manufacturer's diagnostic repair procedures.

1mo ago
Engine 1

On May 27, 2026, I was on my way home from work when I went to accelerate the vehicle and all the sudden it started shaking and the check engine light came on with the EBS. I was able to get the vehicle to a repair shop local the next day, who took the car apart. What was thought to be an easy fix of spark plugs and fuel injector, became even more after they put back together and the cylinder was still misfiring. After several hours of taking apart the engine, the mechanic determined that the hydraulic valve lifters had failed. This has been an ongoing issue with with the 5.8L V8. Due to a recall not being under the vin yet, i have now incured a $16k expense to add an engine to it after i purchased it in Nov of 25 at $97,000. This is a saftey issue and luckily no one was hurt when the car started shaking and couldn't go over a certain speed. I want this reviewed and looked at for possible reimbursement as there have been several other vehicles with the same known issue.

1mo ago
Engine 2

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that while pulling into the yard, the vehicle made an abnormal clanking sound and a hammer-like sound. No warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000 (Engine and Engine Cooling), but the VIN was not included. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed with metal fragments inside the engine. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure recurred while driving a month later. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 76,000.

1mo ago
Engine 2

I am filing a complaint regarding my 2021 GMC Yukon due to a serious engine failure involving the camshaft, lifters, and crankshaft. The vehicle began exhibiting engine ticking and knocking noises, rough idle, loss of power, and reduced performance. These symptoms progressively worsened and ultimately resulted in major engine damage. The vehicle was diagnosed with failed lifters and camshaft damage, which required extensive repairs. In addition, the crankshaft failed, resulting in catastrophic engine damage and making the vehicle unsafe to operate. These are critical engine components that should not fail prematurely under normal driving and maintenance conditions. The most serious concern is safety. The engine's loss of power and deteriorating performance created the risk of sudden failure while driving. A vehicle that loses power in traffic, while merging, crossing intersections, or traveling at highway speeds can create a dangerous situation and increase the risk of a crash. Occupants and other motorists could be placed at risk if the engine fails without warning. My vehicle has been properly maintained and serviced. Despite regular maintenance, these major engine components failed unexpectedly. I am aware that other owners of GMC and Chevrolet vehicles equipped with similar engines have reported comparable camshaft and lifter failures, suggesting a potential defect rather than an isolated incident. The failure resulted in significant repair costs, loss of vehicle use, and concerns about the long-term reliability and safety of the vehicle. I believe these engine failures may indicate a manufacturing or design defect affecting 2021 GMC Yukon vehicles. I respectfully request that NHTSA investigate camshaft, lifter, and crankshaft failures in the 2021 GMC Yukon and determine whether a safety-related defect exists that warrants corrective action or a recall.

1mo ago
Engine 2

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that while driving approximately driving 45 MPH and turning onto an exit the vehicle suddenly reduce speed and lost power and the message "Press Start" had displayed. The contact stopped the vehicle and eventually restarted the engine and the vehicle operated as normal. The next day the vehicle was driven to the local dealer who was unable to duplicate the problem and determine the cause of the failure. The manufacturer was not yet contact regarding the failure. The failure mileage was 42,000.

1mo ago
Engine 2

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)

1mo ago
Engine 1

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle would independently activate Limp mode and would not accelerate past 30 MPH. In addition, the vehicle would not shift into the Reverse gear as intended. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed with error codes: P0777 and P18A1. The vehicle was not repaired due to parts being on backorder. Upon further investigation, the contact related the failure to an Unknown NHTSA Campaign; however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 90,000.

1mo ago
Transmission 2

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that after restarted the engine and the vehicle did not operate in reverse. During the failure no warning messages had displayed. The vehicle was driven to the local diagnosed that the transmissions needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The contact was informed that the VIN was not included in the NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V797000(POWER TRAIN). The contact indicated that the vehicle had experienced that same failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was 70,000.

1mo ago
Engine 2

Engine is misfiring. Took it into local mechanic who mentioned he has seen many similar issues and knew there was a recall for similar 2021 Yukon engine issues but for some reason this model was not included. He encouraged me to trade in the vehicle because most likely the engine would need to be replaced (or a $10,000 repair) and it was not save to continue to drive in this condition. I call GMC and they suggested I contact the NHTSA to request that this year and model be added to the recall listing for other similar Yukon engines.

1mo ago
Engine 1

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.

1mo ago
Engine 1

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)

1mo ago
Transmission 2

transmission has been replaced, still having same problems. Actuator was fixed within the transfer case. still shaking. was driven by dealer and told to check again after changing into summer tires. changed into summer tires and still having issues if not worse. separately; the power running boards have never worked - been told its wiring issue. wiring issue is a concern for fire safety.

2mo ago
Engine 1

My 2021 GMC Yukon AT4 with a 5.3L engine failed as I was driving down a highway going to my child's ballgame. It put me at risk of wrecking on the highway with other traffic around me as I needed to get my vehicle off the road way. Thankfully, I was able to get the vehicle to a safe spot to get it towed. After having the vehicle towed to my local GMC dealer, they determined my lifters in my engine failed and my camshaft had irreparable damage. GM has a lawsuit going on right now against their faulty lifters in their engines. The dealership told me they recalled the 6.2L engine, but not the others. It is shameful that they haven't recalled the other engines that also have the same lifters with the same active fuel management system. My power trained warranty has just expired and they want to charge me over 15,000 to replace the engine and radiator. I am now fighting with GM to help cover this expense that I feel a recall should take care of. These vehicles are not safe on the road with these faulty engine systems specifically the lifters inside them that are known to fail and GM is aware of this and not doing anything. Please help me and other GM owners get these vehicles recalled and make GM replace these engines at no cost to the owner due to their faulty engine components. My daughter and I could have been seriously been injured or died that day in the highway due to the abrupt engine failure on the highway going 70mph. Thank you for your time and God Bless.

2mo ago

290 total

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