GMC Yukon Denali catastrophic engine failure due to piston and rod issue with no replacement available on GMC Yukon

Submitted by Vehicle Owner · Jun 23, 2025
Published by RepairPal

Problem overview

Some GMC Yukon Denali owners report experiencing catastrophic engine failures due to piston and rod issues, with no replacement engines available. This serious problem has been noted particularly in newer models, including the 2023 Yukon Denali, where catastrophic lifter failures are prevalent. Additionally, owners of the 2007 to 2011 Yukon models equipped with the 5.3-liter V8 engine report excessive oil consumption linked to GM's Active Fuel Management system. Furthermore, issues such as malfunctioning electrical systems, faulty airbags, and various engine problems have been reported in the 2022 GMC Yukon, indicating a broader concern across multiple models. Complaints regarding GMC's customer service have also surfaced, especially regarding delays in obtaining replacement engines following engine failures. In instances of catastrophic failure, inspections by GM dealers confirm that a completely new engine may be necessary. These situations underscore the critical need for prompt resolution of known issues to maintain the safety and reliability of GMC Yukon vehicles.

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