2021 GMC Yukon · symptom sheet
Engine knocking or ticking
- 27owner reports
- 77,000median miles
- 0involved a crash
Newest report Sep 8, 2026 · checked Sep 19, 2026
27 of the 91 reports of engine failure on the 2021 Yukon describe engine knock.
Part of Engine failure, knocking or rod bearing (91 reports)
Tick what matches of 27 reports
What got replaced
Few of these reports name the part that was replaced.
Recalls and investigations
One recall on the engine covers the 2021 model year. A recall on the same system isn't always the same failure, so read the defect text.
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, and Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles equipped with a 6.2L V8 gas engine. The connecting rod and/or crankshaft engine components may have manufacturing defects that can lead to engine damage and engine failure.
Risk and remedy
Remedy: Dealers will inspect the engine, and as necessary, repair or replace the engine. For vehicles that pass inspection, dealers will add higher viscosity oil, install 6 oil fill cap, replace the oil filter, and update the owner's manual. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 18, 2025. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N252494000.
NHTSA investigations into the engine on the Yukon
Loss of motive power due to engine failure post recall remedy. Open.
NHTSA summary
Loss of motive power due to engine failure post recall remedy. Closed aug 20, 2026.
NHTSA summary
Loss of motive power due to engine failure. Open.
NHTSA summary
Loss of motive power due to engine failure. Closed oct 23, 2025, led to recall 25V-274.
NHTSA summary
When it happens
Too few of these reports state a mileage to give a range.
What owners wrote
“Knocking sound and flashing engine light came on. When brought to dealership it was determined that lower bearing failure took place requiring full engine replacement. '”
Filed Jul 25, 2026
“Motor started knocking My safety and my family safety was put at risk because we were driving down the street. The car is now at Woody dealership in Naperville, IL. Being inspected as we speak. No symptoms prior to failing.”
Filed May 6, 2026
“2 days after the delearship changed my oil to a heavier weight, my engine began knocking. Iâm told the rod is bent but not covered by warranty”
Filed Feb 2, 2026
“knocking, banging, engine noises, illumination of the check engine light, engine performance issues at high rpm and fluttering at low rpm. oil consumption but not leaking. The engine needs to be replaced as the bearing is shot, cylinder 7 is shot. I believe this is directly related to NHTSA Recall #25V-274 and Manufacturer Recall #N252494000”
Filed Jul 25, 2025
Should you keep driving it?
This page can't tell you that. 0 of 27 reports involved a crash. Owners who file are the ones who had a bad experience, and nobody checks their reports. If the problem affects steering, braking, power or a fire risk, treat it as a safety fault and have it inspected before a long or high-speed drive.
File your own report with NHTSA. Complaint counts are how a problem gets an investigation.
Other problems on this car
- Engine stalls or loses power while driving 67 reports
- Check engine light or misfire 53 reports
- Fuel pump failure 35 reports