2021 Gmc Yukon Xl Safety Report
2021 GMC Yukon XL: Strong crash ratings overshadowed by numerous engine failures and 12 recalls.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Gmc Yukon Xl
Reliability Score
The 2021 Gmc Yukon Xl receives a reliability score of 45 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2021 Gmc Yukon Xl
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2021 Gmc Yukon Xl:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Failure (Lifter/Crankshaft) Numerous complaints detail sudden engine failure, often linked to lifter or crankshaft issues, sometimes at highway speeds. Many owners report being excluded from a related recall (25V274000) despite experiencing identical symptoms, leading to costly out-of-pocket repairs. |
High | Common | 30000-80000 miles |
| Loss Of Drive Power/Transmission Issues Several complaints describe sudden loss of motive power, vehicle jerking during shifts, or the transmission independently shifting to neutral, increasing crash risk. This aligns with recall 21V739000 concerning transmission control module software. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Phantom Braking/Forward Collision Avoidance Malfunction Reports of the vehicle unexpectedly applying brakes when no obstacle is present, leading to near-accidents. This is a critical safety system malfunction. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Fuel Pump Control Module Failure Malfunctioning fuel pump control module can cause engine stalls, increasing the risk of a crash, as addressed by a recall. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Steering Power Loss A software issue can lead to a loss of power steering, requiring increased effort, especially at low speeds, and increasing crash risk (recall 21V739000). |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2021 Gmc Yukon Xl:
The most significant problem, with 64 direct complaints, plus 15 for 'ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING' and 13 for 'POWER TRAIN,ENGINE', totaling 92 complaints (54.4% of all complaints) related to engine issues, including catastrophic failure, lifter problems, and excessive oil consumption. This is also linked to recall 25V274000.
10 complaints specifically for 'POWER TRAIN', often related to transmission shifting issues, loss of drive power, and jerking, aligning with recall 21V739000 regarding transmission control module software.
7 complaints for 'FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM', with some mentioning fuel pump control module issues leading to engine stalls, consistent with a recall for this component.
4 complaints regarding the forward collision avoidance system, specifically phantom braking incidents.
3 complaints for 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM', including issues like key fob not being detected to start the vehicle and driver-side mirror moving on its own.
3 complaints for 'AIR BAGS', potentially related to the recall concerning the air bag malfunction indicator light (21V739000).
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Gmc Yukon Xl
Is the 2021 GMC Yukon XL safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2021 GMC Yukon XL received a 4-star overall safety rating, with excellent 5-star side crash protection. However, it has a concerning number of complaints (169 total), particularly regarding engine failures, and has been subject to 12 recalls, indicating significant reliability and potential safety issues despite its crash test performance.
What are common problems with the 2021 GMC Yukon XL?
The most reported issues for the 2021 GMC Yukon XL are overwhelmingly related to the engine, with 64 direct complaints for 'ENGINE', and additional complaints for 'ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING' and 'POWER TRAIN,ENGINE'. Many owners report catastrophic engine failure, often due to lifter or crankshaft issues, and some note excessive oil consumption. Other common problems include power train/transmission issues, fuel pump control module failures, and phantom braking.
How many recalls does the 2021 GMC Yukon XL have?
The 2021 GMC Yukon XL has been subject to 12 recalls. These recalls address critical safety components such as engine failure, rear wheel lock-up due to transmission software, DRL deactivation issues, seat belt integrity, driveshaft failure, fuel pump control module issues, loss of power steering, and air bag malfunction indicator light failures.
Are there any engine recalls for the 2021 GMC Yukon XL?
Yes, there is a significant recall (25V274000) for 'ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL' affecting certain 2021-2024 models, including the Yukon XL, due to potential engine failure. However, many owners report experiencing engine failure symptoms identical to the recall but find their VINs are not included, leading to significant out-of-pocket repair costs.
What should I look out for when buying a used 2021 GMC Yukon XL?
When considering a used 2021 GMC Yukon XL, prioritize a thorough pre-purchase inspection, especially of the engine and powertrain. Verify if all 12 recalls have been addressed. Be aware of potential engine issues, even if the VIN isn't covered by the specific engine recall, as many complaints suggest widespread problems. Check for any signs of transmission hesitation or unusual noises.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the high number of engine-related complaints and 12 recalls, exercise extreme caution; a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic, focusing on the engine and powertrain, is essential, and verify all recalls have been completed.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2021 Gmc Yukon Xl
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2021 Gmc Yukon Xl. The data includes 169 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 12 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 2 reported crashes, 1 fire incidents, 4 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2021 Gmc Yukon Xl an overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 3 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.