2001 GMC Denali
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
Have the VIN?
Vehicles › GMC › Denali › 2001
These records cover every 2001 GMC Denali. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
1 recall names the 2001 GMC Denali. Newest first.
On certain sport utility vehicles equipped with rearward folding head restraints on the second row seats, two potential pinch points exist on each of the folding head restraints when the restraints are folded rearward as the seatback IS folded down.
Risk and remedy
Risk
If a person were to insert their finger(s) into the pinch point when the head restraint folds, it could trap and pinch the finger(s) causing injury.
Remedy
Dealers will install protective covers over the pinch points. owner notification began november 8, 2002. owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact chevrolet at 1-800-222-1020, GMC at 1-800-462-8782, or cadillac at 1-800-458-8006.
Owner complaints
22 complaints2 involved a crash1 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Unknown or other
1. Dashboard cracked / cracking above instrument panel. 2. Dashboard crack / cracking top left corner of airbag. a. Dashboard crack IS about 6 inches long b. Dashboard crack near airbag IS 1 and a half inch long.
- Air bags · Seat belts
Rear-ended while at a complete stop for a red light. High impact; my head hit the steering wheel then the driver side panel. My airbag did not deploy. My door was pried open by a pedestrian who checked me and asked if I knew what happened and was I okay. I opened the door, struggled out and tried…
Rear-ended while at a complete stop for a red light. High impact; my head hit the steering wheel then the driver side panel. My airbag did not deploy. My door was pried open by a pedestrian who checked me and asked if I knew what happened and was I okay. I opened the door, struggled out and tried to stand up to see what had hit me; my legs wouldn't hold and I leaned against my vehicle and called 911. I looked around and at the vehicles behind me, some were smoking and everyone was in a general state of shock and panic. There seemed to be numerous vehicles involved in the crash. The ambulance came, took me away and a police officer came to my bedside to let me know the sketchy details that he'd learned from the other victims and witnesses. My vehicle was totaled. Subsequent mris showed that I have multiple bulging discs in my neck and lower back, some of which are pressing on nerves and causing pain in my neck, shoulders, back, calves, ankles and arms. *tr
- Service brakes
Tried to stop at red light ,and the brake pedal went all the way down I had to jump the curb not to hit another car. My husband came and looked at the truck and saw the brake lines were rusted through and fluid was coming out. He put a whole can of brake fluid in so that I could move the truck down…
Tried to stop at red light ,and the brake pedal went all the way down I had to jump the curb not to hit another car. My husband came and looked at the truck and saw the brake lines were rusted through and fluid was coming out. He put a whole can of brake fluid in so that I could move the truck down the street to a service center. Again the repair man said all the brake lines are rusted out. We repaired one a summer ago with the same issue. *tr
- Service brakes
Brake line ruptured while driving in the mall parking lot - pedal went straight to the floor, thankfully still had some (tiny) brake left to stop. Looked under the truck and saw brake fluid dripping underneath. All brake lines look completely rusted out making the vehicle undrivable. *Tr
- Service brakes, hydraulic
We have noticed that our cars anti-lock brakes activate when we get to a low speed of about 5 mph, causing our stopping distance to be increased, which almost caused us to rear-end another car. We bought the car used about 3 months ago and noticed this problem on thanksgiving of this year. There IS…
We have noticed that our cars anti-lock brakes activate when we get to a low speed of about 5 mph, causing our stopping distance to be increased, which almost caused us to rear-end another car. We bought the car used about 3 months ago and noticed this problem on thanksgiving of this year. There IS a recall for this problem through nhtsa campaign ID number: 05v379000. We called GMC hotline and they say it isn't covered by the recall. I see the recall has been revised several times already. Can anything be done before an accident does occur? *tr
- Structure › Body › Hatchback/liftgate
2001 GMC yukon denali with 82,133 miles. The liftgate glass loosen it from his door hinges. *tr
- Air bags
My wife was impacted on the right front section of her 2001 GMC denali by a hit-and-run motorist. the collision occurred in the east bound 22fwy in orange county california. the airbags did not deploy. the impact speed was more than 50mph. The airbags should have deployed - opinion from aaa…
My wife was impacted on the right front section of her 2001 GMC denali by a hit-and-run motorist. the collision occurred in the east bound 22fwy in orange county california. the airbags did not deploy. the impact speed was more than 50mph. The airbags should have deployed - opinion from aaa insurance and auto mechanics that repaired the car. my wife had to attend a chiropractor for over a month to adjust her spinal chord. up to this day she has back pain. *Tr
- Engine and engine cooling › Engine
Tl*the contact owns a 2001 GMC denali. while making turns at less than 5 mph, the engine makes a rumbling noise and the vehicle stalls. the dealer stated that there were no recalls for the vehicle; however, the contact has found complaints for her vehicle regarding the same failure. the dealer…
Tl*the contact owns a 2001 GMC denali. while making turns at less than 5 mph, the engine makes a rumbling noise and the vehicle stalls. the dealer stated that there were no recalls for the vehicle; however, the contact has found complaints for her vehicle regarding the same failure. the dealer also stated that they would diagnose the vehicle at $96 per hour. the contact would have to pay for the repairs. the vehicle IS currently parked at her residence. the failure mileage was 70,000 and current mileage was 85,000.
- Electrical system › 12v/24v/48v battery › Cables · Engine and engine cooling › Engine · Power train › Transfer case (4-wheel drive)
Tl*the contact owns a 2001 GMC denali. everytime the vehicle undergoes a routine oil change, the contact has to place an excessive amount of oil back in the engine shortly afterwards. in addition, the battery terminal cables sporadically loosen and cause the alternator to fail. thirdly, while…
Tl*the contact owns a 2001 GMC denali. everytime the vehicle undergoes a routine oil change, the contact has to place an excessive amount of oil back in the engine shortly afterwards. in addition, the battery terminal cables sporadically loosen and cause the alternator to fail. thirdly, while driving at various speeds, the 4 wheel drive spontaneously engages. lastly, the vehicle idles roughly when it IS started. the vehicle was taken to the dealer on numerous occasions, but they could not correct the failure. the contact has copies of the vehicle's service history. the failure mileage was 90,000 and current mileage was 163,000.
- Parking brake
Parking brake never works. had complete system replaced at dealership 3 years ago. did not improve the stopping capabilities. other individuals with the same vehicle identify have explained that this IS a problem they also experience. I am afraid that there IS no backup brake system in the event of a primary brake system failure. *Nm
- Service brakes, hydraulic › Antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip
I was just wondering why my 2001 yukon denali was not covered by the recall for defective ABS sensors. I have had two 2001 tahoe's and a 2002 avalanche all of which were covered but my denali was not. I had to pay to have the ABS sensors replaced on this vehicle. I don't understand how you can let…
I was just wondering why my 2001 yukon denali was not covered by the recall for defective ABS sensors. I have had two 2001 tahoe's and a 2002 avalanche all of which were covered but my denali was not. I had to pay to have the ABS sensors replaced on this vehicle. I don't understand how you can let gm get away with recalling the chevrolet brand but not the GMC brand. It's the same part number and same parts used on both brands. Please reply with a justification if you can so that I may better understand the reasoning. Thank you.
- Power train › Driveline › Differential unit
Dt*: the contact stated while driving 60mph under normal driving conditions, there was a rattling noise from underneath the vehicle and the vehicle proceeded to stall without warning. the contact managed to pull over and park the vehicle. upon further investigation, the driveline differential…
Dt*: the contact stated while driving 60mph under normal driving conditions, there was a rattling noise from underneath the vehicle and the vehicle proceeded to stall without warning. the contact managed to pull over and park the vehicle. upon further investigation, the driveline differential unit was broken into pieces. due to the inability of the vehicle being driven, the vehicle was towed home. a mechanic from a dealership inspected the vehicle. the mechanic suggested replacing the driveline differential unit.
- Fuel system, gasoline › Delivery › Fuel pump
1. Vehicle quit running on highway exit ramp. Engine would crank, but not start. Pushed to side of road. After several more attempts to start, engine did start. Would not restart next day. 2. Fuel pump wiring in the gas tank melted and one terminal in the module's connector exhibited signs of…
1. Vehicle quit running on highway exit ramp. Engine would crank, but not start. Pushed to side of road. After several more attempts to start, engine did start. Would not restart next day. 2. Fuel pump wiring in the gas tank melted and one terminal in the module's connector exhibited signs of arcing/heat. 3. Both the fuel pump/sending unit module and the connector were replaced. I do have possession of both parts. *nm
- Exterior lighting › Headlights · Fuel system, gasoline · Power train › Automatic transmission · Steering › Hydraulic power assist system · Suspension
Dt: the contact stated the transmission seal was defective after a certain amount of miles, it allowed the cooling system to leak into the transmission. when accelerating the transmission would down shift into first gear, this would make the vehicle jump. the transmission failed at an…
Dt: the contact stated the transmission seal was defective after a certain amount of miles, it allowed the cooling system to leak into the transmission. when accelerating the transmission would down shift into first gear, this would make the vehicle jump. the transmission failed at an intersection. when this occurred the vehicle had to be driven home and to the dealership in first gear. It was taken to the dealership who diagnosed the problem. the transmission seal broke because the transmission was down shifting too hard. *ak updated 11/16/2005 - the headlamp lens was loose. the power steering pulley was out of position and caused the serpentine belt IS squeaking. the pulley was repositioned. a small fuel vapor leak was detected possibly from fuel filler cap not being fully tightened. the fuel pump leaked when the tank was full. it was necessary to replace the fuel tank sending unit. *nm a front end alignment was perfomed on the vehicle. Updated 01/19/06.*jb
- Service brakes, hydraulic › Antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip
I have a 2001 yukon denali that has the problem detailed in investigation # pe05020. The ABS activates at low speed. I had brought this to a dealer for repair. They fixed the drivers side but the problem persists. They assume the pasenger side ABS sensor now has a problem. I have also had the front…
I have a 2001 yukon denali that has the problem detailed in investigation # pe05020. The ABS activates at low speed. I had brought this to a dealer for repair. They fixed the drivers side but the problem persists. They assume the pasenger side ABS sensor now has a problem. I have also had the front brake drums replaced twice on this vehicle and it only has 21,000 miles on it.i have had an accident with thhis problem in the winter.
- Steering › Hydraulic power assist › Pump
I had a power steering failure that happened in a parking lot on sat. June4th shortly after turning on my air conditioning. I was attempting to leave a parking lot when I thought my engine had stalled because I had no power steering. Had the timing in the loss of power steering been in a different…
I had a power steering failure that happened in a parking lot on sat. June4th shortly after turning on my air conditioning. I was attempting to leave a parking lot when I thought my engine had stalled because I had no power steering. Had the timing in the loss of power steering been in a different situation it could have been tragic for me, my family and/or others !!! I took my vehicle into keller automotive in shelby township, mi. After I had caused jim causley pontic in mt. Clemens michigan to find out if this item might still be under warranty. After I found out it wasn't I took it to kellers where they almost immediately knew what the problem was. I believe they stated that it was the shaft in the power steering pump that fails. Though they did say they have not seen it often in my model they said it was seen in other light duty gm trucks that share the same power steering pump. They stated to me that gm has upgraded their pumps to have a heavier duty shaft which was $394 for the part alone. If this IS a common problem I would definitely consider it a safety issue and expect gm to announce a recall regarding this issue. I will hold on to my receipt in hopes that gm would come to the table regarding resolving this issue or that the nhtsa could possibly force the issue if neccessary. If this IS an isolated incident I'm sorry for wasting your time but I would hope that something could be done before the potential loss of life occurs if I am correct in understanding that this IS not uncommon, thank you for your time and help !!, sincerely, perry m. Houser
- Power train › Axle assembly › Axle shaft › Seal · Steering › Hydraulic power assist › Pump
My husband was driving with my four children going about 5MPH when he went to make a left turn and lost the power steering. being so close to home, he was able to drive it home. my husband also noticed that an axle seal was leaking as well and this was also considered common for problems. we…
My husband was driving with my four children going about 5MPH when he went to make a left turn and lost the power steering. being so close to home, he was able to drive it home. my husband also noticed that an axle seal was leaking as well and this was also considered common for problems. we use this vehicle as our only family car, so naturally we had it fixed right away. what really concerned and alerted myself to this complaint was when my husband took the vehicle in to get looked at a mechanic told him that they have fixed these types of problems many times before and it would only take two hours. when I went to pick up the vehicle, I asked for myself again, and the same mechanic told me it IS very common with these vehicles (suv"s) why did this happened with only 60,000 miles? this IS not very encouraging and IS somewhat upsetting. I am very concerned because I am relocating to texas and this could have been a disaster if we were traveing with this vehicle and possibly a trailer attached. I am very concerned that it may happen again as I noticed there was a similar complaint before mine and the same vehicle make and year. I have never had to replace a steering pump with any other vehicle I have owned. we bought this vehicle used after it was turned in from a lease. I am convinced that I purchased this vehicle with this problem already in motion, although I cannot prove it. I would appreciate this looked into and a response to my complaint in a timely fashion. I may have overlooked this but considering this mechanic informed me and my husband that he has worked on these many times before really concerns me. I will continue to pursue this.
- Fuel system, gasoline › Delivery › Fuel pump
The fuel pump over heated and burned out which caused the vehicle to stall. Fuel pump has been replaced 3 times. *jb
- Engine and engine cooling › Engine
Vehicle idles then cuts off, especially on a turn or a incline. I have to small children and the vehicle will cut off in the middle of traffic. Last night I thought I was going to be in major car accident. *la
- Electrical system
While driving about 55 mph vehicle stalled. consumer restarted vehicle and was able to pull over to the shoulder. had the vehicle towed to the dealer for analysis. *ak the vehicle would be idling and would die. the dealer could not diagnose the problem but knew it had something to do…
While driving about 55 mph vehicle stalled. consumer restarted vehicle and was able to pull over to the shoulder. had the vehicle towed to the dealer for analysis. *ak the vehicle would be idling and would die. the dealer could not diagnose the problem but knew it had something to do with fuses. the dealer diagnosed the problem and replaced the electronic throttle control module. about a month and a half later the vehicle stalled again without warning while approaching an incline and a curve. the consumer was able to pull onto the shoulder. the consumer request that this problem be investigated. *scc *nlm
- Power train › Driveline › Differential unit
A "weird" sound was heard. the truck locked up and the front end exploded. the dealer replaced the differential.
- Seats › Front assembly › Head restraint
Headrests do not stay in selected position. slight head pressure results in failure to remain in vertical position. not effective in minimizing neck injuries.
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Parking brake failure
Odi's review of complaint data received since the close of ea04-011 revealed no indication that the investigation should be re-opened.more details can be found in the federal register notice enclosed in the dp05-009 public file.odi reserves the right to reopen the investigation in the future should conditions warrant.
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 11006621Vehicle Wide Programming (VWP) is a new process to update software on GM Vehicles. It provides the ability via a single selection within Techline Connect to first identify which modules need updating and then proceed to updating affected modules (with some exceptions). The updating of modules is completed in parallel instead of the technician needing to update one module at a time. This allows a more streamlined approach for dealers and customers.
- 11006421GM is receiving damaged (cracked or broken) transmission cores returned to the reman facilities. The damage is being caused either in the removal process by the technician, or inadequate packaging or shipping. This bulletin advises the dealers to be more careful not to damage the transmissions during removal and to package the core properly for return.
- 11004761This service bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up.
- 11004557This bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.
- 11002312This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Service Programming System (SPS) Error Codes E4398, E4399, E4401, E4403, M4404, M4413, M6954, M6955, E4414, E4423, E4491, E4492, or E6961 and resolution information.
- 10251890This technical bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up.
- 10250775This service bulletin provides service information to technicians on guidelines to replace Oil Cooler, Oil Cooler Lines and Oil Tank if the engine was replaced where large amounts of debris has flowed throughout the oiling system.
- 10249590This bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.
- 10249579This PI bulletin advises the technician on the proper way to install the pistons in an engine.
- 10249011This informational bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Headlamp, Tail Lamp, License Lamp or Fog/Driving Lamp Damage.
- 10248444Vehicle Recalls
- 10247681Information On Requests To Add OnStar Bluetooth Option.
- 10247552This service bulletin provides information on Concerns or Questions Regarding Installation of Dealer Installed Accessories.
- 10246952Programming And Activation Of Replacement OnStar Modules.
- 10246951Programming And Activation Of Replacement OnStar Modules.
- 10246631Expanded Availability for Remanufacture and Return (R&R) Electronic Control Modules
- 10245951Canadian Customers Unable To Place Calls And Turn By Turn Inoperative In The United States.
- 10245950Canadian Customers Unable To Place Calls In The United States
- 10244274This service bulletin provides information about the Hunter wheel Road Force balancers that should be utilized for all repairs requiring balance and Road Force measurement.
- 10244201This service bulletin provides information for dealers on how to submit a product information report (PIR) (Canada Only).
- 10242843The service bulletin advises the tech of a normal transmission shift condition and the delay in throttle response when the throttle plate is opened rapidly and advises the customer that it is normal for the delay.
- 10242262This service bulletin provides graphics, information and guidelines for engine component wear to assist service personnel as a guideline to perform necessary engine repairs and prevent unnecessary engine replacement.
- 10235799This service bulletin provides information about the Hunter wheel Road Force balancers that should be utilized for all repairs requiring balance and Road Force measurement.
- 10235713This bulletin provides information on Warranty Administration Required Operating Procedures - 8 Points (U.S. Only).
- 10234110This service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.
- 10232287This warranty administration bulletin provides information regarding the field action courtesy transportation policy.
- 10232136This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Exterior Lamp Condensation and Water Leaks and Replacement Guidelines.
- 10228888This service bulletin provides diagnostic tips/steps on testing for possible EVAP leaks in the system to correct a customer concern of an MIL Illuminated with DTCs P0442 and/or P0455 Set.
- 10227056This service bulletin provides service information to technicians on guidelines to replace Oil Cooler, Oil Cooler Lines and Oil Tank if the engine was replaced where large amounts of debris has flowed throughout the oiling system.
- 10225615This service bulletin provides information on Module Harvesting.
- 10224820This service bulletin provides information for dealers on how to submit a product information report (PIR) (Canada Only).
- 10222839This service bulletin provides information on Handling Requests for Modifications to Permanently Import/Export Vehicles Between the U.S. and Canada.
- 10222796This service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.
- 10220319This diagnostic tip advises the tech not to separate the flexplate from the torque convertor or damage my occur if the engine is started while diagnosing for noise from the engine or transmission.
- 10219266This bulletin provides information on tools available to find an intake vacuum leak or exhaust leak to correct a condition of MIL Illuminated with Multiple Fuel Trim and/or Oxygen Sensor Codes Set.
- 10214869This service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.
- 10209980This service bulletin provides service information to technicians on guidelines to replace Oil Cooler, Oil Cooler Lines and Oil Tank if the engine was replaced where large amounts of debris has flowed throughout the oiling system.
- 10209921This service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.
- 10201115OnStar Voice Fallback Number Update
- 10190934Underbody Component Corrosion The following information may be helpful when addressing underbody component corrosion with customers. Some customers may comment that one or more of their vehicle's underbody components are showing some form of corrosion. This corrosion may be red in appearance (rust) if the component is steel, forged iron or cast iron. This corrosion may also be grey or white in color if the component is constructed of an aluminum alloy.
Every GMC Denali model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.