2003 GMC Denali
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
Have the VIN?
Vehicles › GMC › Denali › 2003
These records cover every 2003 GMC Denali. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Owner complaints
32 complaints3 involved a crash1 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Service brakes · Steering
I have had the break/steering fluid booster replaced 3 times in a 6 month period. how GMC can call this a "problem" but not a safety issue IS beyond me. I have looked it up and thousands have had problems with this along with alike vehicles from the same years. the breaks and steering lock up…
I have had the break/steering fluid booster replaced 3 times in a 6 month period. how GMC can call this a "problem" but not a safety issue IS beyond me. I have looked it up and thousands have had problems with this along with alike vehicles from the same years. the breaks and steering lock up while driving especially around turns. it IS extremely dangerous!!!!! I guess not enough people have died....uugghhh .... So frustrating!!!!
- Exterior lighting
TL* the contact owns a 2015 (na) GMC denali. The contact stated that the exterior lighting was dim. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the headlight bulbs failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure recurred. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 12,000.
- Tires › Sidewall
TL* the contact owns a 2003 GMC denali equipped with michelin ltx MS20 tires, size: lt245/75r16. The contact stated that all four tires cracked on the sidewall. The contact also stated that all the tires had tread separation and loss of air pressure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. the manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle and tire failure mileage was 120,000. The vin was not available.
- Service brakes
On june 4, 2014, driving on a clear, dry and sunny day in my 2003 GMC sierra denali pickup truck. On virginia drive heading eastbound in montgomery county, pa, at 32 mph; with normal braking action heading into a curve, the brake pedal surprisingly went to the floor and experienced loss of braking.…
On june 4, 2014, driving on a clear, dry and sunny day in my 2003 GMC sierra denali pickup truck. On virginia drive heading eastbound in montgomery county, pa, at 32 mph; with normal braking action heading into a curve, the brake pedal surprisingly went to the floor and experienced loss of braking. Fortunately I was able to negotiate the turn, narrowly escaping running off the road, only because it was two lane road in each direction and there was no nearby traffic at the time. Brake functionality never returned except for minimal capability near the end of pedal travel. Preliminary inspection after parking the vehicle indicates the brake lines showed rusting in general on the vehicle (and also the adjacent fuel lines), mostly near the front section of the vehicle; and the failure seemed to be in the hose-to-line coupling from the brake valve near the master cylinder to what appears to be the ABS control assembly mounted on the frame under the driver's seat area. The lines in that suspected failure area appeared most seriously rusted and bulged. Currently speaking with a GMC dealer to understand the repair options and possible recalls. *tr
- Electrical system · Engine · Vehicle speed control
After just a few years of ownership, my 2003 denali, which I purchased brand new, started to have "power down" issues. while driving, the vehicle would just loose power and I would have to pull over and restart the vehicle. GMC has always acted as if it was not a big deal and have offered many…
After just a few years of ownership, my 2003 denali, which I purchased brand new, started to have "power down" issues. while driving, the vehicle would just loose power and I would have to pull over and restart the vehicle. GMC has always acted as if it was not a big deal and have offered many expensive solutions. early on I tried their recommendations and it would help for a while but the problem always comes back. further, all of my gauges have quit working. again, gm offers very expensive solutions, but will never own up to the fact that these vehicles are defective. after going through this for several years, I googled these issues and discovered that there are pages and pages of complaints about the same issues. I love my vehicle and now have 230,000 miles on it. however, I know that this IS very dangerous and I am always conscious that it can happen at any time. I am always prepared to pull over but there have been times when I was nearly rear-ended because of this issue. also, I rarely let any other family member drive the vehicle and when I do I warn them of the issue so that they are prepared. this issue IS first and foremost very dangerous and secondly a true hassle and inconvenience. My check engine light comes on every time the vehicle powers down. this has caused me to have trouble passing emissions as well. I have wanted to trade or sell the vehicle but I am concerned about my liability knowing about this issue. *tr
- Electronic stability control (esc) · Vehicle speed control
I am filing a complaint due to a reduced engine problem and stability control which keeps enabling me to drive the vehicle. Once this light and power reduces I need to pull over from my destination and turn engine off completely. I count about ten seconds in order to restart the vehicle... Only to…
I am filing a complaint due to a reduced engine problem and stability control which keeps enabling me to drive the vehicle. Once this light and power reduces I need to pull over from my destination and turn engine off completely. I count about ten seconds in order to restart the vehicle... Only to start it and having it reduce again. Several lights on dash board remain on such as engine. I have tried fixing the problem but I guess no one really knows how to repair and this has been costly. I have read resources/consumers with the same year and vehicle make, and have found that they have occurred the same problem. I would like to know if this has been a recall on the GMC co. And or what the problem IS. I feel this IS a safety issue and apparently it does have to do with GMC the manufacture and would like to resolve this problem. *tr
- Service brakes, air › Supply › Hoses, lines/piping, and fittings
Within about 10 miles of a moderate braking situation and reaching home, brake pedal became progressively softer at each successive stop until complete brake failure occurred near home. the emergency brake was used to slow and stop vehicle in driveway (home). right front steel brake line was…
Within about 10 miles of a moderate braking situation and reaching home, brake pedal became progressively softer at each successive stop until complete brake failure occurred near home. the emergency brake was used to slow and stop vehicle in driveway (home). right front steel brake line was found to have burst due to extensive rust/corrosion. extensive corrosion of most brake lines was found and repaired at considerable cost as a preventive measure to help avoid accident or injury. the local GMC dealer was not aware of a related recall for this vehicle and would only repair the SUV at the prevailing rate since a warranty was not in effect. this vehicle should be recalled and repaired by the manufacturer to address this potentially catastrophic defect. *js
- Electrical system › Instrument cluster/panel · Equipment · Fuel system, gasoline
I have a 2003 yukon denali and when it hit the 65,000 miles mark the fuel gauge stopped working leaving me to tell how much gas I had left using the automatic computer telling you how many miles to empty. Next the oil gauges stopped working. Finally reaching 80,000 miles my speed odometer quite…
I have a 2003 yukon denali and when it hit the 65,000 miles mark the fuel gauge stopped working leaving me to tell how much gas I had left using the automatic computer telling you how many miles to empty. Next the oil gauges stopped working. Finally reaching 80,000 miles my speed odometer quite working leaving me to not knowing the speed I am traveling this quite working while I was driving down a highway. To make matters worse my rpms are starting to go goofy which means that to IS going to stop working as well. I was told that having my dash taken off and fixed could run anywhere between 1,000.00 not including labor fees. Which IS crazy that GMC doesn't stand behind its work. People cant afford to be paying for this to get fixed let alone speeding tickets. I believe something needs to be done after reading about so many people have this same problem with the all having the same year yukon denali.. You pay all this money for a vehicle and something like this happens!!! *tr
- Vehicle speed control
TL* the contact owns a 2003 GMC denali. The contact was driving approximately 40 mph when the vehicle stalled without warning. The contact stated that after a few minutes, the vehicle was restarted yet the failure persisted. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where the technician could not…
TL* the contact owns a 2003 GMC denali. The contact was driving approximately 40 mph when the vehicle stalled without warning. The contact stated that after a few minutes, the vehicle was restarted yet the failure persisted. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where the technician could not diagnose the failure. The failure persisted intermittently but recurred most during warmer temperatures. The vehicle was taken to two different dealers and an independent mechanic. The throttle body, wiring harness and sensors were replaced. The tires were rotated and the pressure was checked but to no avail. The throttle body was replaced a second time but still there was no resolution to the failure. When performing a diagnostic on the vehicle, the same exact failure codes were always generated advising of a throttle body failure. The vehicle was not further repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 130,000. updated 5/2/11 *cn updated 1/11/11 *cn
- Service brakes, hydraulic
Brake failure due to rusting out of main brake line to rear of vehicle. *Tr
- Service brakes, hydraulic
Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(B)(6) march 10, 2010 please report status of case [xxx] u.s. Department of transportation subject; brake…
Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(B)(6) march 10, 2010 please report status of case [xxx] u.s. Department of transportation subject; brake line failure problems on general motors trucks gentlepersons I would like to report to you a major safety issue with GMC and chevrolet pick up trucks that will result in death. I have a GMC 2003 sierra denali pick up truck that has experienced this defect on two separate occasions and I reported my concern to general motors when I first experienced the loss of my brakes in a letter dated april 10, 2008. As the vehicle was under extended warranty only the right rear brake line was replaced. The second time I lost my brakes was on february 23, 2010 the dealer replaced the entire brake line system and charged me over $2,000.00 and the truck was not under warranty at that time. I am certain that this defect was a result of the general motors supplier producing parts that were not to specification (most likely made in china). All the automobile companies place the quality responsibility on the supplier of the components and that supplier IS supposed to be iso, qs or now ts certified. This quality system IS supposed to be self auditing by use of statistical process control so therefore it IS up to the supplier who IS selling the components to be honest and trust worthy and not ship any substandard parts. I have enclosed supporting documentation along with reports from other people who I have found with a brief search on the internet who have had the same problem. [xxx] *tr
- Electronic stability control (esc)
The SUV has intermittent stops/stalls in the middle of moving traffic. At that point the traction almost as quick as the motor powers down it resets and goes again. The GMC dealer has never been able to fix it so we went to a highly rated angies list auto repair shop and they suggested replacing…
The SUV has intermittent stops/stalls in the middle of moving traffic. At that point the traction almost as quick as the motor powers down it resets and goes again. The GMC dealer has never been able to fix it so we went to a highly rated angies list auto repair shop and they suggested replacing the transmission which we have donor last april. Unfortunately that was no help either. I have had no luck finding a solution on the internet as well. *Tr
- Air bags
Tl*the contact owns a 2003 GMC denali. while driving 2-5 mph, the contact struck a bump or pothole in the road. he heard a loud boom similar to a gunshot. the side air bags deployed and the contact maneuvered to the side of the road. onstar noticed the air bag deployment and called to see if…
Tl*the contact owns a 2003 GMC denali. while driving 2-5 mph, the contact struck a bump or pothole in the road. he heard a loud boom similar to a gunshot. the side air bags deployed and the contact maneuvered to the side of the road. onstar noticed the air bag deployment and called to see if medical assistance was needed. the dealer stated that the vehicle could be repaired at the cost of $5,000. the manufacturer sent a third party engineer to investigate the vehicle. he reviewed the event data recorder and decided that GMC would not assist with the repairs. the failure and current mileages were less than 90,000.
- Engine and engine cooling › Engine › Gasoline › Belts and associated pulleys
Faulty pully assembly on 2003 GMC vechicles their IS a service bulletin out about the problem in 2004. I learned of the report 8/7/08.after replacing 5 belts and tensioners. After compressor breaks apart while under car trying to fine this horrible noise upon acceleration.while under warranty I…
Faulty pully assembly on 2003 GMC vechicles their IS a service bulletin out about the problem in 2004. I learned of the report 8/7/08.after replacing 5 belts and tensioners. After compressor breaks apart while under car trying to fine this horrible noise upon acceleration.while under warranty I carried the car in 4 times for noises on the passenger side front never to be resolved ,now it IS so bad it IS obvious where the problem IS. Their IS no recall yet but should be,the mech. Says they replace 2 compressors a week. Someones safety IS going to be challenged be for thier IS a recall. This IS more dangerous than a seatbelt latch or speed control not to mention costly. Please contact me for a full story. *tr
- Electrical system › Instrument cluster/panel
The speedometer shows inaccurate and erratic readings. speed appears to be 20 mph off and will jump to different speeds. no specific event caused this to happen, it just started about a month ago and has progressively gotten worse over time. *tr
- Electrical system › Instrument cluster/panel
Speedometer defective. sometimes reads 120mph when not moving. Sometimes never moves. Don't feel safe with wife driving with kids. *tr
- Vehicle speed control › Cruise control
Analog speedometer, intermittent, won't always set to zero. Shows inaccurate speeds. Going 65 mph, speedometer registers 110 mph. *ak
- Electrical system
I have a 2003 GMC yukon denali and the speedometer has stopped providing accurate speed readings. I can be traveling 10 mph according to my gps and the speedometer may read 100 mph. this IS random and frequent. *nm
- Electrical system › Wiring · Exterior lighting
Headlight flicker with stabiltrak engaged related to steering wheel position and/or car attitude (bumps,etc.)*jb
- Engine and engine cooling › Exhaust system › Manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe
When vehicle IS driven then turned off the exhaust system, while cooling down, cracks and pops. volume IS extremely loud. more so than any vehicle I have heard in the past. this IS worse in cold weather than warm.*ak
- Parking brake › Conventional › Mechanical › Linkage and cable
Parking brake does not release when release handle IS pulled. releases after vehicle placed in drive and moved forward slightly or placed in reverse and moved back slightly.*ak
- Service brakes, hydraulic › Foundation components › Hoses, lines/piping, and fittings
Dt*: the contact stated the left front brake pipe fully fractured while driving at 25 mph. There IS a nhtsa recall, # 03v151000, regarding the brake piping. The vehicle has the same problems as indicated in the recall; however it IS not included in the recall due to the vin. The vehicle was driven to the local independent repair shop for repairs. *nm
- Steering
Consumer requesting that GMC replace current denali with like model. *bf the consumer complained about a steering problem with the vehicle. *Jb
- Vehicle speed control
The speedometer does not register at all. consumer took the vehicle to the dealer, who stated the part was on back order.*ak
- Power train › Automatic transmission
The vehicle was parked and running, when the consumer shifted the gear from park to drive the transmission failed. the consumer shifted the gear back and forth in order for the gears to shift properly. the consumer drove to the dealer, however the mechanic was not able to duplicate the problem. the consumer informed the mechanic this problem has occurred more than once and has not been resolved. *jb
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.
- Parking brake failure
In a letter dated april 20, 2005, gm notified nhtsa that it had decided that defects that relate to motor vehicle safety exist in certain model year (my) 1999-2002 c/k 1500 series (pbr parking brake system) and my 2001-2005 c/k 2500 and 3500 series (trw parking brake system) pickups with manual transmissions.according…
In a letter dated april 20, 2005, gm notified nhtsa that it had decided that defects that relate to motor vehicle safety exist in certain model year (my) 1999-2002 c/k 1500 series (pbr parking brake system) and my 2001-2005 c/k 2500 and 3500 series (trw parking brake system) pickups with manual transmissions.according to gm, some of these vehicles may have conditions that cause the friction linings to wear to an extent where the parking brake can become ineffective in immobilizing a parked vehicle.gm's action covers an estimated total of 142,585 vehicles.dealers will install a low-force spring clip retainer for vehicles equipped with the pbr parking brake system and install a redesigned parking brake cable assembly on vehicles equipped with the trw parking brake system. A total of 58 non-duplicative complaints were received by odi and gm concerning the approximately 59,000 my 1999-2002 c/k 1500 series pickup trucks with the pbr parking brake system.these included 22 alleged rollaway incidents, resulting in a rate of 38.5 rollaway incidents per 100,000 vehicles.odi IS aware of 24 complaints regarding the my 2001-2005 c/k 2500 and 3500 series manual transmission trucks recalled by gm, including 5 alleging rollaway incidents.though the conditions described in gm's letter are also present in the c/k trucks with automatic transmissions, the rollaway rate in those vehicles was similar to those observed in peer vehicles studied by odi in this investigation.this engineering analysis IS closed. For additional information, see the attached closing report.
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.
- 11007208This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about changing the tire and wheel size on vehicles. General Motors will only support a tire calibration for tires that have been sized, tested and designed for the vehicle in question and its applications. Technician should not use the information that is provided by the antilock braking system tire size selection.
- 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.
- 11000576This Warranty Administration bulletin provides retail and wholesale service personnel with the policies/procedures and the warranty transaction submission procedures that support the Personal Property Damage process.
- 10252735This bulletin provides information for electrical ground repairs using new General Motors replacement fasteners with conductive finish.
- 10252163XM Audio Traffic And Travel Link Availability And Operation.
- 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.
- 10244214This informational bulletin provides information for the IPC odometer programming method quick reference guide.
- 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.
- 10235802This diagnostic tip bulletin provides additional information on how to diagnose a possible valve, lifter or camshaft issue.
- 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).
- 10234141This diagnostic tip bulletin provides additional information on how to diagnose a possible valve, lifter or camshaft issue.
- 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.
- 10228906This Warranty Administration bulletin provides retail and wholesale service personnel with the policies/procedures and the warranty transaction submission procedures that support the Personal Property Damage process.
- 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.
- 10227674This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about changing the tire and wheel size on vehicles. General Motors will only support a tire calibration for tires that have been sized, tested and designed for the vehicle in question and its applications. Technician should not use the information that is provided by the antilock braking system tire size selection.
- 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).
Every GMC Denali model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.