2016 GMC Yukon Denali
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › GMC › Yukon Denali › 2016
These records cover every 2016 GMC Yukon Denali. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Owner complaints
18 complaints1 involved a crash1 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Engine
The contact owns a 2016 GMC Yukon Denali. The contact stated that since owning the vehicle, the engine had failed on three separate occasions. The contact stated that prior to each failure, there was an abnormal rattling sound coming from the engine. The contact stated that the check engine warning…
The contact owns a 2016 GMC Yukon Denali. The contact stated that since owning the vehicle, the engine had failed on three separate occasions. The contact stated that prior to each failure, there was an abnormal rattling sound coming from the engine. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated on the instrument panel prior to the last two failures. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic after each failure, and the engine was replaced twice. Recently, the contact was informed that the catalytic converter needed to be replaced; however, the vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and the contact was informed that there were no recalls on the VIN for the engine. A complaint was filed with the manufacturer. The failure mileage was 74,000.
- Exterior lighting › Tail lights
The contact owns a 2016 GMC Yukon Denali. The contact stated that while driving 40 MPH, the contact was notified by another driver that the rear taillights were inoperable. No warning light was illuminated. Neither a dealer nor an independent mechanic was contacted, and the vehicle was not…
The contact owns a 2016 GMC Yukon Denali. The contact stated that while driving 40 MPH, the contact was notified by another driver that the rear taillights were inoperable. No warning light was illuminated. Neither a dealer nor an independent mechanic was contacted, and the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that there was no recall on the VIN related to the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and opened a case and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 104,000.
- Power train
The contact owns a 2016 GMC Yukon Denali. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the transmission was slipping between gear. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the failure could not be duplicated. The dealer replaced the transmission fluid twice; however, the failure…
The contact owns a 2016 GMC Yukon Denali. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the transmission was slipping between gear. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the failure could not be duplicated. The dealer replaced the transmission fluid twice; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was determined that the transmission wiring harness had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 65,000.
- Structure › Body · Unknown or other
Gps IS not working. Antenna
- Electrical system · Exterior lighting · Power train
At less than 3 years old and 60K miles, the following has occurred at different times up until now: overall electrical malfunction including display illumination failure (display goes completely black and/or dim while driving - cannot see speedometer etc. This has happened multiple times while…
At less than 3 years old and 60K miles, the following has occurred at different times up until now: overall electrical malfunction including display illumination failure (display goes completely black and/or dim while driving - cannot see speedometer etc. This has happened multiple times while driving on both the highway and surface streets, including daytime and nighttime), audio/entertainment system glitches (radio volume changes to and gets stuck randomly on highest volume setting (was never even set to this level) while driving, causing sudden distraction/disruption), tail light malfunction (intermittently stops working both left and right sides), and now the motor to the sunroof has died (occurred while driving and at a moment when it was necessary to close for safety on the highway.) the transmission IS defective (for the second time - off shifts and downshifts unexpectedly while driving at both lower and higher speeds. Has happened on the highway requiring me to pull over and restart the vehicle.) these incidents have been occurring for the past several months, but because they have been intermittent it has been hard to pinpoint when to bring in to the dealership for inspection.
- Power train
I have only owned this car since 3/29/19 and several times now my yukon's check engine light has came on after the transmission bucks, jumps or jerks hard, not sure what to call it but it bucked or shoved my car forward when trying to slow down or stop (not pressing gas pedal). This could be…
I have only owned this car since 3/29/19 and several times now my yukon's check engine light has came on after the transmission bucks, jumps or jerks hard, not sure what to call it but it bucked or shoved my car forward when trying to slow down or stop (not pressing gas pedal). This could be dangerous as it interferes with trying to stop the vehicle. It was such a hard jolt that it for a minute I thought another car rear ended me. This has happened at least twice after I pressed the brake to begin slowing down as I was preparing to pull into a parking lot, I was probably going around 20mph. It also happened twice while accelerating onto a road, probably going 35 mph and just felt a jolt like something kicked my car forward suddenly. I've been told that the jerking problem IS related to issues with the transmission, possibly the torque converter and causes gears not to function properly. I'm going to put in my most recent date that this happened on your form but it's happened more than once.
- Exterior lighting
Brake lights out. !! First was driver side now both sides !! Dealership says modules need to be replaced and no long have warranty coverage . it was 3 yr /30,00 !! I'm just 38,000 and just past 3 yrs !! Absolutely ridiculous $1,500.00 for each sides just for the parts !! Unbelievable!! That's not…
Brake lights out. !! First was driver side now both sides !! Dealership says modules need to be replaced and no long have warranty coverage . it was 3 yr /30,00 !! I'm just 38,000 and just past 3 yrs !! Absolutely ridiculous $1,500.00 for each sides just for the parts !! Unbelievable!! That's not included time and labor. !! So very angry!! No recall on this but in my finding, I am hearing this IS an on going problem.
- Exterior lighting
My passenger taillight has gone out. The GMC dealer has said they have had three instances this week alone. They can repair it and must be replaced the taillights are defective and need to be recalled.
- Electrical system · Steering
We were traveling in our yukon when all power was lost to the vehicle. The steering wheel lock function enabled before we were stopped. Since there was no power and it IS push button start, there was no way to control the vehicle. Our dealer said to their knowledge there IS no way to unlock the…
We were traveling in our yukon when all power was lost to the vehicle. The steering wheel lock function enabled before we were stopped. Since there was no power and it IS push button start, there was no way to control the vehicle. Our dealer said to their knowledge there IS no way to unlock the wheel. Luckily our children were not in the vehicle and no one was injured. The dealer said the negative battery cable IS fully intact, but had failed internally. What IS more concerning IS the fact there IS no way to unlock the wheel to steer if this happens. Even at 65 mph.
- Air bags · Seat belts · Unknown or other
While entering parking lot of a walmart store, the front sensors did not show an object (while in blind area of windshield and door post). driver hit concrete base of street light in parking lot going about 10 miles per hour in speed. air bags did not deploy nor did seat belt tighten to restrain…
While entering parking lot of a walmart store, the front sensors did not show an object (while in blind area of windshield and door post). driver hit concrete base of street light in parking lot going about 10 miles per hour in speed. air bags did not deploy nor did seat belt tighten to restrain driver. driver's body was thrown into the steering wheel with right arm taking the full impact. driver suffers a broken sternum, torn bicep tendon, severely dislocated right shoulder, torn rotator cuff tendons, torn muscle fibers from elbow, broken wrist and torn tendons on back of hand.
- Exterior lighting · Seats
Oem led tail lights have failed on my GMC with 40,000 miles on it. the bulb IS good, yet the led portion (which costs over $800 to fix) needs to be replaced. This portion IS the entire rear brake light housing. this IS very common among these vehicles heated seats quit working on denali. The…
Oem led tail lights have failed on my GMC with 40,000 miles on it. the bulb IS good, yet the led portion (which costs over $800 to fix) needs to be replaced. This portion IS the entire rear brake light housing. this IS very common among these vehicles heated seats quit working on denali. The backrests still heat up, but the bottoms don't heat up at all. also, they will not turn on in remote start mode even though they are set to turn on in this mode.
- Exterior lighting
Faulty tail light housing, results in tail/brake lights not working. Not the result of damage, simply bad design in the led housing and electrical connections. The electrical connection was poorly constructed, and the only fix IS to completely replace the entire housing at $750 including labor.
- Unknown or other
"Takata recall" something IS wrong with the anti-theft system. It has happened two days in a row with no warning and my vehicle will not start. Battery IS good and alternator IS good. My vehicle was parked both times when this happened. Security light will flash in my windshield but truck will not start. A message will display on my screen saying "battery saver active".
- Exterior lighting
Brake light went out at 58K miles, it's an led light and should not go out that fast. Upon research this seems to be a manufacture defect effecting 2015-2017 GMC yukons. At no point did my car alert me of the issue, luckily someone pointed it out to me before it caused a wreck
- Steering
TL* the contact owns a 2016 GMC yukon denali. While driving approximately 55 mph, the steering became loose. There were no warning indicators illuminated. The vehicle was taken to nimnicht buick GMC located on, 11503 philips hwy, jacksonville, fl 32256 jacksonville fl, where it was diagnosed that a…
TL* the contact owns a 2016 GMC yukon denali. While driving approximately 55 mph, the steering became loose. There were no warning indicators illuminated. The vehicle was taken to nimnicht buick GMC located on, 11503 philips hwy, jacksonville, fl 32256 jacksonville fl, where it was diagnosed that a bolt needed to be tightened. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure recurred. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that nhtsa issued recalls. The failure mileage was approximately 45,000. The vin was not available.
- Electrical system
2016 GMC yukon denali. Consumer writes in regards to distracting computer equipment in vehicle. *Ld the consumer stated the vehicle was complicated, erratic, and confusing. Updated 10/2/2017*js
- Electronic stability control (esc) · Service brakes
Front brake calipers sticking causing premature wear out of pads and driver side rotor at ~11900 miles. after first repair, ~900 miles and three weeks later, while driving down a snow covered city hill ABS was engaged for a short period of time and then dash displayed a "brake failure" warning.…
Front brake calipers sticking causing premature wear out of pads and driver side rotor at ~11900 miles. after first repair, ~900 miles and three weeks later, while driving down a snow covered city hill ABS was engaged for a short period of time and then dash displayed a "brake failure" warning. After the message the front brakes locked up completely, causing loss of control of the vehicle and induced a slide of over 1000ft down the hill. Once the vehicle finally came to a stop, a loud sound was coming from the under carriage. Powering down the vehicle did not stop the sound. Restart of the vehicle displayed "service stabilitrack" and "service trailer brake" warnings. The ABS, traction control slippage, and brake lights also all stayed illuminated. Vehicle had to be towed to dealer as it was unsafe to drive. Upon inspection at GMC dealer they reported the electronic brake control module (ebcm) was shorted out internally and second front rotor was also scored. they replaced the ebcm and rotor under warranty. I'm told the caliper sticking issue IS common, and this IS not the first ebcm they have replaced. in summary, damage to rotors and pads IS very dangerous. As the vehicle only has ~12000 miles no one would expect this type of wear. The failure of the ABS system nearly caused an accident that could have been fatal as the vehicle was descending a hill and at the very time the ABS was needed it caused lock up of the font wheels inducing a slide and loss of ability to steer. *tr
- Power train · Steering · Suspension
Since the day I purchased this 2016 GMC yukon XL denali there has been a vibration in what I think IS the passenger rear end. I've taken it in 3 times and each time the dealer and the gm representative say it IS "within spec." this problem has persisted. the vehicle IS now almost un-drivable due…
Since the day I purchased this 2016 GMC yukon XL denali there has been a vibration in what I think IS the passenger rear end. I've taken it in 3 times and each time the dealer and the gm representative say it IS "within spec." this problem has persisted. the vehicle IS now almost un-drivable due to the shaking. it affects the steering wheel at all speeds. this happens at all speeds on all terrains. this happens when the vehicle IS cold as well as warm/hot. the vehicle will sometimes jerk to the left or right when the shaking gets real bad. this vehicle IS becoming dangerous to drive but I have to use it. I am not the only one with this issue and would appreciate some help.
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Brake Vacuum Pump Failure
On November 20, 2018, the Office of Defects Investigations (ODI) opened PE18-012 to investigate instances of sudden onset of a hard brake pedal that could result in extended stopping distance due to an issue with the brake assist vacuum pump in model year (MY) 2014 through 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 and Chevrolet Silverado…
On November 20, 2018, the Office of Defects Investigations (ODI) opened PE18-012 to investigate instances of sudden onset of a hard brake pedal that could result in extended stopping distance due to an issue with the brake assist vacuum pump in model year (MY) 2014 through 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 and Chevrolet Silverado 1500 series pickup trucks and MY 2015 through 2016 Cadillac Escalade, Chevrolet Suburban, Chevrolet Tahoe, and GMC Yukon SUVs.If the brake assist vacuum pump fails to operate as intended, the amount of brake power assist supplied to the driver can be significantly reduced, extending the subject vehicle stopping distance. GM stated that the root cause of pump failures was due to foreign debris such as oil sludge in the engine oil. GM stated that this debris can become trapped by the oil inlet filter screen. Under normal operation, this screen allows a small amount of oil into the brake vacuum pump. The foreign debris can, over time, clog the pump which can cause a loss of lubrication and a reduction in the amount of vacuum produced leading to a hard pedal and extended stopping distance.On December 13, 2018, GM issued a Special Coverage (N182202780) for the brake vacuum pump issue in MY 2014-2017 trucks and 2015-2017 SUVs on the K2XX platform for 6 years or 72,000 miles. Special Coverage repair includes the replacement of the vacuum pump and vacuum pump belt. Consumers received notification of the coverage via mail. On September 6, 2019, GM notified NHTSA that it was conducting safety recall 19V-645 which reprograms the electronic brake control module (EBCM) and included approximately 3.5 million trucks and SUVs. In October 2019, GM extended the terms of special coverage N182202780 to 10 years or 150,000 miles as well as now including the entire scope of recall 19V-645. In October 2020, GM expanded the scope of coverage N182202780 to include the MY 2018 Escalade and 2019 Tahoe.The remedy implemented in GM recall 19V-645 appears to be sufficient in addressing the safety-related concerns of this issue. Loss of vacuum assist now occurs at a progressive rate as well as there being a more timely warning of a brake problem to the driver through the driver information center (DIC). In view of the recall action and revision to the special coverage, this Preliminary Evaluation is closed. The agency reserves the right to take additional action if warranted by new circumstances. The ODI reports cited above are available for review online at NHTSA.gov under the identification numbers in the attached document.
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.
- 11011989This service bulletin provides information on the harmful effects of ethylene glycol in transmission fluid.
- 11011900This diagnostic tip bulletin provides additional information on how to diagnose a possible valve, lifter or camshaft issue.
- 11011805This Preliminary information communicates a GM part number forreflective high temperature heat or insulating tape when repairing wiring harnesses.
- 11011709This bulletin advises the dealers to maintain the vehicle stock on hand by doing a full inspection on the vehicles before being sold (prepping) to the customer.
- 11011205This informational bulletin explains Unscheduled Supplemental Services and the importance of GM Simplified Maintenance Schedules.
- 11011119This Preliminary information communicates to dealers GM is working on a solution for outdated Apps
- 11010576This service bulletin provides information on All hazmat parts being returned to the Warranty Parts Center (WPC) must be shipped using Central Transport. Hazardous materials should never be sent by air transportation to the WPC.
- 11010566This service bulletin provides frame coating repair information to correct a customer concern of wax coating on frame peeling, metal shows corrosion/rusting (U.S. and Canada Only).
- 11010545This service bulletin provides information on key code security rules and information on GM keycode look-up applications (U.S).
- 11010495This bulletin provides information on Warranty Administration Required Operating Procedures - 8 Points (U.S. Only).
- 11010491This warranty administration bulletin provides policy information for GM courtesy transportation and roadside assistance programs.
- 11010490This service bulletin provides guidelines and diagnostic/repair information to technicians regarding vehicle engine oil consumption.
- 11010488This Warranty Administration bulletin provides information on the Global Warranty Management (GWM) Warranty Parts Center (WPC) Parts Return Program.
- 11010421This warranty administration bulletin provides policy information on the requirements for 12V battery testing and warranty replacements.
- 11009764This service bulletin provides information on Concerns or Questions Regarding Installation of Dealer Installed Accessories.
- 11009756This bulletin provides information on Policies Applicable to All U.S. Dealers for Engine and Transmission Assembly Replacement Under Warranty, Policy or Customer Enthusiasm and information on Submission of Warranty Transaction in Global Warranty Management.
- 11009532This service bulletin provides information for maintenance cleaning of the fuel injectors and gasoline detergent additive.
- 11009531This service bulletin provides information for maintenance cleaning of the fuel injectors and gasoline detergent additive.
- 11009088This service bulletin provides information on some vehicles that may rock or move slightly forward or rearward while in Park at start up after cold soak. This condition may be accompanied by a clunk noise. This is a slight movement that is more often seen visually, rather than felt, when viewed from the outside and using the auto-start feature, if equipped.
- 11009039This warranty administration bulletin provides policy information, proper labor operation selection and causal part identification for warranty transactions (U.S. Only).
- 11009037This service bulletin provides information on Enhancing Field Product Reports with Digital Pictures.
- 11008966This technical bulletin provides a procedure for the techs to replace the forward check ball and separator plate if found the cause of the customers concern of No Forward Gear When Shifting from Park to Drive and/or Reverse to Drive.
- 11008956This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on When and How to Submit a Field Product Report (FPR) (U.S. and Canada Dealers Only).
- 11008906This 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.
- 11008898The bulletin provides direction on how to locate the Temporary Service Part (TSP) form in GlobalConnect.
- 11007936This service bulletin provides information to dealership personnel on diagnosis and replacement of shock absorber and strut due to fluid leak.
- 11007935This service bulletin provides information to dealership personnel on diagnosis and replacement of shock absorber and strut due to fluid leak.
- 11007721This service bulletin provides information on AGM batteries that require less frequent charging in storage.
- 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.
- 11007155This informational bulletin advises the technician that the engine and related parts will be debited if found that the tech did not properly prepare the engine block from dirt and debris in bolt holes or if found that the block was damaged by the tech.
- 11007121This bulletin provides information on Engine Concerns that could result from lack of scheduled maintenance, improper service or aftermarket calibrations.
- 11007116This bulletin provides information on identifying Non-GM Engine Calibrations for Gasoline Engines using the Tech 2 or GDS 2.
- 11007115This service bulletin provides information on Internal Engine Noise or Damage After Oil Filter Replacement.
- 11007095This bulletin provides information on the TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline Licensed Brands and the TOP TIER Diesel Fuel Licensed Brands that are recommended for use in all GM vehicles and the TOP TIER FUELS website URL.
- 11007091This service bulletin provides guidelines and diagnostic/repair information to technicians regarding vehicle engine oil consumption.
- 11006849This service bulletin provides information on regular inspection of the Seat Belt Lap Anchor.
- 11006682This service bulletin provides information on a guide to help reduce repeat visits for the same customer concern.
- 11006670This service bulletin advises about the possible issues that may occur when using a scotch brite pad or highly abrasive disk on gasket sealing surfaces or reused parts.
- 11006644This Warranty Administration service bulletin provides information for dealers/Service advisors on when and how to submit a Pre-Repair Authorization (PRA).
- 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.
Every GMC Yukon Denali model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.