2016 GMC Yukon engine problems

Updated from NHTSA data · How we count

26 owners have reported engine problems with the 2016 GMC Yukon, 16% of all complaints about this model year. The typical problem appeared around 91,000 mi.

Engine complaints
26
Crashes
0
Fires
0
Injuries
0
Related recalls
0
Median mileage
91,000 mi

Specific components reported

Engine covers: stalling, loss of power, oil consumption, overheating.

ComponentComplaints
Engine26

Engine complaints across GMC Yukon years

12005772008322010732012962014232620163328201828132020213121202217184202436312026
Engine complaints by model year. The 2016 is highlighted.

Mileage when the problem appeared

Under 10k110k–30k130k–60k260k–100k1100k–150k1150k+
Complaints that list mileage, grouped by odometer reading.

Related recalls

No recalls on file.

What owners say

  1. Filed Sep 10, 2026ALEngine
    The car lost all engine power on the interstate of I10. Leaving me without power, barely able to get to the side of the road. Warning only when lost engine power on the highway. Cannot be driven.
    NHTSA complaint #11763293 · source
  2. Filed Apr 13, 2026NCEngineFuel, Hybrid & EV Propulsion
    Ticking sound coming from engine, possible damaged camshaft lobe due to lifter roller failure. It can cause sudden engine failure, significant power loss, and unexpected stalling while driving, increasing crash risks. The issue is linked to AFM (Active Fuel Management) system failures. The problem has been diagnosed by dealer service department. No warning lamp or message, problem first appeared 7 April 2026.
    NHTSA complaint #11730883 · source
  3. Filed Feb 23, 202627,000 miTNEngine
    The contact owns a 2016 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that the vehicle was initially repaired under warranty for a bent push rod in cylinder #4; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was repaired another time at the expense of the contact's son, who previously owned the vehicle; however, the failure persisted. The contact stated that while idling and while driving, the engine was misfiring and running rough. Additionally, there was a significant amount of smoke coming…
    NHTSA complaint #11719970 · source
  4. Filed Feb 12, 2026INEngineFuel, Hybrid & EV Propulsion
    Misfire then replaced plugs,coils and wires, then change fuel injector, and problem still there, then started truck and was tossing power and motor started ticking. Every shop told me this is the same common problem they're having with all 6.2L engine and they're all on recall by GM. I know 2016 are not in recall but I think they should be because this problem is in all 6.2L engine
    NHTSA complaint #11717581 · source
  5. Filed Dec 30, 2025WIEngine
    On [XXX], while idling in my driveway the engine abruptly stopped with a loud clunk and refused to turn over when I attempted to restart it. The vehicle was towed to Bergstrom GMC in Appleton WI. Upon inspection it was determined that a connecting rod and crankshaft bearing had failed requiring replacement of the engine. The vehicle has a 6.2-litre V-8 engine with 106,000 miles on it. The vehicle is currently still at the dealership waiting for the engine replacement at an…
    NHTSA complaint #11707815 · source
  6. Filed Sep 14, 2025CTElectrical SystemEngine
    A side detection module pin was corroded and was disrupting the electrical signals to major vehicle components, such as the dash (DIC). The DIC would lose communication with the rest of the vehicle while driving so no vehicle operation data was visible such as speed, alerts messages, etc. This likely also caused engine failure due to the incorrect operation of the afm which is on the same electrical circuit. No warning messages were given. The bad side detection module was…
    NHTSA complaint #11687228 · source
  7. Filed May 13, 2025NYEngine
    Check engine light came on. Immediately went to reputable local repair shop. Shop advised push rod bent due to faulty engine. Advised to call GMC because not normal wear and tear. Called GMC expressed my frustration about this being preexisting issue w this engine. GMC corp told me I had to ship to GMC dealership at my own expense then they could help me. Local GMCs backed up 6-8 wks. Towed car 1.5 hrs away. Mechanic told me not to worry this happens all of the time, GMC…
    NHTSA complaint #11660685 · source
  8. Filed Apr 29, 2025MOEngineTransmission & Drivetrain
    2 months ago our 16 gmc Yukon Denali 6.2 bent a push rod on cylinder 4 . So had to fix it when I took out DOD lifters put them on work bench and about 10 minutes out the DOD lifters flew apart and know having transmission issues it’s starting to shudder ! So I would liked the [XXX] thing recalled because engine still isn’t right either it only has 130000 miles. I’ll never buy a [XXX] gmc because of problems! I want the [XXX] thing fixed ASAP we paid to much money for it to…
    NHTSA complaint #11657648 · source
  9. Filed Apr 23, 2025250,000 miALEngineTransmission & Drivetrain
    The contact owns a 2016 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle unexpectedly downshifted with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the transmission had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 250,000.
    NHTSA complaint #11656273 · source
  10. Filed Mar 10, 2025OKEngineTransmission & Drivetrain
    The contact owns a 2016 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that while driving at 65 MPH and attempting to accelerate, the vehicle briefly shuddered before returning to normal functionality. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the torque converter. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
    NHTSA complaint #11647426 · source
  11. Filed Feb 27, 2025MIEngine
    At 90k the engine stopped working, no warning or lights went off. 6.2L Lifters and bearings., The dealer gave us 14k for the car and we then went and bought and escalde with the 6.2L, that has also seized at 14k miles within 13 months of purchasing. The yukon has no reports of that on the car fax after our trade, which i found curious.
    NHTSA complaint #11645423 · source
  12. Filed Dec 27, 2024INEngine
    The engine failed and dropped down to limp mode while driving down the Hwy. Had to replace the engine for a toll of approx. $10,000. Truck only had 89,000 miles on it.
    NHTSA complaint #11632585 · source

Other 2016 GMC Yukon problem areas

Back to all 2016 GMC Yukon problems →

Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Office of Defects Investigation public data. Complaints are submitted by owners and are not verified by NHTSA or by us; a complaint does not prove a defect exists. View this vehicle on NHTSA.gov Methodology