2024 GMC Yukon Denali Engine Failures: What Owners Need to Know
April 14, 2025
By: Robert Silverman
The 2024 GMC Yukon Denali, renowned for its luxury and performance, has recently faced scrutiny due to reports of sudden engine failures. These issues have been linked to the L87 6.2L V8 engine, with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) investigating approximately 877,710 GM vehicles from 2019 to 2024. The investigation focuses on bearing failures that can lead to engine seizures or breaches of the engine block by the connecting rod, posing significant safety risks due to the potential for sudden loss of vehicle power.
The 2024 GMC Yukon Denali is marketed as a luxury SUV packed with power, featuring a 6.2-liter V8 engine that delivers performance and reliability. But for a growing number of owners, that promise is falling apart—literally. Reports of sudden engine failures are showing up across the internet, with drivers sharing their experiences under searches like “2024 GMC Yukon Denali engine failures Reddit” and “2024 GMC Yukon Denali engine failures forum.”
If you’re an owner or considering buying one, here’s what you need to know.
What’s Going Wrong with the 2024 Yukon Denali Engines?
Dozens of 2024 Yukon Denali drivers report unexpected engine shutdowns—some even while driving at highway speeds. Posts on Reddit and forums like TahoeYukonForum.com describe cases where the 6.2L V8 engine completely failed, often before reaching 10,000 miles.
One forum member shared that their Denali had suffered not one, but two complete engine failures. The vehicle had been at the dealership for months awaiting a second replacement. According to mechanics and insiders, these failures are tied to a known mechanical issue involving the engine’s connecting rod bearings.
Common Symptoms Before a Failure
While some owners report early warning signs, others say the engine failed with no advance notice. Here are some of the symptoms people have shared online when searching for “2024 GMC Yukon Denali engine failures symptoms”:
- The engine suddenly stalls or shuts down
- Knocking or ticking noises coming from the engine
- Sudden drop in oil pressure
- The check engine light may flicker or briefly turn on
- Complete engine seizure with no prior warning
The most troubling part is that, in many cases, there were no signs until the engine completely gave out.
What’s Causing It?
In January 2025, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) opened an official investigation (Investigation PE25001) into these engine failures. So far, they’ve logged at least 39 complaints involving vehicles with the L87 6.2L V8 engine, which was used in various GM vehicles from 2019 through 2024, including the Yukon, Tahoe, Suburban, Silverado, Sierra, and Escalade.
The issue appears to be a failure of the connecting rod bearings, which can cause the connecting rod to break and pierce the engine block. NHTSA noted that in most cases, there were no warning signs before the engine lost power. This creates a serious safety concern since losing engine power while driving increases the risk of a crash.
2024 GMC 6.2L V8 Engine Specs
The L87 6.2L V8 engine in the 2024 Yukon Denali boasts:
- 420 horsepower
- 460 lb-ft of torque
- Dynamic Fuel Management system
- Premium fuel recommended
These specs may look great on paper, but growing concerns across “2024 GM 6.2 engine problems forum” threads suggest the engine may not be as dependable as promised.
How Widespread Are These Problems?
This isn’t just one or two bad engines. Across multiple forums and Reddit threads, more and more drivers are stepping forward with similar complaints. From full breakdowns to extended repair delays due to lack of replacement parts, many owners are frustrated—and some are even considering legal action.
Some drivers have had to wait months for a new engine, only to experience another failure not long after. Searches like “2024 GMC Yukon Denali 6.2 engine problems” continue to bring up new reports almost weekly.
Impacts on GM Arlington Manufacturing
A critical aspect of this situation is the role of GM’s Arlington Assembly plant in Arlington, Texas. This facility produces the GMC Yukon Denali, among other full-size SUVs like the Chevrolet Tahoe, Suburban, and Cadillac Escalade. Spanning 250 acres and employing over 5,600 workers, Arlington Assembly has been operational since 1954 and is a cornerstone of GM’s SUV production.
Given that the affected vehicles, including the Yukon Denali, are assembled at this plant, the engine issues directly affect Arlington Assembly’s operations. The plant has been lauded for its production capabilities, setting a 70-year monthly production record by manufacturing over 34,000 vehicles in March 2023. However, the current engine concerns may necessitate reviews of manufacturing processes and quality control measures to address and rectify the underlying problems.
Do You Have Lemon Law Rights?
If your 2024 Yukon Denali has had repeated engine problems or has been stuck in the shop for weeks or months, you might qualify for protection under your state’s lemon law.
Lemon laws vary by state, but generally, they offer recourse if your new vehicle has been repaired multiple times for the same issue or has been out of service for a significant time. That could mean a refund, replacement vehicle, or cash compensation.
If this sounds like your situation, consider contacting the lemon law attorneys at Kimmel & Silverman, P.C. by calling 1-800-Lemon-Law. They’ve helped thousands of drivers nationwide and offer free consultations to review your case.