GMC 6.2 Engine Problems to Be Aware Of

Jan 23, 2021

Are you in the market for a GMC equipped with the powerful 6.2L engine? If the answer is yes, you’ll love to hear that reliability remained at the forefront of the manufacturer’s mind while they made this truck. Although they largely hit their goal, it’s possible for problems to arise.

2007 GMC Sierra 1500 - Photo by GMC

So, before you make your purchase, it’s smart to ask, “Just what GMC 6.2 engine problems have occurred?”

Some of the issues that have come up over the years include:

Engine stalls while driving
Warning message about power loss
Pistons seize in the cylinders
Knocking from the engine

Fortunately, this article will cover everything you need to know about GMC 6.2 engine problems. With that info, you can seek out the ideal truck for you while ruling out ones with signs of an issue.

The History of the 6.2L Engine by GMC

General Motors (GM) created the 6.2L engine as a part of their LS small-block series in 2007. Due to its ample power output, 6.2L LS-series engine landed in all the GM trucks and SUVs. On the GMC side, the Sierra, Yukon, and Denali were all blessed with this powerplant.

Known as the L92, it was built using the 4.06-inch bore block that replaced the LS2. GM made it out of all aluminum materials and used the classic push-rod configuration.

Then, they went above and beyond in its build by priming it for active fuel management and variable valve timing. The result was an engine that produces 403 horsepower and 417 lb.-ft. of torque with ease.

In 2014, the 6.2L engine was reborn using the LT1 platform. The power output was bumped up to 420 horsepower and 460 lb.-ft. of torque. GM won the 10 Best Engines Award from Ward for this engine’s ability to produce ample power without sacrificing fuel efficiency.

2017 GMC Yukon SLT - Photo by GMC

Your Guide to GMC 6.2L Engine Problems

GMC trucks and SUVs have used the 6.2L engine since 2007 and continue using it to this day.

Although it’s been rather reliable, issues have come up from time to time, including:

Stall While Driving

Although the 6.2L engine in the 2016 GMC Yukon is reliable, it has the potential to stall while driving. This problem occurs most often after taking either a left or right turn. Many trips to the dealership have failed to reveal the cause of the issue or a lasting solution.

Engine Knock

Even if you keep up on general maintenance at all times, it’s still possible for the 6.2L engine to start knocking. This happens as the wrist pins holding the pistons to the rods start to wear out. Without repairs, they could break apart, causing catastrophic engine failure.

2013 GMC Sierra – Photo by GMC

Stuck Pistons

As the crankshaft spins, it pushes the pistons up and down in the cylinders using the rods. If the 6.2L engine overheats for any length of time, the high temperatures could damage the crank and cause the pistons to seize. If that happens, you’ll need a full engine replacement.

Lifter Collapse

The 6.2L engine uses hydraulic lifters to help cushion and quiet the moving parts in the heads. Unfortunately, they are prone to leaking all their oil out, causing the cylinder to collapse. When that happens, they are no longer able to perform their job and need replacement.

Power Loss Warning

At any point, while you’re driving, there’s a chance that a reduced engine power warning could appear on your dash. As that happens, your 6.2L engine will fail to accelerate over 30 mph until you have the issue fixed. Luckily, all it takes is a software update to resolve it.

Photos: GMC

Owner Reviews

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Jim on March 31, 2024

2020 AT4 GMC Sierra 6.2L Engine Failure

Bought my 2020 AT4 Sierra 3 years ago for about $64,000 drove it for the past three years with no issues. Once I hit 58,000 miles my oil pump failed and #7 bearing was burned up and a lot of shavings found in my oil pan. Mind you I was traveling across country at this time when I got a warning light saying my oil pump is not working and to shut my vehicle down. I broke down in Cullman, Al and took it to the closest GMC dealer. They determined engine failure and need to be replaced. It took GM over 21 days to get a replacement engine to the dealer for replacement. Warranty covered. I drove my truck back to Virginia and for about three weeks it was running fine until one morning I heard engine noises coming from bottom of truck in a parked position. I only had 3,300 miles on the replacement engine when it started to break down again. I took it immediately to GMC dealer and they have had it now since March 20th waiting on GM to decided what to do. So frustrating with no transportation for the last 10 days now. I am reading GMC Sierra forums and I see this is an issue with the 6.2L engines not only with my year truck but as well as the newsiest 2024 trucks. I would really hesitate in considering this truck with the 6.2 Liter until they figure out what the heck is causing these failures. My truck is paid in full and I have a truck sitting on a Dealer lot not able to move and they are in now hurry to fix the issues.

Craig on October 25, 2023

GMC 6.2L 2022 Sierra - terrible engine!

At 10,315 miles this truck had a piston, connecting rod & bearing replaced. At 11,866 miles truck overheated - dealer replaced a belt, bracket & pulley. At 12,745 miles (less than 1000 miles after a dealer oil change) the oil indicator light came on - no oil showing on dip stick. Topped off the oil with 2 quarts of oil to get it back normal. At 12,948 miles the check engine light came on & took it to the dealer & the oil was 1.5 quarts low. After 3 1/2 quarts of oil burned in less than 2000 miles since the oil was changed, now GM is requiring an oil consumption test which means I drive it 2000 miles & then the dealer checks how much oil has been burned & I have to do this 3 times or 6000 miles apparently before GM will allow the dealer to do any work on the engine ... Are you kidding me??? And the check engine light goes on intermittently but the dealer says I don't need to worry about that unless this indicator light starts flashing. Such an inconvenience & after driving GM vehicles for 40 years this will likely be my last!

VBAKER on March 9, 2024

2023 GMC Denali Ultimate 6.2L

I hope at least one person reads this review and it prevents them from buying GM. Engine failed with only 6k miles while on freeway with family. GMC Roadside assistance, absolutely WORTHLESS. Had to call a friend to come get my family out of the vehicle. I waited 5.5 hours for a tow truck. GMC didn't give a sh*t so I had to call my own tow truck. After about a week of persistence, I finally talked them into giving me a rental car. Dealer has a "theory" that it was the crankshaft/rod-bearings. 72 days later, its sitting in the same spot at the dealership. No ETA on parts. GM calls me every week with the same BS update. An American made vehicle unable to get American made parts. If I ever get it back, I will have to sell it. No way can I trust it with all the reoccurring issues I'm reading about. I'm sure I'll take a $25K hit on it. GM makes sure they are unscathed in these situations and will continue to sell a bad product. AVOID GMC AT ALL COSTS!!!!!!

Matt on May 29, 2023

2022 Sierra AT4 6.2l v8 engine broke

Had bought a new 2022 Sierra AT4 6.2l v8 and in less than 4,500 miles on it the engine failed on me. I only drive 10 miles a day if that and only put higher miles on due to driving it up north to PA for Christmas last year. I’m extremely frustrated because after the dealership thought it was the lifters it seems to be a deeper issue of other components failing and I’m currently waiting 8 weeks now on a crankshaft with still no ETA to allow them to start the fix. I feel like now since it’s new and fully paid for I am due more than just a warranty fix on my new truck that is supposed to be highly reliable. How about either a new truck or at least a new engine. I really don’t like the wait time for something that should not have broken so early on the life of the truck. General Motors how can this be fixed and make your customer happy with what I hoped for in a truck and it’s performance?

Bob on February 12, 2022

Owner

2015 Yukon denali ! Love the truck BUT ! It has a 6.2 & magnatracking shocks ! Major engine brakedown at 25 k ! 4 lifters, 1 pushrod & head replaced on passenger side gm had my truck 22 days ! Covered under warranty ! All 4 shocks computerized! Junk ! 40 k $650 each for front & $ 450 for rear not covered by warranty! I did my own installation! Tail lights $750 each all LED except backup bulb ! Gm did pay for them out of warranty but you had to call customer satisfaction & complain! A/C problem front condenser replaced under warranty. Transmission problems! Fluid replaced with a high grade transmission fluid under warranty after 5 year warranty ran out ! Like I say LOVE the truck but ! Rite now Lifter making noise again at 64 k GM notified no answer yet & Dealer gave me an appointment 2 & 1/2 wees away ! I thinkthis is going to be COSTLY $$$$$$ IM NOT SURE IF I WOULD BY ANOTHER GM 😕

Mary D on April 15, 2024

2011 GMC YUKON XL DENALI

I purchased car at 103K miles and have driven it now for 8 years. She has 230K miles on her. We are about to replace the transmission. Car started occasionally "lurching forward" when accelerating at a light etc. (hubby complaining, stop mashing gas pedal down too fast... Well, I told him I didn't! I have been vindicated! ... And hey, he is a mechanic!) Yes, he has did all fluid changes etc over the years and it has been very reliable. I think a motor mount broke in the last year or so. Also perhaps lifters leaked or something like I saw here. Both he and my son said there are several years in the 2020 give or take a few years that have engine problems. I am looking to purchase another used but will be looking outside the "problem years of engines", or we will be looking at an engine replacement someday of course for the old girl.

Dan S. on November 11, 2023

2nd engine failure 2021 TrailBoss Custom

2021 TrailBoss Custom 6.2L un modified all oil changes done 5 - 6000km. 1st engine failure happened accelerating to hwy speed truck lost total power no prior warnings no engine codes until I attempted to restart. Dealer found the thrust bearing imploded resulted in a damaged block and required a long block replacement with 44000km on truck. 2nd motor failed decelerating from hwy speeds to a stop engine shut off again no warnings no codes. Managed to restart the truck there was a loud rod knock on restart still no codes thrown. Dealer claims #1&2 rod bearing failed new motor has 28000km. I have now lost all faith in the GM 6.2L L87 power plant. I've loved this truck however it is no longer reliable and am working with GM Canada and the out of town Dealer where I was stranded to get me something reliable.. Time for a 1 ton Duramax.

Jim Honaker / Oak Harbor, OH on October 10, 2022

2021 Sierra 6.2L Lifter Replacement

2021 GMC Sierra SLT w/ 6.2L Stop/Start equipped engine needed passenger side lifters replaced at about 36,000 miles. My dealer (Ballas Buick / GMC - Toledo, OH) was great! Warranty repair covered all costs. I got a loaner for the 4 days they had her for repairs. I inquired as to all lifters or only half, and GM Warranty Policy is only one side, unless they KNOW the other side is bad. My engine was made in the Tonawanda, NY plant, NOT Springhill! The truck's best mileage is 22.7 mpg, and it averages about 17mpg daily. She hates a headwind, and loves a tailwind ... Has a full cap on it, cab height enclosed. She seems to like oil, I'm watching it. Engine is not a smooth as the day I bought her, so I'm monitoring that as well. Overall, love my truck! Will buy this engine again, I'll just try to get one from Springhill, TN!

VBaker on March 9, 2024

2023 Denali Ultimate 6.2L V8

DO NOT BUY GM! Engine died with only 6k miles on it while driving on freeway. GMC Roadside assistance, ABSOLUTELY WORTHLESS. After 5.5 hours of waiting, I called my own tow truck to get me to dealership. They only had theories of what happened, and they settled on the crankshaft and bad rod-bearings. 72 days later, vehicle is still in the same spot at dealership. American made vehicle and can't get American made parts. I get weekly BS updates from GM. Dealer trying to avoid me at all costs. GM does a good job at remaining unscathed on these bad engines they sell and will continue doing so. Once I get it back, I will sell it. I can no longer trust this vehicle for me and my family. I'll take about a $25K hit but well worth getting away from such a disgraceful manufacturer. DO NOT BUY GM!!!!

VBaker on March 9, 2024

2023 Denali Ultimate 6.2L V8

Chad Gray on November 25, 2023

‘20 Trail BossLT 6.2L

Truck had to be towed two days after purchasing with 250 miles. Found out it was a broken spring on a valve. No issues until last week when it stranded me on the road near Chattanooga, TN on the way home from SD to Georgia. Two days before, the engine started tapping really bad. When I accelerated to pass someone, I heard a loud noise and the truck started shaking and shuttering. It wouldn’tgo over 40 MPH. When I checked the oil, it was barely on the stick and was not due for an oil change yet.It’s in the shop now. My guess it it’s the lifter issue that seem to plague most of the 6.2 line. I’ve about decided to throw in the towel with the 6.2. Love it as long as it’s running but I’m done after being stranded on the road twice now.

Rod on April 3, 2024

Two Engines Toast

I have two Yukons at the delearship with spun main bearing issues and both need engine replacements at the same time. The first to go was my 2019 GMC Yukon 6.2L Callaway with 102k miles, the second was my 2023 GMC Yukon Denali Ultimate 6.2L with 23k miles. It's unbelievable. Both have had 100% of their service done at GM Dealerships. I have been waiting 8 months for the first engine and the second no ETA can be given. I wish GM would replace the 19 under warranty given the fact both of my cars (of which were over $100k MSRP) are not usable. As a loyal GM customer have purchased nothing but Denali's and Escalade's I'm giving consideration to a competitor.

Brian ringer on December 31, 2021

Vibration

2018 1500 denali. For the amout I over paid for this truck. Due to pandemic issues. For a truck with 26k miles it is extremely aggravating when it shims, sterring wheel vibrations and just all over shaky feeling while driving at any speed. What drives me crazy is it comes and goes. Not sure what the problem is. Supposedly a trans flush will fix the problem. But the more I read into it. It may e something bigger. Over all I love the truck.the denali package is a luxury not a need. But it is definitely comfortable compared to fords I feel. It also rides very nice and smooth when it is not shaky.

Ron on February 16, 2024

2016 Denali

Torque converter shudder. Been replaced once under “warranty” and now it’s doing the same thing again. Cost to repair about $4,500. Evidently the Chinese torque converter was replaced with another one…2 tail lights $600 each (used)….both front electromagnetic struts replaced for over $2,000. No motor issues and MPG a little over 20 using only regular gas. A/C compressor/condenser went out at 130,000 and thermostat went bad at about 140,000. I wish GM would get off of the Chinese supply chain for stuff. That’s probably where most of these issues originated.

Jim on January 24, 2024

So far ok

2014 Yukon denali and never had an engine or transmission problem in 275000 miles . I tow a24 ft enclosed car trailer, 20 ft boat and horse trailers all over the east coast.The only thing I do is change the oil. I do use Mobil 1 0-40 euro oil after listening to the racket the lifters made after using that dexos c**p the first time. I figured if Porsche warrsnties their engines with it works. I usually use my used911 oil and put it in my truck since the Porsche only gets about 2000 miles a year. I am not sure about a new gmc 6.2 from all the problems I hear about.

Steven Lippold on February 27, 2022

Gumbyman69@gmail.com

Got a 2016 Yukon denali with just over 33,000 miles. I notice a little wheel shake around 55 to 65. Had it checked and rebranded the wheels.no change. I put 12,000 miles on it in 4 months traveling hauling a 6× 12 trailer. The slight shake and added 2 quarts of oil is all I have done beside normal maintenance and I love it. The tow system works great in the mountains. Gas mileage is to be expected for the size of the truck. I will never use another engine. Getting a crate 6.2 for my project car. Perfect HP and Tourque for what I need.

Greg MacNeil on October 16, 2023

My 2022 Yukon AT4

The first 2000 mi the truck all of a sudden wouldn't turn over. I took it to the dealer and they diagnosed it as a bad battery, they replaced it. At 25,000 mi the truck all of a sudden shut down on the freeway, it took 2hrs to get it towed to my dealer. They called me back two days later and said it had engine failure on my 6.2 engine. I needed a brand new engine. For almost 80,000 dollars youwouldn't think I would haveto go through these problems. And I guess GM has been aware of issues in these motors.

Wwsmith on August 18, 2022

6.2L 12000 mile engine replacement

II have a 2021 Chevy Silverado trail boss with a 6.2 L engine. The vehicle has 12,000 miles on it. Entering the highway I accelerated to get up to speed. I let off the gas pedal and the engine light came on. Then engine shut down. The truck was towed to the dealer. The dealer called to say that the truck engine was totally seized, which he said, was not uncommon for the 6.2. Hopefully, he said, that they can obtain a new engine and I should have the truck back to me in a month.

Mark on October 24, 2023

GM needs to fix the problems with the 6.2

I had a catastrophic failure on a 6.2 that was purchased new had only 28k miles. At least it was replaced through the warranty, but how can it receive ANY reliability reward when it barely gets through the "break-in?" Lifters started knocking, truck shut off on the interstate, and was told it had locked up by the dealership. Every major issue hit within a 5 mile period...thanks GM! Try resolving the issue instead of creating an excuse!

Glenn Walker on March 5, 2024

Blown motor....again

Bought 2021 GMC AT4 with 12,k miles, changed oil every 5k with mobil1 full synthetic, Motor blew at 22k, the dealership said it would be owner pay because the tech that tore it down said "the oil was black". After 30 hours of wasting my time talking to dealer, owner of dealership and many people from GM they finally covered it. Now at 90k motor just went sky high again. Never buying a GM again. Stay away!!!!

Jim on October 11, 2023

GM 6.2 Lt problems in 2012 Camaro SS with 68K miles

At 62000 miles last September I had to change an oil pump. It failed again and was repaired in April 2023 under warranty. Now 3000 miles later I have a complete engine replacement needed due to lifter failure. All work done at GM dealership. I have hadCamaro since new and always maintained it properly. No help so far on motor replacement. Really sucks since GM knows history of oil pump failures in 6.2.

Steve Keipper on November 22, 2021

Steve.Keipper@McKesson.com

2015 Yukon Denali. 77,500 miles. Fully tuned up. Fluids changed. November 17th it shuddered and began running rough while driving 30 mph on the highway. We went directly to the GM Dealer and it has a bent push rod. $3750 to repair it. The solenoid in the advanced Fuel Management system hesitated and that is all it takes for the lifter to close and BANG - $3,750 bucks to finx it ! 7,000

Dan on November 22, 2023

On my 3rd engine 2021 TrailBoss Custom 6.2L

6.2L has been unreliable in 2 years and 72000km I'm now on my 3rd engine. 1st Failure @ 44000km Thrust bearing failure, 2nd failure @72000km (28000km on engine) #1&2 Rod bearing failures both require full long block replacement and new rads. Super disappointed in GM they offered a free oil change for my troubles... I'll be trading this in and cutting my losses.

Bryan Redfern on February 28, 2022

Self-employed

I have a 2012 Cadillac Escalade EXT that now has 58K kms. On the odo. It too, has the Fuel Injected GM 6.2 Litre in it. I have not had a moments trouble with it, it has been just GREAT in all respects, performance, handling, comfort (ride) fit & finish.... Everything. I have also found the two (2)GM dealerships I use to be excellent in all my servicing needs.

TODD J on November 26, 2023

2021 GM 6.2 lifter failure

Our 3rd Yukon is a 2021 Denali 30K on a family holiday vacation 600 miles from home the lifters failed I cant begin to tell you how disappointing it is to try to find a dealer on a holiday weekend to work on your car.. Find a rental car and drive home 600 miles and wait 3 weeks until your car is done fly back down and drive home again. GM NOT OK!!!!

Jj on January 24, 2024

276000 and ok

No problems . 2014 Yukon denali runs smooth and no oil between 6000 mile oil changes. Use mobil1 euro0-40. Dexos made a racket , now nice and quiet. I take it out of my Porsche annd corvettes for their its annual oil change and run it in the denali. What did gm do to this fantastic engine. Don’t know if I can trust a 2024.

Lloyd J Hogan on September 19, 2023

Knocking

Bought the GMC Sierra brand new in 2013. After about a month of driving I noticed a knocking in the engine. Took to dealer could not find anything wrong with the motor. Did replace the transmission twice. Still have the truck, engine still running good with almost 300,000 miles on it. Also replaced the oil pressure sensor.

Roger C. on January 21, 2023

2022 GMC Sierra 6.2L Failed

I have a 2022 GMC with 30,000. Had a loud knock in the engine compartment on arecent business trip. Towed it to the local GMC dealership for the service department to check out. Spun every bearing. Replacement motors are on a nation wide shortage. Could be 3 months before they have fix it.

Chevy to the levy on December 5, 2022

2007 gmc denali

208k miles, still strong af.. Get to 80 and it doesn't want to go faster unless u really m a ke her but she's got n plenty of pedal left...tbh, prob needs looked at very slight knock but no lights on. I've still got full replacement warranty so I kinda hope she gives out soon 🤣🤣

Greg Jones on September 20, 2022

6.2 at 161,000 miles

2014 GMC Yukon XL 6.2 working great, keep the oil changed and drive. I tow a Travel trailer lots, a little over 5500 lbs. Got the truck off lease with 102 on it. All repair records from dealer too. Guy did Maintenace by the book, so I was not worried about the miles and still aren't.

MK Smith on February 8, 2023

2023 Yukon Denali XL

Only 5 weeks on the road and 2K miles engine seized after hearing what sounded like a belt off, flapping noise. It wouldn't accelerate so pulled over then engine went dead. The week prior the engine had seized while driving, slowly thankfully. Dealership says it needs a new engine!

Larry on March 27, 2024

No problems

After reading these reviews I feel blessed. I am on my 3rd vehicle with the 6.2 engine. My first 2 were Escalades. I now have a 2019 Sierra 1500 Denali. Knock on wood I have never had any major problems.

RICK C on February 9, 2023

2022 6.2 silverado LTD LTZ Z71

11000 miles -engine gone. Dealership has had it 9 weeks. Crank bearing stacked and metal in the valve covers. Engine on nationwide backorder. WILL PROBABLY BE TELLING GM THEY CAN HAVE IT BACK !!!

Cody on December 1, 2023

223k miles so far so good

Only issue so far is broken motor mount, leaking axle seal and replaced the 6l80 transmission at 200k miles. Mpg sucks 11city 17hwy but can also pass people uphill while pulling a trailer. :)

Keith on June 2, 2022

2014 GMC Serria Crewcab 4x4 SLT 6.2L

Howling noise when I step on the accelerator and then when take my foot off it stops and starts again when I step on accelerator again. What could this be?

Chazwell on March 11, 2024

Not a single problem

2019 Sierra Denali with the 6.2L and 45,000 miles. Not one single issue (knocking on wood). Runs great and it’s a fantastic truck overall

Pat R on March 25, 2024

Camshaft failure

I have a 2013 Yukon 6.2 Finally after 510000 km My cam failed Going to put in a new engineNever Had any engine problems up till now

Robby Clower on October 29, 2021

Robbyclower@gmail.com

I'm getting a little steering wheel vibration when the engine stalls, doesn't seem serious but other wise a great 6.2

Juan H. Rambla on November 24, 2022

Motor6.2

The motor in not good believe me

Marie A