GMC Yukon Lemon Law

GM recalled about 597,630 U.S. vehicles with the 6.2-liter V8 L87 engine (NHTSA 25V274000), including 2021–2024 GMC Yukon and Yukon XL, because connecting-rod and crankshaft manufacturing defects can cause catastrophic engine failure and loss of propulsion. Vehicles that pass inspection switch to heavier 0W-40 oil; those that fail likely need an engine replacement.

The L87 6.2L has also drawn lifter-failure complaints (from the cylinder-deactivation system) — ticking, misfires, and power loss. Class actions (including McNamara v. General Motors) allege the defects cause propulsion loss and that the oil-change fix reduces fuel economy.

Joining a class action isn't the same as a Lemon Law claim and can cap your recovery. If your Yukon's engine can't be properly repaired after a reasonable number of attempts, or it's out of service for an extended time, California's Lemon Law may entitle you to a buyback, replacement, or cash settlement — with GM paying your attorney fees.

A recall is not automatically a lemon — it's the manufacturer acknowledging a defect and offering a free repair. California's Lemon Law (the Song-Beverly Act) comes into play when a substantial defect can't be fixed after a reasonable number of attempts, or when your Yukon has been out of service for 30 or more cumulative days.

If your GMC Yukon qualifies, you may be entitled to a buyback (a refund of what you've paid, minus a mileage offset), a replacement vehicle, or a cash-and-keep settlement — and GMC pays your attorney fees on a successful claim, so pursuing your case costs you nothing out of pocket.