2021-2022 GMC Rear Differential Problems

Learn about the the 2021 -2022 GMC Yukon rear differential problems consisting of loud noises, clicking sounds, and repairs exceeding 30 days.

The 2021 – 2022 GMC Yukon is a very popular SUV, but despite its popularity, many owners have experienced rear differential problems.

While the manufacturer claims its GMC Yukon suspension is ”first in class”, its rear differential problems drop it from a passing grade to a failing grade.

2021 GMC Yukon Rear Differential Problem Summary

The Problem: Owners of 2021 – 2022 GMC Yukon have reported clicking and banging noises due to a defective rear differential.

The Repair: If a rear differential noise is validated authorized dealers will complete repairs

NHTSA Campaign Number: 21-NA-028: For 2021 – 2022 GMC Yukon with Rear Differential Problems and Noises

What is the 2021 – 2022 GMC Rear Differential

The 2021 – 2022 GMC Yukon rear differential distributes power from the engine to the rear wheels of a vehicle. Its main function is to allow the rear wheels to rotate at different speeds due to changes in the road or during turns.

The rear differential provides a smooth driving performance, improving traction and handling, especially in situations where the left and right wheels need to rotate at different speeds, such as turns.

Noises and Sounds with the GMC Rear Differential

2021 -2022 GMC Yukon owners have reported rear differential problems, such as,  strange noises coming from the rear end, ranging from thumping sounds, clicking and loud clunking.

Just read the complaint by a 2021 -2022 GMC Yukon owner to Tahoe Yukon Forum

2021 Yukon with roaring noise while turning left or right at slow speeds…37000 miles, only been put into 4 wheel drive once. Just to test. There is a roaring noise while turning left or right at slow speed, (in parking lot or pulling out driveway) but clears when the Yukon is straightened up. It sounds like a hard rub but this has all been cleared. Of note, I activated the 4 wheel drive and drove about 50 yards, put back in 2 wheel drive and the roaring is gone. If the Yukon sits for more than an hour, the noise comes right back.

Another owner write in New TahoeYukon Forum:

Anyone else have an issue with a clicking sound from the rear of the car? Have a 2021 – 2022 Yukon SLT with 2k miles now. Towing my hybrid trailer with 2 sleds, maybe 1900 lbs total and there’s a constant clicking sound. Going to contact the dealer when my truck arrives but wanted to see if anyone else has experienced the same issue?

GMC Yukon Rear Differential TSB

GM has received numerous complaints regarding the unusual noises and sounds from the rear differential in the 2021 GMC Yukon as well as other models.

As a result of the rear differential problems, a TSB was issued for the 2021 -2022 GMC Yukon as well as as other models.

In January 2023 a Technical Service Bulletin was issued for the 2021 -2022 GMC Yukon rear differential problems.

According to the the GMC Rear Differential TSB:

Some customers may comment that when the vehicle is cold or has sat for several hours, a noise can be heard from the rear of the vehicle when making one or two turns

In addition to the 2021 – 2022 GMC Yukon rear differential TSB the following vehicles were also included:

2021 – 2022 GMC Yukon Rear Differential Repair

According to the GMC rear differential TSB, NHTSA  21-NA-028 the following repairs are to be completed by authorized GMC dealers if a noise is validated:

  1. Replace the rear differential axle lubricant.
  2. Bring the gear lubricant again up to operating temperature.
  3. Perform multiple figure eight or lock steer turning maneuvers to work the gear lubricant into the clutch pack.
  4. Allow the vehicle to cool (back to ambient temperature) and re-evaluate for clutch moan.

Lemon Law Information for your GMC Yukon with Rear Differential Problems

If your 2021 – 2022 GMC Yukon is experiencing a rear differential problems make sure you understand your lemon law rights and what you should do if you have a lemon.

Let the lemon law experts at David J. Gorberg & Associates help you. We’re PA Lemon Law, NJ Lemon Law, NY Lemon Law  and Hawaii Lemon Law Attorneys and can help you get a refund or new car.

You don’t need to take on GMC by yourself, we can assist you with your lemon law claim.

Contact us today and tell us about your lemon!