There are no safety recalls for the 2016 GMC Sierra Denali, but owners have filed 30 complaints with NHTSA.
2016 GMC Sierra Denali problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|
| Power Train | 9 | |
| Service Brakes | 8 | |
| Steering | 6 | |
| Engine | 3 | |
| Unknown or Other | 2 | |
| Wheels | 2 | |
| Electrical System | 2 | |
| Exterior Lighting | 2 | |
| Visibility | 2 | |
| Seats | 1 | |
| Suspension | 1 | |
| Visibility/Wiper | 1 | |
Most reported parts
- Structure › Body — 1
- Exterior Lighting › Tail Lights — 1
- Visibility › Defroster/Defogger/Hvac System — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 48,000 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2016 GMC Sierra Denali complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Exterior Lighting · at 120,000 miles · reported Jan 29, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 GMC Sierra Denali. The contact stated while driving 10 MPH, the rear windshield exploded without impact. The contact stated that the rear fogger had been activated independently. There were no injuries sustained. There was water located in the third taillight. The contact noticed there was mold and mildew in the taillight. The contact was seeking assistance from the insurance company. The contact called the local dealer and was informed that there were no recalls on the VIN related to the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not…
Structure · at 115,200 miles · reported Mar 11, 2021
While driving 70mph on highway sunroof exploded. Screen was in place so glass shards did not enter the cabin. There was not an overpass nor large trucks in the area to be caused by debris or thrown rocks.
Steering · at 80,000 miles · reported Mar 9, 2021
Excessive slop and uncontrollable, unintended steering shifts causing vehicle to unexpectedly and suddenly veer out of lane of travel related to defective lash adjustment steering box
Service Brakes · at 77,000 miles · reported Oct 11, 2020
Apparently, the 8 speed automatic transmission has issues with wiring harness and hard shifting which the manufacturer has 18 service bulletins out on yet still will not recall and fix problems. Also the brake system is faulty and unsafe it loses pressure and even braking at various speeds. After taking it to the dealership they can not figure out why and say it is various parts and should be recalled but it is not as of yet. Gm knows of these issues and the 1000s of dollars customers have to pay for these repairs. This is wrong and needs to be rectified.
Engine · at 54,000 miles · reported Sep 2, 2020
Since I've owned this vehicle I have had transmission problems. Once it went from 70 to 20 on the highway.. It kicks or jerks at any speed... Especially going slow.. The shifting is horrible!!! The feeling of it losing power again like it did could cause serious damage to the transmission and unselfish and passengers.. I don't trust it on the highway!!! I keep a monitor connected to my truck at all times.. The dates coincide with the paperwork!! Ongoing tranny issues all the time!! I paid way to much for this lemon!! Engine vibrates around 80.. And if you don't use your blinker.. They truck…
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2016 GMC Sierra Denali have any recalls?
No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2016 GMC Sierra Denali as of this update. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for the latest status.
What is the most common problem with the 2016 GMC Sierra Denali?
Owners report power train problems most often (9 reports), followed by service brakes (8). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 48,000 miles.
Are GMC recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized GMC dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.