There are no safety recalls for the 2018 GMC Sierra Denali, but owners have filed 17 complaints with NHTSA.
2018 GMC Sierra Denali problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|
| Engine | 5 | |
| Service Brakes | 4 | |
| Structure | 4 | |
| Exterior Lighting | 3 | |
| Steering | 3 | |
| Electronic Stability Control (ESC) | 2 | |
| Power Train | 2 | |
| Unknown or Other | 1 | |
| Wheels | 1 | |
| Suspension | 1 | |
Most reported parts
- Structure › Body — 3
- Exterior Lighting › Headlights — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 28,000 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 2018 GMC Sierra Denali complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Power Train · at 87,000 miles · reported Apr 2, 2026
The contact owns a 2018 GMC Sierra Denali 1500. The contact stated that on several occasions while driving at speeds over 30 MPH, the vehicle started shaking abnormally. The contact stated that the vehicle stalled while driving on three separate occasions and stalled twice while slowing down. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was able to restart each time, but on one occasion, several attempts were needed to restart the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was diagnosed, and determined that the transmission, torque converter, exhaust gaskets, filter, and 8D…
Engine · at 107,000 miles · reported Mar 11, 2026
The contact owns a 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, and while the vehicle was parked, the running boards unexpectedly lowered. Additionally, there was oil leaking from the vehicle, and the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with camshaft failure. The contact was informed that the camshaft needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 107,000.
Structure · at 35,000 miles · reported Jun 29, 2023
The contact owns a 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali. The contact stated while exiting a parking lot, the passengerâs side running board detached from the vehicle causing minor damages to the passengerâs side of the vehicle. There was no warning light illuminated. The dealer was contacted but provided no assistance and advised the contact that the running board needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was 35,000.
Service Brakes · at 73,890 miles · reported Apr 14, 2021
Certain 2018 gmc sierra 1500 denalis were issued a recall for the "electronic brake control module". For my VIN, it doesn't show that that issue needs to be fixed (I just purchased this truck last week), but it indeed does. When coasting at a low speed on a small hill, brakes almost feel non existent. Gmc recalled many of their vehicles to get this issue sorted out with a simple, "software update". For some odd reason my gmc's VIN wasn't up for a recall when it clearly needs one, im pleading for some help; I'm worried for my safety because of this manufacturer defect. Any help is appreciated…
Structure · at 61,000 miles · reported Apr 5, 2021
Hood vent fell off while driving normal speeds on the highway and hit the car behind me. I feel that the cheap plastic is defective and could cause a problem with the part going airborne at high speeds and hitting other cars.
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2018 GMC Sierra Denali have any recalls?
No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2018 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 2018 GMC Sierra Denali?
Owners report engine problems most often (5 reports), followed by service brakes (4). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 28,000 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.