There are no safety recalls for the 2020 GMC Sierra Denali, but owners have filed 11 complaints with NHTSA.
2020 GMC Sierra Denali problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|
| Engine | 6 | |
| Service Brakes | 2 | |
| Forward Collision Avoidance | 2 | |
| Electrical System | 1 | |
| Engine and Engine Cooling | 1 | |
Most reported parts
- Electrical System › Starter Assembly — 1
- Forward Collision Avoidance › Adaptive Cruise Control › Software — 1
- Forward Collision Avoidance › Adaptive Cruise Control — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 20,000 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 2020 GMC Sierra Denali complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Forward Collision Avoidance · at 99,000 miles · reported Sep 14, 2026
The contact owns a 2020 GMC Sierra Denali. The contact stated that while driving with Adaptive Cruise Control set to 55 MPH, the vehicle suddenly accelerated. The contact depressed the brake pedal to disengage the Adaptive Cruise Control settings, preventing the vehicle from crashing into the vehicle ahead. The contact stated that the failure had occurred while the Adaptive Cruise Control was engaged. The approximate failure mileage was 99,000.
Engine · at 25,000 miles · reported Sep 11, 2026
The contact owned a 2020 GMC Sierra Denali. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, there was an abnormal knocking sound coming from the engine compartment. The check engine warning light was intermittently illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer; however, the cause of the failure was not yet determined. The dealer advised the contact to purchase a new vehicle because the engine would eventually need to be replaced. The contact stated that at approximately 3,000 miles, there was an abnormal odor oil burning odor coming from the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle…
Engine · at 98,500 miles · reported Jun 16, 2026
The contact owns a 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali. The contact stated that while parking the vehicle, there was an abnormal grinding sound coming from the engine. There was no warning light illuminated. The local dealer was contacted about the failure; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 98,500.
Engine and Engine Cooling · at 190,000 miles · reported Nov 18, 2025
The contact owns a 2020 GMC Sierra Denali. The contact stated that while stopped at a traffic light with the brake pedal depressed, the vehicle shut off unexpectedly. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact made several attempts to restart the vehicle; however, the vehicle failed to restart. Due to the failure, the vehicle was towed to the dealer where a diagnostic test was performed. The contact was later informed that the engine had seized due to engine bearing failure, and the contact was provided an estimate for a new engine. Upon investigation, the contact discovered NHTSA…
Forward Collision Avoidance · at 6,700 miles · reported Nov 9, 2023
The contact owns a 2020 GMC Sierra Denali. The contact stated while driving 75 MPH, the Adaptive Cruise Control feature became inoperable. The contact stated that when the vehicle got too close to another vehicle, the Adaptive Cruise Control feature failed to activate as designed. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 6,700. The VIN was unavailable.
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2020 GMC Sierra Denali have any recalls?
No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2020 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 2020 GMC Sierra Denali?
Owners report engine problems most often (6 reports), followed by service brakes (2). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 20,000 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.