Common GMC Yukon Failures: Breakdowns, Solutions And More!

Powerful engine options, a nice smooth ride, and plenty of room for passengers and cargo make the GMC Yukon a great SUV. Its new generations boast improved steering, stylish interiors, the latest safety features, and other enhancements. Despite all these comforts, the GMC Yukon is not without its problems, so it is important that you know the   common faults of the GMC Yukon .

But even the older models are an excellent investment with good resale value for years to come. The price of a Yukon in good condition will only depreciate 42% after five years.

How good is the GMC Yukon?

When it comes to reliability, the GMC Yukon is considered above average for a full-size SUV. It has been given a reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5.0, putting it sixth out of 14 models tested.

It also has average ownership costs compared to other SUVs . And while its repair jobs are more likely to incur higher costs than other types of vehicles, there’s only a medium chance that a part on the GMC Yukon could break.

The GMC Yukon can run trouble-free for many years as long as you take good care of it. Follow GMC’s recommended maintenance schedule and replace damaged or worn parts as soon as possible.

Common GMC Yukon Faults

First produced in 1993, the Yukon went through its share of ups and downs. The 2015 GMC Yukon was identified as the worst model year based on the number of complaints about it and the severity of the problems reported. However, it is possible to mitigate these failures if you know about them in advance and prepare accordingly. Common GMC Yukon faults are as follows:

1. Heating and air conditioning problems

The heating and air conditioning system maintains the cabin temperature at a comfortable level. Given the spacious interior of the GMC Yukon, its cabin can be very unpleasant if the air conditioning stops working properly.

Unfortunately, air conditioning related issues affect several units of the 2015 GMC Yukon. Many owners have complained that the A/C was unable to cool the air blown into the cabin . The 2016 and 2017 models are also prone to developing A/C issues.

Condenser failure is one of the most likely suspects behind an A/C malfunction. A cracked or leaking condenser can prevent the air conditioner from cooling indoor air. Other possible reasons for A/C malfunctions are broken lines, leaking compressor lines, and faulty compressors.

Even if the A/C works fine, other issues with the GMC Yukon’s HVAC system can make driving the SUV uncomfortable. A poor recirculation function allows unpleasant odors from outside the vehicle to enter the cabin. The heater can also turn on and off without warning, which can make driving difficult on hot days.

2. Light failures

If you’ve ever owned a GMC Yukon, chances are you’ve had to replace your taillight assembly at least once in its lifetime. Taillights are the parts most likely to fail early on any Yukon model year at average mileage of 60,000 miles. This problem is common on many 2015 GMC Yukon vehicles.

Depending on factors like the model year, a taillight problem can present with symptoms ranging from moisture appearing on the lens to not working at all. You will have to remove the malfunctioning taillight and install a new one before you can legally and safely drive at night.

The tail lights on the GMC Yukon aren’t the only lights on the vehicle that can develop problems. Moisture can form on the lens of headlights and brake lights as well. In some cases, the turn signal light may also not come on when making a turn.

3. Problems with accessories and interior

One of the GMC Yukon’s strongest points is its excellent interior and its wide range of practical accessories. So you may be surprised to know that many Yukon owners have raised many issues related to their SUV’s interior parts and accessories.

The 2007 GMC Yukon received the most complaints regarding its accessories and interior . However, the 2015 model year comes close, with loud control panel noises being the most reported issue in this category. The 2015 GMC Yukon’s control panel encompasses numerous cables, wires, and other parts. When one of these parts becomes loose, it can vibrate while the car is running and make clicking or rattling noises.

Electronic accessories from same model year Yukons may also operate. Many owners have expressed frustration with the model’s climate control panel, console phone, front-facing camera, and USB charging ports refusing to work.

A different type of interior panel problem appears on units from the 2010, 2011 and 2013 model years. The control panel from those years can fracture and become an eyesore that reduces the resale value of the SUV.

4. Transmission problems

Problems related to the transmission of the GMC Yukon are not as common as those in the previous categories. However, they can hinder the performance of the SUV on the road and increase the risk of an accident by making it difficult or even impossible to change gears.

It should come as no surprise that several 2015 model year units have received the highest number of complaints about their transmission. Owners have reported problems such as hesitation, vibration, and pulling. Others have pointed out that your transmission tends to shift into 4WD without warning, making turning dangerous . In some 2016 GMC Yukons, the transmission may also shake and vibrate every time the driver shifts gears.

In summary

Whether you’re planning to take a family road trip or haul anything but an oversized load, the GMC Yukon will serve you well. Learning about the most commonly reported problems with the model you own or plan to buy will help you keep it in the best possible condition.