WORST Gmc Yukon Years To Avoid, as per Real Owner Complaints

If you’re thinking about getting a GMC Yukon, watch out for the 2021 models. They tend to have high maintenance costs and frequent engine problems.

These issues aren’t rare; models from 2007-2008 and 2010-2012 also have a history of burning too much oil and engine misfires. Knowing which years to avoid can help you steer clear of headaches and costly repairs if you’re considering a used Yukon.

Why do these problems keep happening in different years, and what specific issues should you be on the lookout for?

Key Takeaways

• Stay away from the 2007-2008, 2010-2012, 2015-2016, and 2021 Yukon models because they have engine and transmission problems.
• These problems often include using too much oil, engine misfires, and breakdowns that can be expensive to fix.
• The 2021 GMC Yukon models also tend to have higher maintenance costs and reliability issues.
• Models from the early 2000s usually have transmission troubles, like slipping and rough shifting.
• Early 2010s models often deal with electrical issues, such as battery drainage and starting problems.

Overview of Problematic Years

If you’re thinking about buying a GMC Yukon, be careful with the 2007-2008, 2010-2012, 2015-2016, and 2021 models. These years are known for big engine and transmission problems.

Common issues include burning too much oil, misfiring, and sometimes the engine completely failing. These problems can be expensive to fix and can cause the car to break down often, making it unreliable.

The 2021 Yukon also has higher maintenance costs, which makes owning it more complicated. Knowing about these issues can help you avoid a lot of trouble and choose a better model.

Common Issues in Early Models

When looking at older GMC Yukon models, you might come across some major problems. These can include using up too much engine oil, problems with the transmission, and ongoing electrical issues.

These problems can hurt the vehicle’s performance and lead to expensive fixes.

Knowing about these common issues can help you decide if buying one is right for you.

Engine Oil Consumption Problems

Early GMC Yukon models, especially those from the late 90s to mid-2000s, often have significant issues with engine oil consumption. This problem usually comes from leaking coolant caused by cracked intake manifold gaskets. Excessive oil consumption is also linked to problems with GM’s DexCool coolant.

Here’s a simple way to understand the issue:

1. Leaking Coolant: Cracked gaskets cause coolant leaks, which make the engine use more oil.
2. Frequent Monitoring: Owners need to regularly check oil levels to avoid serious engine damage.
3. Preventative Measures: Fixing coolant leaks early can prevent too much oil consumption and potential engine failure.

Keeping an eye on these issues and fixing them quickly is crucial to keeping your early model Yukon running well.

Transmission System Failures

Transmission system failures are a major concern for early 2000s GMC Yukon models, often causing drivability and reliability issues. You might experience problems like slipping transmissions and rough shifting. These failures can make driving unpredictable and unsafe.

Additionally, shifter interlock problems can stop you from properly engaging park mode, making starting and parking your vehicle difficult. Drivers have reported noises that indicate transmission slippage, which is a clear warning sign of problems.

While these issues are more common in early models, they show the need to be careful when buying a used GMC Yukon from this time period. Fixing these problems quickly is crucial for keeping your vehicle safe and running well.

Electrical System Issues

GMC Yukon models, especially those from the early 2010s, often have electrical problems that can be both annoying and expensive to fix. For example, the 2016 Yukon often has issues with the electrical system draining the battery, causing the car to not start. This problem gets worse in cold weather, making the car unreliable for daily use. Figuring out and fixing these electrical problems can be complicated and costly.

Here’s a breakdown:

1. Battery Drains: The battery keeps losing charge.
2. Starting Issues: The car often won’t start, especially in cold weather.
3. Expensive Repairs: Fixing these electrical problems can cost a lot.

Regular maintenance, washing, and storing the car in a garage can help with some of these electrical issues. Having an extended warranty can also save you money on these common problems.

2002 Yukon Problems

When looking at a GMC Yukon, keep in mind two main problems: oil leaks and transmission issues.

Oil leaks can cause serious engine damage if not fixed quickly, which can affect how well your vehicle runs and how long it lasts.

Also, there have been reports of unreliable transmissions that can fail unexpectedly and lead to expensive repairs.

Engine Oil Leak Issues

Engine oil leaks are a big problem in some GMC Yukon models, especially those made in 2002, 2003, 2007, 2013, 2015, 2016, and 2022. These leaks can cause major maintenance headaches and unexpected costs. If you have a Yukon from these years, you might notice:

1. Oil spots under your vehicle.
2. Lower engine performance because of low oil levels.
3. High repair costs to fix the leaks.

It’s crucial to fix these issues quickly to avoid serious engine damage and keep your vehicle running smoothly. Catching oil leaks early can save you a lot of money and make sure your Yukon stays in good shape.

Regular checks and timely maintenance are important for these GMC Yukon models.

Transmission Reliability Concerns

While engine oil leaks are a big deal, transmission problems are another headache for some GMC Yukon models. Drivers have reported transmissions slipping and rough shifting, which can mess with the vehicle’s performance and lifespan. There are also issues with the shifter interlock, causing problems when trying to park.

Some models even suffer from sudden power losses due to driveshaft issues. These transmission problems add to the list of reasons to avoid certain Yukon model years. Fixing these transmission issues is crucial to keep your Yukon reliable and safe.

2003 Yukon Issues

If you’re thinking about buying a GMC Yukon, there are three big problems to watch out for: engine issues, transmission troubles, and high maintenance costs.

First, engine problems are a big deal in the 2003, 2008, and 2010-2013 models. These issues can be expensive to fix and make the vehicle less reliable.

Second, many owners of the 2001, 2004, and 2006 Yukons have reported transmission problems, which also lead to costly and frequent repairs.

Lastly, keeping a Yukon running can be pricey, especially if you have a 2001, 2006, or 2012 model.

When you’re looking at a Yukon, remember these three things:

1. Engine failures in certain years.
2. Transmission problems that are expensive to fix.
3. High maintenance costs in some models.

Being aware of these issues can help you make a better decision.

2007 Yukon Concerns

If you’re thinking about buying a 2007 GMC Yukon, there are some important issues to be aware of.

First, these vehicles often consume a lot of oil, especially the ones with Vortec engines, which can lead to frequent oil top-offs and even engine damage.

Second, the air conditioning systems are prone to leaking and failing, making for uncomfortable drives.

Third, the electrical systems in third-generation models can have problems that cause sudden braking issues.

Fourth, faulty sensors can make the vehicle’s performance unreliable.

Fifth, there have been recalls due to power steering problems, especially in the 2015 models.

Sixth, issues with the brake booster vacuum pump have led to safety concerns and even lawsuits.

Lastly, the heaters can malfunction, making the cabin uncomfortable.

Keep these problems in mind if you’re considering a GMC Yukon.

2013 Yukon Reliability

When looking at how reliable the GMC Yukon is, it’s important to know about some common issues that have been reported over the years.

Here are a few problems you should be aware of:

1. Transmission Problems: These include the transmission slipping, issues with the shifter, and rough shifting.
2. Electrical Issues: Models from the third generation often have problems with the A/C and heater, exterior lights, and stability control.
3. Safety Concerns: There have been recalls for problems with the airbag system, like inflator explosions, to improve passenger safety.

Knowing about these issues can help you understand how reliable the GMC Yukon is and make better decisions.

2015 Yukon Drawbacks

Some GMC Yukon model years have had significant problems that affect their reliability and performance. The worst years, particularly 2002, 2003, 2007, 2013, 2015, 2016, and 2022, have experienced various issues.

These include problems with the automatic transmission, like slipping and rough shifting, as well as shifter interlock failures. There have also been common complaints about engine oil leaks and driveshaft assembly issues, which can lead to power loss.

Safety concerns have been raised due to airbag system malfunctions and sudden braking caused by faulty sensors. These years have seen recalls and numerous complaints, making them less reliable and more prone to safety risks.

2016 Yukon Complaints

Many owners of the 2016 GMC Yukon have reported frequent problems with the car not starting and ongoing electrical issues. Here are three main problems to be aware of:

1. Electrical Issues:

The battery can drain quickly, especially in cold weather.

1. Starting Problems:

Sometimes the car won’t start at all, leaving drivers stuck and needing immediate help.

1. Maintenance Difficulties:

Regular care like washing and parking in a garage is important but mightn’t stop these electrical problems.

Considering an extended warranty could be a smart move to cover any potential repairs. Being aware of these issues can help you decide if the 2016 Yukon is the right choice for you.

2021 Yukon Reliability

Looking at the reliability of the GMC Yukon means checking out certain model years that have had a lot of problems and recalls. The GMC Yukon has had a mixed history, with some years being less reliable than others.

For example, the 2002, 2003, 2007, and 2013 models are known for having issues like engine oil leaks, transmission problems, and power steering failures. There have also been many recalls for things like exploding airbag inflators and faulty driveshafts.

The 2015, 2016, and 2022 models have similar issues, which is something to think about if you’re looking to buy one. Knowing which years have these problems can help you avoid expensive repairs and make a better choice.

2022 Yukon Problems

When looking at the GMC Yukon, you should know about two main problems: issues with the automatic transmission and the airbag system. The transmission problems often show up as rough shifting or slipping, which can lead to:

1. Problems with the shifter causing the car to not stay in park.
2. Sudden loss of power due to issues with the driveshaft.
3. Faulty sensors causing unexpected braking.

These transmission issues can affect both safety and how well the car drives.

There are also significant safety concerns with the airbag system. Some models have been recalled because the airbag inflators could explode, potentially causing serious injuries.

Fixing these problems is crucial for making sure your GMC Yukon is safe and reliable to drive.

Electrical Issues in Yukon

You might run into electrical problems with some Yukon models, like the 2016. These issues include the car not starting at all and battery drains.

Figuring out what’s wrong can be tricky, especially in cold weather.

To help avoid these problems, think about getting an extended warranty and keeping up with regular maintenance.

Common Electrical Problems

A lot of GMC Yukon owners, especially those with the 2016 model, face annoying electrical problems like the car not starting and unexpected battery drains. These issues can make it hard to start your car, especially in cold weather. It might be tough to figure out what’s causing these battery drains, but knowing the common issues can help.

1. Car won’t start with no click: This is often due to problems with the battery or starter, which can leave you stuck.
2. Unexpected battery drains: These can drain your battery overnight, making it hard to start your car in the morning.
3. Worse in winter: Cold weather can make starting problems even worse, adding to your frustration.

Extended warranties can be helpful for covering these repairs, but staying informed and keeping an eye on your car can help you handle these common electrical problems better.

Troubleshooting and Prevention

To fix and prevent electrical problems in your 2016 GMC Yukon, start by regularly checking the battery and starter connections for any signs of wear or rust. Dealing with these parts can help avoid starting issues, like the common no-click-no-start problem.

Winter weather can make these problems worse, so it’s especially important to do these checks during the colder months. Think about getting an extended warranty to cover potential electrical repairs, as these can be expensive.

Also, keep up with regular maintenance, like washing the car and storing it in a garage, to prevent electrical drains. Fixing any electrical issues right away will ensure a comfortable driving experience and reduce the risk of starting problems.

Taking these steps can make your GMC Yukon more reliable.

Transmission Faults in Yukon

Over the years, certain GMC Yukon models have had problems with their automatic transmissions, causing issues like slipping gears and rough shifting. These problems are especially common in the 2002, 2003, 2007, 2013, 2015, 2016, and 2022 models.

When looking at transmission issues, you should watch out for:

1. Shifter interlock problems: These can prevent the car from staying in park, which is unsafe.
2. Driveshaft issues: Sudden loss of power can increase the risk of accidents.
3. Electrical problems: Malfunctions with the A/C heater, exterior lights, and stability control can affect how the vehicle performs.

A/C System Failures

Many GMC Yukon owners, especially those with models from 2014 to 2017, have had problems with their air conditioning systems. The main issue is leaks in the A/C condenser, which make driving uncomfortable.

Thousands of Yukon owners have reported broken hoses and leaking condensers, which can be expensive to fix. These ongoing A/C issues have led to many complaints, making these particular models less desirable if you want a reliable air conditioning system.

Fixing these problems can take a lot of time and money, adding to the frustration of owning a Yukon from these years.

Oil Consumption Concerns

If you own a GMC Yukon, be aware that it might use up oil faster than usual because of problems with the Vortec engine and DexCool coolant.

Using too much oil can cause the engine to break down, often due to coolant leaks and worn-out engine parts.

Fixing these issues quickly is important to keep your car running well and avoid expensive repairs.

Vortec Engine Issues

If you’re thinking about buying a GM Yukon with a Vortec engine, it’s important to know that these engines, especially from the late 90s to mid-2000s, often have problems with using too much oil. This is usually because of coolant leaks from cracked intake manifold gaskets. Here’s what you need to watch out for:

1. Low Oil Pressure: This can damage the engine.
2. High Maintenance Costs: You might need to add oil frequently and pay for repairs.
3. Poor Engine Performance: The engine mightn’t run as efficiently and could wear out faster.

Knowing about these common issues can help you make a smart choice and avoid expensive problems.

Always check for signs of high oil use and think about getting a professional inspection before you buy.

DexCool Coolant Problems

If you own a GMC Yukon, especially from the late ’90s to mid-2000s, you should know about a coolant called DexCool. This coolant has been known to cause problems by eroding engine parts, especially the intake manifold gaskets. When these gaskets crack and start leaking coolant, it can make your Yukon use more oil than usual.

Fixing these leaks quickly is important to avoid serious engine damage. Regularly checking and maintaining your Yukon for any DexCool-related issues can help keep your engine running longer.

Knowing how DexCool affects your oil consumption can help you decide what repairs and maintenance are needed to keep your vehicle in good shape.

Excessive Oil Consumption

Many GMC Yukon owners from the late ’90s to mid-2000s deal with high oil consumption because of coolant leaks caused by DexCool erosion. This issue often comes from the Vortec engines, where the coolant wears down important parts, leading to more oil being used.

If you have one of these models, it’s crucial to fix the coolant leaks quickly. Ignoring them can cause serious engine damage or even make the engine fail.

Here’s what you should do:

1. Check coolant levels regularly to catch leaks early.
2. Replace damaged parts to stop further erosion.
3. Keep an eye on oil levels to prevent using too much oil.

Knowing these steps is key to keeping your Yukon running well.

Safety Recalls and Legal Issues

Several GMC Yukon models have had serious safety recalls and legal problems, raising questions about how reliable and safe these vehicles are. The Takata airbag recall affected many Yukon units, putting you at risk of defective airbag inflators. GM also recalled 5th generation Yukon and Yukon XL models because of incorrect seat belt bolts, which can compromise safety during crashes. Legal issues have made things worse, with lawsuits focusing on faulty vacuum pumps that cause brake failures and problems with Vortec engine oil consumption.

Safety Issue	Affected Models
Takata Airbag Recall	Multiple Yukon models
Seat Belt Bolt Recall	5th Gen Yukon, Yukon XL
Brake Vacuum Pump	Various Yukon models
Vortec Engine	5.3L Vortec engine models

Because of these issues, it’s important to carefully check any GMC Yukon models you’re considering.

When looking at performance cars, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Gmc Acadia, Gmc Canyon, Gmc Sierra and Gmc Terrain. Knowing which model years to target and which to avoid is crucial. Our expert reviews break down these models, providing insights into the years that are celebrated for their engineering excellence and driving satisfaction, as well as those that are best to avoid due to potential issues.

Conclusion

If you want to avoid buying a problematic GMC Yukon, stay away from the 2007-2008, 2010-2012, 2015-2016, and 2021 models.

These years have a lot of engine and transmission issues, like using too much oil and frequent misfires. The 2021 model is especially bad because it costs a lot to maintain.

By knowing about these issues, you can make a smarter choice and avoid future trouble.

In short, pick carefully and drive with peace of mind.