GMC Yukon Years To Avoid – Welcome to our informative guide on the GMC Yukon! If you’re considering this robust SUV, you’ve probably noticed its truck-like appearance and undeniable charm.
GMC has been producing the Yukon since 1993, and over the years, it has become a popular choice for those seeking a spacious and capable vehicle without compromising on performance.
In this article, we’ll delve into the best and worst years for the GMC Yukon, helping you make an informed decision when shopping for a used one.
While the Yukon is generally effective and reasonably priced, like any vehicle, it’s not without its drawbacks.
We’ll highlight the GMC Yukon years to avoid and also point out those high-performing years that still stand strong as great used vehicles.
Our goal is to equip you with valuable insights so that you can confidently navigate the market and find the perfect GMC Yukon for your needs.
Additionally, we’ll also shed light on the most common problems that some Yukon models may experience, allowing you to be well-prepared should you decide to become a proud Yukon owner.
Let’s dive in and discover the best and worst aspects of this iconic SUV!
GMC Yukon Years To Avoid
When it comes to choosing a reliable and well-performing SUV, the GMC Yukon stands out as a popular choice.
With nearly 30 years of production history, the Yukon has proven its worth in the automotive market.
However, not all model years are created equal, and there are certain years that are best avoided due to various issues reported by owners and critics.
GMC Yukon Years to Avoid: The Shortlist
Before we delve into the details, let’s take a quick look at the GMC Yukon years to avoid:
- 1999
- 2001
- 2003
- 2004
- 2005
- 2007
- 2015
- 2016
While this might seem like a considerable number of years to steer clear of, it’s essential to keep in mind that the Yukon’s overall reliability is relatively high.
The fact that only a handful of model years make this list is a positive indication of the SUV’s enduring performance.
The 1999 GMC Yukon: A Mixed Bag
The 1999 GMC Yukon finds itself on the list of years to avoid due to its fair share of reported problems. Compared to its predecessor and successor, the 1999 model year experienced more issues.
However, it’s worth noting that many of these problems are related to age rather than inherent design flaws.
With most ’99 Yukons having accumulated significant mileage, it’s not surprising that age-related problems may arise.
Read Also: GMC Terrain Years To Avoid
Despite this, the 1999 Yukon still holds up relatively well compared to other models on the avoid list.
The Run from 2003 to 2005: Decent Performance
The GMC Yukon model years spanning 2003 to 2005 represent a more reasonable option among the years to avoid.
While they might not perform as impressively as some other models, they still manage to hold their own.
In particular, the 2005 model shows slight improvements over its 2003 and 2004 counterparts, making it a relatively better choice if you’re considering a Yukon from this era.
The Troubled 2007 GMC Yukon
As a general rule of thumb, it’s often advisable to avoid the first models of each vehicle generation. In the case of the 2007 GMC Yukon, this advice rings true.
This particular model year faced numerous complaints and recalls, with over 600 complaints and four recalls logged for various issues.
One of the most prevalent complaints centered around excessive oil consumption, which was a prevalent problem occurring around 70,000 miles.
Owners also reported issues with the dashboard cracking, and unfortunately, by the time this problem surfaced, most vehicles were already out of warranty.
Consumer Reports rated the 2007 Yukon poorly, giving it a mere 1.0 out of 5.0 in reliability.
The Worst Model Year: 2015 GMC Yukon
Without a doubt, the 2015 GMC Yukon is the model year to avoid at all costs. With a staggering 800+ complaints and ten recalls, it has the highest number of reported issues on the list.
One of the most significant problems with the 2015 Yukon is its faulty taillight assembly, which tends to malfunction or go out unexpectedly.
This poses a significant safety concern, particularly while driving at night. Additionally, the A/C system of this model is prone to failure, often attributed to a broken condenser or compressor.
Read Also: GMC Acadia Years to Avoid
Considering the average price of $27,000 for a used 2015 Yukon, it’s clear that the potential issues far outweigh any benefits.
GMC Yukon Best Years
The GMC Yukon has long been revered for its imposing presence, spacious interior, and remarkable off-road capabilities.
As one of the largest SUVs in GMC’s lineup, it has garnered a strong following among families seeking a dependable and powerful vehicle.
However, not all Yukon models offer the same level of reliability, especially when considering used options.
So, which GMC Yukon years are the most reliable?
We’ll explore the more recent generations and highlight the most dependable years while also identifying models to avoid.
The Most Reliable GMC Yukon Years
When it comes to finding a reliable GMC Yukon, you’ll be pleased to know that there are several model years that stand out as solid choices.
If a year isn’t mentioned in our list of years to avoid, it’s likely to be a pretty reliable option. Here are some of the most reliable GMC Yukon model years:
2001 GMC Yukon: The Pinnacle of Reliability
Despite being more than two decades old, the 2001 GMC Yukon holds the crown as the most reliable year in the Yukon’s history. With its robust V8 engines, spacious interior, and standard AWD for the Denali model, the 2001 Yukon offers a compelling package.
According to CarComplaints.com, it has received a mere 280+ complaints and eight recalls, a testament to its dependable build.
The most significant issue reported is a faulty ABS module, which is relatively manageable.
Consumer Reports also lauds this model, awarding it a perfect reliability verdict of 5.0 out of 5.0.
2006 GMC Yukon: A Solid Option
The 2006 GMC Yukon faced some criticism for its build quality upon release. However, it has since proven to be a solid choice with decent reliability scores.
CarComplaints records only 56 complaints and three recalls for this pre-2010 large SUV.
Read Also: GMC Envoy Years to Avoid
While there were minor complaints about the tailgate, they don’t overshadow the overall reliability of this model. The 2006 Yukon remains an excellent choice for used SUV buyers.
2012 GMC Yukon: Top-Notch Reliability
Within the third generation of Yukon models, 2012 stands out as the most reliable. CarComplaints notes only 83 complaints and three recalls for this model year.
The primary issue reported is liftgate strut failure, which appears to be an isolated case.
Consumer Reports also commends the 2012 GMC Yukon, providing it with a reliability rating of 3.0 out of 5.0 and a 4.0 out of 5.0 score for owner satisfaction.
2013-2014 GMC Yukon: Solid Performers
Both the 2013 and 2014 GMC Yukon models offer long-term reliability. While they may not be absolute paragons of dependability, they do lack the major mechanical issues found in the years to avoid.
The 2013 Yukon receives only a few complaints and recalls, with carbon buildup and cracked dashboards being the most common issues.
The 2014 Yukon, on the other hand, has even fewer complaints, with paint quality being the main concern according to owners. Both of these models present sound choices for used SUV buyers.
2020 GMC Yukon: A Competent Family Hauler
Moving to the more recent years, the 2020 GMC Yukon stands out for its long-term reliability.
Consumer Reports gives it a perfect reliability score of 5.0 out of 5.0, with a customer satisfaction rating of 4.0 out of 5.0.
While it might not be the most reliable vehicle in its class, it still proves to be a competent and trustworthy large SUV, making it an excellent choice for families seeking ample interior space and a sophisticated infotainment system.
However, potential buyers should be aware of its lower scores in emergency handling and fuel economy.
GMC Yukon Problems
The GMC Yukon is a popular choice among SUV enthusiasts, known for its spacious interior, powerful performance, and off-road capabilities.
However, like any vehicle, it is not without its fair share of problems.
In this section, we’ll explore the most common issues faced by GMC Yukon owners, with a particular focus on the 2015 model year, which seems to be more susceptible to certain problems.
Let’s delve into the common GMC Yukon problems and potential solutions.
1. Tailgate Light Not Working Properly
One of the most frequently reported problems in GMC Yukons is the tailgate light not working correctly. While this issue is more of a cosmetic concern than a functional one, it can still be frustrating for owners.
Replacing just the light bulb won’t resolve this problem; the entire fixture needs replacement, making it a relatively expensive fix for a seemingly minor issue.
If you’re experiencing this problem, consult a professional technician who can provide guidance on finding a suitable replacement.
2. Excessive Oil Consumption
Excessive oil consumption is another prevalent problem, particularly in the GMC Yukon years to avoid. While the issue isn’t extreme, with most Yukons experiencing less oil consumption than a typical oil leak, it can still add to the overall maintenance costs.
Unfortunately, sealing the engine won’t resolve this problem, and it may worsen over time.
The best approach is to carry the appropriate weight of oil with you and check your oil levels regularly.
Staying on top of this issue can help prevent any significant wear and tear damage to your vehicle.
Read Also: GMC Sierra Years to Avoid
However, it’s essential to be prepared for the possibility of using more oil in the long run if you own a Yukon that exhibits excessive oil consumption.
3. AC Not Working Properly
Another common problem, particularly in the 2015 Yukon, is the air conditioning (AC) not functioning correctly. This issue can be relatively expensive to repair, with an average cost of around $1,000.
The 2015 Yukon seems to be more prone to AC failures compared to other models.
The specific type of failure can impact the overall cost of the repair, so it’s essential to have a professional technician diagnose the issue accurately.
4. Excessive Vibration From Transmission
In GMC Yukon years to avoid, another concerning problem is excessive vibration from the transmission.
Vibrations within the transmission can be indicative of internal issues, potentially leading to further damage if not addressed promptly.
While this problem is relatively rarer than some other issues mentioned, it should not be ignored.
If you notice excessive vibration from the transmission, it’s vital to have a qualified mechanic inspect and diagnose the problem to prevent any potential safety hazards.
How many miles do Yukons last?
If the Yukon is cared for according to the owner’s manual, it can last well over 200,000 miles. Some models have even been known to reach the 300,000 mark. This remarkable longevity is a testament to the Yukon’s durability and reliability when properly maintained.
Which is better Tahoe or Yukon?
In terms of ratings, the Yukon holds a slight advantage, earning a TCC Rating of 6.3 out of 10, while the Tahoe receives a 6.2 rating. The Yukon excels with its attractive aesthetics and offers greater space, especially in the XL body style.
On the other hand, the Tahoe may appeal to some buyers due to its slightly lower price compared to the Yukon.
Does GMC Yukons hold their value?
Yes, the GMC Yukon is known to hold its value well. Vehicles that receive Resale Value awards, like the GMC Yukon, typically retain around 68.38 percent or more of their original price on the used market.
This speaks to the strong demand and desirability of the Yukon even as a pre-owned vehicle.
Are Yukons expensive to fix?
The annual maintenance cost of a GMC Yukon is estimated to be around $747. However, it’s essential to note that repair and maintenance costs can vary depending on factors such as the vehicle’s age, mileage, location, and the chosen repair shop.
While the Yukon may require some investment in maintenance and repairs, its reliability and durability often offset these expenses in the long run.
Regular maintenance and prompt addressing of issues can help keep repair costs manageable and extend the vehicle’s lifespan.
Conclusion
When it comes to specific GMC Yukon years to avoid, the 2015 model stands out for its reported problems. Issues with tailgate lights, excessive oil consumption, AC malfunctions, and transmission vibrations have been common in this particular year.
Prospective buyers should be cautious and conduct thorough research when considering a used 2015 Yukon.
In the end, the GMC Yukon remains a commendable choice, with many years proven to be a reliable and dependable vehicle. It’s essential for potential buyers to weigh their priorities and preferences carefully when selecting a Yukon model.
With proper care and attention, the GMC Yukon can be a trustworthy and long-lasting companion for all your driving adventures.
So, if you’re in the market for a GMC Yukon, be sure to take note of the recommended years for reliability and keep an eye out for potential issues in the 2015 model. By making an informed decision, you can enjoy all the benefits that this impressive SUV has to offer while avoiding any unnecessary headaches down the road.