2003 model year · 0+ owner reports · Updated April 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 0+ owner reports, the 2003 GMC Yukon XL has 7 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is Front Hub Bearing and ABS Wheel Speed Sensor Corrosion Causing Unwanted ABS Activation ($180-$900 repair). Across all issues, repair costs range from $150 to $1,200. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
On the 2000-2006 GMC Yukon XL, gMT800 SUVs commonly develop corrosion under the front wheel speed sensors or wear in the hub bearing assembly, which alters the low-speed wheel speed signal. The result is unexpected ABS activation at parking-lot speeds, longer stopping distances, and a pulsating brake pedal even on dry pavement. GM documented this condition in service bulletins, and owners frequently report replacing hub assemblies to cure it.
Scan ABS wheel speed data during a low-speed stop and compare left and right front sensor readings. If one sensor drops out, inspect for rust buildup under the sensor or excessive hub play; cleaning the sensor mounting surface may help temporarily, but many vehicles need a complete front hub/bearing assembly with integrated sensor. Clear ABS codes and road-test after repair.
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
On the 2000-2006 GMC Yukon XL, gMT800 Yukon XL models frequently develop front wheel hub bearing wear, especially on higher-mileage 4WD vehicles. As the sealed hub loosens, owners report humming or growling that changes with steering input, wheel play, and in some cases false low-speed ABS activation because the integrated wheel speed sensor signal becomes erratic. This issue is widely documented in owner forums, repair databases, and NHTSA complaints.
Road-test for noise that changes during lane shifts, then inspect for wheel play and compare wheel speed sensor data side to side. Replace the complete hub/bearing assembly on the affected side; many technicians recommend quality OEM-grade hubs because cheap units often fail early. If ABS activation occurred, clear any stored codes and verify clean wheel speed signals after repair.
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
On the 2000-2006 GMC Yukon XL, a very common GMT800 complaint is a clunk, knock, or slight bind felt through the steering wheel due to wear in the intermediate steering shaft. Owners often notice it at low speeds over small bumps, during parking maneuvers, or when transitioning on and off the brake. GM issued multiple service bulletins and revised shaft/lubrication procedures for this condition.
Differentiate the noise from front suspension or steering gear play by checking the shaft for telescoping looseness and reproducing the clunk with the vehicle stationary. Depending on condition, the shaft can sometimes be lubricated per GM procedure, but replacement with the updated intermediate shaft is the more durable fix. After repair, verify steering wheel centering and absence of other front-end looseness.
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
On the 2003-2006 GMC Yukon XL, 2003-2006 GMT800 full-size GM SUVs commonly suffer instrument cluster failures caused by defective stepper motors and related solder/joint issues inside the cluster. Owners report speedometers reading far too high or low, fuel gauges stuck on empty or full, and intermittent tachometer/oil pressure/voltmeter operation. GM issued a special coverage adjustment for many vehicles in this family because the problem was so widespread.
Confirm the fault by comparing scan-tool data to gauge readings and checking for cluster self-test anomalies. The usual repair is instrument cluster rebuild or replacement with updated stepper motors; many owners use mail-in rebuild services. If mileage programming is required, use a qualified rebuilder or dealer-capable programming service.
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
On the 2000-2006 GMC Yukon XL, in-tank fuel pump module failure is a common GMT800 problem, especially as mileage climbs or when vehicles are frequently run near empty. Owners report extended cranking, hard starts after sitting, sudden stalling, loss of power under load, or complete no-start conditions. The issue is well represented in owner reports and repair histories across 5.3L, 6.0L, and 8.1L applications.
Verify fuel pressure at the rail and monitor pressure drop during key-on and cranking. If pressure is low or intermittent, replace the fuel pump module and inspect the electrical connector for heat damage; replacing the fuel filter at the same time is standard practice. On rusty vehicles, many owners choose to cut an access panel under the rear cargo area, though tank removal remains the factory method.
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
On the 2000-2006 GMC Yukon XL, the 4.8L, 5.3L, and 6.0L Vortec engines used in this generation commonly develop knock sensor faults because moisture collects in the valley beneath the intake manifold. Corrosion at the sensors or harness causes persistent P0327/P0332 codes, reduced spark advance, and occasional drivability complaints. This is a well-known GMT800 issue documented in GM service bulletins and owner forums.
Scan for knock sensor codes, remove the intake manifold, and inspect both sensors, the sub-harness, and the rubber grommet seals. Replace both knock sensors and the harness together, clean the valley thoroughly, and reseal the sensor wells/grommets to prevent future water intrusion. Many technicians also verify no coolant leaks or cowl water leaks are contributing.
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
On the 2000-2006 GMC Yukon XL, owners frequently report clicking behind the dash, air stuck on defrost or floor, or one side blowing the wrong temperature due to failed HVAC actuators. On Yukon XL models with front and rear climate systems, the mode and blend door actuators can strip gears or lose calibration over time. This is distinct from compressor failure and is a common repair on aging GMT800 SUVs.
Use the HVAC self-diagnostic procedure or a scan tool where available, then identify whether the failed unit is the mode, temperature, or recirculation actuator. Replace the faulty actuator, inspect the door for binding, and perform actuator recalibration by pulling HVAC fuses or using the proper relearn procedure. Access can range from easy under-dash work to more involved dash disassembly depending on actuator location.
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:PEDALS AND LINKAGES
ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE BRAKE PEDAL PUSHROD RETAINER MAY BE MISSING. IF THE RETAINER IS MISSING, THE BRAKE BOOSTER PUSHROD COULD DISENGAGE FROM THE BRAKE PEDAL.
POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION:SHIFT PATTERN INDICATOR
CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AN AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION, FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 102, "TRANSMISSION SHIFT LEVER SEQUENCE, STARTER INTERLOCK AND TRANSMISSION BRAKING EFFECT." UNDER CERTAIN VEHICLE STARTING CONDITIONS, THE SHIFT LEVER POSITION INDICATOR LOCATED IN THE INSTRUMENT PANEL CLUSTER MAY NOT ILLUMINATE. IF THE SHIFT LEVER POSITION INDICATOR DOES NOT ILLUMINATE, THE DRIVER MAY NOT KNOW WHICH GEAR THE VEHICLE IS IN.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
ON CERTAIN TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH AN 8.1L V8 (RPO L8-VIN G) ENGINE HAVE A CONDITION IN WHICH THE ENGINE FUEL RAIL PULSE DAMPER RETAINER CLIP MAY FRACTURE RESULTING IN INADEQUATE RETENTION OF THE DAMPER.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES AND PICKUP TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH 5.3L (RPO L59) V8 ENGINES, THE ENGINE FUEL RAIL CROSSOVER TUBE RETAINER SCREWS WERE NOT MANUFACTURED TO SPECIFICATIONS AND MAY BREAK.
WHEELS:HUB
CERTAIN FEDERAL-MOGUL REPLACEMENT WHEEL HUB ASSEMBLIES WITH THE BRAND NAMES: NATIONAL, CARQUEST P/NOS. 515020, 515021, 515025, 515053, 515054, 515059, AND 515060, SHIPPED BETWEEN JANUARY 23, 2006, AND DECEMBER 20, 2007, SOLD FOR LIGHT DUTY AND MEDIUM DUTY TRUCKS. THE INBOARD RETENTION NUT USED TO MAINTAIN HUB BEARING ASSEMBLY CAN LOOSEN RESULTING IN AN ABS LIGHT INDICATION, NOISE, AND/OR WHEEL SEPARATION.
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According to Au7o's analysis of 0+ owner reports, the 2003-2003 GMC Yukon XL has 7 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Front Hub Bearing and ABS Wheel Speed Sensor Corrosion Causing Unwanted ABS Activation, Instrument Cluster Stepper Motor Failure Causing Inaccurate Gauges, Fuel Pump Module Failure Leading to No-Start or Intermittent Stalling. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
The 2003-2003 GMC Yukon XL has 7 known issues documented across 0+ owner reports. 1 issue is rated critical: Front Hub Bearing and ABS Wheel Speed Sensor Corrosion Causing Unwanted ABS Activation. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
Repair costs for known GMC Yukon XL issues range from $150 to $1,200, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Front Hub Bearing and ABS Wheel Speed Sensor Corrosion Causing Unwanted ABS Activation, typically costs $180-$900 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
GMT800 SUVs commonly develop corrosion under the front wheel speed sensors or wear in the hub bearing assembly, which alters the low-speed wheel speed signal. The result is unexpected ABS activation at parking-lot speeds, longer stopping distances, and a pulsating brake pedal eve… Repairs typically run $180-$900. Severity: high.
2003-2006 GMT800 full-size GM SUVs commonly suffer instrument cluster failures caused by defective stepper motors and related solder/joint issues inside the cluster. Owners report speedometers reading far too high or low, fuel gauges stuck on empty or full, and intermittent tacho… Repairs typically run $250-$650. Severity: medium.
In-tank fuel pump module failure is a common GMT800 problem, especially as mileage climbs or when vehicles are frequently run near empty. Owners report extended cranking, hard starts after sitting, sudden stalling, loss of power under load, or complete no-start conditions. The is… Repairs typically run $500-$1,200. Severity: medium.
The 4.8L, 5.3L, and 6.0L Vortec engines used in this generation commonly develop knock sensor faults because moisture collects in the valley beneath the intake manifold. Corrosion at the sensors or harness causes persistent P0327/P0332 codes, reduced spark advance, and occasional… Repairs typically run $450-$1,100. Severity: medium.
GMT800 Yukon XL models frequently develop front wheel hub bearing wear, especially on higher-mileage 4WD vehicles. As the sealed hub loosens, owners report humming or growling that changes with steering input, wheel play, and in some cases false low-speed ABS activation because t… Repairs typically run $300-$900. Severity: medium.
Owners frequently report clicking behind the dash, air stuck on defrost or floor, or one side blowing the wrong temperature due to failed HVAC actuators. On Yukon XL models with front and rear climate systems, the mode and blend door actuators can strip gears or lose calibration… Repairs typically run $150-$900. Severity: medium.
A very common GMT800 complaint is a clunk, knock, or slight bind felt through the steering wheel due to wear in the intermediate steering shaft. Owners often notice it at low speeds over small bumps, during parking maneuvers, or when transitioning on and off the brake. GM issued… Repairs typically run $150-$450. Severity: low.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.
