What are the most common GMC Yukon XL problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 1,310+ owner reports, the 2008 GMC Yukon XL has 10 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Brake Line Corrosion and Failure (GMT900 Platform), 6L80/6L90 Transmission Cooler Line Leak at Crimp/Fitting (Fluid Loss), Washer Fluid Heater Ground Wire Overheating — Recall 08V441. Of these, 5 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the GMC Yukon XL reliable?
The 2008 GMC Yukon XL has 10 known issues documented across 1,310+ owner reports. 5 issues are rated critical: Brake Line Corrosion and Failure (GMT900 Platform) and 6L80/6L90 Transmission Cooler Line Leak at Crimp/Fitting (Fluid Loss) and Washer Fluid Heater Ground Wire Overheating — Recall 08V441 and Heated Washer Fluid Module Fire Hazard (Recall 10V240000) and Active Fuel Management (AFM) Lifter Failure and Tick. 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.
How much does it cost to fix common GMC Yukon XL problems?
Repair costs for known GMC Yukon XL issues range from $90 to $4,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Brake Line Corrosion and Failure (GMT900 Platform), typically costs $600-$2,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2007-2014 GMC Yukon XL Brake Line Corrosion and Failure (GMT900 Platform)?
The 2007-2014 Yukon XL shares the GMT900 platform with the Suburban, Silverado, and Sierra, and suffers the same steel brake line corrosion issue in salt-belt states. Factory lines corrode externally and can rupture without warning. NHTSA Recall 17V-449 covers limited VINs. Full-… Repairs typically run $600-$2,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2007-2016 GMC Yukon XL 6L80/6L90 Transmission Cooler Line Leak at Crimp/Fitting (Fluid Loss)?
GMT900 and early K2XX Yukon XL models with 6L80/6L90 transmissions commonly develop leaks at the transmission cooler line crimps or quick-connect fittings. Owners report red fluid spots, low transmission fluid, and in severe cases slipping or overheating if fluid loss is signific… Repairs typically run $250-$900. Severity: high.
What is the 2007-2008 GMC Yukon XL Washer Fluid Heater Ground Wire Overheating — Recall 08V441?
The 2007 and 2008 Yukon XL is on the vehicle list for NHTSA recall 08V441000, provided it was equipped with the heated wiper washer fluid system. A short circuit on the printed circuit board for the washer fluid heater can overheat the control-circuit ground wire. The recall reco… Severity: high.
What is the 2007-2009 GMC Yukon XL Heated Washer Fluid Module Fire Hazard (Recall 10V240000)?
2007-2009 GMC Yukon XL models built with the heated washer fluid system are named in NHTSA recall 10V240000. The heated washer module's printed circuit board can short electrically; GM's 2008 recall added a fuse to the control circuit harness to address the potential consequences… Severity: high.
What is the 2007-2019 GMC Yukon XL Active Fuel Management (AFM) Lifter Failure and Tick?
The Yukon XL with the 5.3L or 6.2L V8 and Active Fuel Management (AFM/DOD) system develops hydraulic valve lifter failures. The AFM lifters, which collapse to deactivate cylinders for fuel economy, fail and cause persistent ticking noise, misfires, and potential camshaft damage. Repairs typically run $1,500-$4,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2007-2020 GMC Yukon XL Cracked Exhaust Manifold Bolts / Manifold Leak (5.3L/6.2L V8) Causing Cold-Start Tick?
Yukon XL V8 engines (notably 5.3L and 6.2L) can develop broken exhaust manifold bolts and/or warped manifolds, leading to an exhaust leak that is loudest on cold start. Owners describe a ticking sound that diminishes as the engine warms and the manifold expands. This is a well-do… Repairs typically run $300-$1,800. Severity: medium.
What is the 2007-2020 GMC Yukon XL Rear Air Suspension (Auto-Leveling) Compressor Failure / Air Shock Leaks (Z55/Z95 equipped)?
Yukon XL models equipped with rear auto-leveling air suspension can suffer compressor burnout or air shock/air line leaks, causing the rear to sag and triggering suspension warnings. Owners commonly report the compressor running frequently or continuously before failing, and the… Repairs typically run $450-$1,800. Severity: medium.
What is the 2007-2019 GMC Yukon XL AC Compressor and Rear AC System Failure?
The Yukon XL (like all GMT900 full-size GM SUVs) has a high rate of AC compressor failure, often before 80,000 miles. When the compressor seizes, metal debris contaminates the entire system. The dual-zone system with separate rear AC is complex and expensive to repair. Rear AC li… Repairs typically run $800-$2,500. Severity: medium.
What is the 2007-2020 GMC Yukon XL Door Handle/Linkage Failure (Exterior Handle Pulls but Door Won’t Open)?
Yukon XL owner reports frequently cite exterior door handles or internal linkage rods/clips failing, causing the handle to move without unlatching the door. This can occur on front or rear doors and may worsen in cold weather or after repeated use as plastic clips fatigue. The is… Repairs typically run $120-$550. Severity: low.
What is the 2007-2020 GMC Yukon XL Rear Wiper Motor/Washer Hose Failure (No Rear Wipe or Washer Spray)?
Yukon XL vehicles commonly experience rear wiper motor failure or washer hose disconnection/leaks in the liftgate area, resulting in loss of rear wiping or washer function. Owners report the rear wiper stopping intermittently, moving slowly, or not operating at all, and washer fl… Repairs typically run $90-$450. Severity: low.
