2016 GMC Yukon XL Problems: 14 Issues Every Owner Should Know
2016 model year · 1,130+ owner reports · Updated June 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 1,130+ owner reports, the 2016 GMC Yukon XL has 14 documented known issues, with 5 rated critical. The most serious are 6L80/6L90 Transmission Cooler Line Leak at Crimp/Fitting (Fluid Loss) ($250-$900 repair), Magnetic Ride Control (MRC) Shock/Strut Fluid Leak and 'Service Suspension System' Warnings ($900-$3,200 repair), Takata Passenger Airbag Inflator Rupture Risk (Recall 174 / NHTSA 21V-050), Active Fuel Management (AFM) Lifter Failure and Tick ($1,500-$4,500 repair) and Steering Column Lock Actuator Click and Binding ($300-$800 repair). The most commonly reported issue is Cracked Exhaust Manifold Bolts / Manifold Leak (5.3L/6.2L V8) Causing Cold-Start Tick with 260 owner reports. Across all issues, repair costs range from $50 to $4,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.