Summary
The GMC Yukon XL has 23 recalls spanning 1999 through 2022, with the most serious recent issue being a 2022 transmission control valve failure that can lock up the rear wheels without warning, raising the risk of a crash. The 2021 model year has two separate concerns: a fuel pump power control module that can interrupt fuel delivery and stall the engine while driving, and third-row seat belts that may have been installed incorrectly and can break in a crash. On 2020 models, a missing fuel pressure regulator can over-pressurize the fuel system, crack the fuel pump, and cause a fuel leak that can ignite.
Going back to the mid-2010s, 2016 models have front upper control arms with suspect welds that can deform or separate, affecting steering and directional control. The 2015 model year has Continental P275/55R20 tires where belt adhesion can fail, leading to tread separation at speed, and a separate lighting issue where rapidly cycling the headlamp switch can disable park lamps and daytime running lights. A brief window of 2014 production has loose brake caliper bolts that reduce braking performance and lengthen stopping distances. On 2013 models, a contaminated chassis electronic module can short internally and cause the engine to stall or refuse to start.
The 2012 model year has a steering gear pitman arm that was not manufactured correctly and can fail, causing a complete loss of steering control. The 2011 model year has an ignition lock cylinder that can stick in the start position when the interior gets hot. The 2010 model year is subject to the Takata-style front passenger airbag issue, where long-term heat and humidity degrade the inflator propellant, and in a crash the inflator can rupture and send fragments into the cabin.
Earlier production from 2003 has a mid-frame cross member that can tear during a left-angle frontal impact and produce a sharp edge that punctures the fuel tank, with fuel leakage that can ignite in the presence of a spark or flame. The 2001 model year covers several issues: fuel pump wiring that can overheat and stall the engine, a battery cable that can chafe against the steering shaft and cause intermittent electrical shorts on Denali trims, crankshaft position sensor failure on 8.1L-equipped models that can cause rough running and stalling, and second- and third-row outboard seat belt retractors with cracked internal components that can stop locking in a crash. The 2000 model year has fuel module wiring that can overheat and a kinked brake booster vacuum hose that can extend stopping distances with repeated brake applications. The 1999 model year has a body cross sill that can wear through a front brake pipe over time, causing a brake fluid leak and reduced braking.
