The 2011 GMC Yukon XL has 4 recalls, the most serious involving the front passenger airbag inflator, which can explode and send sharp metal fragments into the cabin, potentially causing serious injury or death.
The airbag inflator issue is the Takata recall that has affected millions of vehicles across the industry; prior repair attempts have not fully resolved the issue for all affected vehicles, which is why multiple filings exist. These recalls apply to vehicles originally sold or registered in high-humidity states and territories, as moisture exposure over time degrades the inflator. There is also an electrical concern: the ignition lock cylinder can cause the key to stick in the "start" position when the interior gets hot enough, which can keep the starter engaged longer than intended and may damage the starting system or drain the battery.