2021 GMC Yukon XL Problems: 4 Known Issues
2021 model year · 110+ owner reports · Updated November 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 110+ owner reports, the 2021 GMC Yukon XL has 4 documented known issues. None of the listed issues is rated critical; this is not a complete reliability assessment. The most commonly reported issue is Rear Wiper Motor/Washer Hose Failure (No Rear Wipe or Washer Spray) with 110 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $50 to $3,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
2021 · All trims · All engines
Choose the year and equipment for your written issues and visual request.
No email neededHow interest is saved
Interest applies to the selected vehicle and configuration; it is not a reservation. Voting stores a first-party identifier for up to 180 days to prevent repeat votes. No account or email is needed. Clearing cookies or using another device may count separately. Privacy
Visual coming soon
Your interest helps us choose what to build next.
Visual Known Issues · Coming soon
$7.99/month plus taxes at launch on January 1, 2027 · No payment today
All 4 Known Issues
NHTSA Recalls18 recalls
TIRES
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Buick Enclave, Cadillac XT4, XT5, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe, Traverse, GMC Yukon, Yukon XL, 2018-2021 Chevrolet Express, GMC Savana, 2019-2020 Chevrolet Blazer, Silverado 1500, GMC Acadia, Sierra 1500, and certain Continental tires sold to the aftermarket for various model year 2018-2021 vehicles. The affected tires were cured for too long during production.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Camaro, Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles. The fuel pump may be missing a pressure regulator, allowing for over-pressurization of the fuel system.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:BRAKE FLUID LOW WARNING: LAMP
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, 2023-2024 Chevrolet Tahoe, Suburban, GMC Yukon, Yukon XL, Cadillac Escalade, and Escalade ESV vehicles. The electronic brake control module software may fail to display a warning light when a loss of brake fluid occurs. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Vehicle Safety Standard number 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, and Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles equipped with a 6.2L V8 gas engine. The connecting rod and/or crankshaft engine components may have manufacturing defects that can lead to engine damage and engine failure.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:LIGHTING CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Cadillac CT4 and CT5; 2021-2023 Buick Envision; and 2022-2023 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles. The daytime running lights (DRLs) may not deactivate when the headlights are on. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
+ 13 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov
Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.
Join 700+ subscribers following Au7o for vehicle insights and updates.
Don't see your problem? Describe your symptoms to get a diagnosis, or get a full repair guide.
Other GMC Models
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common GMC Yukon XL problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 110+ owner reports, the 2021 GMC Yukon XL has 4 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Transfer Case Fluid Leak from Output Shaft Seal, Transmission Torque Converter Shudder (8L90/10L80), Rear Wiper Motor/Washer Hose Failure (No Rear Wipe or Washer Spray). None are rated critical, but regular maintenance is recommended.
Is the GMC Yukon XL reliable?
The 2021 GMC Yukon XL has 4 known issues documented across 110+ owner reports. None of the matching records is rated critical; this is not a complete reliability assessment. 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 $50 to $3,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2015-2024 GMC Yukon XL Transfer Case Fluid Leak from Output Shaft Seal?
Four-wheel-drive Yukon XL models (Magna MP3010 single-speed or MP3023 two-speed transfer case on 2015-2020) develop fluid leaks from the front and rear output shaft seals. The leak typically starts as a slow weep and progresses to a steady drip, leaving ATF spots on the driveway. Repairs typically run $200-$600. Severity: medium.
What is the 2015-2024 GMC Yukon XL Transmission Torque Converter Shudder (8L90/10L80)?
The 8-speed (8L90) and 10-speed (10L80) automatic transmissions in the Yukon XL develop a torque converter clutch (TCC) shudder felt as a vibration or shake at light throttle between 25-80 mph. The shudder mimics driving over rumble strips. GM issued TSB 18-NA-355 (covering 2015-… Repairs typically run $150-$3,000. Severity: medium.
What is the 2007-2023 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.
What is the 2015-2024 GMC Yukon XL Rear Liftgate Support Strut Failure?
The Yukon XL rear liftgate gas struts lose their charge and fail to hold the heavy liftgate open, typically between 3-5 years regardless of mileage. A failing strut allows the liftgate to slowly drop or slam closed, posing a head injury risk. In cold weather, weak struts fail mor… Repairs typically run $50-$200. 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.