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GMC · Known Issues

2015 GMC Yukon Problems: 11 Known Issues

2015 model year · 3,560+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's analysis of 3,560+ owner reports, the 2015 GMC Yukon has 11 documented known issues, with 5 rated critical. The most serious are AFM/DOD Lifter Collapse and Valvetrain Failure ($3,500-$8,000 repair), 8L90 8-Speed Torque Converter Shudder ($150-$4,500 repair), Corroded 7-Way Connector and Poor Trailer Ground Disable Trailer Braking ($20-$350 repair), GM Recall 19V645000: EBCM Reprogram for Declining Vacuum Brake Assist and Brake Vacuum Pump Failure Causing Hard Brake Pedal. The most commonly reported issue is AFM/DOD Lifter Collapse and Valvetrain Failure with 1,480 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $20 to $8,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • Yukon Brakes3
  • Yukon Engine1
  • Yukon Transmission1
  • Yukon Electrical2
  • Yukon Cooling2
  • Yukon Suspension1
  • Yukon Drivetrain1
  • Recalls20
  • FAQ
Get Started
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In This Article

  • Brakes3
  • Engine1
  • Transmission1
Electrical
2
  • Cooling2
  • Suspension1
  • Drivetrain1
  • Recalls20
  • FAQ
  • All 11 Known Issues

    Filter:
    ALL YEARS20252024202320222021202020192018201720162015201420132012201120102009200820072006200520042003200220012000

    On the 2015-2024 GMC Yukon All engines with Integrated Trailer Brake Control (RPO JL1), the Yukon's Integrated Trailer Brake Control system (RPO JL1) is considerably more sensitive to connection quality than the aftermarket brake controllers it replaced. Rather than simply switching current to the trailer when the pedal is pressed, the Trailer Brake Power Control Module (K133) sends a continuous low-level test pulse down trailer brake output circuit 47 — pin 2, the blue wire on the 7-way. The Chassis Control Module (K38), Chassis Control Module Auxiliary (K38A) or Brake System Control Module (K160), depending on model year, reads the response of that pulse to determine whether a trailer is attached, what kind of brakes it has, and whether the circuit is healthy. Because the module is effectively monitoring circuit integrity continuously, ordinary trailer-grade wiring faults that an older controller would have tolerated now register as hard faults. GM's PIT5509-series bulletins spell out the exact mapping between what the driver sees and what the circuit is doing: a 'Check Trailer Wiring' message with no DTC means an open and/or high resistance occurred in circuit 47 during that ignition cycle; a 'Check Trailer Wiring' message with DTC C1114 and no Service Trailer Brake message means a short to ground on circuit 47; and a 'Service Trailer Brake System' message with C1114 means a short to power on circuit 47 or a poor trailer ground. That last combination is the one Yukon owners hit most, and it is usually caused on the trailer side rather than the vehicle side. The usual culprits are a poor or loose connection at the 7-way, a corroded or water-intruded connector on either the Yukon's hitch receiver or the trailer plug, a trailer ground wire bolted to a painted or rusted frame rail instead of bare metal, chafed brake wiring rubbing through against an axle or frame crossmember, or excessive harness length that lets the plug work loose while driving. Salt-belt vehicles and trailers that get dunked at boat ramps are heavily overrepresented. Because a marginal ground can hold up under light braking and fail under load, the fault often shows up mid-trip on a grade, exactly when the trailer brakes matter most. GM is blunt about where the problem usually lies: it notes that most trailers with these wiring issues do not have high standards for wiring, connections, splices and routing compared with automotive practice, which is precisely why a module that continuously monitors circuit integrity trips on them.

    This issue also affects: Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Chevrolet Tahoe

    Common Symptoms

    • 'Service Trailer Brake System' message on the Driver Information Center with a trailer connected
    • 'Check Trailer Wiring' message that comes and goes over bumps
    • Trailer brakes cut out under heavy braking or on a grade
    • No trailer braking effect regardless of gain setting
    • Message appears only with one trailer and not with others
    • Green corrosion or water inside the 7-way connector at the hitch

    How to Fix

    Work the diagnosis from the cheapest end, because parts-swapping the Yukon's module fixes almost none of these. Step one is to isolate truck from trailer: disconnect the trailer, clear the code, and drive. If C1114 does not return, the Yukon is fine and every dollar you spend on it is wasted. Better still, build the tester GM describes in PIT5509 — a Pollak heavy-duty 7-way RV plug (part 12-706) with 2, 4, 6 or 8 trailer brake magnets (Dexter Axle K71-104-00 or equivalent) wired in parallel between the ground and brake-controller-output (circuit 47) terminals using 12-gauge wire. Wire the magnets in parallel, never in series. GM also offers a trailer simulator tool, P/N EL-52641, that does the same job. Plug it into the Yukon and drive; if the DIC reads 'Trailer Connected,' a scan tool shows the expected 'Trailer Brake Type,' and no C1114 sets, the vehicle's system is proven good and the focus belongs on the trailer wiring or 7-way connector. From there the repair is on the trailer. Pull both 7-way connectors apart and inspect every cavity for green corrosion, bent or spread pins, and water sitting in the shell; clean with contact cleaner and a small brass brush, reseat any spread female terminals, and pack the housing with dielectric grease before reassembly. GM specifically recommends a Pollak HD RV trailer connector, and for 2014-2018 model years notes an updated truck-side connector with a stronger door/cover spring, GM part number 23404450, if the trailer connector is not being retained securely. Next, chase the trailer's ground wire to its termination point, remove it, grind the mounting surface to bright bare metal, add a star washer, torque it down and seal the joint — a poor trailer ground is the documented cause of the 'Service Trailer Brake System' variant of this fault. Then follow the brake wire along the trailer frame looking for chafe points, crushed sections at frame pass-throughs, and butt splices taped rather than sealed, and secure any excessive harness length so the plug cannot bounce loose. A scan tool that reads the CCM/BSCM 'Trailer Brake Control Output Circuit' parameter will report Okay, Short to Ground, Short to Power or Unknown, which narrows the hunt considerably. Expect $20-$60 in parts for a DIY connector-and-ground repair, or $120-$300 at a shop for diagnosis plus a trailer harness repair. Only if the tester itself sets C1114 with the trailer disconnected should you investigate the Yukon's own trailer brake power control module and its wiring. Note that GM states trailer issues are not covered under warranty. Do not tow until this is resolved; when C1114 is latched the trailer brakes can be genuinely disabled.

    Typical repair cost:$20 - $350

    Research This Issue

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    Community Reported
    High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Sep 2026

    On the 2015-2018 GMC Yukon, gMC Yukons from 2015 through 2018 fall under NHTSA recall 19V645000. The defect: the amount of vacuum created by the vacuum pump may decrease over time. Less vacuum reaching the brake booster means less brake assist, so the Yukon's pedal grows stiff and the truck's stopping distance stretches out - NHTSA flags this as raising the risk of a crash. Worth distinguishing from an outright vacuum pump failure: this recall is about assist that tapers off as pump output declines, and GM's approved correction is a control-module calibration rather than a pump replacement. The 3,456,719-vehicle figure attached to this campaign is the total across every GM model included in it.

    This issue also affects: Cadillac Escalade, Chevrolet Equinox, Chevrolet Silverado 1500

    Common Symptoms

    • Harder brake pedal / more pedal effort needed
    • Extended stopping distance
    • Gradual loss of power brake assist

    How to Fix

    Take the Yukon to a GMC dealer, who will reprogram the Electronic Brake Control Module free of charge - a calibration update, no parts required. Owner notification started October 8, 2019 under GM number N192268490. Verify your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls before assuming it was already done, especially on a used Yukon, and call GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782 or your dealer to set an appointment.

    Research This Issue

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    Community Reported
    High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

    On the 2015-2018 GMC Yukon, nHTSA campaign 19V645 covers certain 2015-2018 GMC Yukon vehicles. Vacuum-pump output can decrease over time, reducing brake assist, increasing pedal effort and extending stopping distance.

    This issue also affects: Cadillac Escalade, Chevrolet Equinox, Chevrolet Silverado 1500

    Common Symptoms

    • Harder brake pedal
    • Increased stopping distance as vacuum assist decreases

    How to Fix

    Check the VIN with GMC or NHTSA. Dealers reprogram the electronic brake-control module free of charge under GM recall N192268490.

    Research This Issue

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    Manually Verified
    High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026
    Community reported
    1,480 owners

    On the 2007-2020 GMC Yukon, the GMC Yukon 5.3L (L83, LC9, LMG) and 6.2L (L94, L86) V8 engines use Active Fuel Management (AFM) cylinder deactivation. The special collapsible AFM lifters on cylinders 1, 4, 6, and 7 fail prematurely, causing misfires, engine ticking, rough idle, and potential catastrophic damage. This is the single most reported mechanical failure on GMT900 (2007-2014) and K2XX (2015-2020) Yukon models. GM issued TSB 18-NA-077 acknowledging the issue. Yukon models used as daily drivers with lots of highway cruising (where AFM activates most) are most susceptible. The VLOM (Valve Lifter Oil Manifold) must also be replaced as it controls oil flow to AFM lifters.

    This issue also affects: Buick LeSabre, Buick Park Avenue, Buick Cascada

    Common Symptoms

    • Misfire codes P0300, P0301, P0304, P0306, P0307
    • Engine tick or tap at idle that worsens with load
    • Rough idle or engine vibration
    • Check engine light
    • Reduced engine power / limp mode
    • Metal debris in oil (confirmed on drain plug inspection)
    • Vibration between 30-55 mph during V4 deactivation mode

    How to Fix

    Replace all 16 lifters, VLOM (GM 12639516), and inspect camshaft lobes. AFM delete kit (Texas Speed or BTR) permanently eliminates the system. Range Technology AFM Disabler RA003B prevents AFM activation as a preventive measure. Change oil every 5,000 miles with Dexos1 Gen 2 full synthetic to protect lifters.

    Typical repair cost:$3,500 - $8,000

    Research This Issue

    Based on 1,480 owner reports

    GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
    Community Reported
    High Confidence1,480 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026
    Community reported
    870 owners

    On the 2015-2020 GMC Yukon, the 8L90 8-speed automatic transmission in 2015-2020 Yukon and Yukon XL suffers from widespread torque converter lock-up clutch shudder at light throttle between 25-50 mph. The clutch friction material degrades and contaminates the transmission fluid, causing the shudder to worsen over time. GM extended warranty coverage to 6 years/100,000 miles under Customer Satisfaction Program 18302. The fluid fix (Mobil 1 Synthetic LV ATF HP, GM 19417577) resolves early-stage cases; advanced cases require torque converter replacement. This is the same issue affecting all K2XX platform full-size GM SUVs and trucks.

    This issue also affects: Chevrolet Express, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Chevrolet Suburban

    Common Symptoms

    • Shudder or vibration at light throttle 25-50 mph
    • Feels like driving on rumble strips at highway speed
    • Harsh 1-2 or 2-3 shifts
    • Momentary slip when accelerating from a stop
    • Shudder disappears at full throttle

    How to Fix

    Full transmission fluid exchange with Mobil 1 Synthetic LV ATF HP (GM 19417577). Check Customer Satisfaction Program 18302 coverage. Torque converter replacement (GM 24288828) for persistent cases. Complete flush requires 17-20 quarts — ensure dealer uses full volume per TSB 18-NA-355.

    Typical repair cost:$150 - $4,500

    Research This Issue

    Based on 870 owner reports

    GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
    Community Reported
    High Confidence870 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026
    Community reported
    490 owners

    On the 2015-2025 GMC Yukon, the power retractable running boards available on 2015+ Yukon and Yukon XL are a common failure point. The electric motors and gearboxes corrode and seize, especially in salt-belt states. Boards get stuck in the out position (creating a road-clearance hazard and trip risk) or refuse to extend. The wiring harness connections at the running board motors corrode. GM has released multiple updated motor designs, but corrosion in the mechanical linkage pins also causes binding. Repair cost is $800-2,000 per side if both motors fail.

    This issue also affects: Chevrolet Express, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Chevrolet Suburban

    Common Symptoms

    • Running boards stuck in out position
    • Running boards not extending when door opens
    • Grinding or clicking noise when boards deploy
    • Service Running Boards message on DIC
    • Boards deploy on one side only
    • Boards extend but don't fully retract under the truck

    How to Fix

    Motor replacement (GM 84085689 updated motor). Lubricate pivot points and linkage pins with marine-grade grease annually. Dielectric grease on harness connectors. Some owners disable the system and lock boards in a fixed position to avoid ongoing failures.

    Typical repair cost:$400 - $2,500

    Research This Issue

    Based on 490 owner reports

    GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
    Community Reported
    High Confidence490 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026

    On the 2015-2020 GMC Yukon, the 8-inch MyLink/IntelliLink infotainment touchscreen (RPO IO5/IO6) develops ghost touches where it presses buttons by itself, dead zones that stop responding, and delamination/bubbling where the digitizer separates from the LCD. Because so many K2XX Yukons share this radio, it is one of the most common infotainment failures on the platform, disabling climate, backup-camera overlays, and audio controls that are routed through the screen.

    This issue also affects: Chevrolet Silverado, Chevrolet Tahoe

    Common Symptoms

    • Ghost touches / screen presses by itself
    • Unresponsive areas of the touchscreen
    • Bubbling, haze, or delamination in the display
    • Screen freezes or reboots
    • Loss of climate/audio/camera controls routed through the screen

    How to Fix

    The permanent fix is replacing the failing capacitive touchscreen/digitizer (common service part reference DJ080PA-01A for the 8-inch unit) or sending the HMI/radio control panel to a specialist for a screen/digitizer rebuild - typically far cheaper than a new GM radio. A software update from the dealer can clear intermittent freezes but does not fix a delaminated or ghost-touching panel. Confirm whether the unit is IO5 (no nav) or IO6 (nav) so the correct replacement is used.

    Typical repair cost:$150 - $600

    Research This Issue

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    Community Reported
    Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 2026

    On the 2007-2020 GMC Yukon, the mechanical (belt-driven) water pump develops internal bearing and seal wear with age and mileage, then leaks coolant from the weep hole at the front-center of the engine. Left unaddressed the pump can drip DEXCOOL onto the ground, run the cooling system low, and cause overheating. It is a common wear item on the Gen IV/V small-block V8s used across the GMT900 and K2XX Yukon and typically shows up beyond ~90,000-120,000 miles.

    This issue also affects: Chevrolet Express, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Chevrolet Suburban

    Common Symptoms

    • Coolant puddle/drip at the front-center of the engine
    • Coolant seeping from the pump weep hole
    • Low coolant level / frequent top-offs
    • Overheating or rising temperature gauge
    • Whining or grinding from a failing pump bearing

    How to Fix

    Replace the water pump (ACDelco Professional water pump for the applicable V8) with a new gasket, and refill with GM DEXCOOL. Because the serpentine belt, thermostat, and hoses are already accessed during the job, it is recommended to replace the thermostat and inspect the belt at the same time. Catch the weep-hole leak early to avoid an overheating event and possible head-gasket damage.

    What you need to fix it

    Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

    • Engine Water Pump
      Cross-refWPGM-609V

      Fitment confirmed against the ShowMeTheParts catalog for this vehicle's year and engine.

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    As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

    Typical repair cost:$400 - $1,423

    Research This Issue

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    Community Reported
    Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 2026

    On the 2015-2019 GMC Yukon, a worn or leaking factory thermostat that stays open (plus a failing engine coolant temperature sensor) prevents the engine from reaching normal operating temperature. The ECM interprets the low/erratic reading as a sensor fault and enters a protective fail-safe mode: the electric cooling fans run at full speed continuously, the temperature gauge may drop to zero or read erratically, the A/C compressor may be disabled, and fuel economy suffers. It is a common and well-documented complaint across 2015-2019 5.3L/6.2L trucks and SUVs.

    This issue also affects: Buick Encore GX, Cadillac Allante, Cadillac Catera

    Common Symptoms

    • Cooling fans running at full speed constantly
    • Temperature gauge reads zero or fluctuates
    • A/C compressor won't engage / no cold air
    • Engine slow to warm up in cold weather
    • Reduced fuel economy, check-engine light

    How to Fix

    Diagnose whether the thermostat is stuck open or the ECT sensor has drifted. The usual repair is replacing the integrated thermostat housing and the engine coolant temperature sensor (GM Genuine ECT sensor 12608814) together with fresh DEXCOOL. Clearing the codes and confirming the engine reaches ~210F resolves the fans-on-full and disabled-A/C behavior. Address it promptly because the fail-safe also cuts A/C and hurts mileage.

    Typical repair cost:$120 - $450

    Research This Issue

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    Community Reported
    Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 2026
    Community reported
    720 owners

    On the 2007-2020 GMC Yukon, yukon and Yukon XL models equipped with Autoride (RPO Z55) or electronic suspension feature rear air springs and a compressor that commonly fail between 80,000-130,000 miles. The air spring bags crack from age and temperature cycling, causing the rear of the vehicle to sag overnight. The compressor burns out from running continuously to compensate for air spring leaks. Replacing OEM components and having them fail again is common — many owners convert to passive coil springs. Same system as Chevy Tahoe/Suburban and Escalade.

    This issue also affects: Chevrolet Express, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Chevrolet Suburban

    Common Symptoms

    • Rear of vehicle sagging overnight or after sitting
    • Compressor running continuously
    • SERVICE RIDE CONTROL or AIR SUSPENSION message
    • Bouncy or harsh ride quality
    • One corner lower than others
    • Compressor fails to raise vehicle

    How to Fix

    Replace air springs and compressor (Arnott P-2793 compressor). Or install Arnott C-2835 / Strutmasters conversion kit to permanently eliminate air suspension with coil springs plus electronic bypass module. Conversion kits cost $400-700 and eliminate future air suspension failures.

    Typical repair cost:$600 - $3,200

    Research This Issue

    Based on 720 owner reports

    GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
    Community Reported
    High Confidence720 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026

    On the 2007-2020 GMC Yukon, on Autotrac electronic-shift 4WD Yukons the transfer-case encoder motor and its position sensor/selector switch fail, so the module can no longer confirm the range. The dash 4WD buttons flash, the truck won't shift between 2HI/4HI/4LO or gets stuck in one range, the Service 4WD light comes on, and codes such as C038D 'Range Actuator Position Not Learned' are stored. Worn encoder-motor contacts and corroded connector pins are typical causes.

    This issue also affects: Chevrolet Express, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Chevrolet Suburban

    Common Symptoms

    • Flashing 4WD selector buttons
    • 'Service 4WD' warning light
    • Won't shift between 2HI/4HI/4LO or stuck in range
    • Grinding/clicking from the transfer case during shift
    • Neutral indicator won't confirm

    How to Fix

    Diagnose whether the fault is the encoder motor, the position sensor/selector, or the transfer case control module. Common repairs: replace the transfer-case encoder/shift motor and the two/four-wheel-drive actuator position sensor (GM Genuine 84377721 / 84368196), and repin/repair the corroded connector. After replacement the actuator position must be relearned with a scan tool. Cleaning the dash 4WD switch contacts fixes some no-shift complaints.

    Typical repair cost:$150 - $700

    Research This Issue

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    Community Reported
    Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 2026
    NHTSA Recalls20 recalls

    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."

    Campaign #24V67400012/09/2024

    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.

    Campaign #25V27400024/04/2025

    FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY

    General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Cadillac Escalade, 2021, 2023-2024 Chevrolet Tahoe, and 2022 and 2024 GMC Yukon vehicles equipped with a 6-cylinder diesel engine. The original fuel tank may have been replaced with an incorrect fuel tank, which can allow fuel to leak in a rollover crash.

    Campaign #25V61900018/09/2025

    EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY:WHEELCHAIR RESTRAINTS/SECUREMENT:LATCH/ANCHOR:

    Rollx Vans (Rollx) is recalling certain GMC Yukon, Sierra, Chevrolet Express 2500, Ford Transit, E-250, Toyota Sienna, Sienna Hybrid, Honda Odyssey, Chrysler Town and Country, Voyager, Pacifica, Dodge Grand Caravan, and Ram Promaster vehicles equipped with QRT-Deluxe and QRT-Max wheelchair restraints. Please refer to Rollx's recall report for specific model year information. The retractors may not lock, preventing the wheelchair from being properly secured.

    Campaign #25V87600017/12/2025

    WHEELS:HUB

    General Motors, LLC is recalling certain 2025–2026 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban 1500, Tahoe, GMC Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles with 24-inch wheels. Incorrect bolts may have been installed on the left and right front wheel hubs, which can result in the bolts loosening or deforming over time.

    Campaign #26V30400014/05/2026

    + 15 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov

    Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    What are the most common GMC Yukon problems?

    According to Au7o's analysis of 3,560+ owner reports, the 2015 GMC Yukon has 11 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: AFM/DOD Lifter Collapse and Valvetrain Failure, 8L90 8-Speed Torque Converter Shudder, Corroded 7-Way Connector and Poor Trailer Ground Disable Trailer Braking. Of these, 5 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

    Is the GMC Yukon reliable?

    The 2015 GMC Yukon has 11 known issues documented across 3,560+ owner reports. 5 issues are rated critical: AFM/DOD Lifter Collapse and Valvetrain Failure and 8L90 8-Speed Torque Converter Shudder and Corroded 7-Way Connector and Poor Trailer Ground Disable Trailer Braking and GM Recall 19V645000: EBCM Reprogram for Declining Vacuum Brake Assist and Brake Vacuum Pump Failure Causing Hard Brake Pedal. 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 problems?

    Repair costs for known GMC Yukon issues range from $20 to $8,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, AFM/DOD Lifter Collapse and Valvetrain Failure, typically costs $3,500-$8,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

    What is the 2007-2020 GMC Yukon AFM/DOD Lifter Collapse and Valvetrain Failure?

    The GMC Yukon 5.3L (L83, LC9, LMG) and 6.2L (L94, L86) V8 engines use Active Fuel Management (AFM) cylinder deactivation. The special collapsible AFM lifters on cylinders 1, 4, 6, and 7 fail prematurely, causing misfires, engine ticking, rough idle, and potential catastrophic dam… Repairs typically run $3,500-$8,000. Severity: high.

    What is the 2015-2020 GMC Yukon 8L90 8-Speed Torque Converter Shudder?

    The 8L90 8-speed automatic transmission in 2015-2020 Yukon and Yukon XL suffers from widespread torque converter lock-up clutch shudder at light throttle between 25-50 mph. The clutch friction material degrades and contaminates the transmission fluid, causing the shudder to worse… Repairs typically run $150-$4,500. Severity: high.

    What is the 2015-2024 GMC Yukon Corroded 7-Way Connector and Poor Trailer Ground Disable Trailer Braking?

    The Yukon's Integrated Trailer Brake Control system (RPO JL1) is considerably more sensitive to connection quality than the aftermarket brake controllers it replaced. Rather than simply switching current to the trailer when the pedal is pressed, the Trailer Brake Power Control Mo… Repairs typically run $20-$350. Severity: high.

    What is the 2015-2018 GMC Yukon GM Recall 19V645000: EBCM Reprogram for Declining Vacuum Brake Assist?

    GMC Yukons from 2015 through 2018 fall under NHTSA recall 19V645000. The defect: the amount of vacuum created by the vacuum pump may decrease over time. Less vacuum reaching the brake booster means less brake assist, so the Yukon's pedal grows stiff and the truck's stopping dista… Severity: high.

    What is the 2015-2018 GMC Yukon Brake Vacuum Pump Failure Causing Hard Brake Pedal?

    NHTSA campaign 19V645 covers certain 2015-2018 GMC Yukon vehicles. Vacuum-pump output can decrease over time, reducing brake assist, increasing pedal effort and extending stopping distance. Severity: high.

    What is the 2007-2020 GMC Yukon Autoride Air Suspension Compressor and Air Bag Failure?

    Yukon and Yukon XL models equipped with Autoride (RPO Z55) or electronic suspension feature rear air springs and a compressor that commonly fail between 80,000-130,000 miles. The air spring bags crack from age and temperature cycling, causing the rear of the vehicle to sag overni… Repairs typically run $600-$3,200. Severity: medium.

    What is the 2015-2025 GMC Yukon Power Running Board Motor Failure and Corrosion?

    The power retractable running boards available on 2015+ Yukon and Yukon XL are a common failure point. The electric motors and gearboxes corrode and seize, especially in salt-belt states. Boards get stuck in the out position (creating a road-clearance hazard and trip risk) or ref… Repairs typically run $400-$2,500. Severity: medium.

    What is the 2007-2020 GMC Yukon Water Pump Weep-Hole Leak and Coolant Loss?

    The mechanical (belt-driven) water pump develops internal bearing and seal wear with age and mileage, then leaks coolant from the weep hole at the front-center of the engine. Left unaddressed the pump can drip DEXCOOL onto the ground, run the cooling system low, and cause overhea… Repairs typically run $400-$1,423. Severity: medium.

    What is the 2007-2020 GMC Yukon Automatic 4WD Transfer Case Position Sensor / Encoder Motor Failure?

    On Autotrac electronic-shift 4WD Yukons the transfer-case encoder motor and its position sensor/selector switch fail, so the module can no longer confirm the range. The dash 4WD buttons flash, the truck won't shift between 2HI/4HI/4LO or gets stuck in one range, the Service 4WD l… Repairs typically run $150-$700. Severity: medium.

    What is the 2015-2019 GMC Yukon Engine Overheat/Fail-Safe Mode from Thermostat and Coolant Temp Sensor?

    A worn or leaking factory thermostat that stays open (plus a failing engine coolant temperature sensor) prevents the engine from reaching normal operating temperature. The ECM interprets the low/erratic reading as a sensor fault and enters a protective fail-safe mode: the electri… Repairs typically run $120-$450. Severity: medium.

    What is the 2015-2020 GMC Yukon MyLink / IntelliLink 8-Inch Touchscreen Failure?

    The 8-inch MyLink/IntelliLink infotainment touchscreen (RPO IO5/IO6) develops ghost touches where it presses buttons by itself, dead zones that stop responding, and delamination/bubbling where the digitizer separates from the LCD. Because so many K2XX Yukons share this radio, it… Repairs typically run $150-$600. 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.

    Data sourced from 3,560+ owner reports, NHTSA recalls, TSBs, and automotive forums.