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GMC · Known Issues

2023 GMC Yukon Problems: 4 Known Issues

2023 model year · 490+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's analysis of 490+ owner reports, the 2023 GMC Yukon has 4 documented known issues, with 3 rated critical. The most serious are 6.2L L87 V8 Rod Bearing Failure and Loss of Propulsion, Corroded 7-Way Connector and Poor Trailer Ground Disable Trailer Braking ($20-$350 repair) and 10L80 10-Speed Transmission Harsh Shifting, Shudder and Rear-Wheel Lock-Up. The most commonly reported issue is Power Running Board Motor Failure and Corrosion with 490 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $20 to $2,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • Yukon Engine1
  • Yukon Brakes1
  • Yukon Transmission1
  • Yukon Electrical1
  • Recalls20
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Engine1
  • Brakes1
  • Transmission1
  • Electrical1

All 4 Known Issues

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ALL YEARS20252024202320222021202020192018201720162015201420132012201120102009200820072006200520042003200220012000

On the 2021-2024 GMC Yukon 6.2L V8 (L87), nHTSA campaign 25V274 covers certain 2021-2024 GMC Yukon vehicles with the 6.2L gasoline V8. Manufacturing defects in connecting-rod or crankshaft components can damage the engine and cause engine failure.

This issue also affects: Chevrolet Silverado, Chevrolet Tahoe

Common Symptoms

  • Engine damage or failure may occur
  • Loss of propulsion can follow engine failure

How to Fix

Check the VIN with GMC or NHTSA. Dealers inspect and repair or replace the engine as needed. Vehicles that pass receive the specified higher-viscosity oil, oil-fill cap, oil filter and owner-manual update.

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Manually Verified
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

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, GMC Sierra 3500HD

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

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Sep 2026

On the 2021-2023 GMC Yukon, nHTSA campaign 24V797 covers certain 2021 diesel GMC Yukon vehicles. A transmission control valve can fail and cause the rear wheels to lock.

This issue also affects: Buick Encore GX, Buick Envision, Cadillac CT6

Common Symptoms

  • Rear wheels may lock if the transmission control valve fails

How to Fix

Check the VIN and engine with GMC or NHTSA. Dealers install new transmission-control-module software; GM provides special coverage for transmissions the software identifies as containing a defective valve.

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Manually Verified
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 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

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Community Reported
High Confidence490 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026
NHTSA Recalls20 recalls

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

SEAT BELTS:CRITICAL FASTENERS

General Motors, LLC (M) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles equipped with third-row seats. The rivet that retains the buckle to the mounting bracket in the left or right side third-row seat belt buckle assembly may have been improperly formed.

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Other GMC Models

GMC Sierra 150035GMC Terrain26GMC Yukon XL24GMC Sierra 3500HD24GMC Acadia22GMC Canyon18

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common GMC Yukon problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 490+ owner reports, the 2023 GMC Yukon has 4 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: 6.2L L87 V8 Rod Bearing Failure and Loss of Propulsion, Corroded 7-Way Connector and Poor Trailer Ground Disable Trailer Braking, 10L80 10-Speed Transmission Harsh Shifting, Shudder and Rear-Wheel Lock-Up. Of these, 3 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the GMC Yukon reliable?

The 2023 GMC Yukon has 4 known issues documented across 490+ owner reports. 3 issues are rated critical: 6.2L L87 V8 Rod Bearing Failure and Loss of Propulsion and Corroded 7-Way Connector and Poor Trailer Ground Disable Trailer Braking and 10L80 10-Speed Transmission Harsh Shifting, Shudder and Rear-Wheel Lock-Up. 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 $2,500, 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 2021-2024 GMC Yukon 6.2L L87 V8 Rod Bearing Failure and Loss of Propulsion?

NHTSA campaign 25V274 covers certain 2021-2024 GMC Yukon vehicles with the 6.2L gasoline V8. Manufacturing defects in connecting-rod or crankshaft components can damage the engine and cause engine failure. 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.

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 490+ owner reports, NHTSA recalls, TSBs, and automotive forums.

Recalls
20
  • FAQ
    • Campaign #22V61700011/08/2022

    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."

    Campaign #22V90300008/12/2022

    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

    + 15 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov

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

    What is the 2021-2023 GMC Yukon 10L80 10-Speed Transmission Harsh Shifting, Shudder and Rear-Wheel Lock-Up?

    NHTSA campaign 24V797 covers certain 2021 diesel GMC Yukon vehicles. A transmission control valve can fail and cause the rear wheels to lock. Severity: high.

    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.