Last updated: 2026-03-04

71
GoodReliability score: 71 out of 100, rated Good
2020 GMC Yukon

2020 GMC Yukon Reliability Score & Common Problems

The 2020 GMC Yukon scores 71/100 ("Good"). With 5 recalls and 59 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.

2020 received a 2020 model (facelift) update for the Second generation (2015–present).

Recalls

5

Complaints

59

Complaint Rate

9.3

per 10k sold

Below avg

Est. Annual Cost

$747

Below avg

Major Repair Risk

16%

NHTSA Rating

4/5

Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity35%
62/100 (Good)

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs30%
70/100 (Good)

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact20%
75/100 (Good)

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity15%
87/100 (Excellent)

Breadth of reported problem categories

Consider

Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.

Top Issues

ENGINE (20)POWER TRAIN (18)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (4)

5 recalls on record

Generation & Refresh (US)

Refresh Year

2020 received a 2020 model (facelift) update for the Second generation (2015–present).

  • Changes: Updated front and rear styling; New technology features introduced.
  • Year 6 in this generation (2015–2023).
  • 2nd generation Yukon (US).

What this means for buyers

Refresh years bring updates but can also introduce new issues. Check early recall data before buying.

Second generation (2015–present)

2015redesign
2016
2017
2018
2019
2020selected
2021
2022
2023

Should You Buy the 2020 GMC Yukon?

The 2020 GMC Yukon scores 71/100 ("Good"), placing it in acceptable but not class-leading territory. 2020 received a 2020 model (facelift) update for the Second generation (2015–present).

With 59 owner complaints, some reported issues may need attention, but we don't yet see evidence of a single dominant failure mode.

A pre-purchase inspection is recommended for used examples, with particular attention to engine (20). An extended warranty may provide additional peace of mind.

Compared to the 2021 GMC Yukon, which scored 16 points lower. See also the 2019 GMC Yukon for an earlier comparison.

Pros

  • Acceptable reliability score
  • $37 cheaper to maintain than avg fullsize SUVs
  • Infrequent unscheduled repairs
  • Below-average complaint rate for SUV

Cons

  • Moderate recall count
  • ENGINE: Collapsed lifters and camshaft damage, often leading to complete engine failure (20 complaints)
  • POWER TRAIN: Frequent transmission failures in the 2020 GMC Yukon, often occurring around... (18 complaints)

Compare 2020 GMC Yukon With

Common Problem Categories

Safety

  • 5 manufacturer recalls issued

Other

  • ENGINE (20)
  • POWER TRAIN (18)
  • UNKNOWN OR OTHER (4)
  • ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (2)
  • SERVICE BRAKES (2)
  • STEERING (2)
  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (2)
  • EXTERIOR LIGHTING (2)
  • FUEL SYSTEM (1)
  • TIRES (1)
  • BACK OVER PREVENTION (1)
  • SEAT BELTS (1)
  • ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) (1)
  • SUSPENSION (1)
  • AIR BAGS (1)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

5

recalls on record

The 2020 GMC Yukon has 5 recalls on record. This is a moderate number. Each recall represents a safety or compliance issue identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships, regardless of warranty status.

NHTSA.gov →

Complaint Breakdown

9.3

per 10k sold

Segment avg: 18.2

LowAvgHigh
Low

Safety Incidents

Crashes

2

Fires

1

Injuries

1

Deaths

0

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

2020 GMC Yukon Recall Details

5 recalls have been issued for the 2020 GMC Yukon. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

21V1150002021-02-25

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.

Consequence

Over cured tires may develop a break in the sidewall resulting in sudden air loss or a belt edge separation which could lead to a tread/belt loss. Either condition can cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the tires, replacing them as necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 22, 2021. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Buick customer service at 1-866-608-8080, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N212329050.

19V8370002019-11-21

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

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.

Consequence

Over-pressurization can crack the fuel pump and cause leaks, increasing the risk of a fire in the presence of an ignition source.

Remedy

GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump, free of charge. The recall began December 18, 2019. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267. GM's number for this recall is N192283991.

19V7610002019-10-24

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC, SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2015-2020 Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe, and GMC Yukon, and 2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 vehicles equipped with a 5.3-liter engine, a 3.08-ratio rear axle and four-wheel drive. If a wheel-speed sensor fails, while the vehicle is traveling between 41 and 60 mph in four-wheel or automatic mode, the Electronic-Brake Control Module (EBCM) software may activate the driveline-protection system.

Consequence

Unintended activation of the driveline-protection system will cause unintended braking on the wheel on the opposite side of the failed sensor, causing the vehicle to pull to one side unexpectedly, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

GM will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the EBCM, free of charge. The recall began December 11, 2019. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-630-2438 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N192261050.

2020 GMC Yukon NHTSA Safety Ratings

Overall Safety Rating

Overall safety rating: 4 out of 5
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Driver: 4/5Passenger: 4/5

Rollover risk: 22.8%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat, 3rd row)Advanced Belt Feature (Standard)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat, 3rd row)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Curtain (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat, 3rd row)Torso/Pelvis (Driver, Front Passenger)Knee (Not Available)Additional Air Bags (Front Center Air Bag)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Info Not Available)LATCH Locations (Rear Seat)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Not Available)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Not Available)
View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

GMC Yukon Repair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

3.5Maintenance rating: 3.5 out of 5

Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.

Est. Annual Maintenance

$747

vs $784 avg for fullsize SUVs

vs $652 avg for all vehicles

Repair Frequency

0.3

unscheduled repair visits per year

Severe Repair Probability

16%

chance of a major repair

Annual Cost Comparison

Yukon
$747
Category Avg
$784
All Vehicles
$652

Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.

When Buying a Used 2020 GMC Yukon

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing, based on the most common reported issues.

  • Inspect for engine knocking or unusual noises
  • Check for transmission slipping or jerking during test drive
  • Verify engine light and warning lights are functioning
  • Test brakes for power assist and responsiveness
  • Check coolant levels and look for white smoke from exhaust
  • Ensure proper operation of key fob and starting system
  • Inspect for any visible leaks or fluid pooling under the vehicle

Check Any 2020 GMC Yukon's History Before You Buy

Reliability scores tell you what to expect from the 2020 Yukon in general — but every car has its own story. Uncover past accidents, title issues, odometer rollbacks, and service records for a specific GMC Yukon with a free VIN lookup.

Powered by VINExposed.com — free vehicle history reports using public title and safety data.

2020 GMC Yukon Common Problems by Component

59 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

20
18
7
ENGINE (20)POWER TRAIN (18)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (4)ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (2)SERVICE BRAKES (2)STEERING (2)ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (2)EXTERIOR LIGHTING (2)Other (7)

ENGINE

20 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2020 GMC Yukon frequently report engine issues, particularly involving collapsed lifters and camshaft damage, often leading to complete engine failure. Symptoms typically include knocking noises, loss of power, and engine lights illuminating, with some reports of sudden stalling or loss of propulsion. These problems are commonly noted around 50,000 to 118,000 miles, with several cases resulting in expensive repairs or engine replacements. Safety implications are evident, with one reported crash and multiple instances of sudden power loss while driving, posing potential risks on highways. Used car buyers should be aware of these recurring issues and consider inspecting for these specific engine problems.

20 complaints total1 crash

POWER TRAIN

18 complaints

Owners report frequent transmission failures in the 2020 GMC Yukon, often occurring around 100,000 to 120,000 miles. Common symptoms include the transmission slipping, loss of power, and the vehicle failing to change gears, sometimes accompanied by unusual noises or jerking motions. Safety implications are notable, as several complaints describe sudden power loss while driving, which could pose a risk of accidents, although no crashes are explicitly reported. Additionally, issues with the torque converter and 4WD system are mentioned, with some owners experiencing transmission overheating warnings. Potential buyers should be aware of these recurring issues and consider the associated repair costs and potential downtime.

18 complaints total

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

4 complaints

Owners of the 2020 GMC Yukon frequently report issues related to the transmission, with symptoms including a jerking or skipping sensation, shaking upon starting to drive, and complete loss of forward gears. Some complaints indicate that these issues occur without any warning lights, and one owner mentions internal transmission damage with burnt transmission fluid and clutch material present. Additionally, an A/C failure is noted, where the unit intermittently stops blowing cold air. Safety implications are highlighted by a report of a near-crash due to transmission failure. These problems appear to occur despite regular maintenance, and one owner indicates they arose suddenly and significantly affected vehicle performance.

4 complaints total
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (2 complaints)

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

2 complaints

Owners of the 2020 GMC Yukon report engine and cooling system issues, with symptoms such as the check engine warning light illuminating, white smoke from the exhaust, and coolant levels dropping. These issues often occur around 52,000 to 102,000 miles. One owner mentions a recurring need to add coolant every 300 miles due to a suspected internal engine issue, while another reports rough idling and transmission slipping before engine failure. Safety implications include the potential for loss of motive power at highway speeds, though no crashes or fires are reported. Buyers should be aware of these patterns when considering a used purchase.

2 complaints total
SERVICE BRAKES (2 complaints)

SERVICE BRAKES

2 complaints

Owners of the 2020 GMC Yukon report issues with the service brakes, particularly a loss of power brake assist. Complaints frequently mention that the brake pedal requires significant pressure to engage, and in some cases, a message appears on the instrument cluster indicating 'Service Brake System.' One owner notes this issue occurring after approximately five hours of driving in high ambient temperatures, while another describes repeated brake problems across multiple GM vehicles. No crashes or fires are reported, but the loss of brake assist and increased stopping effort suggest potential safety implications. Buyers should be aware of these symptoms, especially if the vehicle has been driven for extended periods in hot conditions.

2 complaints total
STEERING (2 complaints)

STEERING

2 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2020 GMC Yukon report issues related to steering, with symptoms including loss of power steering and a wobbly steering wheel that pulls significantly to the right or left. One complaint describes a situation where the engine seized during driving, leading to a loss of power steering and subsequent smoke from the engine bay, indicating potential fire risk. Another complaint highlights a failed rack and pinion system, making the vehicle difficult to steer, with repair parts unavailable. These issues appear at varied mileage, with one report at approximately 107,000 miles. Safety implications include the risk of fire and loss of vehicle control, which are critical for potential buyers to consider.

2 complaints total1 fire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (2 complaints)

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

2 complaints

Owners of the 2020 GMC Yukon report issues related to the electrical system, particularly involving the key fob and starting the vehicle. Common symptoms include messages indicating the key fob is not connected, low battery warnings, and the need to manually press the Push to Start button. Additionally, owners describe engine-related problems such as loud banging and clunking noises, engine knocking, shaking, and reduced speed capability, with one owner noting these issues at approximately 11,000 miles. Some complaints also mention persistent warning lights, including the check engine and traction control lights, as well as difficulties with engine shifting and high RPMs. While no crashes or fires are reported, these symptoms may affect vehicle operation and safety.

2 complaints total
EXTERIOR LIGHTING (2 complaints)

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

2 complaints

Owners of the 2020 GMC Yukon report issues with the exterior lighting due to defective seals that allow humidity to enter, leading to corrosion on the main light board and sudden failure of the lights. Another complaint highlights that the navigation screen flickers and goes black, which sometimes affects the signal lights, with the issue potentially linked to overheating of the USB port. Although mileage is not specified, these problems suggest potential safety implications due to the sudden loss of lighting functionality. Buyers should be aware of these issues when considering this model, especially as similar problems are reported in related vehicles like the 2020 Chevrolet Suburban.

2 complaints total
FUEL SYSTEM (1 complaints)

FUEL SYSTEM

1 complaint
2024-06-19

The contact owns a 2020 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that while refueling the vehicle, the fuel filler neck was not allowing fuel to flow into the tank. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the fuel filler neck. The contact was informed that the fuel tank filler assembly needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 42,000.

TIRES (1 complaints)

TIRES

1 complaint
2021-04-02

TL* THE CONTACT'S WIFE OWNS A 2020 GMC YUKON EQUIPPED WITH CONTINENTAL TIRES, TIRE LINE: CROSSCONTACT LX SPORT, TIRE SIZE 245/50/R20. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, THE DRIVER'S SIDE FRONT TIRE EXPERIENCED A BLOWOUT. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO DAVID BALES BUICK GMC (1327 JACKSBORO PIKE, LAFOLLETTE, TN 37766, 423) 562-8431) WHERE THE VEHICLE WAS STILL AWAITING A DIAGNOSTIC TEST. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 14,900.

When Do 2020 GMC Yukon Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

50,000–118,000 milesEngine failures
100,000–120,000 milesTransmission failures

Best & Worst GMC Yukon Years

Best GMC Yukon Years to Buy

The best GMC Yukon year is 2025 with a reliability score of 76/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2020 (71/100) and 2019 (71/100).

GMC Yukon Years to Avoid

The worst GMC Yukon year is 2021 with a score of 55/100, primarily due to engine (157) issues.

See full GMC Yukon years-to-avoid analysis →

GMC Yukon Reliability Score Trend

GMC Yukon reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 67/100.

avg 67
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25

Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.

GMC Yukon reliability scores by year
YearScoreRating
201868/100Good
201971/100Good
202071/100Good
202155/100Mixed
202262/100Good
202361/100Good
202468/100Good
202576/100Good

GMC Yukon Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
YearScorevs Prior YearRatingRecallsComplaints
202668/100 (predicted)Predicted011
202576/100+8Good152
202468/100+7Good245
202361/100-1Good8329
202262/100+7Good9248
202155/100-16Mixed25410
2020(selected)71/1000Good559
201971/100+3Good295
201868/100Good4108

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2020 GMC Yukon reliable?
The 2020 GMC Yukon has a "Good" reliability rating with a score of 71/100. It is reasonably reliable with 5 recalls and 59 owner complaints, though some issues have been reported.
What are the most common problems with the 2020 GMC Yukon?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2020 GMC Yukon include: ENGINE (20 complaints), POWER TRAIN (18 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (4 complaints), ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (2 complaints), SERVICE BRAKES (2 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.
How many recalls does the 2020 GMC Yukon have?
The 2020 GMC Yukon has 5 recalls on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.
Is the 2020 GMC Yukon expensive to maintain?
The 2020 GMC Yukon has estimated annual repair costs of $747/year, which is $37 less than the fullsize SUVs average of $784. With a reliability score of 71/100, some repairs may be needed, but overall ownership costs are manageable.

How We Calculate Reliability Scores

Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.

Key Ranking Factors

1

Complaint Severity

NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.

2

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

3

Recall Impact

Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.

4

Issue Diversity

Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.

Scores are grouped into four tiers:

  • 80–100: Excellent — Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
  • 60–79: Good — Reliable with some minor concerns
  • 40–59: Mixed — Notable issues, research before buying
  • 0–39: Risky — Significant problems, proceed with caution

Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.

See incorrect data? Report an issue