Last updated: 2026-10-10

GMC Yukon

GMC Yukon Years to Avoid

9 scored model years (2018–2026) · model average 68/100

Skip the 2021 GMC Yukon. Owners filed far more complaints on it than on any other year, mostly about engine lifter and bearing failures that end in a new engine. The 2020 is the year to buy instead, with a much quieter complaint record.

Verdict

Avoid
2021 55/100
Buy
2020 71/100
Model average
68/100
See years to avoid ↓See best year ↓See all years ranked ↓

GMC Yukon Years to Avoid

These model years score significantly below the GMC Yukon average of 68/100.

#YearScoreRatingRecallsComplaintsTop Issue
1202155/100Mixed25410Engine (157)

Why These Years Should Be Avoided

55
MixedReliability score: 55 out of 100, rated Mixed

2021 GMC Yukon

Engine failure drives the trouble here. Owners describe a ticking noise that grows with throttle, then sudden power loss or a seized engine at highway speed, often with no warning. Dealers find collapsed lifters, damaged cams, and metal shavings in the oil. Many cases end in a full engine replacement, and some 10-speed transmissions fail too.

25 recalls410 complaintsEst. repair:

Top issues: Engine (157), Power Train (62), Engine And Engine Cooling (42), Electrical System (22), Fuel Propulsion System (22), Unknown Or Other (13)

View full 2021reliability report →

What Are Common GMC Yukon Problems?

Yukon engine problems

571 complaints

Most reported in 2023, 2021, 2022

2023: Sudden, complete engine failure while driving is the main complaint.

POWER TRAIN

218 complaints

Most reported in 2021, 2023, 2022

2021: Many reports here repeat the engine problems: ticking lifters, damaged cams, and engines that seize at a stop or on the highway, often just past the powertrain warranty.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

140 complaints

Most reported in 2023, 2022, 2021

2023: Total shutdowns at speed lead these reports.

Yukon engine problems

107 complaints

Most reported in 2021, 2022, 2023

2021: Most filings tie to engine recall campaign 25V274000.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

65 complaints

Most reported in 2023, 2022, 2018

2023: Exhaust and carbon monoxide entering the cabin is the most serious issue in this group, with poisoning reported for adults and children.

STEERING

51 complaints

Most reported in 2021, 2023, 2022

2021: Power steering loss is the serious pattern.

Best GMC Yukon Year to Buy Instead

71
GoodReliability score: 71 out of 100, rated Good

2020 GMC Yukon

The 2020 has been on the road long enough to show its record, and it is far calmer than the 2021, with 59 complaints against 410. Its complaint rate also sits well below the 2022 and 2023. Lifter and transmission complaints still exist, so ask for service history before buying.

Score: 71/100 (Good)5 recalls59 complaints
View full 2020reliability report →
VIN History Report

Found a Safe Year? Check the Specific Car

Even the 2020 GMC Yukon has 5 recalls on file. A VIN check confirms the recall work on the exact car and shows its accident, title, and service history.

No VIN? Just hit “Check VIN” to look one up.

  • Accidents
  • Open Recalls
  • Title History
  • Odometer Rollback

All GMC Yukon Years by Generation

Frequently Asked Questions

Which GMC Yukon years should I avoid?
Avoid the 2021. Site analysis puts it well below the model's own average. It has 410 owner complaints and 25 recalls, and most complaints describe lifter and bearing failures that leave the engine seized or needing replacement.
Is the 2023 GMC Yukon a bad year?
It is weak but not flagged as one to avoid. The 2023 is among the two lowest-rated years, alongside the 2021. It has 329 complaints, and nearly half concern the engine. Check its service history closely before buying.
Which GMC Yukon years have transmission problems?
Complaints appear in several years, and the 2021 draws the most detail. Owners describe 10-speed valve body failures around 72,000 miles, limp mode, and slipping. The 2020 also draws power train complaints, with failures reported between about 82,500 and 120,000 miles.
Is the 2020 GMC Yukon a good used buy?
It is the better choice, but not trouble-free. Complaints are far fewer than for the 2021. Owners still report collapsed lifters and transmission failures, with engine repairs ranging from about $8,000 to $26,000. Get a pre-purchase inspection.
Should I buy a 2025 or 2026 GMC Yukon instead?
Treat them with caution rather than favor them. The 2026 has only 11 owner complaints and the 2025 has 52, but both are new. Complaints build up over time, so these low counts say little about long-term reliability.

How we score every GMC Yukon model year

Scores weight complaint severity at 35%, repair costs at 30%, recall impact at 20%, and the spread of complaints across systems at 15%, with complaint counts adjusted for US sales. Read the full methodology.

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