🇩🇪 guteautoschlechteauto.de
GMC · Full-Size SUV · 2015–2020

GMC Yukon K2XX

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

2.0 / 5.0 · Based on 2 engine variants

Generations


Engine Overview

The GMC Yukon K2XX is available with 2 engine variants — from 360 to 426 hp.

Yukon · Petrol· 355 PS
2015 2020
Stay Away! 3 weaknesses
Yukon Denali · Petrol· 420 PS
2015 2020
Be Careful 4 weaknesses

The GMC Yukon (Petrol, 355 PS) has the L84 (5.3L V8 EcoTec3) — rated: "Stay Away!", 3 known weaknesses.

The GMC Yukon Denali (Petrol, 420 PS) has the L87 (6.2L V8 EcoTec3) — rated: "Be Careful", 4 known weaknesses.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
!Air Suspension Compressor Failure (AutoRide)

AutoRide rear air suspension compressor fails from ~100,000 km. Air springs develop leaks, vehicle sags overnight. Compressor runs constantly trying to compensate, then burns out. Same system as Tahoe K2XX.

Symptoms: Rear end sags overnight, compressor runs constantly, Service Ride Control message, uneven ride height
from 100,000 km
High

Alternatives

Same Segment

Audi e-tron GE

Full-Size SUV (2018–2025)

Same Segment

Audi Q8 4M

Full-Size SUV (2018–2024)

Same Segment

BMW X5 G05

Full-Size SUV (2018–2026)

Same Segment

Chevrolet Traverse C1XX

Full-Size SUV (2018–2023)

Same Segment

Ford Expedition 4th Gen

Full-Size SUV (2018–2024)

Same Segment

Mercedes-Benz G-Klasse W463a

Full-Size SUV (2018–2025)


Known Problems and Issues

A total of 11 weaknesses have been documented for the GMC Yukon K2XX (2015–2020) — 7 engine-related and 4 vehicle-related. One problem engine: L84 (5.3L V8 EcoTec3). Typical issues affect Suspension, HVAC, Gearbox, Brakes.

Yukon (L84, 2015–2020) — Stay Away!: AFM/DFM Lifter Failure — Class Action, Oil Consumption — Piston Rings (Class Action), Timing Chain Wear. Power: 355 PS.

Yukon (L87, 2015–2020) — Be Careful: Recall: Metal Shavings in Engine — 597,000 Vehicles, AFM/DFM Lifter Failure, Oil Consumption — Piston Rings (2019-2020 and older L87). Power: 420 PS.

What to watch out for with the GMC Yukon? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the GMC Yukon K2XX have? +
The GMC Yukon K2XX has 7 known engine weaknesses and 4 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used GMC Yukon K2XX? +
faq.watch_a_avoid
Which engine is recommended? +
Be careful: L87 (6.2L V8 EcoTec3). No engine is rated 'Good Choice'. The most fun to drive is the L87 (6.2L V8 EcoTec3). Problem engine: L84 (5.3L V8 EcoTec3) — stay away!
Which GMC Yukon K2XX engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the GMC Yukon K2XX — rated: "Fun to Drive!". {description} 95% of an Escalade for $10-15k less. 420 hp, magnetic ride, heated/ventilated seats standard. Same L87 V8 with AFM lifter risk. K2XX avoids the metal shavings recall. Resale holds because Denali buyers know what they have.
Is the GMC Yukon K2XX worth buying used? +
Caution is advised with the GMC Yukon K2XX — 1 of 2 engine variants are rated 'Stay Away!'. The engine choice is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the GMC Yukon K2XX? +
The GMC Yukon K2XX is available with engine variants from 360 to 426 hp. Petrol: L84 (5.3L V8 EcoTec3), L87 (6.2L V8 EcoTec3).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee