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GMC · Full-Size SUV · 2015–2020 Custom Search

GMC Yukon K2XX

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

2.0 / 5.0 · Based on 2 engine variants · How we rate

Generations


Engine Overview

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

Yukon · Petrol· 355 PS
2015 2020

5.3L V8, iron block, the most-produced truck engine in North America. DFM shuts down up to 15 of 16 firing patterns — and that's the problem. Lifter needle bearings starve for oil in deactivated cylinders, skid across cam lobes, send metal through the engine. Two class actions pending. A $200 Range disabler buys time; a $2,500 mechanical delete with DOD-delete cam is the permanent fix. Run 0W-20 Dexos, change at 5,000 miles maximum.

Yukon Denali · Petrol· 420 PS
2015 2020

6.2L V8, 420 hp, same Gen V architecture as the 5.3 but deeper exhaust note and noticeably more shove. 2021-2024: manufacturing left metal shavings in 597,000 engines — GM's fix was switching to 0W-40 oil. NHTSA opened an investigation into post-recall failures. Same DFM lifter risk as the 5.3. Pre-2021 or confirmed post-recall units with documented oil changes are the buy.

  • !! Recall: Metal Shavings in Engine — 597,000 Vehicles

    Manufacturing debris (metal shavings) in engine destroys bearings. 2021-2024 L87. Free engine replacement, 6-8 week wait. NHTSA investigating post-recall failures.

    0–0 $
  • !! AFM/DFM Lifter Failure from 100,000 km

    Same lifter issue as 5.3L — cylinder deactivation wears lifters.

    Symptoms: Ticking/knocking, misfires, rough running
    3,500–8,500 $
  • !! Oil Consumption — Piston Rings (2019-2020 and older L87) from 80,000 km

    Piston rings let oil past — 0.5-1 quart per 2,000 miles in severe cases. Also affects 2019-2020 L87 not covered by the machining debris recall. NHTSA investigating these cases separately.

    Symptoms: Blue smoke, dropping oil level, fouled spark plugs, positive oil consumption test
    2,500–7,000 $

+ 1 more engine weaknesses + vehicle 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

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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