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GMC · Full-Size SUV · 2021–2025 Custom Search

GMC Yukon T1XX

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

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

Generations


Engine Overview

The GMC Yukon T1XX is available with 2 engine variants — from 360 to 426 hp.

Yukon · Petrol· 355 PS
2021 2025

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
2021 2025

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
!10L80 10-Speed Transmission Shudder

Same 10-speed shudder as Tahoe/Sierra T1XX. Multiple class actions. Fluid flush with Mobil 1 LV ATF HP helps temporarily.

Symptoms: Harsh shifts, shudder at low speed, hesitation, clunking into reverse
from 40,000 km
High

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Known Problems and Issues +

A total of 11 weaknesses have been documented for the GMC Yukon T1XX (2021–2025) — 7 engine-related and 4 vehicle-related. One problem engine: L84 (5.3L V8 EcoTec3). Typical issues affect Gearbox, Electronics, Body, Other.

Yukon (L84, 2021–2025) — Stay Away!: AFM/DFM Lifter Failure — Class Action, Oil Consumption — Piston Rings (Class Action), Timing Chain Wear. Power: 355 PS.

Yukon (L87, 2021–2025) — 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 T1XX have? +
The GMC Yukon T1XX has 7 known engine weaknesses and 4 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used GMC Yukon T1XX? +
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 T1XX engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the GMC Yukon T1XX — rated: "Fun to Drive!". {description} IRS suspension, 420 hp, 15-inch HUD, massaging seats — peak GM luxury SUV. The L87 metal shavings recall (2021-2024) applies. NHTSA investigating post-recall failures. A confirmed post-recall unit is arguably the best full-size SUV value in America. Without that confirmation, it's a $75k gamble.
Is the GMC Yukon T1XX worth buying used? +
Caution is advised with the GMC Yukon T1XX — 1 of 2 engine variants are rated 'Stay Away!'. The engine choice is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the GMC Yukon T1XX? +
The GMC Yukon T1XX 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