2002 GMC Yukon

The 2002 GMC Yukon is a full-size SUV known for its spacious interior, towing capacity, and comfortable ride. Available engine options included the 4.8L Vortec V8 (285 hp, 295 lb-ft torque), the 5.3L Vortec V8 (285 hp, 325 lb-ft of torque in 2WD or 270 hp and 315 lb-ft of torque in 4WD), and the 6.0L Vortec V8 (320 hp, 360 lb-ft torque). A 4L60E four-speed automatic transmission was standard across all engine options. Owners generally appreciated the Yukon’s versatility and dependability for family hauling and work tasks. However, common complaints centered around fuel economy, the age of the vehicles and the wear and tear that comes with it, and some recurring mechanical issues.

Engine

4.8L Vortec V8

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Gradual increase in oil consumption requiring more frequent top-offs between oil changes. Can lead to spark plug fouling and catalytic converter damage if severe.
  • Solution: Replacing valve seals and piston rings can mitigate the issue, however, with the vehicle being over 20 years old, a complete engine rebuild may be needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.3L Vortec V8

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Gradual increase in oil consumption requiring more frequent top-offs between oil changes. Can lead to spark plug fouling and catalytic converter damage if severe.
  • Solution: Replacing valve seals and piston rings can mitigate the issue, however, with the vehicle being over 20 years old, a complete engine rebuild may be needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating, coolant smell, and/or rough running engine.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

6.0L Vortec V8

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Gradual increase in oil consumption requiring more frequent top-offs between oil changes. Can lead to spark plug fouling and catalytic converter damage if severe.
  • Solution: Replacing valve seals and piston rings can mitigate the issue, however, with the vehicle being over 20 years old, a complete engine rebuild may be needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4L60E Four-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Delayed or rough shifting between gears, particularly 1st to 2nd or 2nd to 3rd. Can be accompanied by transmission slipping during acceleration.
  • Solution: A transmission rebuild or replacement is often required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: A noticeable shudder or vibration, particularly at highway speeds or under light acceleration.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter or flushing the transmission fluid and adding a friction modifier.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front End Clunking
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise coming from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps or rough roads.
  • Solution: Replacing worn ball joints, sway bar links, or control arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Suspension Sagging (Autoride equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear end of the vehicle sits lower than normal, especially when loaded. Can result in a bouncy or unstable ride.
  • Solution: Replacing the air shocks, air compressor, or ride height sensors. This is only applicable for models equipped with the Autoride suspension.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges (speedometer, fuel, temperature) malfunctioning, flickering, or completely failing.
  • Solution: Replacing or repairing the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window/Door Lock Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of power windows or door locks on one or more doors.
  • Solution: Replacing the window motor, door lock actuator, or related wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Rocker Panels and Wheel Arches
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation on the lower body panels, especially around the rocker panels and wheel arches. This is particularly prevalent in regions with road salt use.
  • Solution: Cutting out and welding in new metal panels, followed by painting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight Lens Clouding/Yellowing
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlight lenses become cloudy or yellowed, reducing headlight brightness and visibility.
  • Solution: Polishing the headlight lenses or replacing the headlight assemblies.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clicking or thumping noise behind the dashboard, along with inconsistent or incorrect temperature control.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty HVAC actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2002 GMC Yukon, being an older vehicle, presents owners with a range of potential issues. Engine problems often revolve around oil consumption, while the 4L60E transmission can suffer from shifting issues. Suspension components, electrical systems, and exterior body panels are also prone to wear and tear. The severity and cost of these issues can vary widely, with some repairs being relatively inexpensive while others may require substantial investment. Prospective buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle and be prepared for potential maintenance costs.