2004 GMC Yukon

Introduction

The 2004 GMC Yukon is a full-size SUV known for its spacious cabin, powerful engine, and impressive towing capacity. It was available with a range of engine and transmission options, including:

• 5.3L V8 (315 horsepower, 330 lb-ft torque)
• 6.0L V8 (325 horsepower, 360 lb-ft torque)
• 4-speed automatic transmission
• 6-speed automatic transmission

Drivers appreciate the Yukon’s comfortable ride, solid build quality, and rugged appearance. However, it has not been immune to certain issues reported by owners.

Engine

5.3L V8

• Intake Manifold Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking or warping of the intake manifold can cause coolant leaks, decreased engine performance, and overheating.
  • Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• AFM (Active Fuel Management) System Issues:
  • Description/Symptoms: The AFM system may malfunction, leading to engine misfires, rough idling, or decreased fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replacement of lifters and camshaft or deactivation of the AFM system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: #07024

6.0L V8

• Valve Guide Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive wear on the valve guides can lead to excessive oil consumption and blue smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replacement of the cylinder heads.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $7,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Lifter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Failed lifters can cause a ticking noise, decreased engine performance, and eventually engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the lifters and camshaft.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-speed Automatic Transmission

• Slipping Gears:
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may slip or hesitate when shifting, leading to a loss of power or acceleration.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replacement of the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-speed Automatic Transmission

• Delayed or Rough Shifting:
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may delay or shift harshly, causing a jolt or hesitation in acceleration.
  • Solution: Replacement or reprogramming of the transmission control module (TCM).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: #17E028

Suspension

• Rear Leaf Spring Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear leaf springs may crack or break, leading to a sagging rear end and reduced ride quality.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushings Worn:
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn control arm bushings can cause a rattling or clunking noise when driving over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacement of the control arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: A faulty alternator can lead to battery drain, dim headlights, and electrical failures.
  • Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Issues:
  • Description/Symptoms: The starter may fail to engage or spin properly, preventing engine startup.
  • Solution: Replacement of the starter solenoid or starter motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Hinge Pin Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: The door hinge pins may wear or break, causing the door to sag, creak, or bind.
  • Solution: Replacement of the door hinge pins.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard may develop cracks or splits, especially in areas exposed to sunlight.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Switch Failures:
  • Description/Symptoms: The power window switches may fail, preventing the windows from being operated.
  • Solution: Replacement of the switch assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 GMC Yukon is a spacious and capable SUV, but it is not immune to issues. The most severe and costly problems reported by owners include valve guide wear, lifter failure, intake manifold failure, and AFM system issues in the engines, and slipping gears and delayed shifting in the transmissions. However, the electrical, exterior, and interior issues are generally less expensive to repair.