2004 GMC Yukon XL 1500

Introduction

The 2004 GMC Yukon XL 1500 is a full-size SUV known for its spacious interior, powerful engine, and off-road capabilities. It is offered with three engine options: a 4.8L V8 (290 hp), a 5.3L V8 (320 hp), and a 6.0L V8 (345 hp). Transmission options include a 4-speed automatic and a 5-speed automatic for the 4.8L V8 and 5.3L V8, and a 6-speed automatic for the 6.0L V8. Owners generally praise the Yukon XL 1500 for its performance, comfort, and practicality, but some have reported issues with certain components.

Engine

4.8L V8

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, engine overheating, rough idle
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Active Fuel Management System Issues:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, reduced power, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace or repair faulty AFM lifters, camshaft, or related components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.3L V8

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure (2005+ Models):
  • Description/Symptoms: Similar to 4.8L V8
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.0L V8

• Piston Ring Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from exhaust, decreased engine power
  • Solution: Engine rebuild or replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $10,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (4.8L V8, 5.3L V8)

• Torque Converter Shudder:
  • Description/Symptoms: Vibration or shudder during acceleration or gear shifts
  • Solution: Replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slippage:
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to engage gears properly, delayed acceleration, loss of power
  • Solution: Transmission repair or replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Automatic (4.8L V8, 5.3L V8)

• Transmission Control Module Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic gear shifts, transmission overheating, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace transmission control module
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic (6.0L V8)

• Shift Solenoid Issues:
  • Description/Symptoms: Delayed or hard gear shifts, transmission slipping
  • Solution: Replace shift solenoids
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure (Front, all trims):
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise, poor handling, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace strut mounts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per pair
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Differential Seal Leaks (6.0L V8 models):
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking differential fluid, whining or growling noise from rear axle
  • Solution: Replace rear differential seal
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure (4.8L V8 models):
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, difficulty starting, battery not charging
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain (5.3L V8, 6.0L V8 models):
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery draining quickly when parked, reduced electrical performance
  • Solution: Identify and repair electrical drain, such as faulty lights, modules, or accessories
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on source of drain
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Tailgate Corrosion (2005+ Models):
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust or corrosion on tailgate, especially around license plate area
  • Solution: Replace or repair tailgate
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Control Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Inoperable climate controls, temperature not regulating properly
  • Solution: Replace HVAC control module
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Broken Armrests:
  • Description/Symptoms: Plastic armrests cracking or breaking
  • Solution: Replace armrests
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

While the 2004 GMC Yukon XL 1500 is generally a reliable and capable vehicle, it has experienced some issues with various components. Some of the more severe issues, such as engine piston ring failure or transmission problems, can be expensive to fix. However, many of the reported issues are relatively minor and can be addressed at a reasonable cost. Overall, the Yukon XL 1500 provides a good value for its size, power, and features, but potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues before making a purchase.