2007 GMC Yukon XL 1500
2007 GMC Yukon XL 1500
Overview
The 2007 GMC Yukon XL 1500, a full-size SUV, offered robust towing and passenger capacity. It was generally considered a reliable vehicle for its class, particularly for its powertrain. However, like many vehicles of this era, certain components could experience issues over time. Common areas of concern often revolved around the electrical system and some suspension components, especially with higher mileage. The large V8 engines and the robust transmission options were typically strong points, though specific maintenance and driving conditions played a significant role in long-term durability. Owners generally appreciated its utility and comfort for long trips and hauling.
Engine
5.3L V8 (LC9)
Active Fuel Management (AFM) lifter failure
- Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idle, check engine light, potential engine knocking noise.
- Solution: Replace lifters, pushrods, and potentially camshaft. Some owners opt for AFM delete kits.
- Cost: $1,500 - $3,000
Oil consumption
- Symptoms: Excessive oil burning, requiring frequent top-offs.
- Solution: Can be due to worn piston rings, valve seals, or PCV system. Diagnosis is key; repairs can range from PCV replacement to engine rebuild.
- Cost: $300 - $2,500+
6.0L V8 (LQ4/LQ9)
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Transmission
4-speed Automatic (4L60-E)
Torque converter shudder
- Symptoms: Vibration or shuddering during acceleration, especially at lower speeds.
- Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter change, or torque converter replacement.
- Cost: $500 - $1,200
Overheating
- Symptoms: Transmission slipping, delayed shifting, burning smell.
- Solution: Check transmission fluid level and condition, inspect cooler lines, and potentially install an auxiliary transmission cooler.
- Cost: $200 - $800
4-speed Automatic (4L70-E)
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Suspension
Standard Chassis
Worn ball joints and control arm bushings
- Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, uneven tire wear, vague steering feel.
- Solution: Replacement of ball joints and control arm bushings.
- Cost: $400 - $900
Rear air suspension leaks (if equipped)
- Symptoms: Vehicle sagging in the rear, uneven ride height, compressor running excessively.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of air springs, lines, or compressor.
- Cost: $300 - $1,000
Electrical
Body Control Module (BCM)
Intermittent electrical failures
- Symptoms: Various electrical components malfunctioning (e.g., power windows, locks, interior lights), sometimes without a clear cause.
- Solution: Diagnosis and potential reprogramming or replacement of the BCM.
- Cost: $500 - $1,000
Alternator
Premature failure
- Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery warning light, difficulty starting.
- Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
- Cost: $400 - $700
Exterior
Body Panels and Trim
Rust on rocker panels and wheel wells
- Symptoms: Visible rust formation, bubbling paint.
- Solution: Rust repair and repainting, or replacement of affected panels.
- Cost: $300 - $1,500+
Tailgate actuator failure
- Symptoms: Power tailgate not opening or closing, manual operation difficult.
- Solution: Replacement of the tailgate actuator.
- Cost: $200 - $500
Interior
HVAC System
Blend door actuator failure
- Symptoms: Inability to control temperature (stuck on hot or cold), air only coming from certain vents.
- Solution: Replacement of the blend door actuator.
- Cost: $200 - $500
Infotainment System (if equipped)
Screen flickering or freezing
- Symptoms: Navigation screen or radio display malfunctioning.
- Solution: Software update or replacement of the infotainment unit.
- Cost: $300 - $1,000+
Summary Verdict
The 2007 GMC Yukon XL 1500 is a capable and generally reliable large SUV, especially concerning its core powertrain components like the 5.3L and 6.0L V8 engines and the 4-speed automatic transmissions. However, potential buyers should be aware of common issues such as Active Fuel Management lifter problems and oil consumption on the 5.3L, and torque converter shudder on the 4L60-E transmission. Electrical gremlins, particularly related to the BCM, and wear on suspension components like ball joints are also points to inspect. Rust can be a concern on older models. Overall, with diligent maintenance and inspection of these known weak points, the Yukon XL 1500 can remain a dependable vehicle.