2016 GMC Yukon XL

Introduction:

The 2016 GMC Yukon XL is a full-size SUV that offers a comfortable and spacious interior, a powerful engine, and impressive towing capabilities. It is available with either a 5.3L V8 or a 6.2L V8 engine, both paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Despite its overall reliability, the 2016 GMC Yukon XL has been plagued by various issues that have impacted its overall ownership experience.

Engine

5.3L V8

• Intake Manifold Bolt Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose or broken intake manifold bolts can cause coolant or oil leaks, reduced engine power, and overheating.
  • Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold bolts and gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
• Active Fuel Management (AFM) System Issues:
  • Description/Symptoms: The AFM system deactivates half of the engine cylinders to improve fuel economy but can lead to piston ring wear, knocking sounds, and a decrease in performance.
  • Solution: Deactivation of the AFM system or engine rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $5,000+
• Timing Chain Stretch:
  • Description/Symptoms: Extended use can cause the timing chain to stretch, leading to a rattling noise at startup or acceleration and potential engine failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain and related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+

6.2L V8

• Valve Stem Seal Leakage:
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn or defective valve stem seals can cause oil to leak into the combustion chamber, leading to blue smoke from the exhaust and increased oil consumption.
  • Solution: Replacement of valve stem seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
• Fuel Injector Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning fuel injectors can cause rough engine idle, hesitation during acceleration, and poor fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected fuel injector.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per injector

Transmission

• 6-Speed Automatic
  • Shift Hesitation or Shuddering:
    • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may hesitate or shudder during shifting, particularly when driving uphill or under load.
    • Solution: Reprogramming of the transmission control module or replacement of solenoids or clutch packs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
• Coolant Leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: A faulty transmission cooler line can leak coolant, leading to overheating and transmission failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the damaged line.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Suspension

• Front Suspension Strut Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn or damaged front suspension struts can lead to a rough ride, reduced handling, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ per pair
• Rear Leaf Spring Sagging:
  • Description/Symptoms: Over time, the rear leaf springs can sag, resulting in a lower ride height and reduced load-carrying capacity.
  • Solution: Replacement or reinforcement of the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per side

Electrical

• Battery Discharge:
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery may discharge prematurely, causing difficulty starting the vehicle or other electrical problems.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the faulty electrical component causing the discharge.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the cause

Exterior

• Rear Window Seal Leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: A faulty seal around the rear window can allow water to leak into the interior.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear window seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Interior

• Steering Wheel Buttons Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The buttons on the steering wheel may stop working, affecting audio, cruise control, or other functions.
  • Solution: Replacement of the steering wheel switch assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
• Center Console Trim Peeling:
  • Description/Symptoms: The trim on the center console may peel or detach, affecting the overall aesthetic of the interior.
  • Solution: Replacement of the trim.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+

Recalls

• NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V783000: Power Steering Assist Loss
• NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V042000: Front Suspension Lower Ball Joint Failure
• NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V333000: Rear Seat Latch Failure

Summary

The 2016 GMC Yukon XL has experienced a range of issues affecting its engine, transmission, suspension, electrical, and interior systems. While some issues are minor and relatively inexpensive to fix, others can be more serious and costly to repair. Owners may face significant expenses in addressing these problems, which can impact their overall satisfaction with the vehicle.