2020 GMC Yukon

The 2020 GMC Yukon is a full-size SUV offering a blend of capability, comfort, and technology. It was available with three engine options: a 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 (355 hp, 383 lb-ft of torque), a 6.2L EcoTec3 V8 (420 hp, 460 lb-ft of torque), and a 3.0L Duramax Turbo Diesel (277 hp, 460 lb-ft of torque). The 5.3L V8 and the 6.2L V8 were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, while the 3.0L Duramax Turbo Diesel was paired with the same 10-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Yukon for its spacious interior, powerful engine options (particularly the 6.2L), and comfortable ride. Common complaints include the vehicle’s large size making it difficult to maneuver in tight spaces, less-than-stellar fuel economy, and some reported issues with the infotainment system.

Engine

5.3L EcoTec3 V8

• Active Fuel Management (AFM)/Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM) Lifter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idling, check engine light illumination. Often diagnosed with codes related to cylinder deactivation. Can lead to more significant engine damage if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty lifters, often requiring removal of the cylinder heads. Some owners opt for a complete AFM/DFM delete kit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.2L EcoTec3 V8

• Active Fuel Management (AFM)/Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM) Lifter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idling, check engine light illumination. Often diagnosed with codes related to cylinder deactivation. Can lead to more significant engine damage if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty lifters, often requiring removal of the cylinder heads. Some owners opt for a complete AFM/DFM delete kit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L Duramax Turbo Diesel * Fuel Injector Failure * Description/Symptoms: Rough Idle, White Smoke, Fuel in Oil, Check Engine Light * Solution: Replacement of faulty fuel injector, engine oil change to remove any fuel in the oil, cleaning of fuel system. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ * Recalls: None Found

Transmission

10-Speed Automatic (All Engines)

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky shifts, hesitation when accelerating, clunking noises during gear changes. Can occur at various speeds and under different driving conditions.
  • Solution: Software update/reprogramming of the transmission control module (TCM). In some cases, valve body replacement is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ (for software update), $800 - $1,500+ (for valve body)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Magnetic Ride Control (if equipped) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Uneven ride height, clunking noises from the suspension, error messages related to the suspension system. Loss of damping control leading to a bouncy or unstable ride.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected magnetic ride control shocks/struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+ per shock/strut
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, lagging, black screen, unresponsive touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity problems.
  • Solution: Software updates or replacement of the infotainment system module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (for software update), $500 - $1500+ (for module replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle battery drains quickly, especially when the vehicle is not driven for extended periods. Can lead to difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of parasitic drain. Common culprits include faulty modules, aftermarket accessories, or a failing battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appear on the dashboard, often near the windshield or in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement. Some owners attempt to repair cracks with fillers or covers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+ (for replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 GMC Yukon can suffer from a range of issues, with the most potentially costly being engine-related problems like AFM/DFM lifter failures, which can affect both the 5.3L and 6.2L V8 engines. Transmission issues, while not always severe, can lead to annoying drivability problems. Electrical glitches with the infotainment system and battery drain are also fairly common complaints. The frequency and severity of these issues can vary, and preventative maintenance is crucial. Addressing these problems early can help prevent more significant and expensive repairs down the road.