The GMC Yukon has a dependable and long-lasting drivetrain that should last 250,000 miles or more. However, despite the drivetrain’s stout nature, the Yukon’s chassis begins to fall apart as the SUV reaches higher mileages.
Key Points
- The GMC Yukon regularly lands on “longest-lasting vehicles,” lists, with many drivers surpassing 250,000 miles in their General Motors SUV.
- Nearly two percent of Yukon models are still on the road after 200,000 miles thanks to the full-size SUV’s bulletproof drivetrain.
- Despite their longevity, some Yukon engines have oil consumption issues, seemingly at random, due to defects during manufacturing—many engines need a complete replacement to fix the issue.
- Rust on Yukon frames can destabilize chassis components and make the vehicle unsafe and unstable to drive if not acted upon quickly.
- Annual repair costs for the GMC Yukon come in on the higher end of the spectrum at around $750. Though some things can be overlooked, minor problems will eventually become too much to ignore.
Yukon Models Rank Among the Longest Lasting, With Nearly 2% of Yukon and Yukon XL SUVs on the Road Past 200,000 Miles
The GMC Yukon was introduced in 1991. The modern version is essentially a rebadged Chevrolet Tahoe. The Yukon is used by most as a family SUV, though it was initially designed as a truck-based sport utility vehicle, giving it much of its rugged appearance and performance capabilities.
The Yukon is dependable and long-lasting. The SUV regularly appears in “longest life expectancy” lists like this one from Forbes, where the Yukon keeps pace with the likes of the Toyota Tundra and 4Runner.
In all, 1.6% of Yukons and 1.9% of Yukon XLs are on the road past 200,000 miles, according to USA Today. This puts the model firmly in the top 10, with five other GMC or Chevrolet models also landing on the list.
Properly Maintenance, the GMC Yukon Drivetrain Should Last Drivers Over 250,000 Miles
As with any vehicle, maintenance is key to how long the vehicle will last. When maintained, owners should expect to get 250,000 miles out of the SUV, according to reports on GM Inside News forum. Maximum mileage estimates for the Yukon range from 200,000 to 300,000 miles.
Some Yukons have been on the road for two decades or more, like these models from 1998, which are still running strong and are now for sale a full 24 years later.
The Yukon’s Chassis is Particularly Prone to Rust
As the miles stack on, drivers may run into rust issues. Though not as susceptible as other GMC-branded vehicles, the Yukon can pick up rust on the body and frame. This could be fatal if not treated quickly, particularly if found on the frame.
Drivers on the Tahoe and Yukon Forum say that while the Yukon and other GMC vehicles may live on forever mechanically, the body is often where they fail. What’s more, they also mention the high repair costs involved with a rusted chassis.
Even Low-mileage Yukon Engines May Consume Excessive Oil, With GM Having Difficulties Addressing the Problem
One of the most concerning problems the Yukon drivetrain may face is excessive oil consumption, according to Car Complaints, where excessive oil consumption is mentioned in 24 of 40 engine-related complaints. The issue also ups the chances of engine failure due to overheated internal parts, particularly at higher mileage.
The oil consumption problems often start with relatively low miles on the Yukon and seem to affect a near-random pattern of engines. Initially stymied on how best to mitigate this issue, GM dealers attempted piston ring, rocker box, and gasket replacements to no avail according to drivers on Edmund’s forums.
GM ultimately resorted to entire engine replacements to fix the oil consumption on Yukons still within the drivetrain warranty.
Annual Maintanence Can Be Costly, but the Drivetrain is Usually not a Part of the Bill
Repair Pal quotes the annual maintenance cost of the GMC Yukon at $747. However, much of the repairs are for common, yet costly, cosmetic problems like a cracked dashboard. A faulty AC system also makes the list of repair bills, as well as pricey undercarriage rust that may also increase the odds of an accident.
With the Yukon, it’s much more likely that the vehicle falls apart before the engine and transmission reach the end of their lifespans. The GMC SUV is not likely to leave you on the side of the road, especially in well-maintained models. Just be on the lookout for excessive oil, which is a problem that could strike at any moment regardless of mileage.
Ultimately, reaching 200,000 miles in a GMC Yukon should be expected, but 250,000 or more is possible.
Photos: GMC
