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2025 GMC Yukon XL Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Daniel Wilson
2025 GMC Yukon XL Report

Overall Score

7.1/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Significant early-life engine failures, including crankshaft thrust bearing issues, are a primary concern.
  • Brake system malfunctions, ranging from warnings to complete failure, are frequently reported.
  • Electrical system and forward collision avoidance system issues also contribute to reliability concerns.
  • Despite a high overall safety score, rollover protection is rated a 3 out of 5.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2025 GMC Yukon XL

The 2025 GMC Yukon XL offers substantial passenger and cargo space, powered by a robust 6.2L V8 engine. While it achieves a respectable 16 MPG combined, its below-average reliability verdict, driven by significant engine and brake complaints, demands careful consideration for used buyers. Safety ratings are strong overall, with perfect scores in frontal and side impacts, though rollover protection is rated lower.

Critical Failure Risk

Significant early-life engine failures have been reported, specifically linked to crankshaft thrust bearing issues. These can lead to catastrophic engine failure at very low mileage.

Early detection can help you avoid a $4,000-$8,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

18
Service Brakes4
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
16
MPG
City
15
MPG
Highway
19
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.8/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing maximum passenger and cargo capacity in a large SUV.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2025 GMC Yukon XL Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2025 GMC Yukon XL.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Transmission
Automatic 10-spd
Drivetrain
Rear-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
16

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Most Common Issues

1. Braking System

Most reported

Usage: 4 reports

2. ENGINE

Usage: 3 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
Full safety recall details
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2025 GMC Yukon XL reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2025 GMC Yukon XL is 8.8/10. Reliability score is 8.8/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 18.

How practical is the 2025 GMC Yukon XL for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 16 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2025 GMC Yukon XL?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2025 GMC Yukon XL is 7.1/10. Overall score is 7.1/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.9/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2025 GMC Yukon XL?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $600. Repair prediction highlight: Engine (Crankshaft Thrust Bearing) (typical at 1,488 miles, estimated cost Min: $4,000 • Max: $8,000+).

What engine is in the 2025 GMC Yukon XL?▾

Engine specs list 8 • 6.2.

What transmission does the 2025 GMC Yukon XL use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2025 GMC Yukon XL, transmission is Automatic 10-spd. The paired drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2025 Yukon XL require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2025 GMC Yukon XL?▾

EPA combined estimate is 16 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2025 GMC Yukon XL?▾

17 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

What body style is the 2025 GMC Yukon XL?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2025 GMC Yukon XL, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2025 GMC Yukon XL use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2025 GMC Yukon XL, drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 10-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2025 GMC Yukon XL?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 3/5.

What are the most common service brakes problems on the 2025 GMC Yukon XL?▾

Top complaint category: service brakes (4 reports, 22.2% of complaints).

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2025 GMC Yukon XL?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe and 2025 Ford Expedition.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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