2011 GMC Yukon Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The airbag system is the most significant concern, with numerous complaints and recalls related to inflator modules and dashboard integrity.
- Dashboard cracking is a common issue, often linked to airbag safety and requiring professional assessment.
- Expect high fuel costs due to the Yukon's 12 MPG combined fuel economy.
- While safety ratings are generally good, the 3-star rollover rating suggests caution.
2011 GMC Yukon
The 2011 GMC Yukon offers robust utility and a commanding presence, but used buyers should be aware of its reliability shortcomings. With 9 recalls and 216 complaints logged, the most frequent issues revolve around the airbag system and dashboard structure. While it achieves a strong 4 out of 5 stars in overall NHTSA safety ratings, including perfect scores in frontal and side crashes, the rollover rating is a more modest 3 stars. Fuel economy is a significant consideration, averaging 12 MPG combined, leading to high fuel costs. The 6.0L V8 engine provides ample power, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive. Potential repair costs associated with its 9 recalls and numerous technical service bulletins warrant careful inspection.
Critical Failure Risk
Widespread reports of the dashboard cracking, particularly around the airbag housing. This issue is often linked to material degradation and can be exacerbated by heat and UV exposure. It raises concerns about the integrity of the airbag system.
Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$1,500 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Buyers prioritizing towing or cargo capacity over long-term mechanical perfection.
+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
2011 GMC Yukon Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2011 GMC Yukon.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 9
- Transmission
- Automatic 6-spd
- Drivetrain
- Rear-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 12
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Most Common Issues
1. Airbags
Most reportedUsage: 79 reports
2. Structure & Body
Usage: 21 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Inspect Brake System
Est. shop cost: $100 - $200
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FAQ
Is the 2011 GMC Yukon reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2011 GMC Yukon is 7.9/10. Reliability score is 7.9/10. NHTSA recalls: 9. Owner complaints: 216.
How practical is the 2011 GMC Yukon for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.1/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 12 MPG. Seating capacity is 9. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 479 litres.
What is the overall score for the 2011 GMC Yukon?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2011 GMC Yukon is 6.5/10. Overall score is 6.5/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.2/10. Practicality 5.1/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2011 GMC Yukon?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Inspect Brake System at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $800 - $1,500. Repair prediction highlight: Air Bag Inflator (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $1,000).
What engine is in the 2011 GMC Yukon?
Engine specs list 8 • 6.0.
What transmission does the 2011 GMC Yukon use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 GMC Yukon, transmission is Automatic 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2011 GMC Yukon?
EPA combined estimate is 12 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2011 GMC Yukon?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
How many people fit in a 2011 GMC Yukon?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 GMC Yukon, seating capacity is 9.
What body style is the 2011 GMC Yukon?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 GMC Yukon, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2011 GMC Yukon use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 GMC Yukon, drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 6-spd.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2011 GMC Yukon?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 3/5.
What are the most common air bags problems on the 2011 GMC Yukon?
Top complaint category: air bags (79 reports, 36.6% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2011 GMC Yukon?
This model year has 9 official safety campaigns listed.
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2011 GMC Yukon?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe and 2011 Ford Expedition.