2015 GMC Yukon XL

Above average

Owners filed 308 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the headlights. It has been recalled 2 times.

Avoid One of the GMC Yukon XL years to avoid: 3.4× the complaints of a typical Yukon XL year. Which GMC Yukon XL years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
70,000 milesMedian miles at failure

200 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 60,000–75,000 miles.

Most common 2015 GMC Yukon XL problems

109 of the 308 complaints (35%) are about the headlights.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Exterior Lighting · headlights106
000
Service Brakes · brakes59
404
Electrical System42
021
Power Train · transmission27
200
Engine19
010
Unknown or Other14
000
Structure › Body · body and frame11
000
Steering8
000
Fuel/Propulsion System · fuel and propulsion system6
000
Wheels2
000

2015 GMC Yukon XL headlights problems

35% of all complaints

109 of the 308 complaints are about the headlights.

Share of the 109 headlights complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Typical mileage
68,000 mi
median of 79 reports
Peak year of filing
2019
44 headlights complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
0 · 0 · 0
in these complaints
Recalls on the headlights
None
“Yes, that case number would be 91762225 (With GM). You are most welcome. Thank you for contacting Chevrolet Customer Assistance and have a nice day! Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need anything else. VIN1GKS2HKC8FR165487 Special Coverage Adjustment N182180270 Tail Lamps Inoperative Having issues described by NTSA and vehicle has 62,000 miles but falls after the expiration date.”
Owner complaint, filed Mar 25, 2026
“The contact owns a 2015 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the front passenger's side headlight failed to illuminate. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the passenger's side taillight was replaced; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, and the contact was informed that the front passenger's side headlight needed to be replaced.”
Owner complaint, filed Mar 26, 2024 at 83,415 miles

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
2015: 4 complaints, 0 about the headlights'152016: 10 complaints, 0 about the headlights'162017: 6 complaints, 0 about the headlights'172018: 52 complaints, 26 about the headlights'182019: 87 complaints, 44 about the headlights'192020: 54 complaints, 22 about the headlights'202021: 21 complaints, 6 about the headlights'212022: 20 complaints, 5 about the headlights'222023: 10 complaints, 4 about the headlights'232024: 11 complaints, 1 about the headlights'242025: 25 complaints, 0 about the headlights'252026: 8 complaints, 1 about the headlights'26Recall 16V651000 (seat belts)Recall 17V437000 (seat belts)NHTSA investigation PE18012
All complaintsAbout the headlightsRecall (red: the headlights)NHTSA investigation opened

Complaints about the 2015 Yukon XL peaked in 2019, with 87 filed that year. No recall on file covers the headlights, the subject of 35% of the complaints. In 2026 owners filed 8 so far.

2 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Seat Belts › Pretensioner17V437000
Filed Jul 10, 201740,683 vehiclesGeneral Motors LLC

Defect. General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2014-2016 Buick Lacrosse and Chevrolet Spark EV, Caprice PPV and SS vehicles, 2014-2017 Buick Encore and Chevrolet Corvette, Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 vehicles, 2015-2016 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Tahoe, Trax, Suburban and Silverado 2500 and 3500 and GMC Yukon and Yukon XL vehicles, and 2015-2017 GMC Sierra HD 2500 and 3500 vehicles. While being previously remedied for recall 16V-651, the affected vehicles may not have received the complete software update necessary to remedy the recall condition. Without the update, certain driving conditions may cause the air bag sensing and diagnostic module (SDM) software to activate a diagnostic test. During this test, deployment of the frontal air bags and the seat belt pretensioners would not occur in the event of a crash.

Risk. A failure of the front air bags or seat belt pretensioners to deploy in the event of a crash necessitating deployment increases the risk of injury to the driver and front passenger.

Remedy. GM will notify owners, and dealers will reflash the SDM software. Vehicles that have had a previous air bag deployment will have the SDM replaced. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began on August 4, 2017. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is 17287.

Seat Belts › Pretensioner16V651000
Filed Sep 8, 20163,640,162 vehiclesGeneral Motors LLC

Defect. General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2015-2017 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD, 3500 HD, Tahoe, Suburban, GMC Sierra 2500 HD and 3500 HD, GMC Yukon, GMC Yukon XL, Cadillac Escalade and Cadillac Escalade ESV vehicles and 2014-2017 Chevrolet Corvette, Silverado 1500, Trax, Caprice Police Pursuit Vehicle, GMC Sierra 1500, Buick Encore, and 2014-2016 Buick Lacrosse, Chevrolet Spark EV and SS vehicles. In the affected vehicles, certain driving conditions may cause the air bag sensing and diagnostic module (SDM) software to activate a diagnostic test. During this test, deployment of the frontal air bags and the seat belt pretensioners would not occur in the event of a crash.

Risk. A failure of the front air bags or seat belt pretensioners to deploy in the event of a crash necessitating deployment increases the risk of injury to the driver and front passenger.

Remedy. GM will notify owners, and dealers will reflash the SDM software. Vehicles that have had a previous air bag deployment will have the SDM replaced. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began on October 13, 2016. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is 16007.

All 2 campaigns on file, newest first.

NHTSA investigations

Office of Defects Investigation

Before a recall there is often an investigation: NHTSA opens one when complaints or manufacturer data point to a safety defect. One names the 2015 Yukon XL.

Brake Vacuum Pump FailurePreliminary evaluation PE18012Closed
Opened Nov 20, 2018Closed Apr 10, 2022Led to recall 19V645000brakes

On November 20, 2018, the Office of Defects Investigations (ODI) opened PE18-012 to investigate instances of sudden onset of a hard brake pedal that could result in extended stopping distance due to an issue with the brake assist vacuum pump in model year (MY) 2014 through 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 and Chevrolet Silverado 1500 series pickup trucks and MY 2015 through 2016 Cadillac Escalade, Chevrolet Suburban, Chevrolet Tahoe, and GMC Yukon SUVs.If the brake assist vacuum pump fails to operate as intended, the amount of brake power assist supplied to the driver can be significantly reduced, …

Technical service bulletins

2,156 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2015 Yukon XL. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

equipment 674electrical system 353engine 310transmission 192equipment adaptive/mobility 81fuel system 74body and frame 70visibility 54
General CommunicationService campaignAug 26, 2024electrical system

Vehicle Wide Programming (VWP) is a new process to update software on GM Vehicles. It provides the ability via a single selection within Techline Connect to first identify which modules need updating and then proceed to updating affected modules (with some exceptions). The updating of modules is completed in parallel instead of the technician needing to …

15086AService campaignJun 22, 2017equipment

15086A - Customer Satisfaction Program. On certain passenger cars and light duty trucks, equipped with Gen 10 OnStar®, the embedded phone flash memory chip may become corrupted, causing the OnStar® system to become inoperative. Dealers are to replace and program the vehicle communication interface module (VCIM).

GCUS-3-823Service campaignJan 26, 2017seats

17018-Customer Satisfaction Program. Certain vehicles, equipped with power front passenger seat adjuster that was previously replaced, may have a condition in which the front passenger seat can be adjusted to a position beyond the occupant design travel range. Dealers will inspect front passenger seat tracks and, as necessary, install the seat stop(s).

PIT5236GService campaignMar 31, 2016electrical system

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have a Diagnostic Trouble Code B101D stored in Telematics Communication Interface Control Module. Technician will check Global Warranty Management system for customer satisfaction program 15086 status. If the status of the customer satisfaction program …

01-08-42-001QService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJan 27, 2025headlights

This service bulletin provides information on Exterior Lamp Condensation and Water Leak Information and Replacement Guidelines.

02-08-42-001JService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJan 12, 2024headlights

This informational bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Headlamp, Tail Lamp, License Lamp or Fog/Driving Lamp Damage.

01-08-42-001PService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsMay 3, 2023headlights

This service bulletin provides information on Exterior Lamp Condensation and Water Leak Information and Replacement Guidelines.

01-08-42-001OService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsFeb 15, 2023headlights

This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Exterior Lamp Condensation and Water Leaks and Replacement Guidelines.

N182180270Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsOct 18, 2022headlights

Special Coverage. General Motors announced Special Coverage N182180270 on November 26, 2019. We are reminding dealers to review the Applicable Warranties section in IVH to determine if this Special Coverage applies.

010842001NService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJun 21, 2021headlights

This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Exterior Lamp Condensation and Water Leaks and Replacement Guidelines.

Showing the newest 6 of 18 bulletins about the headlights, and any warranty extensions or service campaigns.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Structure › Body
Filed Oct 14, 2026TX

I was open the tailgate of my truck and I am trying to put something but the tailgate closed on my back. And every time to try open it , open a few inches and close rapidly. GM has a recall but they tell me that the recall doesn’t apply to my truck because my VIN. Power Liftgate Inoperable, recall number 14300

Structure › Body
Filed Sep 18, 2026AR

While driving the speed limit of 75 MPH, the vehicle's metal hood latch (for example: the metal piece on the underside of the hood that goes into the latch) broke causing the vehicle's hood to fly back and completely covered the windshield. This could have resulted in the tragic death of my wife and I. The windshield broke, the hinges locked in place, the hood was damaged including the hood's edges. During the pre-trip inspection, the hood was secure with no slack. There was no warning light regarding the hood. The vehicle was placed into storage until I research the proper procedures of reporting the safety hazard, so no one has inspected the vehicle.

Power Train
Filed Jun 4, 2026238,000 milesAR

The contact owns a 2015 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that while driving at 35 MPH to work, the vehicle shifted into neutral and into low and failed to drive at about 20 MPH. The check engine light was flashing. The front collision was unavailable. The contact left the vehicle at a gas station. Upon research, the contact located NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V374000 (Power Train), which was similar to the failure. The local dealer was contacted, who confirmed there were no open recalls. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted via chat, who referred her to the local dealer and manufacturer service center. The contact informed her to confirm the coverage with the dealer. The failure mileage was approximately 283,000.

Power Train › Automatic Transmission › Control Module (tcm/Pcm/Tecm)
Filed Apr 15, 2026177,000 milesTN

The contact owns a 2015 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the vehicle shuddered. The contact stated that upon pulling into a parking lot, the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was pushed into a parking space with assistance. Additionally, the contact stated that while her husband was test-driving the vehicle in the driveway by driving forward and reversing several times, the transmission locked up while depressing the brake pedal the thirteenth time. A mobile mechanic diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the transmission control module had failed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not included in a related recall. The failure mileage was approximately 177,000.

Power Train
Filed Mar 30, 2026MN

Transmission shuttering between 50-65 MPH.

Exterior Lighting
Filed Mar 25, 2026OH

Yes, that case number would be 91762225 (With GM). You are most welcome. Thank you for contacting Chevrolet Customer Assistance and have a nice day! Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need anything else. VIN1GKS2HKC8FR165487 Special Coverage Adjustment N182180270 Tail Lamps Inoperative Having issues described by NTSA and vehicle has 62,000 miles but falls after the expiration date. I contacted GM and they were very nice but they were unwilling to help in any way. Any help would be appreciated.

Service Brakes, Hydraulic
Filed Mar 23, 2026143,000 milesIL

The contact owns a 2015 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated that while driving 70 MPH and exiting the highway, the brake pedal was depressed but the brake pedal was stiff and stuck, requiring that the transmission be shifted to neutral(N), and to stand on the brake pedal with both feet. The contact continuously pumped the brake pedal, but the vehicle slowly responded and almost crashed into other vehicles. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact's wife and daughter were also inside the vehicle during the failure and were frightened and concerned for their safety during the failure. The dealer was contacted and was provided a description of the failure over the phone. The dealer informed the contact that the vacuum pump and an unknown part had possibly failed. The contact was advised that the failure was possibly related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V645000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the VIN was not included in the recall, and there was no warranty coverage on the vehicle for the failure. Additionally, the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired due to the cost. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 143,000.

Engine
Filed Jan 19, 2026TX

While driving back home from my trip the truck all a sudden made a squealing noise and the engine just stopped. I was on the high way . I was able to coast the vehicle off onto the exit ramp. The vehicle was towed home. The following day it was towed to the repair shop. The shop has confirmed engine failure. Will need to replace the engine . Still waiting for warranty approval.

Engine
Filed Dec 9, 2025100,000 milesMI

The contact owns a 2015 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated that when the vehicle was started, the vehicle started shaking with a tapping sound coming from the engine compartment. The contact stated that there were no warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed around the block, the failure persisted. The vehicle was parked at the residence. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the lifters in the engine were loose, and the lifters and the right side of the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.

Power Train
Filed Oct 20, 2025LA

The transmission shifts hard in low gears. I have done research, and it seems like this is a common problem that a vast amount of these vehicles have. I honestly think that this is has to be looked into for a recall. There is countless information on the web with videos, other owners, and transmission businesses explaining about it.

Power Train
Filed Aug 25, 2025161,000 milesNC

The contact owns a 2015 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the transmission shifted hard from first to second gear while depressing the accelerator pedal. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that while driving 80 MPH, the vehicle independently decelerated while depressing the accelerator pedal, and the vehicle started shaking abnormally. The vehicle was taken to an independent and several internal parts of the transmission were replaced, and the Transmission Control Module (TCM) was also replaced; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was then taken to a dealer, where the contact was informed that the repairs had not addressed the cause of the failure. The contact was informed that the failure was likely related to the transfer case. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 161,000.

Engine
Filed Jul 8, 2025GA

The Active Fuel Management (AFM) system malfunctioned causing not all engine cylinders to fire at critical times, thus causing a safety issue when the vehicle has insufficient power traveling at highway speed. The AFM is intended to transition from 8 cylinder power to 4 cylinder power to save fuel. However it malfunctioned so that it couldn't transition back from 4 cylinder power. The malfunction occurred while driving at highway speed, approximately 70 mph and towing a trailer. There were no warning messages or other symptoms prior to the failure. This malfunction necessitated removal and replacement of the engine. A certified mechanic completed the repair work.

Service Brakes
Filed Jun 9, 2025AZ

Service Box appears indicating - "Trailer Brake System" with a loud BING, BING, BING Alert sound. It continues every few minutes... Please note: we aren't using a trailer... I have googled/youtube it and found that this is an issue with many owners. They indicate that the wire harness in between two of the body control modules is defective. It is known to have faulty wire connection. This is intermittent, goes for months and stops for months, and then starts up again. Starting the vehicle, while driving slow or fast, it doesn't matter.

Service Brakes
Filed May 28, 2025MI

I purchased a 2015 GMC Yukon in March 2024 I drive the vehicle 9 mons, 7500 miles the vehicle has been in service at my local dealership since Dec 13, 2024, for engine and transmission replacement, I have had the vehicle back 3 weeks not the warning light and service warning chime for the "Service Trailer Brake System is on, I have not ever use a trailer with the vehicle, I was told the vehicle needs a wire harness, I have read this a problem in these vehicles that has not been addressed GMC with a recall, I have put A LOT of money in the vehicle. This is an well documented failure in the trailer brake system that GM should repair at no cost to the consumer

Power Train
Filed May 14, 2025FL

LOUD NOISES STARTED UNDER THE CAR AND EVENTUALLY SHUT OFF IN MIDDLE OF THE INTERSTATE, THANK FULLY ANOTHER PERSON HELP US MOVE THE CAR TO THE SHOULDER AND NOTHING HAPPENED

Engine
Filed May 14, 2025127,000 milesLA

The contact owns a 2015 GMC Yukon XL. While the contact's wife was driving 50 MPH, the engine seized. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to restart. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed with engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. In addition, the contact stated that the vehicle failed to start several times; however, the battery and the alternator were replaced. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to start and was towed to the destination. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 127,000.

Power Train
Filed May 13, 2025IL

My transmission is causing a lot of shaking and hard shifting and it's very detrimental to my physical and psychological health. I am a disabled veteran with back problems and every time my Yukon shakes (almost every single shift) it hurts my back and makes it difficult to do anything. This is a very, very common issue with this year make and model but nothing seems to be getting accomplished. GM needs to remedy these issues as a recall since most of us can't afford the $5000-$12000 that this type of repair is going to cost us and GM knows that this is an issue. I can't continue to risk my family's health and safety with this vehicle and it needs to be fixed immediately!

Structure › Body
Filed May 13, 2025IL

The amount of rust that has been exposed is absolutely insane. My adjuster found the initial section of rust when we had the Yukon in for repairs from a storm. In the past 2 months, the rust has caused a massive hole underneath the rear passenger's side door and we have had no choice but to get it repaired. The initial estimate for this single repair is going to be over $3400. This rust easily could've broken down further and gotten into the brakes and other components right behind it as it sits very close to the wheel well. This is an absolutely dangerous issue and should be addressed.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed May 5, 2025112,000 milesMI

The contact owns a 2015 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that while attempting to accelerate from a stop, the vehicle experienced a loss of automotive power. and no warning lights were illuminated. The contact immediately pulled over, and the vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the crankshaft was faulty, and that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING) as a possible cause for the failure; however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 112,000.

Engine
Filed May 1, 2025SC

While driving my check engine light came on. Engine was shaking and running awful. Smoke was coming from the tailpipe. Mechanic upon inspection informed me that a lifter had failed. Causing damage to the cylinder head. Also causing the fuel injectors to fail. The cylinder head had to be removed and sent to machine shop for repairs. Mechanic informed me that this is a very common failure for LS motors. Repair bill was $5300 for parts and labor.

Engine
Filed Apr 30, 2025ME

In september the check engine light came on and the care began making aloud knocking noise. When we brought it to our mechanic he let us know that the engine had bad connection rods and I would need a new engine. The mechanic stated he has seen this multiple times on GM V8 Motors

Engine
Filed Apr 30, 2025ID

In December 2024 took my GMC Yukon XL to a mechanic. They replaced the lifter in the driver side of the engine. 2500 miles later it is back in the shop for the same side. Now there is a bent rod. One of the lifter/Rod spots collapsed. The mechanic is in contact with the local GMC dealer to figure out what the next steps are. The recent symptoms had to have car towed back to Fairly reliable Bobs mechanic. Pictures were taken and sent to GMC. First time this happened I heard a Tic in the engine and took it straight to the mechanic. second time this happened. Engine light came on flashing, Trackton light came on, Lost power, there was a shimmy when slowing down and a shake at the stop. I will note the second time this happened below.

Engine
Filed Apr 27, 2025GA

While driving, the check engine light started to blink and there was a steady knocking coming from the engine. This is the same issues that GMC is currently recalling newer model vehicles for. Safety was at risk because the engine failure happened while driving.

Engine
Filed Apr 16, 2025127,000 milesLA

The contact owns a 2015 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated that while his wife was driving approximately 35 MPH, there was an abnormal sound coming from the engine compartment before the vehicle stalled. The driver was able to steer the vehicle into a parking lot. The contact stated that his wife attempted to restart the vehicle; however, the vehicle failed to restart. The contact stated that his wife observed that the check engine warning light illuminated while attempting to restart the vehicle. The contact had the vehicle towed to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that prior to the engine failure, the vehicle had been towed to the same dealer for a failure to start. The contact stated that the starter motor and a 12-Volt battery were replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 127,000.

Power Train
Filed Apr 10, 2025GA

As I was driving on the highway the check engine lights pops on and the engine starts stalling. The stability track light also came on and the truck was hard to maintain and drive. The truck has been maintained and serviced on a meticulous schedule. This is not the first major problem we have experienced with the truck, we had to do a full transmission replacement on the truck at an 118,000 miles mark. Me and my family have been the only drivers and owner of the vehicle and mostly on put highway miles. I am so frustrated and disappointed in the workmanship and quality of our vehicle.

Engine
Filed Apr 7, 2025MI

Lifter failure due to AFM. Car shuttered suddenly and then threw codes and had a bad misfire with engine shaking. Spent $6,700 to rebuild.

Service Brakes
Filed Mar 24, 2025UT

Brake vacuum pump faulty again.

Engine
Filed Feb 23, 2025NY

While traveling at highway speed, without warning, check engine light started flashing. Pulled off the highway at the next exit and vehicle died in the middle of the road. Towed vehicle to mechanic who inspected vehicle and found no compression (zero psi) on cylinder 1 indicating a major engine failure, rendering engine unrepairable and the vehicle worthless. Either cam, lifter, piston failure in cylinder 1 causing massive engine failure and making the engine unrepairable due to metal shavings in the engine. This is the L87 engine, 6.2L V8 that has been plagued by problems by millions of GM owners. This car had been meticulously serviced and maintained with regularly scheduled full synthetic oil changes. The car have no indication of engine problems beforehand until the engine blew up at highway speeds.

Fuel System, Gasoline
Filed Feb 18, 2025165,000 milesTN

The contact owns a 2015 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the odor of fuel was present inside the cabin of the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the local NAPA Auto store which diagnosed that the fuel feeder line was faulty and needed to be replaced. The fuel feeder line was replaced but the odor was still present inside the vehicle. The local dealer and manufacturer were notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 165,000.

Engine
Filed Jan 31, 2025MI

Collapsed lifter due to AFM system

Engine
Filed Jan 20, 2025TX

My wife drives a 2015 GMC Denali with the 6.2L engine. My daughter has an almost identical 2016 Denali with the same 6.2L engine. The 2015 had a serious event at approximately 125,000 miles when one of the rocker arm springs broke under ordinary driving conditions and caused the vehicle to be disabled in the midst of heavy traffic. The 2016 had a virtually identical event at 135,000 miles, which caused the rod to be ingested into the cylinder. I believe the rocker arm springs on these engines are defective, also evidenced by after-market double springs being sold for this engine. I have replaced all rocker arm springs on the 2016 with double springs and will do so shortly on the 2015. The GM dealer in Corpus Christi, TX where we had the 2016 towed told me that the only solution for it was to replace the entire engine at a cost of $11,000+. I paid the dealer $1,000+, towed the truck to San Antonio, and had a mechanic in my employ rebuild it for approximately $2,000. The 2015 had not broken the rod and was repaired by a dealer in San Antonio for approximately $1,250. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Power Train
Filed Jan 9, 2025CA

Transmission failed and was replaced by GM dealership under warranty at 20,670 miles after rough shifts and jerking and lurching movements when driving and when putting vehicle in gear. Truck would also roll if on a hill in Park. Now at 53,438 miles, the same dangerous problems are occurring with only 33,000 miles on the replaced transmission and after inspection, the dealership says the transmission needs to be replaced again. Appears GMC transmission is faulty and dangerous to drive and needs replacement very early in cars lifespan and a transmission should not need replacement so early especially when maintained correctly. Transmissions should last more than 20,000 or 30,000 miles before failing. Estimate for new transmission is $10,000. Called GMC customer service and said nothing they can do out of warranty. Dealership inspected and confirmed problems both times. Check engine light appeared the 2nd time indicating transmission failure but not the first time.

Power Train
Filed Jan 6, 2025PA

The contact owns a 2015 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the transmission jolted before the vehicle accelerated as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. No warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that an independent mechanic was contacted; however, the vehicle was not taken to be diagnosed. The contact stated that unknown repairs were performed on the vehicle, but the failure persisted. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The vehicle remained at the residence and had not been driven since the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

Service Brakes
Filed Dec 4, 2024NY

This is a complaint for my vehicle Gmc2015 Yukon. My Truck brake system(vacuum pump is defective). my large truck is a safety hazard on highway and street . when i attempted to park while depressing my brake pedal it instantly before very hard to press to stop my truck. i have to apply lot of force to my foot inorder to stop vehicle. my mechanic inspected vehicle and it show a bad (defective vacuum pump) . base on former complaints about this same problem (2019 NHSTA campaign number 19v645000 ) it show and state the exact problem with my vehicle. this problem started early last year. Also, when driving on highway and slows down,the brake vacuum pump and brake pedal locks up (very difficult to stop something). this happens intermitting times. very scary trying to stop from crashing into cars in front of me sometime.

Service Brakes
Filed Nov 27, 2024NJ

There has always been break problems with this vehicle. Some recalls have been done. Now there is a new problem, I took it to the dealership. There is a special coverage to fix this issue. GM denied to fix it because the special coverage expired on 06/06/2024. But the vehicle is under the miles and the problem just started.

Service Brakes
Filed Nov 25, 2024NY

My power vacuum brakes system is not properly working. In order to stop truck I must depress brake pedal very hard just to stop truck. Crunching noise every time. Made several trip to mechanic . I changed many part ( brakes) rotors , still and brake vacuum sensor ( purchase from gmc dealer . Still have this problem. Mechanic states, need new vacuum pump. Very dangerous to drive. Very difficult to stop . Please investigate this VIN for common complaints.

Service Brakes
Filed Oct 4, 2024NC

Defective wire harness between 2 body control modules, causing alarm to go off repeatedly "Service Trailer Brake System" and also "Stabilitrack" will come on randomly and lock my brakes up and all of the features in my dash. This has been very scary to drive and has brought the vehicle close to collision more than a handful of times now.

Service Brakes
Filed Sep 30, 2024TN

I keep getting a warning on my display on dash about my trailer brake system is not working. Also my temperature gauge stops working and I have to take off negative cable on battery to reset it. Temperature control sensor has been replaced but the problem still continues to happen.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jul 20, 2024MS

Leaking fuel from the top of the tank when I start vehicle and after 5-10 minutes it stops this the second time this have happened

Engine
Filed Jul 10, 2024FL

The radiator was replaced under PI1513F in 2020. I am currently experiencing the same coolant leak and thermostat issues. Coolant leaked into 4th cylinder and blew head gasket

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jun 13, 2024PA

Pinhole fuel leak located in the bend radius of a plastic, quick disconnect coupling, of a pressurized fuel line, just forward of the fuel tank. Being a pressurized line, the leak is continuous, whether the vehicle is on, or off. Due to the location of the leak, fuel is sprayed upwards onto other shielded lines and components, representing a safety/fire hazard.

Service Brakes
Filed Apr 7, 2024TX

On several occasions, have noticed the brakes failed to operate properly when vehicle is at low speed. The pedal becomes extremely hard to push and there is almost no braking power. This has occurred in stop and go traffic and nearly caused an accident.

Exterior Lighting › Headlights
Filed Mar 26, 202483,415 milesMI

The contact owns a 2015 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the front passenger's side headlight failed to illuminate. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the passenger's side taillight was replaced; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, and the contact was informed that the front passenger's side headlight needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 83,415.

Power Train
Filed Mar 7, 2024IL

Vehicle jumps when put in drive or reverse

Electrical System
Filed Nov 15, 2023CA

Trailer service alert

Steering
Filed Nov 13, 2023OH

My engine went out, and I had to have it rebuilt. There was a check engine light on. My steering goes out and in without warning while driving. I have talked to the dealership, and they stated that all safety recalls were done on my vehicle. My safety and those of others were put at risk when the steering failed. I almost crashed my vehicle in traffic. There were no warning messages prior to the failure. I did see that there was a recall in 2019 and the dealership will not inspect the vehicle without payment.

Power Train
Filed Oct 30, 2023CA

While driving our GMC Yukon XL, the vehicle will begin shuttering, losing power, slip gears, or unable to shift gears. On one occasion, the vehicle lost was unable to accelerate and maintain speed causing my wife to quickly respond by changing lanes and pulling off on the shoulder of a road, in a very dangerous situation, all while coasting without engine power. Two independent mechanic shops have reported that the torque converted failed and had sent metal fragments throughout the transmission, and ruining the transmission. Both mechanics recommended a new transmission.

Exterior Lighting
Filed Oct 2, 2023109,554 milesCO

The contact owns a 2015 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact stated he was following behind in another vehicle and noticed that the taillights were out. The vehicle was taken to the dealer. The vehicle was diagnosed with a failed exterior lighting assembly. The exterior lighting assembly needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated he replaced the exterior lighting assembly three times since March 2022. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to be repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 109,554.

Electrical System
Filed Sep 4, 2023TN

My car is giving me all kinds of warnings, parking assist off, rear back up, trailer brake, the radio sounds go off, blinker sounds go off, while trying to park power steering locks up, it will die in the middle of a turn. It’s doing everything The 2015 recall was created for. I do not think my car was fixed during the recall period. It is very hazardous.

Forward Collision Avoidance
Filed Aug 3, 202395,000 milesOH

The contact owns a 2015 GMC Yukon XL. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, messages indicating the side detectors and front Camera failure, and other unknown messages were displayed. The contact stated that the instrument cluster, the instrument panel and the infotainment system turned off. The contact was able to drive to the residence; however, upon pressing the Push to Stop button several times to turn off the vehicle, the vehicle failed to turn off. The contact stated that she opened the hood and disconnected the fuse connected to the engine, and the vehicle turned off. The contact stated that the failure mainly recurred when driving a 25 miles distance. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that both side detection safety modules and harness had failed, and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and a case was opened; however, the manufacturer advised the contact that they could not assist in covering the repairs. The failure mileage was approximately 95,000.

Complaints 1-50 of 308, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2015
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
202640300Do not drive
202528100Routine
202475200Routine
2023226400Above average
2022174400Routine
20212301210Above average
202047210Routine
201968200Do not drive
201856210Do not drive
2017147100Routine
2016202320Do not drive
2015 — this page308230Above average
201411300Routine
201322400Routine
201213400Routine
201147310Routine
201028300Routine
200923500Routine
200869410Routine
200797400Routine
200617300Routine
200542600Routine
200487420Routine
2003102400Routine
200295210Routine
2001120502Fatalities reported
200069700Routine
19993000Routine

Compare every Yukon XL year →

2015 GMC Yukon XL: questions buyers ask

Is the 2015 GMC Yukon XL a good car?

Going by the federal record, it is one of the Yukon XL years to avoid: owners filed 308 complaints, 3.4 times as many as a typical Yukon XL year. The most common complaint is about the headlights (35%).

What is the most common problem with the 2015 GMC Yukon XL?

The headlights: 109 of the 308 complaints (35%) are about it. The typical report comes at 68,000 miles.

How many recalls does the 2015 GMC Yukon XL have?

2 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Jul 10, 2017. The largest, 16V651000, covered 3,640,162 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

At what mileage do 2015 GMC Yukon XL problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 70,000 miles. For the headlights the midpoint is 68,000 miles.

Has NHTSA investigated the 2015 GMC Yukon XL?

Yes, once. PE18012 ("Brake Vacuum Pump Failure") was opened Nov 20, 2018 and closed Apr 10, 2022.

Are there service bulletins for the 2015 GMC Yukon XL?

The manufacturer filed 2,156 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the electrical system (353), the engine (310) and the transmission (192). They include a service campaign, General Communication, filed Aug 26, 2024. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

Reading this record

Complaint volume is well above typical for a single model year.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Jul 10, 2017. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.