2002 GMC Yukon XL Denali
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › GMC › Yukon XL Denali › 2002
These records cover every 2002 GMC Yukon XL Denali. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Owner complaints
26 complaints
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Service brakes
I was driving on 58 west in stuart va when we came around a curve and an 18 wheeler was broken down in the middle of our lane. Two vehicles were stopped behind the truck. I quickly applied the brakes and the pedal went to the floor. I was able to maneuver between the stopped traffic and the…
I was driving on 58 west in stuart va when we came around a curve and an 18 wheeler was broken down in the middle of our lane. Two vehicles were stopped behind the truck. I quickly applied the brakes and the pedal went to the floor. I was able to maneuver between the stopped traffic and the oncoming vehicle in the opposing lane to avoid a crash. A brake line had blown causing the brake failure. I had already experienced brake failure in another gm model, and was questioning how it was possible that one person could have two separate brake line failures on two separate but similar vehicles. As I researched it became clear that this type of brake failure was common on these types of vehicles. I've lived in southwest virginia my entire life, and I have owned 30-40 vehicles of all makes and models, but I have only experienced near catastrophic vehicle failure on two of those vehicles, a 2001 chevrolet suburban and a 2002 GMC yukon. To say that these brake line failures could be avoided through routine maintenance IS a brazen attempt to deflect culpability towards a consumer market neither designed nor equipped to diagnose pending failure without warning. These vehicles have innumerable sensors to indicate all types of of potential issues, even so far as to remind the driver when the oil needs to be changed. If the manufacturer feels the owner IS so inept as to track oil changes every three thousand miles, how on earth do they expect those same people would be able to diagnose the degradation of brake lines, most of which are hidden? I've never been to a shop and been asked as part of the many services they offer, including state safety inspections, "would you like us to test your brake lines for potential failure?" cv axles, ball joints, brake pads, all are included in inspections. Not brake lines, because they are not maintenance parts. Gm IS wholly responsible.
- Service brakes · Suspension
Traveling at approximately 35mph, applied brakes for upcoming stop sign and brakes failed. inspection revealed that brake line broke as the result of corrosion to line at rear axle. mechanic states all brake lines demonstrating unusual amount of rusing, all brake lines replaced. mechanic states…
Traveling at approximately 35mph, applied brakes for upcoming stop sign and brakes failed. inspection revealed that brake line broke as the result of corrosion to line at rear axle. mechanic states all brake lines demonstrating unusual amount of rusing, all brake lines replaced. mechanic states frame will be rusted through soon if not blasted and rustproofed; also states this IS a common problem on nearly all gm trucks he sees. *tr
- Service brakes
Stepped on brake pedal to slow down and brake pedal went to the floor. There was enough room in another lane to eventually slow down without a collision. Got under rear of vehicle and located leaking brake fluid line. Right rear passenger brake line. *tr
- Service brakes
TL* the contact owns a 2002 GMC yukon XL denali. The contact stated that whenever the brakes were engaged, the vehicle made a loud grinding noise. The contact stated that the brake pads and rotors were replaced by an independent mechanic but the failure reoccured. The vehicle was taken to another…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 GMC yukon XL denali. The contact stated that whenever the brakes were engaged, the vehicle made a loud grinding noise. The contact stated that the brake pads and rotors were replaced by an independent mechanic but the failure reoccured. The vehicle was taken to another independent mechanic. The technician stated that the vehicle was leaking brake fluid which caused the brake hub assembly to malfunction. As a result, the brake hub assembly, the brake assembly and the transfer case needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 165,000 and the current mileage was 220,000.
- Service brakes
The brake light can on in the dash, 2-11-14, called the GMC dealer, pellegino buick/gmc, 815 n black horse pike, williamstown, nj 08094, phone 856-629-0101.they added brake fluid and said no leaks. Mileage at dealer 135074. I drove about 40 miles, the brake light came back on, I called dealer…
The brake light can on in the dash, 2-11-14, called the GMC dealer, pellegino buick/gmc, 815 n black horse pike, williamstown, nj 08094, phone 856-629-0101.they added brake fluid and said no leaks. Mileage at dealer 135074. I drove about 40 miles, the brake light came back on, I called dealer and drove right back to them.. They checked again and said the brake line had ruptured, it was fully coated with rust. It IS so bad they can not use a wrench to get nuts off. Because of all the rust on the brake lines. Need to change the lines, calipers, and rotors, total cost approx $1,400.00 will advise more when yukon IS returned repaired. *tr
- Service brakes
Brake lines severely rusted, braking fluid leaking, needed full replacement. *tr
- Service brakes, hydraulic
While stopping for the stop sign down the block from my house the brake pedal went to the floor. I could not stop the truck, I had to use the emergency brake to stop the truck. I brought the truck back home and found out that the brake line had rusted through causing the brake fluid to leak out.
- Service brakes
While under vehicle to replace gas filter it had become evident to me that the brake lines where they enter the ABS unit were fairly rusted. As I investigated further to areas not easily visible I had discovered that all the hydraulic brake lines are extremely rusted and imminent failure IS…
While under vehicle to replace gas filter it had become evident to me that the brake lines where they enter the ABS unit were fairly rusted. As I investigated further to areas not easily visible I had discovered that all the hydraulic brake lines are extremely rusted and imminent failure IS evident. In mentioning this to a friend he suggest I check on line as he had heard of this problem. I was absolutely taken aback to see how common this failure IS on these vehicles and that GMC IS aware of it, yet they have never apprised me of this "possible condition"' and that I should take necessary action to prevent failure which could result in serious injury or death ! I have been a mechanic for many years and had worked for gm some years back. I have never observed such deterioration in a vehicle of this age. This vehicle IS extremely well maintained in both periodic and preventative maintenance. I do not live by the water, we live in a moderate climate and vehicle IS not subject to anything but normal driving conditions. I have (collectible vintage cars) oldest being 36 years old and the lines on all cars look new or in good shape. To my further dissatisfaction I had contacted GMC and they deny any knowledge of this problem or condition. I think all parties concerned should consider the possible catastrophic outcome of this component failure and also take into account the size and weight of these vehicles and the possible secondary consequences in an accident and take immediate remedial action. *tr
- Engine and engine cooling · Fuel system, gasoline · Power train · Service brakes · Structure › Frame and members › Underbody shields · Tires · Visibility › Power window devices and controls
Broken/leaking brake lines due to severe underbody corrosion: frame,brake and gas lines, front suspension, spare tire assembly, nuts, bolts, exhaust pipes, etc. along with this I replaced two transmissions, once due to radiator failure, fuel pump failure, brake caliper failure, a few sets of rear…
Broken/leaking brake lines due to severe underbody corrosion: frame,brake and gas lines, front suspension, spare tire assembly, nuts, bolts, exhaust pipes, etc. along with this I replaced two transmissions, once due to radiator failure, fuel pump failure, brake caliper failure, a few sets of rear parking brake shoes because the adjustments dont work properly, three window regulators and all within 163,630 miles. yea I'm pis@#$ off. *tr
- Service brakes
2002 denali XL 100.000 mi sudden brake failure pedal to floor no warnings of any kind. new brake pads and rotors installed 8 months ago upon further inspection after stopping vehicle all hard brake lines were rusted through causing loss of brake fluid. *tr
- Service brakes, hydraulic
Rear brake line failed when my wife pulled truck out of driveway. All brake lines rusted very badly. *tr
- Service brakes, hydraulic
Brake light came on coming down to florida. Check fluid and it was way down. Took to mech. And discovered some of the brake lines were rusted. One worst than the other. This IS a safety hazard and should be recalled at no cost to the customer. The nhtsa should go after the manufacture for this federally regulated defect. *tr
- Service brakes, hydraulic
Brake line failure on my 2002 GMC yukon denali. All brake lines rusted and one failed without a crash. *Tr
- Service brakes, hydraulic
Vehicle failed to stop due to brake failure, after pulling over the disabled vehicle a quick inspection revealed rotted brake lines running to the ABS control unit which had failed under brake pressure causing immediate loss of braking with no warning or any mil light status prior to failure. all the front brake lines were heavily corroded and all needed replacing before the vehicle was usable. *kb
- Service brakes, hydraulic
The main rear metal brake line on my 2002 GMC yukon XL has sprung a leak due to rust. The vehicle has 63,000 miles. There was a severe loss of pedal pressure,a large increase in stopping distances and large puddles of brake fluid under the vehicle. *Tr
- Service brakes, hydraulic
I recently experienced a total brake failure after driving to the grocery store today. Yesterday, I realized that to stop, I had to press the brake pedal almost all the way to the floor. I knew something was wrong because my brakes had been working just fine. Today I noticed the same problem and…
I recently experienced a total brake failure after driving to the grocery store today. Yesterday, I realized that to stop, I had to press the brake pedal almost all the way to the floor. I knew something was wrong because my brakes had been working just fine. Today I noticed the same problem and reported it to my boyfriend, who conducted a visual inspection at the brake lines and underneath the driver side seat, brake fluid was leaking out rapidly and was puddling underneath the vehicle. Had I not stopped, I would have been in a serious accident. As a result, I can not drive my vehicle because the brakes are no longer working. I have a 2002 GMC yukon denali XL. *Tr
- Service brakes, hydraulic
When applying brakes, pedal unexpectedly went to floor & barely avoided collision. had car towed to dealer, notified dealer of brake line failure that nhtsa & gm are aware of, after there for 2 days & dealer not returning our calls, was eventually notified 4 corroded brake lines need replacement…
When applying brakes, pedal unexpectedly went to floor & barely avoided collision. had car towed to dealer, notified dealer of brake line failure that nhtsa & gm are aware of, after there for 2 days & dealer not returning our calls, was eventually notified 4 corroded brake lines need replacement at my expense, still waiting for estimate of repair cost going on 3 days. my husband was a mechanic at gm dealers for over 12 years & never seen 1 static brake line rupture nevermind 4 become defective at the same time especially considering the vehicle barely has 60,000 miles on it & has always been well maintained. dealer was very uncooperative in seeking gm remediation assistance for us or taking any self-initiative anytime to keep us informed, vehicle out of service & has been at dealer for going on 3 days now, after not following up with us nor returning our calls just reached dealer right before closing time & was informed they still cannot locate parts at factory or anywhere else, fact that 4 lines defective simultaneously & still unable to locate parts clearly indicates manufacturing defect... No car, no service, no price, no parts, when will it ever end? Recommend urgent priority -if not remedied quickly- many lives could be lost! *Tr
- Service brakes, hydraulic › Antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip
Tl*the contact owns a 2002 GMC yukon XL denali. The contact stated while driving at 25 mph and slowing down to make a stop the ABS begins to activate without warning causing the vehicle to drag to a complete stop. The contact IS in the process of taking the vehicle to the dealer for further…
Tl*the contact owns a 2002 GMC yukon XL denali. The contact stated while driving at 25 mph and slowing down to make a stop the ABS begins to activate without warning causing the vehicle to drag to a complete stop. The contact IS in the process of taking the vehicle to the dealer for further inspection. The contact called the manufacturer and was informed that because there are no current recalls on the vehicle and the warranty being expired, no compensation would be offered but he was advised to have the vehicle inspected by a dealer. The failure mileage was 121,700 and the current mileage IS 124,391.
- Power train
Whining in engine-found to be bad bearings and metal in differential. was told could have made car lock up at anytime (imagine that in heavy traffic). this IS second car in family with exact same problem although was told it was "rare". *Tr
- Electrical system
Vehicle lighting, especially at night, flickers constantly, has been to repair shop several times, alternator and battery check out fine. no one seems to know an answer. *tr
- Engine and engine cooling › Engine
TL*- the contact owns a 2002 GMC yukon denali XL. While driving about 65 mph under normal dry conditions the vehicle stalled. there were no warning signs that the vehicle was about to stall. Once the failure occurred the contact lost the braking system and the power steering failed as well. The…
TL*- the contact owns a 2002 GMC yukon denali XL. While driving about 65 mph under normal dry conditions the vehicle stalled. there were no warning signs that the vehicle was about to stall. Once the failure occurred the contact lost the braking system and the power steering failed as well. The contact was able to get the vehicle to the side of the road without a crash. This failure happened on three other occasions with out incident. the vehicle had been taken to the dealer where they fixed the throttle body and water pump. The failure continued to occur after the repair. The contact has the repair order. the current and failure mileage was 98,000 .
- Service brakes, hydraulic › Antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip
After two previous "repairs" (one a recall), our GMC ABS brakes are now malfunctioning for the third time. the ABS brake system activates on dry pavement at slow speeds, resulting in a longer than normal stopping distance. on numerous occasions, collisions have narrowly been avoided as the ABS brake pedal "chattering" prevents normal braking at crucial times. *tr
- Service brakes, hydraulic › Foundation components › Disc › Rotor
Brake failure. it appears the material the rotors are made of are not up to specifications probably made in china. the surface of the brake pad area IS flaking off thus drastically, reducing the barking power of the vehicle, 2002 GMC yukon XL denali. *ak
- Engine and engine cooling › Engine › Gasoline
Vechicle hesitation, I was proceeding to make a left hand turn when my denali hesitated to move and I was stuck in an intersection, it took my vechile more than 5 seconds to kick into gear luckily there was no cars coming in the opposite direction or my daughter and myself would probably not be…
Vechicle hesitation, I was proceeding to make a left hand turn when my denali hesitated to move and I was stuck in an intersection, it took my vechile more than 5 seconds to kick into gear luckily there was no cars coming in the opposite direction or my daughter and myself would probably not be here. This problem has been going on for more than a year and a half. Which of course the dealer cant diagnose, changing the throttle body & turbine shaft has not done anything for my vechile it still hesitates....i reported it to my insurance company in case of an accident due to the failure of the vechicle. it IS definitly an unsafe vechile to drive.
- Engine and engine cooling › Engine · Service brakes, hydraulic › Antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip › Abs warning light · Vehicle speed control
Consumer complained about vehicle hesitation. Dealer was contacted, and had replaced the throttle body sensor. Also ABS light turned on dash, as well as the gauges. Dealer was contacted ands stated that there was nothing wrong with the vehicle.*ak
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Parking brake failure
Odi's review of complaint data received since the close of ea04-011 revealed no indication that the investigation should be re-opened.more details can be found in the federal register notice enclosed in the dp05-009 public file.odi reserves the right to reopen the investigation in the future should conditions warrant.
- Unwanted low-speed ABS activation
In a letter dated august 29, 2005, gm notified odi that it was recalling certain model year 1999 through 2002 c/k pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles to correct a problem with anti-lock brake system (ABS) wheel speed sensor corrosion that may result in unwanted ABS activation and extended stopping distances…
In a letter dated august 29, 2005, gm notified odi that it was recalling certain model year 1999 through 2002 c/k pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles to correct a problem with anti-lock brake system (ABS) wheel speed sensor corrosion that may result in unwanted ABS activation and extended stopping distances during low-speed braking (recall 05v-379).gm's recall covers approximately 804,000 vehicles currently registered in the following 14 salt-belt states:connecticut, illinois, indiana, massachusetts, maine, michigan, new hampshire, new jersey, new york, ohio, pennsylvania, rhode island, vermont, and west virginia.the recall procedure will involve removing the sensor, cleaning the mounting surface, applying a rust inhibitor (zinc-x) to the surface, and reinstalling the sensor.if necessary, the sensor will be replaced. The population and failure report data given in this resume are for the full region that has been considered by odi as the salt-belt.that includes delaware, iowa, maryland, minnesota, missouri, wisconsin and the district of columbia in addition to the 14 states included in 05v-379.the states covered by gm's recall have the highest incident rates for the subject condition, accounting for 91% of the incidents, but only 24% of subject vehicle sales in the united states.odi's analysis determined that 840 of the complaints, 244 of the crashes, and 16 of the injuries identified in this investigation occurred in those states.the resulting incident and crash rates are 96.2 and 28.0 per 100,000 vehicles respectively (note:rates are based on vehicle sales, not registered vehicles). The corresponding numbers in the excluded portions of the salt-belt are 399,000 vehicles, 81 incidents (20.3 per 100,000 vehicles), 3 crashes, and no injuries.the statistics in the remaining 30 states are 2,406,000 vehicles, 168 incidents (7.0 per 100,000 vehicles), 31 crashes, and one injury.gm and odi are continuing to monitor the problem experience in states that are not included in the recall.gm will provide odi with updated complaint, field report, and warranty data in november 2005.odi and gm will review that data and assess the appropriateness of the current scope of the recall at that time.
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 11010544This service bulletin explains how to measure for oil consumption and possible reasons for loss of oil.
- 11006621Vehicle 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 update one module at a time. This allows a more streamlined approach for dealers and customers.
- 11006421GM is receiving damaged (cracked or broken) transmission cores returned to the reman facilities. The damage is being caused either in the removal process by the technician, or inadequate packaging or shipping. This bulletin advises the dealers to be more careful not to damage the transmissions during removal and to package the core properly for return.
- 11004761This service bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up.
- 11004557This bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.
- 11002312This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Service Programming System (SPS) Error Codes E4398, E4399, E4401, E4403, M4404, M4413, M6954, M6955, E4414, E4423, E4491, E4492, or E6961 and resolution information.
- 10252735This bulletin provides information for electrical ground repairs using new General Motors replacement fasteners with conductive finish.
- 10252163XM Audio Traffic And Travel Link Availability And Operation.
- 10251890This technical bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up.
- 10251887This bulletin advises the technician of possible location of an internal coolant leak from a specific cylinder head and location.
- 10250775This service bulletin provides service information to technicians on guidelines to replace Oil Cooler, Oil Cooler Lines and Oil Tank if the engine was replaced where large amounts of debris has flowed throughout the oiling system.
- 10249590This bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.
- 10249579This PI bulletin advises the technician on the proper way to install the pistons in an engine.
- 10249011This informational bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Headlamp, Tail Lamp, License Lamp or Fog/Driving Lamp Damage.
- 10248444Vehicle Recalls
- 10247681Information On Requests To Add OnStar Bluetooth Option.
- 10247552This service bulletin provides information on Concerns or Questions Regarding Installation of Dealer Installed Accessories.
- 10246952Programming And Activation Of Replacement OnStar Modules.
- 10246951Programming And Activation Of Replacement OnStar Modules.
- 10246631Expanded Availability for Remanufacture and Return (R&R) Electronic Control Modules
- 10245951Canadian Customers Unable To Place Calls And Turn By Turn Inoperative In The United States.
- 10245950Canadian Customers Unable To Place Calls In The United States
- 10244274This service bulletin provides information about the Hunter wheel Road Force balancers that should be utilized for all repairs requiring balance and Road Force measurement.
- 10244201This service bulletin provides information for dealers on how to submit a product information report (PIR) (Canada Only).
- 10242843The service bulletin advises the tech of a normal transmission shift condition and the delay in throttle response when the throttle plate is opened rapidly and advises the customer that it is normal for the delay.
- 10242262This service bulletin provides graphics, information and guidelines for engine component wear to assist service personnel as a guideline to perform necessary engine repairs and prevent unnecessary engine replacement.
- 10240344This service bulletin explains how to measure for oil consumption and possible reasons for loss of oil.
- 10235802This diagnostic tip bulletin provides additional information on how to diagnose a possible valve, lifter or camshaft issue.
- 10235799This service bulletin provides information about the Hunter wheel Road Force balancers that should be utilized for all repairs requiring balance and Road Force measurement.
- 10235713This bulletin provides information on Warranty Administration Required Operating Procedures - 8 Points (U.S. Only).
- 10234141This diagnostic tip bulletin provides additional information on how to diagnose a possible valve, lifter or camshaft issue.
- 10234110This service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.
- 10232287This warranty administration bulletin provides information regarding the field action courtesy transportation policy.
- 10232136This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Exterior Lamp Condensation and Water Leaks and Replacement Guidelines.
- 10228888This service bulletin provides diagnostic tips/steps on testing for possible EVAP leaks in the system to correct a customer concern of an MIL Illuminated with DTCs P0442 and/or P0455 Set.
- 10227056This service bulletin provides service information to technicians on guidelines to replace Oil Cooler, Oil Cooler Lines and Oil Tank if the engine was replaced where large amounts of debris has flowed throughout the oiling system.
- 10225615This service bulletin provides information on Module Harvesting.
- 10224820This service bulletin provides information for dealers on how to submit a product information report (PIR) (Canada Only).
- 10222839This service bulletin provides information on Handling Requests for Modifications to Permanently Import/Export Vehicles Between the U.S. and Canada.
- 10222796This service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.
Every GMC Yukon XL Denali model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.