Yes, by all means, come over to the Sequoia forum. Trust me, we don't have nearly the problems that GM owners experience. I haven't had any. Don't feel bad, I bought GM products too. NEVER AGAIN! I feel the same way as you do and did haul my wife and myself to a Toyota dealer and a Subaru dealer. Have never been happier.
If you want a real deal you might want check out the Ford products. They're giving them away right now. But if you want to be as certain as possible that your wife and kids will have a vehicle that will start, then check out any of the Japanese engineered vehicles.
Can anyone tell me if the 3rd row seat in the DXL is leather or is it vinyl like the regular Yukon and Suburban? If it is vinyl, what's it like to sit on?
Are the headlights High Intensity Discharge or just regular projector beams?
gjo12: I wholeheartedly recommend you follow pschreck's advice on checking out the Sequoia forum.
By doing so, you'll find out about the pleasure of owning a Sequoia as their A/C compressors appear to have a serious design flaw and no replacement inventories. The Sequoia owners are definitely going to be hot & bothered this summer without A/C. Particularly after paying a premium for Toyota's "quality" hype.
You'll also want to check out the problem's Sequoia owners have reported with the Trac Control and the VSC Stability system as described by the following Sequoia owner
"I purchased my 2002 Sequoia back in late February, and the AC compressor went out on Tuesday, 5/14. I immediately took it to the dealer but it was too late in the day and they will not be able to look at it until the next day. Well, I drop the car off the next day and while I was in there, they changed the oil on the vehicle. They told me about the AC compressor problem they are experiencing when I pick up my vehicle, and of course, I can leave my vehicle in their lot until the part comes, however, the dealer told me there's another vehicle sitting in their lot for over 2 weeks waiting on parts from Toyota, I decline to leave my car in the lot in light of the wait. The dealer will not commit a date when the parts will arrives, to make matter worst, the VSC malfunctioned today. I immediately call the dealer back and I was told they were very busy and will not be able to get with me until late next week. Out of the blue, I decided to visit this website to see if other people experience the same problem that I am experiencing. Sure enough, I saw the message from lbimike1 about his problem with the compressor and what he had to do to get Toyota to owned up to their mistake. I sure like to find out from him how he contact Toyota USA and the regional rep. Also, I like to know how to file an arbitration on this and other matters."
His problems do not appear to be isolated. In contrast, I've had my DXL for 19K and have been thrilled with its quality, power and overall performance. My only visits to the dealer have been for oil changes and my dealership threw the first 5 changes in for free. Couldn't be happier.
pilko: there was a healthy discussion on the subject of the 3rd row seating material a year ago. I have a '01 DXL and really can't tell for sure whether its leather or vinyl. It could be either as far as my eye can tell.
If its vinyl I suspect that GM uses it instead of leather since the seat can be removed from the vehicle and therefore a more durable material will stand up better to the abuse of being taken in and out and stored on a concrete floor of a garage.
Sorry I couldn't be more help. Maybe someone else remembers the previous discussion or knows for a fact what the 3rd row seating material is.
heatwave3: Thanks for the response. If you can't tell for sure then either it is leather or the vinyl matches very well and some of my concerns have been answered.
If Edmunds got its act together and provided a decent search tool that could look into the messages rather than just the discussion titles, I (and many others) wouldn't have to ask the same old questions. I would also like to download all messages in a forum and read them offline like we used to be able to rather than being limited to a maximum of 20 messages. Not a very practical way of finding what you want when a forum contains 1000 or more messages.
HI. My 2002 Denali XL with approx. 12000 miles has recently begun hesitating upon acceleration. Has anyone else suffered this problem? Aside from the hesitation, I haven't had any other problems. George P.
heatwave needs to catch his breath. I would have to say that the problems that you are having are somewhat worse that the A/C problem that he discribed. But, hey, maybe that's just me.
I'm quite certain that I can find plenty of posts that are representative of GM "quality".
"Like a Rock" sitting in the middle of the road when the engine dies at highway speeds.
The dealership replaced the air cleaner (and charged me for it) but it didn't help; thanks though. Actually, the rear tires "locked-up" today, leaving a skid mark as evidence. Still wondering whats going on. George P.
pschreck: sounds like your really reaching for straws now with "haven't read any messages about Sequoia rear tires locking-up. I did read, somewhere, about Denali rear tires locking-up though"
Care to share any post where someone claimed their Denali rear tires locked up? I think your confusing the tire lock-up issue with the one's posted on the Sequoia forum regarding the Trac system and the VSC that owner's have complained heartily about.
You know, the one's where the VSC system sounds like its falling out of the vehicle or someone threw a spoon down a garbage disposal. Its no wonder GM and Ford took all the quality awards in the truck and suv categories.
At least the Toyota owners can sleep well knowing the spent alot more money for the "quality" in their Sequoia....particularly while snoozing in the Toyota Service dpartment waiting room:)
My 2002 Denali Xl started locking up its wheels around 1500 miles and contined ufairly frequently until the transmission seized at 2100 miles. Take it in to your dealer and have him check it out. Have them drive it in stop and go situations (this is when I experienced my wheel lock-ups). Hopefully, they can catch it before your transmission seizes. Good luck.
newdenali: sounds like your vehicle had a bum transmission almost from the start. How did GM handle the situation? Did they replace the entire transmission and did they provide any diagnosis for the problem? Were there any costs to you?
Do you feel as though they treated you fairly? Finally, how did the replacement (if that was their solution) work after the corrective measures?
First. There is no need to compare Seq and DXL. They are not in the same class. So the previous has been a complete waste. Compare Sub twin and Excursion. Compare "trunkless" Seq w/ same size vehicles - there are too many to name. Wait for a Seq XL to compare.
OK. If there is anyone out there in the GM world who knows if there are any changes to the '03 please let me know. Are they redoing the interior? I know ESV is coming out soon. Also when is the '03 coming out, is it worth it to wait?
Also. Anyone with a sunroof and an entertainment system? Is the LCD screen mounted too close to the second row with sunroof? Please let me know. Thanks in advance.
Are we paying invoice for the DXL? Better than invoice? What are you paying for this car? All fees Price, delivery, advertising(?), doc, Any extra fees the dealer surprises you with? What is at good price for the extended warranty -100K/0 deductible? Thanks in advance.
I am in the market for some new wheels and considering the Denali. Personally, I think it is a bad time of the year to buy any new vehicle. In about two months your new vehicle is going to be already a year old; the depreciation for new cars/trucks is bad enough for the first year.
I have been to three local GMC dealers, each salesman I spoke with stated there are no changes scheduled for the 03's. Could they be holding info back to make a sale sooner than later? I think so. I have since scoured the internet for news on the 03's and found this:
stacy: actually there have been several car mag comparisons of full size suvs which in fact put the DXL and the Sequoia Limited head to head.
Prices are comparable and obviously the editor's must be thinking some consumer's are comparing these vehicles or they wouldn't have run the tests. I know when I bought my DXL I also shopped for and test drove the Sequoia.
Does anybody have info on build dates on 2003 Denalis, I just placed an order for a white one and the dealer had no info on dates as he is the last one to know according to him. Said it should arrive some time in September.
well, my 2002 XL's transmission finally gave out at 9,000 miles. Experienced a few "lock-ups" along the way - never did bring it in to get checked out. Hope you fare better with yours.
Read on Sub board that they are building all '03 GM's starting the 3rd week of July for earliest availability starting in August. Why are you not taking advantage of the current $2000 incentive and getting an '02 model? Did you make a deal already or just put down your $500? If you did make a deal, can you tell me what it was? I am trying to decide on an '02 or '03 DXL. Having a hard time finding out what the changes on this particular vehicle will be - the Sub board speaks only of that model and does not help here. Thanks.
I recieved an email today from my local GMC dealer with the new changes for the 2003 GMC Yukon XL Denali....here is what it is (directly from the email). There is no pricing yet.
In answer to your question about the 2003 Yukons. It has a couple new colors, Sandalwood Metallic, and Carbon Metallic. New up level rearview mirror available power adjustable camper mirrors Revised body side molding all new seats Redesigned instrument panel new driver's information center new steering wheel w/ available 8 button control optional 2nd row captain's chairs available on all models dual level occupant sensing front air bags new radios /new Bose sound system new standard automatic Tri-zone HVAC system Available adjustable brake and accelerator pedals available rear seat entertainment system (DVD) new floor console Stabilitrak Quadrasteer high powered 145 amp generator Electronic throttle control Enhanced Auto Trac System Improved Brake System AM/FMstero w/CD and cassette now standard New Packages available: Cargo Package Security Plus Package Sound System Plus package Z28 trailering package now available vs standard
#1263 of 1275 vader6 by crimson34 May 20, 2002 (03:18 pm)
The dealership replaced the air cleaner (and charged me for it) but it didn't help; thanks though. Actually, the rear tires "locked-up" today, leaving a skid mark as evidence. Still wondering whats going on. George P.
#1266 of 1275 crimson34 by newdenali May 22, 2002 (02:59 pm)
My 2002 Denali Xl started locking up its wheels around 1500 miles and contined ufairly frequently until the transmission seized at 2100 miles. Take it in to your dealer and have him check it out. Have them drive it in stop and go situations (this is when I experienced my wheel lock-ups). Hopefully, they can catch it before your transmission seizes. Good luck.
#1273 of 1276 crimson34; transmission woes by gerggs May 23, 2002 (03:59 pm)
well, my 2002 XL's transmission finally gave out at 9,000 miles. Experienced a few "lock-ups" along the way - never did bring it in to get checked out. Hope you fare better with yours.
Thanks for the reply, No money down and purchase at dealer invoice, he gets the hold back, $2000 is what I will gain when I sell in 30 months,with warranty still remaining, besides this way I have the first 2003 on the Island. Thanks again.
Stacy, I have an 01 DXL with sunroof and DVD entertainment system. It was installed in the roof right behind the sunroof, no problems. My children use it alot more that I do and there seems to be no issue with its location in relation to the second row seats.
The transmission on my 2002 Denali XL made a "thump" and then the wheels locked up permanently. I don't know if it was computer chip related (I didn't ask when the dealership replaced the transmission), but it kind of seemed like something broke loose in the transmission. hope this helps.
to jump in and buy the 2003 Denali the first year out of the box?????? GM has known about their transmission problems and to my knowledge haven't done a damn thing about it. Can a company be trusted that knows about about a problem, yet doesn't care enuf about their customers to make them aware of it? I wonder. I have a 2001 Denali XL with 16,000 miles. When i first bought it,I noticed a slight lock up or hesitation, at the time i wasn't sure which it was. It happened a few times, but has never happened in about 10,000 miles. Believe me, i'm keepin my fingers crossed. If it were me, i would have to wait until the new Denali was on the road at least one full model year, and that is probably not enuf time, before i would consider a purchase. Just my Opinion, Larry
We are actively researching the Yukon and Yukon Denali line. My wife really likes the Denali but are concerned about purchasing now if there will be significant changes (exterior including) to the new year models. Have heard the the new models (Yukons that is) will have a more "rounded" front end, similar to current Denali's, plus DVD in back and driver/passenger temperature controls. Is it worth the wait for the 2003's to come in or go ahead with the likely price breaks of the 2002's.
Also, any thoughts on main differences (performance, gas mileage, etc.) on the Yukon SLT and Denali?
Love it. Saved 2K - rebates good until 7/1. Needed a new vehicle. Decided not to wait -dealer had white, capt ch and sunroof - perfect for me. The extra money was a great incentive, even when you are spending this type of $. Wanted White, so dont need new colors. Saw new headlights - like on Envoy, a little funky/triangular like. I knew what I was getting as far as looks go and love its current look. Handles great. Went to the Desert(read that windy)and the rig did not feel it. Easy to drive and super comfortable. Plenty of bells and whistles already. I like the fact that the dash is easy to use. I believe, as above, that most of the kinks have been worked out of DXL and new stuff on it may present new probs. Plus most of these rigs do not have tranny problems. I'm hoping I got lucky too. I feel there is just no comparison vehicle out there to this one. Super comfortable, luxurious, large and the safest vehicle on the road for my precious family.
I want to thank everyone who took the time to post here. To everyone who posted to any of my questions, a special thanks. (great deal hrhauser, just could not wait anymore)
A special thanks to heatwave for so much info and help. I've been following these boards forever and you are always there discussing your experience and helping others - I couldn't be happier about my choice.
I will keep you all posted about my experiences.
Brhett: If you want AWD you have to get the Denali, not the regular Yukon. To me, AWD alone is worth every penny. No matter what they do to the regular Yukon, all 4 wheels will not work at the same time to control the vehicle all the time. I believe the Denali just handles better. AWD in all vehicles is definitely a trend for the future. You also have a little more hp and a bigger engine. Plus you are driving a vehicle that is much more rare, if that means anything. The leather is also a better grade. There are so many more upgrades to make this car more lux you wont even know until you buy the rig. Sit in both cars and drive them and see how you feel. If you don't care about alot of extras or AWD save the $. To me, there was no choice. Also aftermarket DVD will run you 1/2 the price and probably be a better system. You can get whatever type of screen you want (4:3, 16:9 6.4", 10",13") and even pay extra for a warranty and still get by w/ less $ - get VCR and DVD or Playstation - go to vans board to read all about minivan entertainment systems. I did not buy this car to tow - just for the safety of my family - and the lux. Your wife will love it. I'd save the 2K and buy now, like I did and you know what you are getting.
I just got back from my first long road trip since taking delivery in late March, from South Jersey to metro Boston and back. I was very pleased with the truck. It may be the most comfortable long drive I've ever taken.
stacy: I think you're gonna love the vehicle. Don't know if you have a "better half", but I'm sure he will too.
Do you mind sharing what the out-the-door price was on the DXL? Was it an '02?
I can tell you alot of guys on this forum were extremely helpful to me when I was shopping for a new suv over 2 years ago. I was considering the Excursion, Sequoia, Suburban, Yukon XL and the DXL. Having chosen the DXL based on shopping and feeback on this forum, I've stayed on after buying the vehicle to share the experiences, (both good and bad), to return the favor those guys provided to me. In my case, the vehicle has been everything I hoped for and more. Dependable, well designed, powerful, luxurious and serviced by a good dealership.
The only "bad" experiences were of design. Namely, smaller second row leg space than in my previous Subs, lack of a Nav system, poor seat position switch location, poor parking brake design and location, relatively poor cupholder design for front seats, lack of HID headlights.
These have been more than compensated for by lots of power, a great drivetrain, phenomenal sound system, great towing capabilities and lots of features like heated seats in the front and second row, 6cd changer, steering wheels stereo controls, 17" rims with Michelin X-terrains and lots of other little goodies.
The only "upgrades" I added were the aftermarket sunroof which was installed before I took delivery, in order to have the rear climate control system (which was deleted with the factory sunroof in '01). I also added three aftermarket relays that 1) unlock the doors when the vehicle is put in park instead of when the engine is turned off 2) relay that keeps the lo-beams on when the hi-beams are activated (this feature really makes a difference on dark backroads) 3) relay that retains a memory for the fog lights (if the fog lights were on when the vehicle was turned off, they remain on when the headlights are activated the next time the truck is run).
I don't know if any of these relays are needed with the latest model but they were a great "bang-for-the-buck" since all three relays were only $45 on the internet and were quite easy to install.
The only two small cosmetic changes I made were to replace the ruby-red GMC logo on the front of the vehicle with a billet-aluminum GMC logo which looked better on my garnet red DXL and the addition of GMC mud flaps on all four corners.
With the AWD, all four corners tends to throw up gravel and rocks against the vehicle. The mud flaps definitely keep the vehicle cleaner, not to mention reduce the stone pits from the road.
Best of luck with the vehicle and I hope to read about lots of dependable miles and smiles from the family.
I too had my transmission replaced after it "locked-up." Also, my OnStar needed replacement as well. My dealership has been great though it all however: quick turnaround service and no hassle loaner vehicles.
...among the readers of this board who own 2001+ Denalis, to see what their experiences were regarding any problems, serious or otherwise, as well as any other information of note.
I have an '02 with factory sunroof, delivered late March, now with approximately 4500 miles. So far, nothing but an oil change, and no issues. Gas mileage has been a consistent 13.9 mpg in mixed driving according to the computer. On a recent long interstate trip I was getting between 16-18 on the highway, but in-town and heavy-traffic driving pulled the overall trip average down to 15.2. Consequently, my overall average fuel economy according to the computer is now 14.0 mpg.
One other thing. I will be coming up on the 7500 scheduled maintenance soon, and would appreciate any advice on whether to bring up the TSB on the transmission shifting while I'm there. I believe someone (heatwave3?) posted something to the effect of there being a flash upgrade available for the transmission programming; I wonder if I should bother given that I haven't noticed any transmission issues with my truck. Any advice would be appreciated.
I'm new to the discussion roundtable. It's very interesting to read about all of the comments. This appears to be a very enthusiastic group.
Unofficially (since I cannot divulge my sources), the 2003 DXL will get a minor facelift with a relatively more major interior upgrade, ala the Envoy, with dual climate controls and steering wheel controls. The on board computer will be enhanced. The rear will be widened in order to accomodate quadrasteer, ala the Sierra Denali. I don't know if a reverse sensor or folding side mirrors or HID headlamps will be available, but I'm always pushing for it. The '03 Escalade ESV will be fitted with dual screens DVD but initially will not have quadrasteer. The entertainment system may be an option in the DXL.
I'm of the opinion that anything new should be road tested for a year to have all the kinks worked out before considering buying it. That said, if this new DXL really impresses me (and my wife), which I hope that it will, then I might trade in my wife's '01 Suburban to upgrade.
BTW, where did heatwave3 get your relay to have the doors unlock when shifting to park?
We picked up our 02 DXL in March and thought we loved it until we took our 6 month old twins on a weekend road trip from Long Island to Rochester (at least 8 hours each way). Well, it was the best cruising vessel ever! I could have driven straight through to California. Only took one break in each direction. Found the ride, stability, power, and plush seats to add up to an incredible experience. I would strongly recommend this vehicle to anyone looking in the segment.
By the way, heatwave3: where did you get the low/high beam and fog light memory relays??
Some of the features are new for 02 such as the door unlock when shifting into park.
This is my 2nd Denali, my 01 was in a pretty bad accident and I didn't have a good feeling about keeping it, so I upgraded to the 02.
That said...
Do any of you feel a "shift" of the lumbar (upper) in the drivers seat the first time you drive it after it sits for an hour or more?
I have had the trans slip (not lock) 2-3 times. This happened in my Bravada and 01 DXL. I wrote it off as the AWD system. The problem was alleviated after the dealer changes the trans fluid. Worked on the Bravada (45000 miles) and the 01 DXL (32000 miles). This time they said there is a new brass knuckle they are using in the Sierra's that eliminated the problem. The part was aout of stock and I need to check back in a month, I will know more then.
The 3rd row seat seems squcky and loud, it maybe I use the cargo mat (under the seat) and the seat doesn't sit as it should w/o the mat. When the sunroof is open the cloth cover seems to rattle. Anyone else had these problems?
Other than that, I think the DXL is a definate winner.
Just had the 1 year anniversary on my 2001 DXL and @ 23K miles all is well. Been on 2 2500 mile road trips and recently started pulling a 5000 lb trailer and have had no problems except for at first delivery,when front differential had a whine and they replaced the whole unit. The tranny problems have not shown up and hope they never do. On great occasion from a stop there will be a little "lag" or hesitation. Friends with AWD autos say this happens to them on occcasion.
A question for the group,Now that I am trailering, has anybody upgraded brake pads or rotors. Stopping has been good but can always improve. Been thinking of changing to kevlar fiber brakes and maybe slots/drilled on rotors.......Anyone with experience or a comment.
1200 miles so far and I love this truck. Some info and pricing to share. I bought and '02. Heard minor changes to DXL for '03 (major for regular Yuk and YXL). Those changes posted previously are mostly already on (not options) the DXL already. Want to wait for new quadrasteer to be out for at least a year. No brand new big changes for me - I've owned 1st year models before. Also did not know new pricing (though it will go up) and felt saving 2k was worth it, (in addition, my RX lease was at an end and I was overmiles). Most importantly, I found the exact vehicle I wanted -optioned the way I wanted with interior and exterior color. This is not always easy. Here, in So. Cal, these vehicles go out as fast as they come in. Each dealer gets only 1 or 2 at a time and many of them are short, not XL. To find what you want, there is alot of dealer trading going on. I dealt only with the internet fleet manager. I knew my exact pricing. That said, Edmunds pricing for this vehicle is incorrect - at least somewhat misleading.
Invoice pricing for GM vehicles is located on line 310 of the invoice (your dealer should give you a copy of the invoice if you request it) Invoice pricing for GMC vehicles includes the Base Price plus the freight (aka delivery or destination) plus advertising price. Advertising price is calculated by taking 1% of the total MSRP - this price includes the Base MSRP plus any Options (like captains chairs and sunroof) at the MSRP price. The dealer pays the advertising price with invoice so it is not negotiable per se (this said we do not know other perks the dealer gets for volume, etc.).
In sum: Invoice = Base Price + Freight + Advertising (1% Total MSRP)
This said you will pay this price, plus any extra over invoice (unless you can get it for invoice or below), minus any rebates or incentives. (Do not pay freight or advertising twice!!)
Costco pricing is 1500 over invoice on DXL. Dealers in So. Cal. can and do get MSRP for this vehicle - as hard as this is to believe. Most people still are not internet savvy. I got a great deal myself with all work done on the phone and dealer delivery to my home. If anyone is interested in the exact figures I paid, I will be happy to share via email though not for general posting as I promised fleet mgr would not do a general post as she "gets it from other dealers" for "whoring" out this most sought after vehicle - as she put it.
Hope this helps anyone shopping for this most awesome vehicle. IMHO, there is none to compare.
I think your experience with "invoice pricing" is defined a bit differently from ours:
"Invoice and MSRP pricing listed on Edmunds.com is equivalent to the factory invoice and MSRP pricing." link
"Most vehicle invoices include a legitimate advertising fee levied by either the manufacturer or regional dealer groups." That blurb is under our new car pricing info for each car (where we also list destination charges), and is different from what your experience seems to be.
If you think our numbers are really wrong, please use the Feedback Form.
Bottom line is the out-the-door price you paid, which many of us would be interested in seeing, I'm sure. Oh well :-)
Thanks and enjoy your new ride! Steve Host SUVs, Vans and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards
With all of the talk of transmissions locking, I have yet to read anyone's description of what is actually going on. From a mechanic's standpoint, when talking about the driveline and using the term "locking", it means that the driveline jams and the wheels literally stop turning. If you are moving and it happens, the driven wheels will skid and will continue to skid if the vehicle is pushed or towed. The other day, when stopped at an intersection, I applied gas per usual and although the engine revved, the truck didn't move. It acted as though the transmission was in neutral. After a second or so, the transmission abruptly engaged, I heard and felt a soft clunk, the vehicle jerked and then moved forward normally. Is this what people are experiencing when they say their transmissions are "locking up?"
Transmission notwithstanding, I have to say that I continue to be amazed by this truck. I can transport 7 people in Mercedes-like comfort and then use it to drag my stuck tractor out of a field. I took it the other day to go dirtbike riding with a friend who is a jag mechanic, antique auto restorer, limo company owner, and very dubious of trucks being used as cars. After a typical long and bruising day of riding, we're cruising serenely out of the hills, gently cooled by the AC, sunroof open, "Garbage" blasting from the Bose stereo, bikes happily swaying in the trailer, and my buddy pronounced that he "got it." A 3 ton vehicle with a 4 ton towing capacity that has the ride dynamics of the Denali, utterly miraculous.
...since late March, and no problems with our base '02 Denali. Coming up on 7500 miles, first scheduled service (except for oil, which I had done at Jiffy Lube).
When I take it in, I am considering mentioning the TSBs--the nhtsa website currently lists eight for the 02 Denali--but they all seem relatively minor, and I haven't seen any evidence of the problems noted in them.
Does anyone have an opinion on whether it's better to bring these up with the service people, even if you haven't experienced the problems?
(For those interested, NHTSA is currently listing TSBs on the following issues: second-row seatbelt rattle, flapping noise from dash, front seat belt retractor replacement, front/rear side access door noise, manual lock lever coming off, whining noise in passenger compartment, loss of HVAC/temp control. Here's the link: http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/problems/tsb/central2.cfm .)
Just went back to that database again, and noticed they have a listing for DENALI and for YUKON DENALI. The ones I listed before were listed under DENALI. There are a few more listed under YUKON DENALI, including buzz or rattle from headliner (HVAC-related), center console lock...again nothing major.
the dealer won't be able to verify that there is one, and the dealer won't fix anything that they can't verify, problem or no problem.
In other words, you can always bring it up with your dealer. Whether you have a problem or not. Either way, even if you do have the actual problem listed in the TSB, the dealer won't do anything until they are able to verify it. That's where the famous "could not duplicate" or "could not verify" comes from.
I've been seeing the the quadrasteer will be available on the 2003 models. Can someone provide me with a link so that I might see this for myself. I would greatly appreciate it.
I saw a commercial on TV a few weeks ago advertising the GMC Sierra Denali with this feature. It included a whole description and showed the car making a figure 8 backwards and forwards with the pickup towing a boat or something. Try the GMC website, but with the TV ad I'm sure it will be offered for '03.
Comments
If you want a real deal you might want check out the Ford products. They're giving them away right now. But if you want to be as certain as possible that your wife and kids will have a vehicle that will start, then check out any of the Japanese engineered vehicles.
Are the headlights High Intensity Discharge or just regular projector beams?
Thanks.
By doing so, you'll find out about the pleasure of owning a Sequoia as their A/C compressors appear to have a serious design flaw and no replacement inventories. The Sequoia owners are definitely going to be hot & bothered this summer without A/C. Particularly after paying a premium for Toyota's "quality" hype.
You'll also want to check out the problem's Sequoia owners have reported with the Trac Control and the VSC Stability system as described by the following Sequoia owner
"I purchased my 2002 Sequoia back in late February, and the AC compressor went out on Tuesday, 5/14. I immediately took it to the dealer but it was too late in the day and they will not be able to look at it until the next day. Well, I drop the car off the next day and while I was in there, they changed the oil on the vehicle. They told me about the AC compressor problem they are experiencing when I pick up my vehicle, and of course, I can leave my vehicle in their lot until the part comes, however, the dealer told me there's another vehicle sitting in their lot for over 2 weeks waiting on parts from Toyota, I decline to leave my car in the lot in light of the wait. The dealer will not commit a date when the parts will arrives, to make matter worst, the VSC malfunctioned today. I immediately call the dealer back and I was told they were very busy and will not be able to get with me until late next week. Out of the blue, I decided to visit this website to see if other people experience the same problem that I am experiencing. Sure enough, I saw the message from lbimike1 about his problem with the compressor and what he had to do to get Toyota to owned up to their mistake. I sure like to find out from him how he contact Toyota USA and the regional rep. Also, I like to know how to file an arbitration on this and other matters."
His problems do not appear to be isolated. In contrast, I've had my DXL for 19K and have been thrilled with its quality, power and overall performance. My only visits to the dealer have been for oil changes and my dealership threw the first 5 changes in for free. Couldn't be happier.
If its vinyl I suspect that GM uses it instead of leather since the seat can be removed from the vehicle and therefore a more durable material will stand up better to the abuse of being taken in and out and stored on a concrete floor of a garage.
Sorry I couldn't be more help. Maybe someone else remembers the previous discussion or knows for a fact what the 3rd row seating material is.
If Edmunds got its act together and provided a decent search tool that could look into the messages rather than just the discussion titles, I (and many others) wouldn't have to ask the same old questions. I would also like to download all messages in a forum and read them offline like we used to be able to rather than being limited to a maximum of 20 messages. Not a very practical way of finding what you want when a forum contains 1000 or more messages.
As for downloading posts en masse, I haven't figured out how to do that or whether it's even possible. (I've tried!)
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I'm quite certain that I can find plenty of posts that are representative of GM "quality".
"Like a Rock" sitting in the middle of the road when the engine dies at highway speeds.
Care to share any post where someone claimed their Denali rear tires locked up? I think your confusing the tire lock-up issue with the one's posted on the Sequoia forum regarding the Trac system and the VSC that owner's have complained heartily about.
You know, the one's where the VSC system sounds like its falling out of the vehicle or someone threw a spoon down a garbage disposal. Its no wonder GM and Ford took all the quality awards in the truck and suv categories.
At least the Toyota owners can sleep well knowing the spent alot more money for the "quality" in their Sequoia....particularly while snoozing in the Toyota Service dpartment waiting room:)
-Chris.
Do you feel as though they treated you fairly? Finally, how did the replacement (if that was their solution) work after the corrective measures?
Thanks for your feedback.
OK. If there is anyone out there in the GM world who knows if there are any changes to the '03 please let me know. Are they redoing the interior? I know ESV is coming out soon. Also when is the '03 coming out, is it worth it to wait?
Also. Anyone with a sunroof and an entertainment system? Is the LCD screen mounted too close to the second row with sunroof? Please let me know. Thanks in advance.
What is at good price for the extended warranty -100K/0 deductible? Thanks in advance.
I have been to three local GMC dealers, each salesman I spoke with stated there are no changes scheduled for the 03's. Could they be holding info back to make a sale sooner than later? I think so. I have since scoured the internet for news on the 03's and found this:
http://www.forbes.com/2002/04/08/0408test_2.html
Any thoughts?
Prices are comparable and obviously the editor's must be thinking some consumer's are comparing these vehicles or they wouldn't have run the tests. I know when I bought my DXL I also shopped for and test drove the Sequoia.
In answer to your question about the 2003 Yukons. It has a couple new colors,
Sandalwood Metallic,
and Carbon Metallic.
New up level rearview mirror
available power adjustable camper mirrors
Revised body side molding
all new seats
Redesigned instrument panel
new driver's information center
new steering wheel w/ available 8 button control
optional 2nd row captain's chairs available on all models
dual level occupant sensing front air bags
new radios /new Bose sound system
new standard automatic Tri-zone HVAC system
Available adjustable brake and accelerator pedals
available rear seat entertainment system (DVD)
new floor console
Stabilitrak
Quadrasteer
high powered 145 amp generator
Electronic throttle control
Enhanced Auto Trac System
Improved Brake System
AM/FMstero w/CD and cassette now standard
New Packages available:
Cargo Package
Security Plus Package
Sound System Plus package
Z28 trailering package now available vs standard
Hope that helps at all.
AS
The dealership replaced the air cleaner (and charged me for it) but it didn't help; thanks though. Actually, the rear tires "locked-up" today, leaving a skid mark as evidence. Still wondering whats going on. George P.
#1266 of 1275 crimson34 by newdenali May 22, 2002 (02:59 pm)
My 2002 Denali Xl started locking up its wheels around 1500 miles and contined ufairly frequently until the transmission seized at 2100 miles. Take it in to your dealer and have him check it out. Have them drive it in stop and go situations (this is when I experienced my wheel lock-ups). Hopefully, they can catch it before your transmission seizes. Good luck.
-Chris.
Is that what you were looking for?
well, my 2002 XL's transmission finally gave out at 9,000 miles. Experienced a few "lock-ups" along the way - never did bring it in to get checked out. Hope you fare better with yours.
I have a 2001 Denali XL with 16,000 miles.
When i first bought it,I noticed a slight lock up or hesitation, at the time i wasn't sure which it was. It happened a few times, but has never happened in about 10,000 miles. Believe me, i'm keepin my fingers crossed.
If it were me, i would have to wait until the new Denali was on the road at least one full model year, and that is probably not enuf time, before i would consider a purchase.
Just my Opinion,
Larry
Also, any thoughts on main differences (performance, gas mileage, etc.) on the Yukon SLT and Denali?
Any help appreciated.
I want to thank everyone who took the time to post here. To everyone who posted to any of my questions, a special thanks. (great deal hrhauser, just could not wait anymore)
A special thanks to heatwave for so much info and help. I've been following these boards forever and you are always there discussing your experience and helping others - I couldn't be happier about my choice.
I will keep you all posted about my experiences.
Brhett: If you want AWD you have to get the Denali, not the regular Yukon. To me, AWD alone is worth every penny. No matter what they do to the regular Yukon, all 4 wheels will not work at the same time to control the vehicle all the time. I believe the Denali just handles better. AWD in all vehicles is definitely a trend for the future. You also have a little more hp and a bigger engine. Plus you are driving a vehicle that is much more rare, if that means anything. The leather is also a better grade. There are so many more upgrades to make this car more lux you wont even know until you buy the rig. Sit in both cars and drive them and see how you feel. If you don't care about alot of extras or AWD save the $. To me, there was no choice. Also aftermarket DVD will run you 1/2 the price and probably be a better system. You can get whatever type of screen you want (4:3, 16:9 6.4", 10",13") and even pay extra for a warranty and still get by w/ less $ - get VCR and DVD or Playstation - go to vans board to read all about minivan entertainment systems. I did not buy this car to tow - just for the safety of my family - and the lux. Your wife will love it. I'd save the 2K and buy now, like I did and you know what you are getting.
Do you mind sharing what the out-the-door price was on the DXL? Was it an '02?
I can tell you alot of guys on this forum were extremely helpful to me when I was shopping for a new suv over 2 years ago. I was considering the Excursion, Sequoia, Suburban, Yukon XL and the DXL. Having chosen the DXL based on shopping and feeback on this forum, I've stayed on after buying the vehicle to share the experiences, (both good and bad), to return the favor those guys provided to me. In my case, the vehicle has been everything I hoped for and more. Dependable, well designed, powerful, luxurious and serviced by a good dealership.
The only "bad" experiences were of design. Namely, smaller second row leg space than in my previous Subs, lack of a Nav system, poor seat position switch location, poor parking brake design and location, relatively poor cupholder design for front seats, lack of HID headlights.
These have been more than compensated for by lots of power, a great drivetrain, phenomenal sound system, great towing capabilities and lots of features like heated seats in the front and second row, 6cd changer, steering wheels stereo controls, 17" rims with Michelin X-terrains and lots of other little goodies.
The only "upgrades" I added were the aftermarket sunroof which was installed before I took delivery, in order to have the rear climate control system (which was deleted with the factory sunroof in '01). I also added three aftermarket relays that 1) unlock the doors when the vehicle is put in park instead of when the engine is turned off 2) relay that keeps the lo-beams on when the hi-beams are activated (this feature really makes a difference on dark backroads) 3) relay that retains a memory for the fog lights (if the fog lights were on when the vehicle was turned off, they remain on when the headlights are activated the next time the truck is run).
I don't know if any of these relays are needed with the latest model but they were a great "bang-for-the-buck" since all three relays were only $45 on the internet and were quite easy to install.
The only two small cosmetic changes I made were to replace the ruby-red GMC logo on the front of the vehicle with a billet-aluminum GMC logo which looked better on my garnet red DXL and the addition of GMC mud flaps on all four corners.
With the AWD, all four corners tends to throw up gravel and rocks against the vehicle. The mud flaps definitely keep the vehicle cleaner, not to mention reduce the stone pits from the road.
Best of luck with the vehicle and I hope to read about lots of dependable miles and smiles from the family.
-Greg.
I have an '02 with factory sunroof, delivered late March, now with approximately 4500 miles. So far, nothing but an oil change, and no issues. Gas mileage has been a consistent 13.9 mpg in mixed driving according to the computer. On a recent long interstate trip I was getting between 16-18 on the highway, but in-town and heavy-traffic driving pulled the overall trip average down to 15.2. Consequently, my overall average fuel economy according to the computer is now 14.0 mpg.
One other thing. I will be coming up on the 7500 scheduled maintenance soon, and would appreciate any advice on whether to bring up the TSB on the transmission shifting while I'm there. I believe someone (heatwave3?) posted something to the effect of there being a flash upgrade available for the transmission programming; I wonder if I should bother given that I haven't noticed any transmission issues with my truck. Any advice would be appreciated.
Unofficially (since I cannot divulge my sources), the 2003 DXL will get a minor facelift with a relatively more major interior upgrade, ala the Envoy, with dual climate controls and steering wheel controls. The on board computer will be enhanced. The rear will be widened in order to accomodate quadrasteer, ala the Sierra Denali. I don't know if a reverse sensor or folding side mirrors or HID headlamps will be available, but I'm always pushing for it. The '03 Escalade ESV will be fitted with dual screens DVD but initially will not have quadrasteer. The entertainment system may be an option in the DXL.
I'm of the opinion that anything new should be road tested for a year to have all the kinks worked out before considering buying it. That said, if this new DXL really impresses me (and my wife), which I hope that it will, then I might trade in my wife's '01 Suburban to upgrade.
BTW, where did heatwave3 get your relay to have the doors unlock when shifting to park?
By the way, heatwave3: where did you get the low/high beam and fog light memory relays??
Some of the features are new for 02 such as the door unlock when shifting into park.
This is my 2nd Denali, my 01 was in a pretty bad accident and I didn't have a good feeling about keeping it, so I upgraded to the 02.
That said...
Do any of you feel a "shift" of the lumbar (upper) in the drivers seat the first time you drive it after it sits for an hour or more?
I have had the trans slip (not lock) 2-3 times. This happened in my Bravada and 01 DXL. I wrote it off as the AWD system. The problem was alleviated after the dealer changes the trans fluid. Worked on the Bravada (45000 miles) and the 01 DXL (32000 miles). This time they said there is a new brass knuckle they are using in the Sierra's that eliminated the problem. The part was aout of stock and I need to check back in a month, I will know more then.
The 3rd row seat seems squcky and loud, it maybe I use the cargo mat (under the seat) and the seat doesn't sit as it should w/o the mat. When the sunroof is open the cloth cover seems to rattle. Anyone else had these problems?
Other than that, I think the DXL is a definate winner.
A question for the group,Now that I am trailering,
has anybody upgraded brake pads or rotors. Stopping has been good but can always improve. Been thinking of changing to kevlar fiber brakes and maybe slots/drilled on rotors.......Anyone with experience or a comment.
Thanks
I bought and '02. Heard minor changes to DXL for '03 (major for regular Yuk and YXL). Those changes posted previously are mostly already on (not options) the DXL already. Want to wait for new quadrasteer to be out for at least a year. No brand new big changes for me - I've owned 1st year models before. Also did not know new pricing (though it will go up) and felt saving 2k was worth it, (in addition, my RX lease was at an end and I was overmiles).
Most importantly, I found the exact vehicle I wanted -optioned the way I wanted with interior and exterior color. This is not always easy.
Here, in So. Cal, these vehicles go out as fast as they come in. Each dealer gets only 1 or 2 at a time and many of them are short, not XL. To find what you want, there is alot of dealer trading going on.
I dealt only with the internet fleet manager.
I knew my exact pricing. That said, Edmunds pricing for this vehicle is incorrect - at least somewhat misleading.
Invoice pricing for GM vehicles is located on line 310 of the invoice (your dealer should give you a copy of the invoice if you request it)
Invoice pricing for GMC vehicles includes the Base Price plus the freight (aka delivery or destination) plus advertising price.
Advertising price is calculated by taking 1% of the total MSRP
- this price includes the Base MSRP plus any Options (like captains chairs and sunroof) at the MSRP price.
The dealer pays the advertising price with invoice so it is not negotiable per se (this said we do not know other perks the dealer gets for volume, etc.).
In sum: Invoice = Base Price + Freight + Advertising (1% Total MSRP)
This said you will pay this price, plus any extra over invoice (unless you can get it for invoice or below), minus any rebates or incentives. (Do not pay freight or advertising twice!!)
Costco pricing is 1500 over invoice on DXL. Dealers in So. Cal. can and do get MSRP for this vehicle - as hard as this is to believe. Most people still are not internet savvy. I got a great deal myself with all work done on the phone and dealer delivery to my home.
If anyone is interested in the exact figures I paid, I will be happy to share via email though not for general posting as I promised fleet mgr would not do a general post as she "gets it from other dealers" for "whoring" out this most sought after vehicle - as she put it.
Hope this helps anyone shopping for this most awesome vehicle. IMHO, there is none to compare.
I think your experience with "invoice pricing" is defined a bit differently from ours:
"Invoice and MSRP pricing listed on Edmunds.com is equivalent to the factory invoice and MSRP pricing." link
"Most vehicle invoices include a legitimate advertising fee levied by either the manufacturer or regional dealer groups." That blurb is under our new car pricing info for each car (where we also list destination charges), and is different from what your experience seems to be.
If you think our numbers are really wrong, please use the Feedback Form.
Bottom line is the out-the-door price you paid, which many of us would be interested in seeing, I'm sure. Oh well :-)
Thanks and enjoy your new ride!
Steve
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SUVs, Vans and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards
Transmission notwithstanding, I have to say that I continue to be amazed by this truck. I can transport 7 people in Mercedes-like comfort and then use it to drag my stuck tractor out of a field. I took it the other day to go dirtbike riding with a friend who is a jag mechanic, antique auto restorer, limo company owner, and very dubious of trucks being used as cars. After a typical long and bruising day of riding, we're cruising serenely out of the hills, gently cooled by the AC, sunroof open, "Garbage" blasting from the Bose stereo, bikes happily swaying in the trailer, and my buddy pronounced that he "got it." A 3 ton vehicle with a 4 ton towing capacity that has the ride dynamics of the Denali, utterly miraculous.
-Dan
When I take it in, I am considering mentioning the TSBs--the nhtsa website currently lists eight for the 02 Denali--but they all seem relatively minor, and I haven't seen any evidence of the problems noted in them.
Does anyone have an opinion on whether it's better to bring these up with the service people, even if you haven't experienced the problems?
(For those interested, NHTSA is currently listing TSBs on the following issues: second-row seatbelt rattle, flapping noise from dash, front seat belt retractor replacement, front/rear side access door noise, manual lock lever coming off, whining noise in passenger compartment, loss of HVAC/temp control. Here's the link: http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/problems/tsb/central2.cfm .)
In other words, you can always bring it up with your dealer. Whether you have a problem or not. Either way, even if you do have the actual problem listed in the TSB, the dealer won't do anything until they are able to verify it. That's where the famous "could not duplicate" or "could not verify" comes from.