GMC Yukon / Yukon Denali

jennmw · November 2006

I did take it in I guess it is a common problem with Yukons and Tahoes, etc. All they did was put a lube kit for $20 in the steering column, haven't had a problem since!

gmhellman · December 2006

A member of my church is interested in selling his 2001 Yukon SLT 4x4 Silver with factory running boards. The vehicle was used by his wife for her job of woking as a nurse in a community outreach program for under priviledged children. It has 97,000 highway miles on it and is in immaculate condition. He and his wife have bought diesel volkswagon jettas with all wheel drive. They have garaged it and driven it very rarely. (Too much money in gas.) They live far out of town. I am considering offering him 9500 for the vehicle. But, am concerned about any maintanace issues I might have with a Yukon in this year. He also said that they very rarely have put it into four wheel drive. Any help suggestions or hints would be helpful.

Thanksg

ahightower · December 2006

"diesel volkswagon jettas with all wheel drive"

I'm not sure there is such a thing. There are AWD Passats, but not with the deisel. Might be wrong.

Anyway, your offer looks fair, a little low in fact, but you're taking a risk on a high mileage vehicle. If it did have problems, it might be awkward having to see your friend at church every week. But if he's cool with you having a mechanic look things over, and everyone agrees no warranty/buyer beware, then it could be a good move to buy from someone you know and trust.

gmhellman · December 2006

I stand corrected his is a diesel passat and his wife has an awd gasoline passat. I did put my offer a little lower due to the fact that it is a high mileage vehicle and is due for a huge "overhaul" of maintanance on the engine and drivetrain at 100,000 miles. Plus I also am aware of intermediate shaft problems, rear diff problems and wheel bearing problems in the 2000-2004 gm full size 4x4 vehicles. I owned a 2002 Sierra that had the intermediate shaft and rear diff problems and my mechanic said that those were common place as the miles climbed. I officially haven't made an offer until I can sell my 99 Bonneville. We just have too much bad weather where we live and my family likes to camp and we tow a camping trailer with our minivan right now. I am just worried that we are going to overtax the drive train on a 97 T&C and end up with a 2000 dollar lump of crap for a minivan if I continue to use it in this fashion.

gmhellman · December 2006

After talking with my local mechanic he said that if the vehicle is worth 11,500 and has 100,000 trouble free miles it shoudl be fine for another 100,000 more. That is if I get the 100,000 mile tune up and he even agreed to inspect the entire vehicle for free from bumper to bumper. He also said that if I was interested I should start out at 8500 for my bargaining price since these vehicles in that year were prone to bad wheel bearings at 100,000 miles and could have a couple of issues like alternator, battery, serpentine belt and wiper motor/relay. (These were the most common problems he has seen) He also said that he has 4 people that own 2001 and 2002 Yukon SLT that have over 100,000 miles and have had zero maintanace costs above the usual stuff (Tires, shocks, brakes) He even offered to give me their names if I would like to talk to them. Does this price sound realistic? I don't want to offend the seller since I know him, but I don't want to pay full price for a vehicle with 100,000 miles on it. Any input would be helpful.

Greg

ahightower · December 2006

I'm not a mechanic, but it sounds like you found a good one that you can trust. He told you he knows other Yukons that haven't needed much maintenance, so he's probably not going to try and scare you into buying any services you don't really need.

I don't know if I'd lowball the offer any more than you already have. Like you said, don't want to insult the guy or take advantage of him. If it was a dealer, what the heck, jerk them around all day. But with a friend, play nice. Edmunds TMV is about $11K, right? If the vehicle looks good and the mechanic likes what he sees, pay a fair price. You'd want the same treatment if you were selling your car.

berob · December 2006

My wife and I purchased our 2004 GMC Yukon on January 2, 2004, which means the 3-year factory warranty is about to expire. The vehicle has only 28,000 miles on it, and while we've only had a few very minor problems, I am considering buying an extended warranty, which I believe I still should be able to do. IAt one time, I was getting a lot of extended warranty offers in the mail, but I haven't seen any recently. I'd like any advice on my situation as well as what company you might recommend and what I should expect to pay. Thank you.

obyone · December 2006

warranty I would buy. Major Guard. Dealt with third party warranty companies and with GM warranty. When it comes to warranty work after your 3/36 factory, in my opinion, you just can't beat having a GM extended warranty for your GM vehicle. You can approach any GM dealer and get quotes and purchase from whichever gives you the best price.

Best part about it is that you can have a Caddy dealer work on your Chevy and visa versa depending on which service department you like best.

Course it does cost more than most third party warrantee companies.

drclaw · April 2007

I have a 2004 Yukon Denali with about 70k on it. I recently signed up for the OnStar hands free calling. While it does come with a new number which is not nearly as convenient as using your current phone/number, OnStar does offer a modified call forwarding feature to the service. The call forward can either immediately forward your calls to your Onstar number or it can ring your current cell phone 4 times and then send to the OnStar number. Also, the call forwarding is a free feature, which is pretty attractive compared to the normal $.25 a call charge plus minutes that Verizon offers standard.

I have found the phone system works satisfactory. The voice recognition is good as long as the cabin is quiet (windows up, air conditioning vents not pointed directly at headliner mounted microphone). Also, it does have a name storage feature that is convenient. The main drawback for me is the inability to dial numbers while on a call, i.e. calling your bank, checking voice mail, or customer service. The system does have an option that allows you to speak single digits, however, you have to wait for OnStar to repeat the digit back to you and then confirm the digit. It works OK if you are only needing to dial a couple of digits, however, calling a bank or anything with more than three or four digits gets to be ridiculous considering you have to go through three steps to dial a single digit.

If you travel a lot and will be placing long calls to individuals, the system works great and I would recommend. However, if you will be placing many calls and having people return them you may have issues with the separate number. Also, when numbers ring to the OnStar, I rarely get a caller ID reading until three or four rings which basically makes the caller ID system useless.

I would still rather have this system than some aftermarket solution that requires a separately mounted display. In my opinion, those systems look cheap, don't match the interior, and never work as well as advertised.

drclaw · April 2007

I believe the only space you will possibly have a problem with is between the 2nd row of bucket seats. It is less than 12" I believe so it may not be a problem.

I have a 2004 Denali and that is the case with mine.

epzmd · November 2007

My local service center suggested I use premium for my new 2007 Denali. I would love to hear the forums' experiences with the this and if owners noticed a difference. Especially if its worth it, with gas prices today.

Thanks,
epzmd

jkozub · January 2008

Can anyone tell me how to replace the windshield washer fluid bottle on a 2002 Denali?

Thanks!

obyone · January 2008

-Disconnect the battery
-Disconnect MAF from filter housing
-Remove filter housing
-Remove nut holding bottle under the filter housing

-Disconnect the two hoses (return/supply)
-Remove nut located on bottom left
-Disconnect sensor switch on bottom

-Remove unit

Was there design efficiency? No way!! It is a pain in the rear to remove

rsht · January 2008

Why use premium if regular does not cause any engine knock or having any issue using the regular gas? I have a 2007 Denali as well, its been running just great with 87 regular; I did add super/premium unleaded once before, it did feel more power; but if fast 0-60 is what you want, try the Vett. "Quality" Regular gas should be good enough for regular driving in my opinion.

flormatt · January 2008

I have been trying regular in my 2008 Denali and it rides terrible with it, very sluggish and less responsive. I have been forced to use premium to have it ride how Iike it.

My 2005 Denali ran great on regular...

harleyrdrbrett · January 2008

Hello everyone
First off, thanks to all of you who take the time to help other Yukon owners learn more about there rides. I am just about to take delivery of a 2006 Yukon Denali. My question is, how does the NAV system work. Will I have to buy NAV DVDs for everywhere I drive to? and will I always need to buy more current DVDs like when we used to have to always buy the latest Road Atlas? I'm assuming my Denali has an internal GPS system that is used with the DVD NAV system and the Onstar. I bet I sound like I shouldn't be getting such a vehicle if I am so "challenged". LOL Thanks

brewboy · January 2008

I had a 2004 and currently drive a 2007 Denali. Both use map discs (DVD) which are supplied by GM, and you get 2 free disc upgrades included in your new vehicle price. Just log onto www.gmnavdisc.com.

The GPS antenna for your Nav system is not in the OnStar/XM antenna on the roof, it sits under the dash approximently in the middle and connects to the back of the Nav Radio. Look on Ebay if you want to see the complete kits. It receives through the glass thats why you shouldn't tint the front windshield or if you replace it make sure its not made with a coating that will restrict the GPS signals.

Map discs cover North America, I haven't seen any other areas offered but check the above website for more info.

The new discs sometimes just add new streets, without any new functionality so it depends how picky you wish to get. Ebay is often the best place to get discs if you want to upgrade every new version.

harleyrdrbrett · January 2008

Thanks brewboy, today I feel a little more smarter than I did yesterday. One more question. Do you feel like the GMC disks are detailed enough, or would you prefer to go with a navigation company product such as Garmin?

brewboy · January 2008

I used the Garmin 650 while visiting Scottsdale a few months ago and loved how easy it was to use. I dont know if it had any more detailed information then the factory GM Nav DVD. The Garmin had the ability to be used in your hand while your walking around and that was benefit for sure. I know some of the Garmins have MSN Traffic updating via wireless connectivity to the internet which you wont have in your truck. The 2007 and newer GM Nav radios all have the ability to display XM Radio Traffic Information. I was thinking about having both since they are so cheap now. I saw the Garmin 650 for $299 at Costco on line so I will probably go get that so I can use it outside the Denali and when I rent a car.

boilermanup · January 2008

I have a 2005 Denali with the factory GPS that has stopped working.
At first if I ran the disk out and back in it would start working, I did this for about 4 months.
That no longer works now all I get is a popup that says the disc is either scratched or dirty, I purchased a new disc and still the same problem so I know that the disc is not the problem.

Any body else have this problem and if so what was the fix?

brewboy · January 2008

What about trying the disc in another trucks Nav radio and see what happens?

If you need to take it out its not very hard to do. Be careful how much they want to repair it if you go that far, you can buy new ones on Ebay for under $1000.

Check out the Chevy Avalanche Fan Club on the web, they have instructions for almost everything and the members are an invaluable source of information because the Avalanche has almost all the same components.

boilermanup · January 2008

I tried the disc in another vehicle, the disc is not the problem.

I probably will have to take the vehicle in to the dealer and see what they have to say.
Only happens just as the warranty expires.

Thanks for the info.

teto4sure · February 2008

My heater is not blowing hot air out all the time.......when I hit the road to about 60 mph it works sometimes....what could be the problem? I have no clue...

obyone · February 2008

Check your coolant level in both the radiator and recovery tank.

teto4sure · February 2008

Thanks!!!!!! I added more Dex Cool coolant and it works. I can't believe when I got my oil changed last time they didn't check it. Thanks.

jgordo · February 2008

Hey Guys,
I hope this question is not redundant, but I brought home a '06 Denali with 36000 miles (exactly!) and so far have been thrilled with it. The V8 sounds awesome, the comfort, ride, nav, AC, towing, AWD, DVD and storage have been fantastic.
However, I had to get 2 rear tires and the truck aligned. After aligning, I drove away and heard a "clunk" from the front drivers side. It persisted until I turned around and took it back to the alignment shop and told them to check it out. They did, and couldn't find anything. When they took it down off the lift, it ran great!! No sounds, just smooth ride. Fast forward to yesterday, then the Mrs. took it to work, and at lunch, she heard the clunk. She did not hear it in the afternoon. Am I going crazy here? Luckily, I did buy the extended warranty. If this issue has been discussed in another post, let me know and I'll head that way.

mitchdenali08 · February 2008

does anyone have experience with unlocking the nav screen in Yukon Denali's. I have come across the lockpick from costaltech but I am concerned how well it works. the video demo on their web site appears that it is a good product.

brewboy · February 2008

I bought one of the Coastaltech Lockpicks and it didn't work as described so I tried to send it back. They dont answer their email or phones so it was a nightmare. Eventually I got my money back months later but lost the Fed Ex return charges. A friend has one installed and it works fine. Be careful of imitations that dont work.

eodman · March 2008

This just started on friday afternoon. i read on some post earlier that someone had a throttle acuator sensor replaced?

i have no check engine light yet but, dam thing wants to stall at red lights or at least feels like it.

denalidude · March 2008

I have a 03 yukon xl right now that is doing this. We bought it used. Has may be 37000 miles right now. I went to get in the car and it said unknown driver. When trying to start it didn't start right off the bat. Then it started on the second try. Said unknown driver, and then the gauges would not work. I then turned on the headlamps and the car horn honked and the gauges jumped and went to there normal readings. I have a idiot light on that shows a sub with a lock through it now. ANy ideas or suggestions. Thanks for your time.

rsht · March 2008

A friend of mine had the similar issue. What we later discovered had to do with one of his ignition keys which he has been using daily for years... To make a very long trial by elimination story short, we disconnected the terminal off his battery for about 30+ minutes then used his second OEM key (and as far as I know he has been using it ever since), all has been working fine. Not so sure if that was luck or the right approach though. Good Luck!

alexp98 · March 2008

I have a '05 Yukon XL Denali and noticed that the bulb/led that illuminates the volume button on my steering wheel light is out. Does anyone know how I should replace it? Thanks.

denalidude · March 2008

Thanks for the heads up on that. I am not sure if my keys have the chip or not? Is there a way to tell? I will still try and undo the battery though. Thanks for your help.

yukonjake · March 2008

you need new shoes probably

boundsplace · March 2008

My wife has an 03 Yukon and yesterday while she was driving she received a code "reduced engine power" and she pulled over to shut off the car. Once I arrived I put my scanner to it and it gave me a 1515 factory code. She then drove home when it happened again, this time with a 1516 code. Any ideas?

rsht · March 2008

Hope the problem is just a simple clean and adjustment... both codes are about the Throttle Actuator Position.

I did some checking and found the following, you may want to have a look:
=> P1515: http://www.gearchatter.com/viewtopic8510.php
=> P1516: http://www.gearchatter.com/viewpost12574.php

teto4sure · March 2008

I have a 2005 Yukon Denali and my right side volume controls, etc. and the right buttons on my steering wheels illumination is out. I can't find the fuse for this anywhere. I've tried I think all of them. Any suggestions?

sammiller · March 2008

I also have a 2005 Yukon Danali and the illumination is out on my right side volume control and my left side source buttons. I'm wondering if this is an issue with the 2005 models.

teto4sure · March 2008

I'm not sure but I've seemed to checked every fuse I have that I can think of.

sammiller · March 2008

For those of us with the illumination problem on the steering wheel buttons. I just talked to the service department of the GMC dealership. I was told that it the buttons are not on a fuse. You have to order a whole new button and the steering wheel needs to be taken off to replace them - estmated cost running between 200-300.
I would love to know how many others are having this problem - was there something wrong in the manufacturing? I can't believe that after not quite 3 years they've gone bad.

teto4sure · March 2008

Thanks for the information. I'm going to contact the dealership to see what they say. It seems to be a common problem.

alexp98 · March 2008

Thanks for the info. Doesn't seem right to spend $300 for those buttons. After spending so much money on this vehicle, it'll cost that much to replace? Talk about poor designing.
My lights went out a little over 2 years since I purchased my Denali; maybe GMC will do the right thing and replace it for free.

teto4sure · March 2008

I'm hoping that will happen but not so sure.

Kirstie_H · March 2008

A reporter hopes to speak with current owners of large SUVs who are trying to sell their vehicle and their experience. If you are a consumer with a large SUV that just sold or looking to sell, please respond to ctalati@edmunds.com with your daytime contact information no later than Monday, March 24, 2008.

sammiller · March 2008

Agreed that this seems to be a common problem. I'm keeping an eye on recall messages, but haven't seen anything. For a vehicle that is only 3 years old this is ridiculous that these should lights have gone out.

ddelay · April 2008

Help! I have an intermittent power problem. My Yukon is no experiencing a more re-curring problem where I'll go hop in it and the battery will be dead or near dead. At first I thought it was because my cigarette lighters are constant on and my radar detector and satellite radio are plugged in. Well, I got into the habit of upglugging them and that seemed to work for a while. Now I've started turning all the airconditioner switches to the OFF pisition. Well that seemed to work for a week or so, now I came out this morning and low and behold, a nearly dead battery.

I'm at wits end and don't have a lot of money to take it to get an all day diagnosis as $75 an hour. I'm handy with my hands and have a really good multimeter, but all I can deduce is that I have a parasitic drain from something. I cannot isolate the source. I'm afraid it's a computer of some sort, but don't know how to find them or determine which one it may be.

Any help is appreciated.

dd

ddelay · April 2008

mY 2001 yUKON xl HAS THE SAME ISSUE BUT IT'S MORE WIDESPREAD. (sorry) My seat buttons, half the radio buttons, the upper and lower environmental controls are either 1/2 dark or tatally dark. My remore mirror adjust know used to not work to adjust the mirror, so I replaced it for ~$100 and low and behold that illumination worked. It supprised me because I never knew it was supposed to be lit up. Funny.....in a Grrrrrr sort of way.

Now if someone can help me with an electrical problem (listed above), I'll be all set.

D

obyone · April 2008

I'd be leary of fixing something with oem parts that are doomed to fail again. I'd buy a new vehicle or live with it as it.

I apologize in case this wasn't the answer that you wanted. :shades:

c650 · April 2008

I'm interested in a 2003 Yukon XL, 2500 4X4 with Quadrasteer. Only 44,000 miles. Any data on the long term reliability of the Quadrasteer? Turns like a dream, since it was only in produciton for a couple of years, hard to find experiences with reliability.

obyone · April 2008

From what I've read on it there were no long term issues. Quadrasteer was dumped by GM because potential owners couldn't justify the upfront initial cost of the system which was around $5k.

GMC Yukon / Yukon Denali

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