GMC Yukon / Yukon Denali

larry91 · May 2001

Well mbclk430, that's the General for you, a little behind most of the time, certainly not trendsetters. Both rear rows of seats should be fully adjustable, it would make it infinitely more comfortable for the rear seat passengers.
Do u think it will ever happen? Doubtful

jgmilberg · May 2001

They may do it, but it will only be the last year of production of the truck all together. The proved they do that with the '96 Impala SS, and several other model that GM has killed over the years.

jgmilberg · May 2001

Midwest Truck Accessories now has a website, http://www.mid-west-truck.com/ , really cheezy, but it is out there none the less. I asked them if they would order from Image for a painted to match hood gaurd if requested, and the guy said yes, but expect a long wait, 4-6 weeks. I ordered the Weather Tech window vents, they go inside the window track, and do not stick to the outside paint at all. They are really low profile and slick looking, lighter tint than the Auto Vent Shade ones. Made in Germany, I don't know if that means anything these days so take it for what you want. Full set,front and rear, cost $70, that's $30 cheaper than from the actual manufacturer! If you or anyone else want to check out what they look like go to http://www.weathertech.com

larry91 · May 2001

U can get a hood guard, painted, from your GMC dealer. I got a white one and it sports the GM logo, I believe it comes in 3 or 4 colors, coded to the trucks, mine is white. Check it out, about $90.00.

deejayfrank · May 2001

Hi I just picked up my 2001 d and have about 1000 miles on it when the sunroof is opened all the way, not on tilt and you hit a bump their is a rattle coming from somewhere in there. Has anyone had this problem and if they had what was the fix that the dealer had. The dealer told me it could be the sunroof frame can be defective and might need to replaced. Any info would be greatly appreciated.

iparkum · May 2001

Hello everyone first time posting. I bought a 01 suburban the steering wheel was tilted to the right and it pulled to the left. I took it in 4 times for this they still could not fix it, they told ,me they would have to put it out of line to put it in line. So you can guess what I told them, any way I hired a lawyer at no cost to me gm bought it back. Now I bought a DXL same problem they cant fix it. has anyone else had this problem? Let me know please I cant believe I bought the only two cars in the world with the same problem.

bkosaianh · May 2001

Iparkum....I had the same problem with my Denali. Funny thing is I bought 2 identical Denalis both delivered the same day one was fine and mine had the steering wheel cocked to about 11:00. Took it back to the dealer and they sent it to a alignment shop. I made a point to go to the shop to see what was wrong.....they said the alignment was out slightly and the steering wheel needed to be centered. The dealer told me that GM blames the problem on the way that they are tied down on the transporter. Ever since that its been fine. I know what you mean about it being off, it really was anoying especially with the radio controls on the wheel.

I tried to find a site I ran across, it was specifically dedicated to GM truck problems and addresses this problem as a top complaint. I have not been able to find it if anyone knows what it is please post.

Good Luck

waitingonyukon · May 2001

I also just purchased a Denali last month (have about 800 miles on it) that has the steering wheel that is tilted. I called the dealer on it and he said bring it in and that it would be an easy fix. I have been waiting to see if anything else goes wrong before I have it fixed. I just hope the easy fix doesn't become a nightmare.

jkpsaras · May 2001

Took mine in to have the steering wheel centered. They did an alignment, and now it's titled toward the other side (but only slightly.)

seattlesam · May 2001

Picked up my 2001 Yukon XL Denali from Dave Smith Motors, Kellogg, Idaho yesterday. $218 over invoice minus $1000 GM loyalty rebate for my old suburban AND MINUS$1000 NEW GM REBATE effective 5/15/01. I read about the new incentive rebates here or on the Yukon XL forum on Wednesday, 5/16/01, and was able to get it included yesterday on the paperwork. Initially Brad Hathaway at DAve Smith Motors tried to find me a dealer trade, but couldn't, so factory ordered one for me on 3/9/01; built 4/25/01; delivered to dealer 5/8/01, and I picked it up yesterday, 5/17/01. Even though I had factory ordered the vehicle, new additional rebate still applicable. No paid on either rebate. I just assigned it to Dave Smith Motors and they reduced the price. Highly recommend this dealership. This is my 4th Suburban (1st Yukon XL and obviously 1st Denali) and this is by far my best buying experience. Professional, low key, and knowledgeable. Brad did a great job, kept me informed all the way. CW Martins time line chronology and info regarding ordering was crucial. Checklist was great.

Garnet Red with Pewter Interior. For those out there trying to decide between the Yukon XL and Yukon XL Denali, my opinion is that Denali is well worth the extra $$. Each to his own, though.

Thanks to all who have contributed to this forum. Learned a lot and was able to spot the dealers who were serious and those who weren't. Special thanks to CW Martin, Don and Irv. What great knowledge these guys have for the not so mechanically inclined and for those who might get intimidated at the point of sale.

I'll still be here reading. This site is great for the good, the bad, and the ugly. Getting the information here really arms you when you go to the dealer before you buy, and when you go to service after you buy.

dapetrun · May 2001

Did anyone see the article in USA Today? (Friday May 18, Section D page 8). James R. Healey did a number on the Denali about lousy brakes, cheap looking fake wood trim, poor mileage, overdone cheap plastic cladding, 3rd row seat access, half-ton truck style steering wheel and dash, etc...
He did have some good things to say about this SUV but the jist of the article was mostly negative. I wish he would have mentioned the Firestone Wilderness AT spare. I hope the GM exec's read the article and take notes! Maybe they will get things right for the 2002 model year.

stever · May 2001

Here's a link to the USA Today review.

Steve
Host
Vans, SUVs and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards

mbclk430 · May 2001

The big sticking point in this article appears to be the "mushy" feel ast stated by the author. I actually like my brake feel and love my truck. The remainder of the article actually talks pretty highly of it, aside from the light steering and plastic (where the wood should be :-). I only wish it had the stabilitrack system. But for what I paid for it..............got a bargain of a deal (GMS discount).

ferraro1 · May 2001

Hello ~
I have a 2001 Denali and I love the car , But I just wanted to know if they will Ever put in a Navigation system ??? and they need the turn signals on the mirriors (@the tips) like the other SUV's but an LCD creen for Navigation would be the BEST !!! but if anyone knows if there will be any changes please post Thanks !
Happy 2001 Denali owner !
Paul

mbclk430 · May 2001

Ferraro, I agree with you. I am purchasing some mirors from muth mirrors. They are the largest manufacturer of signal mirrors and outfit most OEM signal mirrors. They are available for the Denali for $249.00 at http://www.kwmuth.com/index.htm Wide angle signal mirrors are also available for $149.00.

muncho · May 2001

Just read your post #552 - thanks for the response. I would be interested to have you elaborate on your comparison of torque between the YXL and Denali XL pulling your 5000 pound boat up a hill. If the fluid differentials of the AWD bleed acceleration power, wouldn't they also bleed torque?

blackmagic1 · May 2001

Muncho,

First I need to reiterate as I did in my first post, that each person must decide for themselves which vehicle is best.

The AWD system if done correctly will not bleed enough torque to decrease the torque to the level of the 5.3L.

I have driven AWD Audis for years and can tell you those systems, especially the one in our S4 has no problem with torque delivery. The main performance difference between a pure two wheel drive and an AWD vehicle is the weight difference. AWD is so effective in delivering power, Porsche even decided it would be a good idea.

As far as the hill test and pulling with the 5.3L 4wd YXL and the DXL, the same boat was used on the same day with both vehicles. The same speed entering the hill and the tow/haul mode on with both, verdict: Denali by almost 10mph.

It could be a difference in gearing, transmission (the tranny is different in the DXL as opposed to the 1/2Ton YXL), drive train, etc. Just try it. I did.

If I didn't tow on a regular basis, I probably would have opted for the YXL.

Again, not trying to do a this is better than that, my truck is bigger than yours, just evaluate each vehicle on your own, based on what you need and do it in person to make an informed decision.

larry91 · May 2001

Hello Blackmagic1, Why would u have opted for the Yukon XL over the Denali XL if u didn't tow a boat?
I bought the DXL and just love the vehicle. If I had a complaint, and I don't, it would be the DXL is so smooth and stable, it rides like a luxury sport sedan. I bought the DXL primarily because it had features that were not available in any of the other GM SUV's.

jorgensen · May 2001

to: mbclk430, the 2nd row buckets on my DXL do recline to about 60 degrees, not neat flat but very comfortable.
to: ccpd400, your wind noise may be caused by a faulty seal on your windshield, mine made cracking noises over 65mph, the dealer removed the windshield resealed it and eliminated the problem.
I get off road for hunting and cattle and have found that you want to be careful on rough terrain. The fiberglass bumper cover extends lower on the DXL than the YXL. I grounded the cover, tilted it and bent the running light brackets. It only cost $159 to fix it but I have a few scrapes under my running lights. I still love the truck and the AWD.

araftco · May 2001

If you or your passengers hear a slight metallic rattle that sounds like it is just under the front of the rear side windows, have your dealer check the rear brackets on the running boards.

My dealer and I searched and searched for the source of this sound and it seemed to emanate from the interior but in fact was the bracket and just needed a rubber bumper (both sides on mine).

mbclk430 · May 2001

Joregensen: I stated the buckets in the DXL recline, but not the bench. My point was the bench in the Denali recline, why not in the DXL?

waitingonyukon · May 2001

I have a rattle on my Denali. I only hear it when the rear lift gate is opened or closed. It sounds like a piece of metal rolling back and forth. Does anyone else have this problem?

cfifigo · May 2001

I posted this previously as a new message and wasn't sure if that is how to proceedure works here... so I thought I would try posting this way, here is my question:

I am buying a danali xl today and because of lack of stock in california - the sunroof and tv/dvd are going to have to be installed after market. I am told by the dealer that if I have the sunroof installed at the dealership I will not lose rear air controls. However, a installer locally said that you WILL lose all airconditioning in the back - the vents will be there but they will not work? What's the point of that? Please someone tell me your experience?

As a side note, I was told I could get a 13" tv/dvd with everything including aux outputs for 2900 - is that good or bad - advice?

thanks for your help

larry91 · May 2001

THE DEALER IS CORRECT
If u have the sunroof installed aftermarket u "WILL NOT", I repeat Will Not lose the rear heat or air conditioner controls. If u get the roof from the factory then "YOU DO LOSE" the rear controls.
I would find someplace else to have the Sunroof installed, the people u talked to don't seem to know the correct answers. Beware

bten · May 2001

Check the latest posts on the yukonxl/suburban board, Ssmiles got his for a lot less than $2900.

campo57 · May 2001

I've had a Hollandia sunroof installed in my YXL aftermarket (had dealer do it so it was covered as dealer installed option in case of problems). I was able to keep my Auto A/C controls in the rear. I talked with the installer before I decided to do it and he had done many before mine and said he was clueless as to why GM couldn't keep the Auto A/C with the sunroof.

I've also had a Hollandia sunroof in my '92 Bonneville and never had a problem with it. I like the auto-close feature when the ignition is shut off. It's also programmable to stop at a certain point if you want to and the tilt feature has 4 built in stops or full open (depends if you hold the button or just hit it and release it). You also have the option of having the roof stay open after you shut the car off buy touching the open/close button withing 5 seconds of shutting the car off.

The install looks very professional and I'm extremely happy with it. I'd definitely go aftermarket so you can keep the Auto A/C. Just make sure the installer is good. Ask to see some of his prior work.

Campo57

larry91 · May 2001

Thanks campo57, I am very happy with my Hollandia sunroof also, i called an installer that handles both the Hollandia and ASC. They told me they install more of the ASC only because it is better known in our area, but they are both equal in quality and have no preference. I have no complaints. Thanks for answering my post

heatwave3 · May 2001

cfifigo: I had the ASC sunroof installed through the dealer in a 2001 Denali XL and am very satisfied with the quality of the install and the features.

Now that I have the one touch close and the auto close when the ignition is turned off, I would not want a factory sunroof without these features. Plus you get to keep the rear climate control which is not available from the factory with a sunroof. Seems like the attorneys or some engineer overruled the marketing guys on the sunroof design at GM.

jsp17 · May 2001

I HAVE READ SOME OF THE POSTINGS ON RATTLES ON THE DENALI'S. MINE IS A LITTLE DIFFERENT IN THAT IT ONLY RATTLES WHEN YOU ARE FIRST STARTING OUT (I.E. THE ENGINE IS COLD)AND YOU PUT IT IN DRIVE AND THE TRANSMISSION IS SHIFTING FROM FIRST TO SECOND GEAR. AFTER THAT THERE IS NO RATTLE WHATSOEVER. THE RATTLE APPEARS TO BE COMING SOMEWHERE FROM THE REAR AND IT SOUNDS LIKE A VIBRATION OF SOMETHING PLASTIC. ANY THOUGHTS??????

OTHER THAN THE ABOVE I HAVE NO COMPLAINTS ABOUT IT. I STILL CANNOT BELIEVE HOW WELL THIS VEHICLE RIDES AND HOW MUCH POWER IT HAS. HOPEFULLY IT WILL LAST FOR A WHILE.

THANKS FOR WHATEVER HELP ANYONE CAN GIVE...

jkpsaras · May 2001

I just returned from my first long trip. KC to the Grand Canyon. Had 1200 miles on it when I started, and I got 16.2 miles per gallon. I expect this to improve by the time I have 10k on it.

Trip included plenty of mountain passes, passing along 2 lane roads, and 80 MPH runs between towns. Engine pulled great going up the passes and had plenty of power to go from 70 to 90 for passing.

Brakes were great, no spongy pedal here. Ride was VERY smooth and quiet. Very little wind noise, even on those days that there was a strong cross-wind.

safe1 · May 2001

During my pre-delivery inspection of our ' 01 Denali, I opened the liftgate only to hear a rattle inside the door cavity. We took the vehicle home to find any other "bugs" before committing the truck to a day in the shop. We found one other "minor" problem. The right front fender was not properly aligned with the hood near the cowling. The shop found a piece of plastic (a broken clip) which they removed and the fender was realigned and all is well. If you can hear something moving around in the door have your dealer check it out.
In an earlier post I asked if anyone else received a free 30 minutes, 30 days trial cell phone service as part of their ONSTAR. Just curious!

waitingonyukon · May 2001

Thanks for your response on the rattle. That must be what is rattling in our Denali. I will have it checked out when we have our steering wheel put on straight. We did receive the offer for 30 free minutes of cell service. My wife tried to get it hooked up and they said they would have someone call us at home. It has been a week and we still haven't heard from them.

campo57 · May 2001

Here's another thought (might be a long shot though). Check the shields on the exhaust system. Some have been known to rattle at certain speeds/conditions. Go under the vehicle and tap them to see if there is any play.

Campo57

mbclk430 · May 2001

Yes, I received the the 30 day trial..............the service is threough verizon.

lalane · May 2001

Just was wondering for those who took their DXL in for the first oil change, at what mileage and where it was done. Just reached 3k on mine and thought I should start thinking about it. -Thanks
Lalane

larry91 · May 2001

lalane,
First oil change at 3000 miles is right on target, and i always take mine to the dealer from whense it was purchased.

safe1 · May 2001

Thanks for the response. And here I was thinking we got a "special deal" lol.
The dealer salesman connected our cell service the night we purchase our truck. We had to wait until the following day to get our cell phone number. You may wish to try this procedure with or without the ignition on and have a pen and paper ready to record your phone number: Press the button with the white dot, next to the ONSTAR button. Within 5 seconds say, "MY NUMBER".
In a moment you should receive a recording through the trucks' speakers reciting your personal cell phone number. It is really simple!
If this does not work you may wish to contact your dealer. Good Luck!

waitingonyukon · May 2001

When you first set it up, did you say "My ONSTAR" when you pushed the button? I thought that is what the dealer said to do, but I am not sure. I will have my wife try your suggestion in the morning. Thanks!

waitingonyukon · May 2001

I thought the truck was supposed to let you know with a light when you are due for an oil change, based on your driving style and conditions. My Grand Prix shows the % of oil life left. For me, It usually runs closer to 6,000 miles before showing due for oil change.

heatwave3 · May 2001

I took my 2001 DXL in for its first change at 1500 miles and thereafter will take it in at 3000 mile intervals. I wanted to get the early break-in metal shavings out as early as possible.

lalane · May 2001

Waitingonyukon,
According to the owners manual, the message center IS suppose to alert you when it's time to change the oil. This is really interesting to see how people either don't trust the braintrust of the vehicle to inform you what's going on internally or we are so brainwashed from commercials and years of what "dad" use to tell us boys. Sure would like to hear from the others on their philosophy or even an expert on oils/lubricants.

campo57 · May 2001

Just my 2 cents. I changed my oil around 3400 miles and then had it analyzed. The report showed a large percentage of metal shavings (consistant with a new engine breaking in). I wish I had changed it a little earlier to play it safer but that's just me.

I would suggest changing the oil around 1500-2000 for the first one and then change it at whatever interval you feel comfortable with. I personally don't believe in the 3000 miles whether it needs it or not philosophy as oils and filters are much much better than they used to be. I have switched to 5000 miles or so in my '92 Bonneville (using conventional oil) and will probably do at least that in my '01 YXL (unless the change oil light comes on before that).

Campo57

drb2002 · May 2001

Is lalane the only one who has read (ok,trusts) his manual. Your vehicle monitors engine rpm, temp, mileage, and ? to determine when you need to change the oil. I too was a bit worried about break in metal, and changed it before it warned me. I changed at 3800mi, and the computer warned me at 4100mi. I just drove 1850 miles towing a 6500lb trailer, and I am curious as to when it warns me next time. Our engines were already run outside the vehicle, and the oil was replaced with new before installation in the vehicle at the factory.

Are many of you scared that GM is trying to wear out your engine early to sell a new engine to you. For at least 15 years now, I have read GM owners manuals that suggest changing your oil between 3500 and 7500 miles.

These oil places are trying to raise profits, and your best interests are really not their priority. How many times have you been told that your air filter needs to be replaced when it is in perfect flowing condition. I am curious how they will try to sell you a new air cleaner to us with the flow gauge on our new GM air box!

Just my 1/2 way humble opinion... Dave

safe1 · May 2001

Over the course of the last 2 weeks since we took delivery of our Denali, I found that the CD changer was not functioning properly. The problem is when you are playing 1 or more CD's, and you turn the receiver off prior to exiting your truck. When you return and turn the receiver back on again the tuner on the radio is automatically sequenced not the the CD mode where it was left. I have to select the CD/AUX button to play the CD's only to find that the changer defaults to disc 1 track 1 every time. I brought this to my dealer service rep's attention yesterday and following a lengthy discussion of the problem, (it's not easy describing this concern) the service rep called me back and indicated that GM Tech Service has had several complaints on this and are now working to resolve with the changer manufacturer. A file # has been assigned by Tech Service and there will be updates to the service people as it unfolds.

dapetrun · May 2001

What happens if you leave the receiver on and just turn off the ignition? Does it default to the radio when starting up again?

safe1 · May 2001

I've found that the only time my changer will pick-up where it left off is by leaving the CD player running, turning the ignition off and opening the door. Apparently too, there may be a faulty module in the system that kills all the power in the changer after a short period following the shutdown of your truck, causing the changer to lose memory and default back to the tuner when turned off in the "normal fashion".

larry91 · June 2001

I too, am having the same problem with the CD not picking up where i last used it. If u turn the engine off, while keeping the cd playing when u exit the vehicle, then when u return, within a limited time, the cd will pick up. I don't know how long of a window u have, but it does revert back to the default, the radio, eventually.
This is annoying, and i dislike it to the point where i am mildly considering having an aftermarket sound system installed.
When i mentioned this too my dealer, he shrugged.
Please keep this issue alive, and if GM resolves the problem, please let us know.

larry91 · June 2001

As far as i can gather, by going to the Motor Trend site, the only new feature that "Might" be on the 2002,and i stress MIGHT, and probably not offered till mid-year, is the addition of a 6 door model. Four wheel steering is probably 2 years away, as they are just introducing it into the Sierra model in 2002.
Other than the above, there seems to be no changes for next year, that's good, as i just bought a 2001.

lalane · June 2001

Anyone know the pros and cons of using synthetic oil for our Denali?

larry91 · June 2001

lalane, no cons, except the price. I change my oil every 3000 miles without fail. I hear that under stressful conditions, synthetic oil holds up better and does not break down.

GMC Yukon / Yukon Denali

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