The GMC Yukon, formerly known as the Jimmy, is a popular SUV that has existed since the 1992 model year. While there are many generations with their own typical issues, this post reviews the 5 most common GMC Yukon problems of the 3rd generation, years 2007 to 2014, including its XL and Denali variants.
Top 5 Problems on the 3rd Gen GMC Yukon (2007 to 2014)
1. EVAP Vent Valve Failure
Symptoms of a Bad EVAP Vent Valve
If there is a bad EVAP vent valve on the 3rd gen Yukon, usually a check engine light will turn on for code P0449 or P0455, but there likely won’t be any drivability issues.
How to Fix the EVAP Vent Valve
Check the Gas Cap
As with any evaporative emission control system (EVAP) code, check the gas cap first. Check the gas cap for looseness, and check the gas cap gasket for tearing or wear. Also test how well the gas cap ratchets.
Replace the EVAP Vent Valve
The vent valve is located above the spare tire and connects to the vapor canister. To replace it, the spare tire needs to be removed. Replace the vent valve if the gas cap and other EVAP parts are in good condition, as that is likely the cause of the EVAP code on this SUV.
2. Throttle Body Failure
Symptoms of a Bad Throttle Body on the 3rd Gen 2007 to 2014 GMC Yukon
- Engine reduced power light with code P2135
Causes of a Bad Throttle Body
The code relates to two sensors inside the throttle body. A sensor in the throttle body can fail and give the computer an inaccurate reading.
How to Fix a Bad Throttle Body
Cleaning the throttle body will not fix the problem on this SUV. Replace the sensor, which is easiest to do by replacing the entire throttle body unit. Check the connectors for looseness, corrosion, torn wiring, or discolored terminals on the connector before replacing the throttle body.
3. Front Wheel Bearing Failure
Symptoms of Wheel Bearing Problems on the 2007 to 2014 GMC Yukon
- Loud grinding noise from the wheel similar to an airplane. The sound may increase when turning.
How to Fix a Bad Wheel Bearing
Steps for Testing a Wheel Bearing Yourself
- Shake the Tire In and Out from the 12 and 6 o’clock Position
Grab the tire from the 12 and 6 o’clock position. Shake the wheel in and out. If there is play felt from those positions, it could be the ball joints but it’s likely the wheel bearing.
- Spin the Tire and Listen for a Grinding Noise
Spin the tire and check if there is a grinding noise. Check both wheels because sometimes the sound can be heard on the opposite side.
4. Door Lock Actuator Failure
Symptoms of a Bad Door Lock Actuator
- Not all doors unlock with the key fob or the lock switches
Causes of a Bad Door Lock Actuator
The lock actuator is connected to the door latch as a one-piece assembly, which tends to fail on the 2007 to 2014 GMC Yukon.
How to Fix a Bad Door Lock Actuator
The door panel needs to be removed to access the door lock actuator. Replace the lock and latch assembly.
5. Broken Inside and Outside Door Handles
Symptoms of Bad Inside and Outside Door Handles
- Chipped or broken interior door handles
- Broken retainers on the outside door handles
Causes of Bad Inside and Outside Door Handles
Sometimes the chrome plating on the inside door handle can chip and be a safety hazard. The inside door handle can also break.
The outside door handle can separate from its retainers if it’s pulled too forcefully.
How to Fix Inside and Outside Door Handles on the 3rd Gen 2007 to 2014 GMC Yukon
If the inside door handle is chipped or broken, replace it. If the outside door handle break and separates from its retainer, replace it.
Fix Your Own GMC Yukon
Learn how to fix your own GMC Yukon and other vehicles with many how-to videos covering a number of diagnostics and repairs in 1A Auto’s how to video library.
3rd Generation GMC Yukon Model Years
- 2007 GMC Yukon
- 2008 GMC Yukon
- 2009 GMC Yukon
- 2010 GMC Yukon
- 2011 GMC Yukon
- 2012 GMC Yukon
- 2013 GMC Yukon
- 2014 GMC Yukon
Related Content
- Gas Cap Throwing a Check Engine Light? [Diagnose & Fix]
- How to Tell Which Wheel Bearing Is Bad While Driving
- Is It Safe to Drive with a Bad Wheel Bearing?
- What Does a Bad Wheel Bearing Sound Like?
- Door Lock Actuator Not Working?
- Remote Key Won’t Unlock Car Door? [Expert Tips to Diagnose & Fix]
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