Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2021 GMC Yukon
The 2021 GMC Yukon has some significant issues evident from 13 recalls and 337 NHTSA complaints. Engine and power train problems dominate, including potential engine damage and transmission issues. Recalls also highlight safety concerns such as faulty seat belts and steering problems. Though these indicate potential risks, individual vehicles may vary, and thorough inspection is critical before purchase.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2021 GMC Yukon has 13 NHTSA recall campaigns and 345 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 4.0 out of 5 stars, averaged across 2 NHTSA-tested trims.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #25V274000 Engine Failure NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #24V797000 Rear Wheel Lock-Up from Transmission Valve Failure NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #22V827000 Running Lights May Not Deactivate/FMVSS 108 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #22V617000 Improper Rivets on Seat Belt Buckle Assembly NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #22V036000 Rear Wheel Driveshaft Assemblies May Fail NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V739000 Power Control Module May Cause Fuel Pump Failure NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V579000 Brake System Calibrated Incorrectly NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V455000 Loss of Power Steering Assist NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V421000 Air Bag Light May Not Indicate Malfunction NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V190000 Seat Belts May Become Damaged NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V064000 Fuel Tank May Leak NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #20V811000 Incorrect Bolts Used To Attach Seat Belts NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #20V735000 Bolts for Front Seats Incorrectly Installed NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Engine 190 complaints
- Power Train 55 complaints
- Fuel/Propulsion System 45 complaints
- Engine and Engine Cooling 32 complaints
- Electrical System 31 complaints
- Unknown or Other 22 complaints
Of the 345 complaints on file, 9 report a crash; across all 345 complaints, owners report 9 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Engine component defects
How to check: Inspect for unusual engine noises or vibrations.
Transmission control failure
How to check: Test for smooth shifting when driving.
Fuel pump control failure
How to check: Check for engine stalling during idle.
Seat belt installation error
How to check: Inspect seat belts for correct routing.
Loss of power steering assist
How to check: Test steering for smooth operation.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for any abnormal noises from engine.
Red flag: Loud knocking sounds
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for check engine light on dashboard.
Red flag: Persistent warning lights
- 03
City driving
What to check: Observe transmission smoothness in low gear.
Red flag: Harsh or erratic shifting
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Ensure stable acceleration with no hesitation.
Red flag: Engine hesitates or lacks power
- 05
Braking
What to check: Feel for normal brake response and pressure.
Red flag: Spongy or weak brakes
- 06
Steering test
What to check: Check stability, listen for noises.
Red flag: Grinding or stiff steering
- 07
Stopping on incline
What to check: Verify transmission holds position without rollback.
Red flag: Vehicle rolls back or jerks
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the engine had any major repairs?
- Are there any unresolved recalls?
- Has the transmission been serviced?
- Were there any fuel system issues?
- Have seat belts been inspected recently?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Vehicle service history
- Recall repair records
- Transmission service documentation
- Proof of engine inspections
- Safety inspection report
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2021 GMC Yukon at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2021 GMC Yukon? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.