2022 Gmc Yukon Xl Safety Report

The 2022 GMC Yukon XL presents a mixed safety picture, with strong crash test performance but a notable number of complaints, particularly concerning the engine and powertrain. NHTSA awarded the vehicle an overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars, with excellent 5-star ratings for side impact protection. However, frontal crash protection received 4 stars, and rollover resistance was rated at 3 stars, indicating average performance in these areas. The vehicle has accumulated 128 total complaints, with 3 reported crashes and 7 injuries, but no fatalities or fires. A significant concern is the high volume of engine-related complaints, accounting for 58 reports under 'ENGINE' and an additional 12 under 'ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING'. These complaints frequently describe sudden loss of propulsion, engine stalling at highway speeds, reduced acceleration, and complete engine failure, sometimes occurring even after recall repairs. Several complaints detail the vehicle entering 'limp mode' or failing to engage reverse. This pattern suggests a persistent issue with engine reliability and performance. The recall history for the 2022 GMC Yukon XL includes four separate campaigns addressing critical safety components. One recall (NHTSA Campaign: 25V274000) directly targets engine issues, specifically 'ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL', citing a risk of engine failure and increased crash risk. Another recall addresses the 'POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE', where rear wheels locking up could increase crash risk. Additionally, recalls cover 'SEAT BELTS:CRITICAL FASTENERS' for third-row seats, which could lead to improper occupant restraint, and 'EXTERIOR LIGHTING:LIGHTING CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE' for daytime running lights that may not deactivate, potentially reducing visibility. The recurrence of engine issues in complaints, even post-recall, indicates that the underlying problems may not be fully resolved for all affected vehicles. In summary, while the 2022 GMC Yukon XL demonstrates solid crash protection in side impacts, its average frontal and rollover ratings, combined with a substantial number of engine and powertrain complaints, raise concerns about its operational reliability. The four recalls, particularly those related to the engine and transmission, highlight known vulnerabilities. Prospective buyers should be aware of the documented engine failure risks and the potential for issues even after recall service.

Our recommendation: Given the significant number of engine and powertrain complaints, including reports of failures even after recall repairs, prospective buyers should proceed with caution and thoroughly investigate the vehicle's service history, especially regarding engine and transmission recalls. Consider an extended warranty for powertrain components.