2019 Gmc Yukon Safety Report

The 2019 GMC Yukon presents a mixed safety picture, with strong crash test performance but a notable pattern of mechanical complaints. NHTSA awarded the vehicle an overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars, including 4 stars for frontal crash and an excellent 5 stars for side crash. However, its rollover rating is a lower 3 stars, indicating a higher risk in such scenarios. The vehicle has been subject to one recall concerning the service brakes, specifically an issue with the anti-lock/traction control system that could lead to unintended braking. While there are only 44 total complaints, a significant portion, 16 complaints (36%), are related to the ENGINE, with an additional 4 (9%) for POWER TRAIN, and 3 (7%) for POWER TRAIN,ENGINE, highlighting a concerning trend of powertrain failures. These engine issues, often involving lifter failures and complete engine replacements, are severe and frequently occur at relatively low mileages, posing a substantial reliability and safety risk. The most common complaint pattern revolves around catastrophic engine failures, including lifter issues, bent pushrods, and complete engine seizure, often without prior warning. Several complaints detail loss of power at highway speeds, engine knocking, and the need for full engine replacement, sometimes at mileages as low as 53,000 to 114,000 miles. This is a critical safety concern as sudden engine failure can lead to loss of control or stranding in dangerous traffic situations. Additionally, there are reports of transmission failures, with vehicles losing power or slipping, which also presents a significant safety hazard, as seen in one complaint where the transmission failed in a busy intersection. The single recall addresses a potential unintended braking issue, which, while serious, appears to be less frequently reported in the general complaints. Despite its good crash test ratings, particularly in frontal and side impacts, the recurring and severe mechanical issues, especially with the engine and power train, detract significantly from the 2019 GMC Yukon's overall safety profile. The 1 fire and 2 injuries reported among the 44 complaints, while low in number, underscore the potential severity of these mechanical failures. The combination of a lower rollover rating and prevalent, high-severity mechanical problems suggests that while the vehicle performs well in controlled crash scenarios, its long-term operational safety and reliability are compromised by significant design or manufacturing flaws in critical components.

Our recommendation: Prospective buyers should be aware of the significant risk of engine and transmission failures, which are common and severe. Factor in potential costly repairs or consider an extended warranty, and have a thorough pre-purchase inspection focusing on the powertrain.