Most common 2002 GMC Yukon XL 1500 problems
Share of the 23 complaints; one complaint can involve more than one system. "~" is the median mileage when the problem started.
GMC Yukon XL 1500 complaints by model year
Best Yukon XL 1500 years: 2000, 2006, 2012. Years to avoid: 2007, 2003, 2004, 2005. Compare all years →
What 2002 GMC Yukon XL 1500 owners say
Brakes
This vehicle came with factory tow package. Brake lines, rear, were repaired a year ago. Towing a horse trailer with horse ( approx 6500 lbs total ), the front break line from the ABS module broke and pedal went to floor while exiting 90w onto 84w. Trailer brakes finally stopped the vehicle a few inches from the auto in front of us . This was on new years eve this year, and 2:00 pm in the afternoon. Found a garage/mechanic to repair the front line. This could have caused a major accident involving a number of cars and trucks. I have the vehicle inspected at every oil change, and have it repaired when needed. I have read of many issues with the (cheap ) brake lines GM has used in these vehicles( 1999 to 2003 ), and as they get older, they are just an accident waiting to happen. GM should recall these vehicles, and fix the problem with corroding break lines. …
When braking, the antilock brakes kick in no matter if needed or not. We have had several close calls on both city streets & highways. The car was already recalled and fixed for front wheel speed sensor corrosion, 05V379000, and the same thing is happening again. The sensor was not replaced, just cleaned and put back in. I don't understand how this fixed the problem when the corrosion can come back and did. It was just 30,000 miles later. We have taken it to a dealer and have called GM. We were told the recall is fixed and it will cost us $423.00 per side to fix plus tax. Please help and let us know what to do next.
2002 GMC Yukon XL 1500 engines & fuel economy
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | MPG city / hwy / combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5.3L 8-cyl | 4-speed automatic | RWD | 13 / 17 / 14 |
| 5.3L 8-cyl | 4-speed automatic | 4WD/AWD | 12 / 16 / 14 |
EPA ratings. Class: SUV.
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2002 GMC Yukon XL 1500 a good car?
Based on 23 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 2002 Yukon XL 1500 rates average: about as many complaints as a typical year of the Yukon XL 1500 at the same age. Complaint counts don't account for sales volume or individual maintenance, so have any used car inspected before buying.
What is the most common problem with the 2002 GMC Yukon XL 1500?
The brakes — 14 complaints, 61% of all complaints for this model year. Next are the electrical system (2) and engine & cooling (2).
How many recalls does the 2002 GMC Yukon XL 1500 have?
NHTSA lists no recalls for the 2002 GMC Yukon XL 1500. You can still confirm with your VIN using our VIN recall check.
What are the best and worst years of the GMC Yukon XL 1500?
The best years by complaints, compared at the same age, are 2000, 2006 and 2012. Years to avoid or approach with caution: 2007, 2003, 2004 and 2005. See the full GMC Yukon XL 1500 years comparison.
At what mileage do 2002 GMC Yukon XL 1500 problems happen?
The median mileage reported in complaints is about 96,000 miles; 14% of problems with a recorded mileage started before 50,000 miles.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.