2003 Yukon XL - Common areas not to overlook during diagnosis

[Rumplemenz]

Hi guys. Sorry if I can find this info in the search but I was having trouble locating any specifics with my choice of words

I am in the market for an older model yukon/suburban (preferably 2002-2004). If I buy privately I will be looking over the vehicle myself. Besides the norm (check fluids/look for leaks/take it for a spin etc) can anyone suggest any area's to focus on that are common problems for all yukon/tahoe for these years? I thought it would be smart for me to try and get a heads up first before I took the next step and actually met up with sellers.

If anyone can help I'd really appreciate it. My family - children and great danes - are growing fast so it's time for me to step it up, ditch my dodge durango and get myself back into a big time suv

Thanks again guys I appreciate it - Gene

i can't believe i just admitted i have a durango

 

[Mr.Jack]

Here are the known problems for Tahoes (year 2000-2006) exported to Europe and driven on Norwegian roads:
-Brakediscs, brakelines and brakeshields do rust easiely. Check if they have been replaced or are alright.
-Powered windows motors need often replacement. (Or maybe just the wire.)
-Clusters need repairs. (Not sure why)
-Front HUBs needed replacement on mine after 40000 miles only.
-Upper intermediate shafts need to be replaced if making clunking sound when steering. (Not a safety issue though.)
-Front suspension is a little weak on this model. Check everything here. (Upper ball joints, bashings ++)
-Shaft cross.
(These are my opinions. Someone might disagree or have somting to add.)

Otherwise than this, these are fantastic trucks! I have a 2003 Tahoe 5,3 LT and I love it! (My former truck was a 2000 Tahoe 5,3 LT) And these trucks have solid engines and drivetrain. If maintained properly, you will ha a truck for many years and miles to come.

 

[Rumplemenz]

If maintained properly, you will ha a truck for many years and miles to come.

Awesome I really appreciate your time. It definitely helps gathering up info like this before going to check one out. Thanks again

 

[Mr.Jack]

Keep in mind that most aftermarket parts (non original parts) are often better than those cheap parts GM uses in their trucks. (Cheap parts keep costs low when making these vehicles.)
This if you need parts replaced.

 

[chip]

Here are the known problems for Tahoes (year 2000-2006) exported to Europe and driven on Norwegian roads:
-Brakediscs, brakelines and brakeshields do rust easiely. Check if they have been replaced or are alright.
-Powered windows motors need often replacement. (Or maybe just the wire.)
-Clusters need repairs. (Not sure why)
-Front HUBs needed replacement on mine after 40000 miles only.
-Upper intermediate shafts need to be replaced if making clunking sound when steering. (Not a safety issue though.)
-Front suspension is a little weak on this model. Check everything here. (Upper ball joints, bashings ++)
-Shaft cross.
(These are my opinions. Someone might disagree or have somting to add.)

Otherwise than this, these are fantastic trucks! I have a 2003 Tahoe 5,3 LT and I love it! (My former truck was a 2000 Tahoe 5,3 LT) And these trucks have solid engines and drivetrain. If maintained properly, you will ha a truck for many years and miles to come.

+1 This ^^ is great advice IMO!

 

[Rumplemenz]

Well I checked one out - 03' yukon xl. What a ride Very clean. The only one possible issue I found was underneath the engine bay (passenger side) was not necessarily a leak but a prolonged oil residue streak/markiings. (sorry for my hard to follow explanation) Thought maybe it was coming from the valve cover gasket but up top things were dry as a bone. From the looks of this slow leak (like a sweaty leak) has been around for a long time. I was thinking maybe theres a vent up top somewhere for the front diff? Hopefully we come to an agreement in price and i'll post pics some day soon. Thanks guys for your thoughts.

 

[southboundchicken]

Keep in mind that most aftermarket parts (non original parts) are often better than those cheap parts GM uses in their trucks. (Cheap parts keep costs low when making these vehicles.)
This if you need parts replaced.

i agree with that statement for sure

 

[KAKALAK]

 

[Rumplemenz]

Thanks again guys I am picking up the yukon today. I will post pics