2018 Yukon longevity

[70dustpan]

Hey guys. So my wife has a 2018 Yukon SLE. She's at about 86k miles. The AC unit in the dash just took a crap ($3600) and now I'm hearing things from friends about common catastrophic issues with the lifters/ valves, as well as transmission problems.

I'm just trying to get some feedback from actual owners about how long your trucks have lasted, how many miles, any major issues you've had, or advice about whether or not to buy something new.

Thanks for any info you can give.

 

[Miami-Dade]

@70dustpan Moved you here from 2021+section
Welcome from Miami&NYC!

 

[B-train]

Currently own a 2017 Denali. Bought it with 40k, now at 153k. I did have some pesky warranty issues earlier on: driver seat vibration motor, gas door flapper malfunction, radio/climate controller took a crap. The brake vacuum pump was replaced under warranty due to the TSB about low assist. There have been other things like the 8 speed shudder that was corrected with new fluid, 2 sets of Z95 front struts that have leaked out all the oil (I think 22 inch wheels are the culprit to shorter life).

Mechanically the motor has been great. I put in a RANGE Device from 41k miles to keep it in V8 mode. Oil changes with 5w-30 for the last 110k instead of 0w-20. I did have to put a thermostat in at about 110k, but other than basic maintenance, it's been good.

I'd say make sure you keep the oil very clean, disable the AFM, have the revised trans thermostat installed (or delete it) if it's the 6 speed, and don't skimp on fluids/filters - they are the cheapest insurance against a failure.

I personally wouldn't buy anything 2021 or newer based on all the issues/failures that have been posted here. Just take care of your ride and enjoy it. IF something fails, address it then.... living in fear and "what-if" land will steal your joy in the here and now. Set money aside in a Murphy fund and just keep using what you got. If it gets to the point where it nickel and dimes you constantly, then reassess a different vehicle purchase.

 

[duke90]

I have a 2017 Denali XL, purchased new. Currently has 136k miles.
At 100k the had to replace the AC Condenser.
At about 110k I replaced the factory mag ride suspension with Fox. Also replaced diff and transfer case fluids as well as the motor mounts.
Have had the trans flushed 3x since new.
I don't have a range disabler, but haven't had any issues with the lifters or engine knock so far.

I do an oil change every 5k miles and use 91 fuel.

Love the ride and hope to keep it for a long time.