Hello All

[bad_idea]

New member here. Just bought a 2018 Yukon XL Denali yesterday. I found this forum while researching the vehicle. Thanks for gathering all of this knowledge in one place. This is the newest GM I have owned, last one was a 2002 Z28 and the one before that was a 1979 Camaro. Looking for a list of common modifications to improve the performance and reliability of the vehicle with no noticeable effect on driving experience, as this is the wife's daily. I plan to use the vehicle for family road trips hauling my jeep on a trailer.

I know on the LS1s (like in my 02 Z28) a catch can was a common mod for overall reliability. Looking for things of that nature. Suggestions? Thanks all.

 

[Fless]

Welcome to TYF from Colorado!

 

[B-train]

Welcome from WI.

I'd recommend something to deactivate the AFM (range device or custom tuning). I have used a range in my 2017 Denali for 90k miles and it's been great.

As you've probably read, there are common issues with the motor and Trans. I'd recommend religious oil changes (either 0w-20 or 5w-30 synthetic)
Since you stated you are going to tow with it, I'd probably go 5w-30. Used that weight on mine for almost 90k and it's good to go.

If it has the 8 speed trans, have it flushed and make sure it has the new ATF from GM in it, and the revised trans thermostat. There's a bulletin about it, so they should be able to look it up.

Other than that, just common sense goes a long way. They are really nice trucks and should serve you well.

 

[OR VietVet]

Welcome to the forum.

Yes, turn off AFM.

Post pics as soon as can

 

[Thrust]

Sway bars, cat back exhaust, and a tune will definitely make a noticeable improvement. How many miles are on your Denali?

 

[Joseph Garcia]

Welcome to the Forum from NH.

Lots of knowledgeable folks here who freely share their knowledge, experiences, and perspectives. Knowledge is power.

I hope that you will become a participating member in the Forum's discussions.

Pics of the truck, please.

You are already receiving sage advice from the knowledgeable folks on this Forum.

 

[Miami-Dade]

Welcome from Miami Beach!

 

[Tahoe14]

Welcome from Central Florida. The Yukon Denali is a nice ride and I'm sure you will enjoy it.

 

[bad_idea]

It has the 10 speed auto in it. It has 80k miles on it. This is the only pic of it I have. Wife took this pic when we got it home the other night. It's very clean, was a one owner car, previous owner took it to the dealer for everything.

What is a range device? I am fairly auto savvy, but the newest vehicle I have modified was my 02 Z28 when I had that.

 

[SpyShops212]

The range disables the DOD which cause lifters to collapse. It only works for the 2018 not the 2019-2020 with rhe 10-speed. Also you should change the oil using Dexo 1 certification. The lifters usually have issues around 60k and up. I would change the VLOM right away if your truck has not had the lifters done yet. Your truck is beautiful. The Michelin Defender is a better tire. You should change the license plate bulbs to LED 921 which they sell at autozone. Check the A/C filter to see if it has been changed. I updated my map data to 2023.