2018 GMC Yukon XL recalls and problems
The 2018 GMC Yukon XL has 2 safety recalls and 58 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any GMC dealer.
Recalls may cover only some 2018 GMC Yukon XL vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.
2018 GMC Yukon XL recalls
Recall 26V-289: Power Train
Problem: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2026 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, and Tahoe, and GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles with four-wheel (4WD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), and certain 2015-2020 Suburban, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Yukon, Yukon XL, and Tahoe vehicles. A component missing from the drivetrain transfer case may cause the front and/or rear wheels to lock up without warning to the driver.
Risk: Front or rear wheel lockup increases the risk of a crash.
Fix: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicle until the remedy is completed. Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the transfer case assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 18, 2026. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223. GM's number for this recall is N262557620. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on May 7, 2026.
Recall 18V-673: Seat Belts
Problem: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Cadillac CT6, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban, Volt, and GMC Yukon XL vehicles. Certain second-row or third-row rear seatbelts retractor assemblies may not automatically lock when the seatbelt is fully pulled out of the retractor, possibly preventing a child seat from being properly secured. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Risk: If the child seat is not properly secured in the event of a crash, it can increase the risk of injury.
Fix: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the rear seatbelt retractors and replace them if necessary, free of charge. The recall began November 7, 2018. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is 18315.
2018 GMC Yukon XL problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 17 | |
| Unknown or Other | 11 | |
| Service Brakes | 11 | |
| Power Train | 9 | |
| Seat Belts | 5 | |
| Electrical System | 5 | |
| Suspension | 4 | |
| Steering | 3 | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 3 | |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 2 | |
| Air Bags | 2 | |
| Seats | 2 |
Most reported parts
- Visibility › Defroster/Defogger/Hvac System › Condensor/Evaporator — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 40,000 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2018 GMC Yukon XL complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Other GMC Yukon XL years
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2018 GMC Yukon XL have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2018 GMC Yukon XL: 26V-289 (power train), 18V-673 (seat belts). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2018 GMC Yukon XL?
Owners report engine problems most often (17 reports), followed by unknown or other (11). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 40,000 miles.
Are GMC recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized GMC dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.