Used 2009 GMC Yukon XL Consumer Reviews
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We have a limited number of reviews for the 2009 Yukon XL, so we've included reviews for other years of the Yukon XL since its last redesign.
I think that I have a lemon and I am so sad.
vgfree, 09/13/2011
2008 GMC Yukon XL SLE 1500 4dr SUV 4WD (5.3L 8cyl 4A)
13 of 13 people found this review helpful
We bought a 2008 Yukon XL for the first time. We have always had Chevy Suburbans. We were told that this was a higher quality vehicle. Since 2009 we have had issues with a grinding noise when the engine was warm from the sun and we started it up. The first time in 2009 we changed out the AC Compressor. The next year we had a cilindar collapse 11,000 miles later, we had the same cilindar collapse. Luckily "The Plaza" in Omaha Nebraska covered the problem again when we were over the 100, 000 mile warranty. We now have a oil leak. We have heard from Hiley that as soon as we fix this we will be okay. We have heard this before. I am sad because I loved my Yukon XL. It didn't love me!
Great Family car
Good Truck, 09/10/2008
2008 GMC Yukon XL Denali 4dr SUV AWD (6.2L 8cyl 6A)
12 of 12 people found this review helpful
This is the best driving car I have ever had. It is wonderful for trips for families that have more than 4 people. While the gas mileage is not great. I get 18 miles on the highway fully loaded with cargo going 75 MPH with cruise control on. This is not much worse than our old minivan. The AWD makes you feel like you are glued to the road. The optional rear camera is a must. It makes backing out a snap. The turning radius is as good as any sedan. No joke. The interior looks like a Lexus and there is a ton of room. This car is identical to the Escalade except for the grade of leather.
King of full size SUV's!
Keith Rigsby, 02/15/2017
2009 GMC Yukon XL SLT2 1500 4dr SUV (5.3L 8cyl 6A)
9 of 9 people found this review helpful
There is no real comparable full size SUV to challenge General Motors, but that hasn't kept GM from continuously improving the Yukon XL. We traded an 2004 Suburban for this brand new and now with 155,000 miles on it, this baby still runs and drives like a new one. Being totally honest, there are two weaknesses for these trucks. 1st is the displacement on demand or active fuel management. This is supposed to increase your gas mileage, but it causes your motor to consume oil after about 60,000 miles or so. And if you're not the type that keeps an eye on your oil level, you can run too low and burn your motor up. I have always kept a close eye on this and finally had the dod deleted and I've had zero problems. My mileage is the same, maybe even a little better, and no more oil consumption. 2nd weakness is the transmission torque converter design. Due to a design issue, these 6 speed trannys will give you problems between 100k and 125k miles. Mine made it to 153k and then it cost approximately $1300 to have the fix done. The good thing is my guy went through the entire tranny and all was good except the torque converter and another part, the name of which slips my mind. A complete rebuild would have cost $2500-$3500, but because my tranny guy is honest, he fixed only what needed fixing. Bad part is that the design flaw is still there and in another 120k miles, I'll be looking at doing it again. Overall, this vehicle is awesome. Still looks good and haven't had any other issues with it except for what I've mentioned. Granted, some people will drive them even when they know there's a problem and this will wind up costing them a lot more in the long run. But for those that get luckier and catch these two issues quickly, this vehicle will give you many, many trouble free miles and will do so efficiently and in style.
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Comfort, Style & Power. Priced Right
avatarfg, 09/14/2007
2008 GMC Yukon XL Denali 4dr SUV AWD (6.2L 8cyl 6A)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful
Just traded 2004 Escalade ESV for this '08 Denali XL. So far, the first 2000 miles have been great. Highway mileage really is about 18 mpg as stated, if you go 65 mph. Mileage dramatically decreases at 75-80+ mph. Ride and power are excellent. Cruising on the highway is a joy. Handling is great for it's size but this is no go cart. Turning radius is very nice. Rear camera takes a little getting used to but is a very nice addition. Also love the new power hatch. Styling is great. Mechanical & fit and finish have all been very good except for tailgate hitch cover which is a flimsy section of bumper that attaches loosely with a poor fit. Sound system, nav & XM are all great quality.
Let's Do It Again!
SmokeyTA, 09/28/2008
2008 GMC Yukon XL Denali 4dr SUV AWD (6.2L 8cyl 6A)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
After having had wonderful experiences with our last two GMC's, my wife decided she wanted the same. The 6.2 V8 is absolutely a pleasure to both drive and listen to. Unfortunately, it is a little thirsty. When it comes to style, I love the look of the 20" chrome wheels, and the chrome trim.
Awesome truck but.
NY Jim, 11/10/2008
2008 GMC Yukon XL Denali 4dr SUV AWD (6.2L 8cyl 6A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
This is a great truck. Has everything under the sun in it. Love the look, handling, comfort, the deal I got etc. Problem is as I write this review, it is sitting in my garage and will not start. It has only 1,000 miles on it and is 2.5 months old. This is really pathetic. First time buying an American made car. I have 2 Hyundai Santa Fe SUVS and never had any problems with them. I figured when I bought the truck, let me buy American. I always like GMC line. Now, I think I am regretting it.
Lemon?
Mom of Many, 11/19/2009
2008 GMC Yukon XL Denali 4dr SUV (6.2L 8cyl 6A)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
After a month, we had to replace the alternator and water pump. Within the first year, we had several electrical problems, including navigation, faulty fuel sensor gauge, turn signal didn't make noise, we were driving the car but it registered to be in Park, we put the car in Park but it kept rolling forward, power seats shuttered as we moved them, power folding 2nd row didn't always work. Additionally, windows shook excessively, brakes made noise after a few thousand miles, the power liftgate made strange loud noises. We got rid of this piece of junk after only 11 months of owning it.
Unexplained Sudden Acceleration
emzomarja, 01/14/2013
2009 GMC Yukon XL SLT2 1500 4dr SUV 4WD (5.3L 8cyl 6A)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
Purchased our vehicle new in 2009. Generally satisfied with the SUV. In December 2012 the vehicle unexpectedly accelerated without explanation. The car was towed to dealer - who could not re-create the defect. The vehicle has a bulletin out on a throttle defect but claim that it is due to a loss of power rather than a sudden acceleration. The manufacturer declined to pay for the cost of analysis of the defect, in spite of the throttle bulletin indicating they will pay the cost of the repair. Have 75K mi. on car but now wrestling with keeping it due to the concern. Expected another 2 years out of the vehicle, especially at this price for car - but now may have to find another option.
For the most part it's a great vehicle!
Mrs. Lee, 03/28/2018
2009 GMC Yukon XL SLT2 2500 4dr SUV 4WD (6.0L 8cyl 6A)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
We love our Yukon XL, we've owned it for 4 years and it has done great through our midwest winters. My only warnings to people are minor. In the extreme cold the rear cargo door won't work, you have to shut off the motor too it and manually open it. Not the end of the world but it's helpful to know. Also our engine light is on. It's apparently something to do with the emissions system, a $500 fix. Unfortunately this issue disables the remote start on the vehicle, a little more annoying. I have a few friends with similar Yukons/Suburbans and these issues are common in them. Otherwise we don't have any major complaints. It tows our 32' camper wonderfully and hauls the kids around too. Gas mileage isn't the best but what do you expect??
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An okay SUV
JustADriver, 01/30/2010
2009 GMC Yukon XL SLT2 1500 4dr SUV 4WD (5.3L 8cyl 6A)
5 of 8 people found this review helpful
Bought the 09 to replace my 05. My biggest complaints relate to interior space use usability. There are no storage spaces for things like sunglasses. The 05 wasn't great, but it has thee good storage spaces in the dash. For some reason GMC decided to go with tiny buttons to control climate and radio. It has taken me a while to get used to the new layout, but the buttons are just bad, especially if you have gloves on. I am looking forward to towing my 30' camper. The 05 did well, I hope the 09 does better.
Amazing!
NJ Alvin, 12/21/2008
2008 GMC Yukon XL Denali 4dr SUV AWD (6.2L 8cyl 6A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
Ever since we bought this truck I can't wait to drive it again and again. My wife and my three kids like it very much. There are so many qualities that really hooked me into driving this truck almost every day. Comfort and ride are superb, handling is secure it makes us feel that we are safe especially for our kids. I like the design both outside and inside. Engine power will not compromise when you need it. Features that we find very useful like onstar, bluetooth and a lot more. In other words it is simply Amazing!
Big Powerful and Roomy
J.Herrera, 04/14/2010
2008 GMC Yukon XL SLE 1500 4dr SUV w/3SA (5.3L 8cyl 4A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
Absolutely like my truck, problems is that has been at the dealer for electrical problems, 3 times with Onstar wiring problems and 2 times with battery discharging issues, had to call roadside assistance numerous times for jump starts before dealer replaced battery couldn't find anything wrong before that, so far Onstar is working but had to call roadside assistance twice again for jump start, seems like battery is too small for so much electronics but dealer says they are rated by Amps not size, I will replace battery later on
Large comfortable SUV
Uncle John, 08/22/2009
2009 GMC Yukon XL Denali 4dr SUV AWD (6.2L 8cyl 6A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Just replaced 2007 Suburban LTZ and can't hardly believe the difference. Denali is far more fun and quick. Plan to haul trailer of about 7000lb. So that 6.2L motor will be a blessing. Really impressed by a guy who has had over 80 vehicles from Ferrari to Volkswagon.
Great Truck, but...
Claudia, 06/09/2009
2008 GMC Yukon XL SLE 1500 4dr SUV (5.3L 8cyl 4A)
1 of 3 people found this review helpful
I love my truck. Lots of room and a great riding experience. My only complaint is that it only has seating for 6 (two on each row). We asked if we can purchase a solid row for the back, but after much discussion with the dealership they said it was not an option. Also, we just backed into a BMW and our bumper has a HUGE dent in the back and the BMW only had a scratch. How is that possible? Now I'm wondering how dependable the bumber will be in a serious accident.
Love it
Will, 10/09/2009
2009 GMC Yukon XL Denali 4dr SUV AWD (6.2L 8cyl 6A)
1 of 3 people found this review helpful
Wife drives an '07 Suburban, and I traded my '08 MDX in on this Denali XL when we had baby #4 (too hard to use the 3rd row). Love the Denali, but have to say the '07 Suburban is faster off the line by a considerable amount, even after giving up about 90 HP. Must be the AWD and 20" wheels on the Denali. And as much as I love the exhaust note on the Denali, some folks may not appreciate that and go for the relatively quiet 5.3L engine in the Suburban or Yukon XL.
Great to Drive
AG, 02/03/2009
2008 GMC Yukon XL Denali 4dr SUV AWD (6.2L 8cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Had the truck for 1 year and 12k. Minor problems with the locks. Dealer replaced switch. Also, auto seat flip had to be lubed and adjusted. Otherwise, great truck to drive. Roomy, comfortable, and the engine sounds great. Thinking of getting another one when my Mazda lease runs out.
Great Ride Cheap Interior
Mike NY, 04/05/2009
2008 GMC Yukon XL SLE 1500 4dr SUV 4WD (5.3L 8cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought the 2008 Yulon XL SE 4x4 in December 2008. I couldn't beat the deal, cheaper than my 1999. The vehicle is close to the base line model but is still nicely equipped. I averaged 17.5 MPG on a trip from NY to FL. The ride is very comfortable, quite, handles excellent, great in the snow, looks and sounds great. My only negative so far is the cheap fabric upholstry. We don't care for the leather and the fabric on my 1999 still looks as good as new. So far my only advice to GM is to improve the quality of the fabric. Everything sticks to it like glue. I found a lint brush for cleaning lint off clothes at the market and it works pretty well but it is still a lot of work to keep them clean.
Excellent
Marlene, 02/12/2008
2008 GMC Yukon XL Denali 4dr SUV (6.2L 8cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The engine is a 6.3, 16 miles in city, and on trips from Pataskala, OH, to Cold Spring, KY I can average 21 - 24 miles to the gallon. Why can you not rate this SUV as an excellent buy? My daughter and her family have taken it to N.C. from Cold Spring, KY, and they average 18.5 to 21 mpg. You have the american people thinking they cannot get the big GMC, and get good gas mileage. Our neighbors bought a Surburban after we told them about how good the gas mileage is on ours. We also told another neighbor who told us they didn't think they could afford putting gas into one. They now have a 2008. In our subdivision of about 120 houses there are over a dozen GMC's or Suburbans.
Great Yukon in Wisconsin
W is for Wisconsin, 02/17/2008
2008 GMC Yukon XL SLE 1500 4dr SUV w/3SA (5.3L 8cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We ordered our SLT 4SB equipped Yukon XL with enough extras to satisfy everyone in our family. The DVD player will keep the backseat occupants entertained and the Navigation with the Points of Interest will keep us informed. The backup camera is a must, even though it is tied to the navigation and DVD player. The ride quality started with a 160 mile trek home after signing the papers. The Yukon was baptized with heavy snow and freezing mist and performed remarkably. The 5.3 engine is strong when passing and efficient. I am averaging 18mpg on the Hwy. That was with 6 aboard, the DVD playing, and all 4 heated seats going. My wife really likes it too. I hope I get to drive it again.
Awesome all around SUV
Boyce W Johnson, 06/10/2016
updated 12/27/2017
2008 GMC Yukon XL SLE 1500 4dr SUV 4WD (5.3L 8cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
If you want hauling gas mileage pick the flex fuel option forth every penny.
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bull and bear market reliablity
Ross Langill, 09/21/2018
updated 03/29/2023
2008 GMC Yukon XL SLE 1500 4dr SUV 4WD w/3SA (5.3L 8cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have owned 8 Chevy Suburbans or GMC Yukon XLs or Yukons. All very reliable and great in snow and ice. The markets always open regardless of the weather in Wisconsin so dependability is a must. The best was my 2008 Yukon XL on Michelin tires. Money saving E-85 engine with beautiful ride thanks to the French.
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Great Size and Power
j_stew, 07/17/2012
2009 GMC Yukon XL Denali 4dr SUV AWD (6.2L 8cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We bought this vehicle purely for the size and passenger capacity. From that aspect, the vehicle is great - love all the room, the overall design, and general looks of the vehicle. Also love the power and "go anywhere" feel of the vehicle. We have, however, had this car in the shop more than any vehicle we've owned. Constant accessory / electrical issues (power seats, vented seats, heated seats, power door locks, driver air, power mirror). It still looks great and we still enjoy taking it on long trips when it's working, but if there was another good option with this much space and power, we'd take it.
Best SUV you'll ever own !!!
Zack Pyles, 09/10/2009
2009 GMC Yukon XL SLT2 2500 4dr SUV 4WD (6.0L 8cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We recently bought the 2009 GMC Yukon XL, and we love it, we are very glad we got the XL version also. I would strongly recommend this SUV to anyone who is looking for spacious, comfortable, somewhat luxurious, and fun to drive. We also got the top of the line version and we love the power liftgate, its costs extra but worth it.Does not get as good gas mileage as the Tahoe or the standeder Yukon gets, but its worth it, also It is harder to get into tight parking spaces, and sharp turns, but you get used to it.Overall ,Great SUV.
Great driving vehicle
dash, 10/22/2009
2009 GMC Yukon XL SLT1 1500 4dr SUV 4WD (5.3L 8cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The handling is great. Great improvement with the Nav-- gives great definition to detail. The heated seats work great. Backup camera gives excellent details to items behind your vehicle and is a great help to hooking up to the boat trailer. Vehicle is a whole lot more than I expected.
Fun to Drive
Joseph, 01/13/2010
2009 GMC Yukon XL SLT2 1500 4dr SUV 4WD (5.3L 8cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought our Yukon in Sept. to have another towing vehicle and for family trips. Its been great. We are enjoying the cylinder shut down feature (v8 to v4) as it gets mileage around 17 when warmed up. Comfort and ride are great (go for the autoride). Enjoying the dual row heated seats and the autostart. Would like to see more details for the money (blind spot monitoring or mirrors, pin lights for night time cabin lighting, more cubbies for storage). I too would suggest moving the compass/temp back to the center. The overall fit and finish has been very good with only one problem with a plate cover in the inside the door handle. Vehicle has met our needs for volume, handling and comfort.
Love It!
PeakLover, 06/03/2009
2009 GMC Yukon XL Denali 4dr SUV (6.2L 8cyl 6A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
I recently traded in my 2001 Yukon XL Denali (which I really enjoyed) for a 2009, because I wanted the latest safety features (side air bags, stability control, and digital OnStar). This Denali is well-made (thanks, American auto-workers!) and has many new features (such as rain- sensing blades). Yes, I know it doesn't get the politically-correct mileage (14 in town/17 highway) but at least now I've consolidated down to only one vehicle. I bought now because I assume the now-Government owned GM would force fuel-savings changes into the design that consumers don't want (e.g., no more spare tires).