DT: THE CONTACT STATED WHEN HE WAS EXITING THE VEHICLE, WITH THE ENGINE OFF IT BEGAN TO ROLL DOWN THE DRIVEWAY. HE TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALERSHIP, AND THEY FOUND THE BOLT THAT HOLDS THE SHAFT IN THE TRANSMISSION WAS STRIPPED. THE BOLT WAS REPLACED. THEN, WHILE EXITING A PARKING LOT, THE VEHICLE SHIFTED FROM DRIVE TO NEUTRAL ON ITS OWN. THE INDICATOR STILL READ DRIVE, BUT WOULD NOT GO. …
2005 GMC Yukon XL powertrain problems
severe 16 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $2,500
Complaints
16
Recalls
0
Crashes
2
Avg fix
$2,500
What owners are reporting 2 most recent
THE 4 WHEEL DRIVE INTERMITTENTLY WORKS ON OUR 2005 GMC YUKON XL, THEREFORE YOU NEVER KNOW IN BAD WHETHER, IN A SLIPPERY SITUATION, IF ITS WORKING. I UNDERSTAND THAT A SENSOR ON THESE VEHICLES IS FAILING. IN FACT THE PART IS ON BACK ORDER, BECAUSE SO MANY ARE FAILING. THIS IS A REAL SAFETY PROBLEM. *TR
Common questions
How serious is the powertrain problem on the 2005 GMC Yukon XL?
It's a meaningful issue. 16 complaints have been filed and the failure mode causes operational problems for owners. Repairs average $2,500.
At what mileage does the powertrain typically fail?
Mileage data is limited for this issue. Owners report failures across a wide range, suggesting cause is more about driving conditions and maintenance than mileage alone.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $2,500 for powertrain repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to powertrain?
No active recalls currently cover powertrain issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Other problem areas on this vehicle
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities.
Repair cost estimates are independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area.
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