2003 GMC Yukon XL 1500 Steering Problems
- Complaints
- 7about this part
- Share
- 11%of 63 total for the year
- Median mileage
- 50,640miles
- Trend
- Not enough dataFewer than 15 complaints, too few for a reliable trend.
NHTSA recorded 7 complaints about the steering of the 2003 GMC Yukon XL 1500, 11% of the 63 complaints for this model year. Where a mileage was given, the median is 50,640 miles.
Fewer than 15 complaints name this part, so treat the figures as a rough indication only.
Example complaints
Selected from NHTSA records; personal details are removed. They are consumer reports, not findings.
“While traveling to work my vehicles check engine light came on and the reduced power warning came on at which time I had complete loss of acceleration, complete loss of braking, and complete loss of steering power. I then had to coast to a stop and attempted to restart the vehicle 6 times before I was able to get the reduced power warning to go off and was able to drive although the check engine light stayed on. This is the 2nd time this has happened to me in 2 days with the loss of power. …”
NHTSA complaint #10778119, filed 2015-09, 168,260 miles“I have a 2003 Gmc yukon xl which both front wheel bearings failed at the same time at ~51,280 miles. These are sealed bearings that were supposed to last the lifetime of the vehicle. I was able to avoid a catastrophic failure by replacing both front wheel bearing assemblies, $692.49, when I heard the bearing grinding noise. The mechanic at the GM dealer told me he replaces the bearing assemblies on two to three vehicles a week.”
NHTSA complaint #10166636, filed 2006-08, 51,280 miles“I own a 2003 Gmc YUKON XL 1500 that has a continuing problem with the intermediate steering section making a clunking sound and as the sound gets worse, the steering becomes loose. The problem started occurring shortly after the first 12000 miles. The dealer lubricated it a number of times until the warranty ran out. At 62000 miles for routine maintenance service, the dealer said a replacement part was available that would correct the problem. After arguing with the dealer, he agreed to replaced the part if I paid for the labor . The problem returned at about 85000 miles. …”
NHTSA complaint #10260636, filed 2009-03, 12,000 miles“We have had problems with steering knuckle/column from the very beginning. Dealer would diagnose as just the way those cars are, nothing is wrong . Steering does not feel safe for a large car like the yukon. I purchased an SUV to feel safer with family. But steering always feels loose especially when turning or going over bumps. Noises also when turning. Over time it just gets worse. It occurs every time you drive. I would like to purchase a newer model yukon but refuse to waste money if this is how they drive. I don't think it's safe. This problem should be corrected by manufacturer.”
NHTSA complaint #10242456, filed 2008-09, 33,000 miles“While driving posted speed on expressway vehicle suddenly shut off. Leaving no power steering no power brakes. I see many complaints on your website as well as online. Are you doing anything about this issue? It is the same issue that you are currently requiring GM to recall over 1 million vehicles for. Your current recall only goes back to the 2009 models. Why are you not requiring all GM vehicles recalled since 1996? They all have the same key lock system and same ABS systems both of which seem to contribute to or cause the problem. …”
NHTSA complaint #10632320, filed 2014-09, 149,000 milesSteering: other model years
Other parts of the 2003 GMC Yukon XL 1500
24 complaintsBrakes
17 complaintsVehicle speed control
8 complaintsEngine
6 complaintsTransmission and drivetrain
6 complaintsBody and structure
4 complaintsVisibility (wipers, defrost, mirrors)
3 complaintsElectronic stability control
2 complaintsEngine cooling
2 complaintsOther or unknown
2 complaintsAir bags
1 complaintsFuel system
1 complaints
← All problems reported for the 2003 GMC Yukon XL 1500
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 31, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
To check a specific vehicle for open recalls, use its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Methodology