Two problems related to steering linkages have been reported for the 2003 GMC Yukon. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2003 GMC Yukon based on all problems reported for the 2003 Yukon.
2003 GMC Yukon xl, having a clanking noise when turning right. Also, steering wheel vibration as if something is loose in the steering mechanism underneath in front. Took SUV in on September 21,2004. Dealer stated "found crossmember bolts binding and making noise. Smoothed out mounting holes and secured. No further noise heard. Road tested and felt vibration at 35-45. Found steering shaft needs replaced part on backorder. Will contact for return apt". Called on 11/09/04 and was told steering shaft was still on backorder and that they were waiting for approx. 23 shafts which other service advisors needed also to replace out defective shafts. Front tires are "cupping" on inside shoulders.
2003 GMC Yukon xl has been experiencing multiple problems with front suspension and steering column since it was new. At approx. 4,000 miles, took to dealer for thumping/popping sound that could be felt in steering column when turning, accelerating, stopping or over a speed bump. Dealer packed intermediate steering shaft with grease. Did not work. Took back to dealer. Dealer replaced intermediate shaft. Nothing more felt in steering column. At approx. 12,500 miles took Yukon back to dealer to remedy popping noise and unusual wear/feathering on inside tread of f. Tires. Dealer could not duplicate noise. Said alignment was off and not covered by warranty. Had to pay for alignment/rotation. Wife took vehicle back when tech. Was available to ride along. Wife was able to get Yukon to duplicate noise with tech. In vehicle. TSB said to remove bolts from cross member, bore bolt holes, lubricate, replace and torque. Didn't get off of the lot before noise returned. Now at 25,000 miles, after more unusual tire wear and the unresolved popping noise, took Yukon back at dealership. Service manager ordered washers as per new TSB for permanent fix of popping noise and is experimenting with alignment tolerances. Just drove 10 feet out of service area parking lot and popping noise is exactly the same. Have to take it back in on Monday 08/08/05 so the service manager can ride along to observe problem. Talked to a front end specialist at work and he indicated that we are experiencing same problems with our 2000 & up g. M. Fleet vehicles. (100+) said gm rep came to inspect, noted the problem and left. Front-end specialist said that there is a defect in gm torsion bar suspension system that is causing most of these problems but gm reps will not acknowledge or remedy.