NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2020 GMC Yukon Xl Safety Ratings
The 2020 GMC Yukon Xl scores 79 out of 100 on the NHTSA Safety Index (Average), with a 4-star overall NHTSA crash rating, 2 recalls, and 43 owner complaints on file.
Updated Oct 1, 2026 from NHTSA data · Reviewed by Ivanna Verstliar
The 2020 GMC Yukon XL presents a mixed safety profile, reflected in its NHTSA Safety Index of 79 out of 100, which places it in the Average band. While NHTSA crash testing indicates a strong performance in side-impact scenarios, the vehicle's rollover risk is notably below average. Furthermore, two recall campaigns are on record, requiring verification of their resolution for any prospective buyer.
The 2020 GMC Yukon XL received a 3-out-of-5-star rollover rating and a 5-out-of-5-star side-impact rating from NHTSA crash testing, contributing to a NHTSA Safety Index of 79 out of 100.
MotorCaliber Safety Desk // NHTSA data, verified Oct 1, 2026
Among the 107 SUVs from 2020 that NHTSA has crash-tested, the 2020 GMC Yukon Xl ranks 80 for overall NHTSA Safety Index.
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
| NHTSA Safety Index | 79 / 100 (Average) |
|---|---|
| Overall crash rating | 4 of 5 stars |
| Frontal / Side / Rollover | 4 / 5 / 3 stars |
| Rollover risk | 20.4% |
| Recalls on file | 2 |
| Owner complaints | 43 (unverified allegations) |
| Class rank | 80 of 107 SUVs tested for 2020 |
| Data verified | Oct 1, 2026 |
ANALYSISHow safe is the 2020 GMC Yukon Xl?
The 2020 GMC Yukon XL presents a notable 20 percent rollover risk probability, earning a 3-star rating. This figure stands as a critical consideration for those evaluating this large SUV for daily use. While the overall Safety Index for the 2020 model year reaches 79 out of 100, placing it in the Average band, a year-over-year comparison is not possible due to a lack of prior-year data. Crash protection forms the bedrock of the Yukon XL's safety profile, contributing 57 out of a possible 70 points to the Index. This is bolstered by a genuinely strong 5-star rating in side-impact crash tests, distinguishing this year's NHTSA assessment. In contrast, avoidance technology scores only 6 out of 10, a direct result of both forward collision warning and lane departure warning being optional, rather than standard, equipment. Electronic stability control is standard and reflected in the scoring. The defect record registers 15.75 out of 20, influenced by two active recall campaigns. Owner complaints total 43 reports, with 23 specifically citing engine-related issues, a trend that warrants close observation regarding recall completion.
NCAP // CRASH TESTHow did the 2020 GMC Yukon Xl perform in crash tests?
The 2020 GMC Yukon XL earns an overall rating of 4 out of 5 stars from NHTSA. Its side protection is notable, achieving a perfect 5 stars. Frontal protection aligns with the overall assessment, also rated at 4 stars. The rollover assessment presents the weakest result at 3 out of 5 stars, indicating a 20 percent rollover risk probability, though the dynamic tip test recorded a "No Tip" outcome.
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 14186
Index breakdown
NHTSA // RECALLSDoes the 2020 GMC Yukon Xl have any recalls?
Yes, two federal recall campaigns cover this model year. The first targets the fuel system, specifically the gasoline delivery fuel pump, and was initiated in November 2019. The second addresses tires and was issued in February 2021. Neither campaign has been flagged as a do-not-drive or park-outside order, but remedy completion should be confirmed by VIN.
TIRES21V115000
Risk: Over cured tires may develop a break in the sidewall resulting in sudden air loss or a belt edge separation which could lead to a tread/belt loss. Either condition can cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the tires, replacing them as necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 22, 2021. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Buick customer service at 1-866-608-8080, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N212329050.
Reported 2021-02-25
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP19V837000
Risk: Over-pressurization can crack the fuel pump and cause leaks, increasing the risk of a fire in the presence of an ignition source.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump, free of charge. The recall began December 18, 2019. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267. GM's number for this recall is N192283991.
Reported 2019-11-21
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSWhat do owners report about the 2020 GMC Yukon Xl?
NHTSA has logged 43 unverified owner complaints for the 2020 GMC Yukon XL. Alleged problem areas include the Engine (23 reports), Power Train (12), Service Brakes (3), Fuel and Propulsion System (3), Engine and Engine Cooling (3), and Steering (3). Two alleged crashes and one alleged fire are among the reported incidents.
43 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.
USED BUYERWhat should used buyers know about the 2020 GMC Yukon Xl?
The 2020 GMC Yukon XL carries two open recalls of immediate concern, both pertaining to critical safety systems. One addresses the fuel pump, the other the tires. For any prospective owner, a VIN check through NHTSA's recall tool is essential to determine if these campaigns have been completed. Unremedied recalls transfer with ownership, and it is the responsibility of either the seller or the buyer to ensure these safety issues are addressed.
- The 2020 model year carries two open recall campaigns covering the fuel delivery fuel pump and tires, both issued under GM's broad multi-model actions. Confirm remedy completion by VIN before purchase.
- Rollover protection is rated 3 out of 5 stars by NHTSA for this model year, with a 20 percent rollover risk probability. This is the lowest individual star rating in the 2020 Yukon XL's crash-test profile.
- Forward collision warning and lane departure warning are optional, not standard, on this model year. The avoidance technology sub-score of 6 out of 10 reflects that gap and pulls the overall Safety Index below what the crash-test stars alone would suggest.
- The 43 unverified NHTSA complaints for this model year include allegations concentrated in the Engine category (23 reports) and Power Train (12 reports), with two alleged crashes and one alleged fire among the filings. These are unverified consumer allegations, not confirmed defects.
RANKINGSWhere the 2020 GMC Yukon Xl places
The 2020 GMC Yukon Xl qualifies for these MotorCaliber safety rankings:
FAQ2020 GMC Yukon Xl safety questions
Was the 2020 GMC Yukon Xl crash-tested by NHTSA?
Yes. NHTSA crash-tested the 2020 GMC Yukon Xl, and it earns a NHTSA Safety Index of 79 out of 100, placing it in the Average band. The index combines federal crash-test stars, standard crash-avoidance tech, and the recall record.
What are the 2020 GMC Yukon Xl crash-test star ratings?
In NHTSA testing the 2020 GMC Yukon Xl earned 4 out of 5 stars for overall, 4 out of 5 stars for frontal, 5 out of 5 stars for side, and 3 out of 5 stars for rollover. Its measured rollover risk is 20.4%. Categories NHTSA did not test show as not rated.
How many recalls does the 2020 GMC Yukon Xl have?
According to NHTSA recall data, 2 vehicle recalls are on file for the 2020 GMC Yukon Xl. Confirm your VIN at nhtsa.gov to see which apply to your car.
How many complaints have owners filed about the 2020 GMC Yukon Xl?
According to NHTSA's complaint database, 43 owner complaints are on file for the 2020 GMC Yukon Xl. These are unverified allegations submitted by owners, not confirmed defects, and include reports involving a crash or a fire.
Cross-check this record against independent expert reviews and the live NHTSA database before you buy.
Other Yukon Xl years
Rivals in SUV (2020)
| Vehicle | NHTSA Safety Index | Overall stars | Recalls |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 Infiniti Qx50 | 94/100 | 5 of 5 | 2 |
| 2020 Mazda CX-3 | 94/100 | 5 of 5 | 1 |
| 2020 Mazda CX-30 | 93/100 | 5 of 5 | 3 |
| 2020 Volvo Xc90 T5 | 93/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2020 Volvo Xc90 T6 | 93/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2020 Volvo Xc90 T8 | 93/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
- DATA Pulled directly from NHTSA: New Car Assessment Program crash tests (VehicleId 14186), the recallsByVehicle and complaintsByVehicle records for the GMC Yukon Xl 2020.
- SCORE The NHTSA Safety Index (0-100) weights crash protection, standard crash-avoidance tech, and the defect record. Full formula on the methodology page. It ranks 80 of 107 in the SUV class for 2020.
- EDITED Written by the MotorCaliber Safety Desk and reviewed for accuracy and plain-language clarity by Ivanna Verstliar, Editor, against the source figures on this page.
- VERIFIED Data last synced Oct 1, 2026. Recalls change; confirm your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. See our corrections policy and disclosure.