GMC Yukon Vehicle Speed Sensor Guide: 2014-2024 Models
Solve erratic speedometer and hard shifting issues by understanding and choosing the right speed sensor for your Yukon.
- A bad Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) on a Yukon primarily causes hard shifting and an erratic speedometer.
- Your Yukon has two types of sensors: a VSS for the transmission and Wheel Speed Sensors (WSS) for ABS/StabiliTrak.
- A recall for 2015-2020 Yukons involves the wheel speed sensors causing the truck to pull to one side, not the main VSS.
- For best results, choose an OEM-equivalent brand like Delphi; however, reputable aftermarket brands offer a good balance of cost and quality.
Understanding Your Yukon's Speed Sensors
Before you buy a part, it's important to know that your 2014-2024 GMC Yukon has more than one type of speed sensor. The main Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) is on the transmission and controls the speedometer and shifting. However, there are also Wheel Speed Sensors (WSS) at each wheel. These are for the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) and StabiliTrak stability control. This guide focuses on the main VSS, but symptoms can sometimes be confusing.
Symptoms of a Failing Vehicle Speed Sensor
When the main VSS starts to fail, your Yukon will give you clear signs. The most common issues involve the transmission and the dashboard.
- Harsh or Delayed Shifting: The transmission may slam into gear, hesitate, or shift at the wrong RPMs because it doesn't know the correct vehicle speed. Many owners report harsh shifting, which can sometimes be traced back to a faulty sensor.
- Erratic or Dead Speedometer: The needle on your speedometer might jump around, read an incorrect speed, or not move at all.
- Cruise Control Not Working: The cruise control system relies on a steady speed signal to function. If the signal is gone, cruise control will not engage.
- Check Engine Light: A failing VSS will often trigger the Check Engine Light and store a diagnostic trouble code 🎬 See more symptoms and fixes for failing transmission sensors in the computer's memory.
Known Issue: Wheel Speed Sensor Recall (2015-2020 Yukons)
GM issued a recall for many 2015-2020 GMC Yukons due to a problem with the wheel speed sensors, not the main VSS. A faulty wheel speed sensor could make the truck unexpectedly brake on one side, causing it to pull sharply. The fix was a software update performed by the dealer. If you experience your truck pulling to one side along with an ABS or StabiliTrak light, check if your vehicle was part of this recall.
🎬 Watch: How to replace a faulty wheel speed sensorChoosing the Right Aftermarket Speed Sensor
When replacing your Yukon's Vehicle Speed Sensor, you have several aftermarket brands to choose from. They generally fall into different quality tiers.
Tier 1: OEM-Equivalent Brands
These brands are often original equipment manufacturers for GM, offering the highest quality and reliability outside of a genuine GM box.
- Delphi: Delphi is a well-known OEM supplier for General Motors. Choosing a Delphi sensor is as close to buying the original part as you can get, ensuring excellent fit and performance.
Tier 2: Reputable Aftermarket Brands
These brands have a long history of producing reliable parts that meet or exceed OEM specifications. They are a solid choice for a balance of quality and price.
- Standard Ignition (SMP): A trusted name in automotive electronics, Standard Ignition provides quality sensors that are built to last.
- Walker Products: Walker emphasizes its testing and engineering process to ensure its sensors provide accurate signals and durable performance under tough conditions.
Tier 3: Value-Oriented Brands
These brands offer a more budget-friendly option. They can be a good choice for older vehicles or if cost is the primary concern, but quality can sometimes be inconsistent compared to higher-tier brands.
- Dorman: A very popular aftermarket brand that often engineers solutions to common OEM problems.
- Holstein: This brand promotes its use of quality materials and offers a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty on its sensors.
- URO Parts, True Tech: These brands provide functional replacements at a low cost, often with warranties that ensure fitment.
Pro Tip: Before replacing the sensor, have a mechanic check the wiring and connector first. Sometimes, a corroded connector or damaged wire is the real problem 🎬 Watch: How to test if your speed sensor has failed, not the sensor itself.
Cost to Replace a GMC Yukon Vehicle Speed Sensor
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Part | $20.81 - $56.78 |
| Shop Labor | $225 - $330 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $245 - $387 |
Note: Costs are estimates and can vary based on your location and specific vehicle configuration. This table is for the main Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) on the transmission.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many speed sensors are on my 2014-2024 GMC Yukon?
Your Yukon has one main Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) on the transmission or transfer case, and four individual Wheel Speed Sensors (WSS), one at each wheel hub. They perform different functions.
What's the difference between a Vehicle Speed Sensor and a Wheel Speed Sensor?
The Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) measures the overall speed of the truck for the speedometer and transmission shifting. The Wheel Speed Sensors (WSS) measure the rotation speed of each individual wheel for the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and the StabiliTrak traction control system.
Can I replace the Vehicle Speed Sensor myself?
Yes, this is often a DIY-friendly job for someone with basic mechanical skills. The sensor is typically held in by a single bolt and has an electrical connector. The main challenge can be accessing it, as it's located on the side of the transmission or transfer case. Ensure the vehicle is safely supported on jack stands before working underneath it.
What happens if I ignore a bad speed sensor?
Ignoring a bad VSS can lead to continued and potentially worsening hard shifting, which puts extra stress on your transmission. You will also have an inaccurate speedometer and no cruise control. A bad wheel speed sensor can disable your ABS and stability control, which are important safety features.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 24275828 24253027 24244593 19302667
The Vehicle Speed Sensor for the 2014-2024 GMC Yukon is typically a magnetic pickup sensor that generates a signal as a toothed reluctor wheel on the transmission output shaft spins. It uses a 2-pin connector. Wheel speed sensors are similar but are located at the wheel hubs.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- GMC Yukon:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Understanding Your Yukon's Speed Sensors
- Symptoms of a Failing Vehicle Speed Sensor
- Known Issue: Wheel Speed Sensor Recall (2015-2020 Yukons)
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Speed Sensor
- Tier 1: OEM-Equivalent Brands
- Tier 2: Reputable Aftermarket Brands
- Tier 3: Value-Oriented Brands
- Cost to Replace a GMC Yukon Vehicle Speed Sensor
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 🎟️ Get 5% Off