2014 GMC Yukon Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2014 GMC Yukon: Common Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2014 GMC Yukon has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2014 GMC Yukon has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2014 GMC Yukon?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2014 GMC Yukon, the first step is to visually inspect the vehicle for any obvious issues, such as ensuring that the gas cap is securely tightened and in good condition, as a loose cap can often trigger the light. Next, utilizing an OBD-II scanner is crucial; this tool connects to your vehicle's diagnostic port and retrieves specific error codes that can pinpoint the underlying problem. Additionally, pay attention to any other symptoms your vehicle may exhibit, such as unusual noises or performance issues, as these can provide further clues to the diagnosis. Consulting the owner's manual can also be beneficial, as it may offer insights into what the check engine light signifies and suggest preliminary actions. If these steps do not lead to a resolution or if the problem appears to be more complex, it is wise to seek the expertise of a qualified mechanic or dealership for a thorough diagnosis and repair. By following this structured approach, you can effectively narrow down the potential causes of the check engine light and take informed steps toward resolving the issue.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2014 GMC Yukon?

When the check engine light comes on in your 2014 GMC Yukon, it can be a source of concern, but understanding the common problems can empower you to take action. One frequent culprit is a loose or damaged gas cap, which can disrupt fuel pressure and trigger the warning light. Additionally, issues with spark plugs or their wires can lead to misfires, causing the check engine light to illuminate. It's also essential to check your oil levels; low oil or oil pressure can signal a serious problem that needs immediate attention. Furthermore, the emission control system is another area to investigate, as malfunctions here can also activate the light. Lastly, keep in mind that sensor failures or electrical issues may be at play. Addressing these problems promptly not only helps in maintaining your vehicle's performance but also prevents further damage, ensuring a smoother driving experience.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2014 GMC Yukon?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2014 GMC Yukon, it is essential to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning light is not merely a nuisance; it signals potential issues within your vehicle's engine or emissions system that could escalate if left unaddressed. Ignoring this alert can lead to decreased fuel efficiency, increased emissions, and even severe engine damage, which can result in costly repairs. For DIY enthusiasts, the first step is to use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) that can pinpoint the underlying issue. This proactive approach allows you to assess whether the problem is something manageable, like a loose gas cap, or more serious, requiring professional intervention. By addressing the check engine light promptly, you not only safeguard your vehicle's performance and longevity but also enhance your safety on the road. Therefore, taking immediate action is crucial, as it can prevent minor issues from developing into major repairs, ensuring your GMC Yukon remains in optimal condition.

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