Positioning:
The 1996 GMC Yukon occupied the premium full-size SUV segment, competing with vehicles like the Ford Explorer (though the Yukon was a larger platform), Chevrolet Tahoe, and Jeep Grand Cherokee. It offered truck-like capability with passenger comfort features.
Competition:
Key competitors included the Ford Expedition (though the Expedition was launched in 1997, the Yukon competed with its predecessors and the Explorer), Dodge Durango, and Lincoln Navigator. The Yukon emphasized its truck-based platform for towing and payload capacity.
Features:
Robust body-on-frame construction, powerful V8 engine options, available four-wheel drive, spacious interior, significant towing capacity.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine performance, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine electrical
Drivetrain:
Automatic transmission (4L60E), transfer case (NV246/NV236 Autotrac), drive shafts, axles, differentials
Chassis:
Front suspension (independent torsion bar), rear suspension (solid axle leaf springs), steering system (recirculating ball)
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, accessories, power windows, power locks, mirrors, instrument cluster, body control modules
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair
Body:
Interior and exterior trim, doors, glass, bumpers, paint, rust repair
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, tune-ups
Diagnosis:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for OBD-II system, symptom-based diagnostics
Repair:
Component removal and installation, adjustments, overhaul procedures, component testing
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, diagnostic data
Depth:
Factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIYers. Covers diagnostic procedures, component disassembly, reassembly, and calibration.
Accessibility:
Accessible via internet browser on PC, laptop, smartphone, tablet
Printability:
Designed for on-screen viewing, specific print quality not applicable to software format but content is derived from OE print materials.
Binding:
Not applicable (digital format)
Paper:
Not applicable (digital format)
Engine Code:
L31 (5.7L V8 Vortec)
Engine Type:
5.7L V8 OHV (Gen VI Small-Block V8)
Displacement:
5.7 Liters (350 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
4.00 in x 3.48 in (101.6 mm x 88.4 mm)
Horsepower:
255 hp @ 4600 RPM
Torque:
330 lb-ft @ 2800 RPM
Induction:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPFI) - Vortec technology
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 14.5 quarts (13.7 liters)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
API SJ 5W-30
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Overdrive
Transmission Model:
4L60E
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 9.9 quarts (9.4 liters)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron III (or equivalent)
Transfer Case:
NV246 Autotrac (full-time 4WD system with 2WD mode)
Transfer Case Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 2.1 quarts (2.0 liters)
Transfer Case Fluid Type:
Dexron III (or equivalent)
Length:
199.6 inches (5070 mm)
Width:
77.5 inches (1969 mm)
Height:
71.7 inches (1821 mm)
Wheelbase:
117.5 inches (2985 mm)
Front Track:
65.1 inches (1654 mm)
Rear Track:
65.3 inches (1659 mm)
Curb Weight 2Wd:
Approx. 4,780 lbs (2168 kg)
Curb Weight 4Wd:
Approx. 4,978 lbs (2258 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 6,400 - 6,600 lbs (2903 - 2994 kg)
Towing Capacity:
Up to 7,000 lbs (3175 kg) with proper equipment
NHTSA Driver Frontal Impact:
Not rated (vehicle predates standardized NHTSA ratings as we know them today)
NHTSA Passenger Frontal Impact:
Not rated (vehicle predates standardized NHTSA ratings as we know them today)
ABS:
Standard 4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts for all occupants
Frame Construction:
Reinforced steel frame and chassis
Audio System:
Optional premium sound systems, cassette tape player, AM/FM radio. CD player became more common in later years of this generation.
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional depending on trim level.
Onboard Diagnostics:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) compliant, allowing for scan tool diagnostics of engine and emissions systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Severe conditions may require more frequent changes.
Tire Rotation:
Every 6,000 miles (9,600 km)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), change as needed or every 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) depending on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Recommended at 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for Vortec engines (may vary, check manual for exact spec).
Coolant Type:
GM P/N 1052846, Type 1, Long Life Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Common Problems:
Intake manifold gaskets (leaks), rear main seal leaks, fuel pump failures, dashboard delamination, minor electrical gremlins, worn ball joints and tie rod ends.
Heritage:
GMC, a division of General Motors, has a long history of producing trucks and commercial vehicles, known for their durability and utility. The Yukon nameplate was introduced for the 1992 model year, building upon the Chevrolet K Blazer platform.
Evolution:
The 1996 model year represents the mid-cycle refresh for the first generation (GMT400) GMC Yukon. It received updated styling, a more powerful Vortec V8 engine, and improved interior features compared to earlier models.
Production Years:
First Generation: 1992-1999
Manufacturing Location:
Janesville, Wisconsin, USA
