2017 GMC Yukon Battery Size & Replacement Guide

Quick answer

• BCI Group Size: H7 (also called 94R)
• Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): 850 CCA
• Reserve Capacity (RC): 140 Minutes
• Battery Type: AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) is required.
• Terminal Layout: Top Post, Right-Side Positive
• Physical Dimensions (L x W x H): 12.4 x 6.9 x 7.5 inches

Replacement battery options

Most 2017 GMC Yukons came from the factory with an AC Delco AGM battery. When choosing a replacement, you must use an AGM battery to meet the demands of the vehicle's sophisticated electrical system. Using a standard flooded battery can lead to premature failure and electrical issues.

Here are a few popular replacement options:

• ACDelco Gold 94RAGM: (GM Original Equipment) This is the direct replacement for the factory-installed battery.
• DieHard Platinum AGM H7-AGM: A popular and reliable option available from Advance Auto Parts.
• Interstate MTX-94R/H7: Known for their long life and quality, Interstate offers a direct AGM replacement.
• Optima YellowTop DH7: While not a direct drop-in replacement, Optima batteries are a popular upgrade for high-demand applications. Check for fitment.
• Odyssey Performance Series ODP-AGM94R H7 L4: A high-performance option for those who want maximum power and longevity.

AGM vs flooded — which does this vehicle need?

The 2017 GMC Yukon requires an AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) battery. This is not optional. The Yukon's electrical system is designed around the specific voltage and charging characteristics of an AGM battery. These vehicles have a high electrical demand due to features like the infotainment system, heated seats, and advanced driver-assistance systems. Furthermore, many of these trucks feature a start-stop system, which is very demanding on the battery. An AGM battery is designed to handle these deep-cycling demands far better than a traditional flooded battery.

Using a standard flooded battery in a vehicle that requires an AGM will result in a significantly shorter lifespan for the battery and can cause issues with the vehicle's electrical systems. The charging system in the Yukon is specifically calibrated for AGM batteries, and it may overcharge a flooded battery, leading to damage.

Post-installation relearn / reset procedure

After replacing the battery in a 2017 GMC Yukon, a battery relearn procedure is recommended. This allows the vehicle's Battery Management System (BMS) to recognize the new battery and adjust the charging strategy accordingly. This will ensure the longevity of your new battery.

While some of the memory settings for your radio and seats may be lost, the most critical step is the BMS reset. This can be done with a capable OBD2 scan tool. If you do not have one, most auto parts stores or your local mechanic can perform this service for you. Driving the vehicle for a few cycles may also allow the system to relearn on its own, but a manual reset is the preferred method.

Signs of a failing battery

A failing battery in your Yukon will usually give you a few warning signs. The most obvious is a slow engine crank, where the engine turns over sluggishly when you try to start it. You may also notice your headlights dimming at idle or when you are using electrical accessories. The battery warning light on your dashboard is another clear indicator.

In a modern vehicle like the Yukon, you might also experience seemingly unrelated electrical "gremlins." The infotainment system might lag or reset, or you could see error messages for various systems. This is because a weak battery can cause voltage drops that affect the vehicle's numerous computers.

Common battery issues for this generation

The 2014-2020 generation of GMC Yukons has a known issue with battery drain. The sophisticated electronics can sometimes draw a small amount of power even when the vehicle is off. This is known as a parasitic draw. While a healthy battery can handle this for a few weeks, an older battery or a significant parasitic draw can leave you with a dead battery overnight.

If you are experiencing repeated dead batteries with a new, correctly installed AGM battery, you should have your vehicle tested for a parasitic draw. This involves a technician using a multimeter to measure the electrical draw on the battery when the vehicle is turned off.

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