2021 GMC Yukon – Tire Size & Pressure

Quick answer

• OEM Tire Size: 265/65R18 (SLT, SLE), 275/60R20 (SLT, AT4, Denali), 275/50R22 (Denali, AT4 with optional wheels)
• Recommended Cold Tire Pressure: 36 PSI (front and rear)
• Bolt Pattern: 6x139.7mm
• Wheel Size: 18x8.5", 20x9", 22x9"
• Load Index/Speed Rating (Common): 116H (265/65R18), 115H (275/60R20), 117H (275/50R22)
• Spare Tire Size: Varies by trim and wheel option, often a full-size spare or a T175/80R18 compact spare.
• TPMS Frequency: 433 MHz

Tire sizes by trim

Recommended replacement tires

The 2021 GMC Yukon, being a large SUV, benefits from tires that offer a good balance of comfort, quietness, all-season traction, and durability. Here are a few popular options across different price points:

• Michelin Defender LTX M/S (Premium): Often considered the benchmark for SUV and light truck all-season tires, the Defender LTX M/S offers exceptional tread life, excellent wet and dry traction, and a very comfortable and quiet ride. It's a significant investment but typically pays off in performance and longevity. Expect to pay $250-$350+ per tire.

• Goodyear Wrangler SR-A (Mid-Range): A common OEM tire on many trucks and SUVs, the Wrangler SR-A provides reliable all-season performance and a comfortable ride at a more accessible price point. While not as long-lasting or quiet as the Michelins, they are a solid choice for everyday driving. Expect to pay $180-$280 per tire.

• Falken Wildpeak A/T3W (Off-Road Capable All-Season): For Yukon owners who venture off-pavement or encounter more challenging weather conditions, the Wildpeak A/T3W offers a more aggressive tread pattern with excellent off-road traction without sacrificing too much on-road comfort. It's also severe snow rated. Expect to pay $200-$300 per tire.

• General Grabber HTS60 (Value): The Grabber HTS60 is a great value all-season tire that delivers good performance in wet and dry conditions, a comfortable ride, and respectable tread life for its price. It's a strong contender for those looking for a reliable tire without breaking the bank. Expect to pay $160-$250 per tire.

When to inflate to max load psi

The 2021 GMC Yukon is not a heavy-duty truck, so the concept of "max load psi" found on the tire sidewall is generally not applicable for daily driving. The recommended cold tire pressure of 36 PSI (front and rear) found on your vehicle's door placard is designed to provide the optimal balance of ride comfort, handling, fuel economy, and tire life for all normal driving conditions, including when the vehicle is fully loaded within its Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR).

Only inflate to the maximum pressure listed on the tire's sidewall when specifically instructed to do so by a tire professional for a particular load scenario that exceeds the vehicle's normal operating parameters, or when towing a very heavy trailer that pushes the limits of the vehicle's towing capacity. For most Yukon owners, sticking to the door placard pressure is the correct and safest practice.

Lug nut torque & pattern

The lug nut torque specification for your 2021 GMC Yukon is 170 lb-ft (230 Nm). Always use a torque wrench to ensure lug nuts are tightened to the correct specification. Over-tightening can damage the studs or wheels, while under-tightening can lead to a wheel coming loose.

The lug nut tightening pattern for the 6-lug wheel on your Yukon should always be a star pattern. This ensures even clamping force on the wheel hub and prevents warping of the brake rotor or wheel. Starting with one lug nut, skip two, tighten the next, and continue in this pattern until all are snug. Then, go back and torque them to the final specification in the same star pattern.

Common tire issues for this vehicle

• Uneven Wear: Due to its size and weight, the 2021 GMC Yukon can be susceptible to uneven tire wear, particularly if alignment is off or tires are not rotated regularly. Pay attention to feathering, cupping, or excessive wear on one side of the tread. Regular rotations (every 5,000-7,500 miles) and alignment checks are crucial.

• Sensitivity to Pressure Changes: Large SUV tires are sensitive to proper inflation. Under-inflation can lead to excessive heat buildup, decreased fuel economy, and premature wear on the outer edges. Over-inflation can result in a harsher ride, reduced traction, and accelerated wear in the center of the tread. Always check pressures when tires are cold.

• Wheel Damage: With available 20-inch and 22-inch wheels, the lower sidewall profiles on these tires can make them more vulnerable to damage from potholes or curb strikes. This can lead to tire bubbles, bent rims, or even cracked wheels.

• TPMS Malfunctions: While generally reliable, TPMS sensors can occasionally fail due to battery depletion or physical damage. If your TPMS light comes on, it's important to check your tire pressures manually and have the system diagnosed if the light persists after proper inflation.

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