Search Considerations for 2018/19 Denali or Escalade

[alvocado]

The time has come to move on from my 2011 Yukon which I've owned since new. I'm looking for a 2018 or '19 Denali or Escalade with under 100k miles. These years have the 10sp transmission and AFM vs. the DOD on all 8 cylinders which is a plus for me, although there's a good chance I'll do a full delete on a lower mileage truck.

I'd value input from current owners on what to look for as I evaluate some options. Here's what I've seen:
- The power running board motors are a common failure so any that are slow are likely on the way out.
- Rear shocks seem to be a frequent replacement around 60k miles
- Service history is spotty with the driveline fluids: transfer case, trans, and front and rear differentials. Not sure if folks don't realize those are at shorter intervals than typical.
- Obviously any signs of lifter tick to indicate AFM issues.

What are some other watchouts recommended by current owners?

 

[alvocado]

I drove 3 hours yesterday to look at a 2019 Esky with sport package and lots of service records. The owner was clearly not a car guy beyond keeping his vehicles clean and never opened the hood (filthy underneath.) I immediately see the coolant level down an inch, soaked oil cooler lines leaking all over the steering rack, and both running boards were stuck in the open position with the motor knocking.

The truck drove poorly with sluggish acceleration so he was either sneaking by on 87 octane fuel or it had something more serious going on. No codes with the code reader.

It was a real pain but I drove 3 hours home in the rental that I had planned to drop. Now I know why I have bought new trucks my whole life and drive them for 10+ years.