GMC Acadia Reliability by YearBest & worst years, problems & recalls — NHTSA data
Comparing used GMC Acadia options? We analyzed 10 model years (2017–2026) using real NHTSA complaint and recall data so you can spot stronger years, avoid riskier ones, and know what to inspect before buying.
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- Accident & damage history
- Odometer rollback records
- Open recalls & title brands
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the GMC Acadia has 1,934 owner complaints and 24 safety recalls across model years 2017–2026. The most reported issue area is POWER TRAIN. 2017 drew the most complaints; 2026 drew the fewest.
- Make
- GMC
- Model
- Acadia
- Model years analyzed
- 2017–2026 (10 years)
- Total NHTSA complaints
- 1,934
- Safety recall campaigns
- 24
- Crash-related complaints
- 41
- Fire-related complaints
- 7
- Worst model year (by complaints)
- 2017 (702 complaints)
- Best model year (fewest complaints)
- 2026 (6 complaints)
- Top reported issue area
- POWER TRAIN
- Reliability signal
- Poor
By model year
GMC Acadia: which years to avoid & which to buy
Based on total NHTSA owner complaints per model year. Higher complaint counts indicate a riskier year to buy used — lower counts suggest a cleaner reliability record.
These years have the most owner complaints. Inspect carefully and always run a VIN check.
These years have the fewest owner complaints on record — lower risk starting points.
Crash test ratings
NHTSA NCAP crash test ratings
New Car Assessment ProgramNCAP crash tests measure how well a vehicle protects occupants in controlled frontal crash, side crash, and rollover scenarios. Stars are awarded per category (5 = safest). These laboratory results are independent of owner complaints and are performed by NHTSA engineers on new production vehicles.
Source: nhtsa.gov/ratings
What the complaint data suggests
PoorThe GMC ACADIA has 1,934 NHTSA complaints and 24 recalls on record. 41 complaints involve crash-related incidents. This data reflects owner-reported issues submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
- 1,934 total complaints filed with NHTSA
- 24 federal recall campaigns
- 41 crash-related complaints on record
- Review NHTSA complaint history for the most-reported components
- Check recall completion status at nhtsa.gov/recalls
- Verify service records for frequently complained components
Consult the by-year breakdown to identify model years with elevated complaint rates.
Consult the by-year breakdown to identify model years with fewer reported issues.
- Run a VIN check on the specific vehicle you are considering
- Verify all open recalls are completed at nhtsa.gov/recalls
- Request service records for the most-reported complaint components
- Have a certified mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase
Problems by model year (best vs. worst)
Source: NHTSA public complaints database. Updated: Sep 2026
Safety recalls
NHTSA safety recalls
24 recalls foundSafety recalls are mandatory repair campaigns ordered by NHTSA when a vehicle defect poses an unreasonable risk to safety. Manufacturers are required to fix recalled vehicles free of charge. Always verify open recalls before buying a used car.
VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD
POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT
AIR BAGS
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
TIRES
EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
SUSPENSION:REAR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
TIRES
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN:INFLATOR
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT
TIRES
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Source: NHTSA Recalls Database. Data covers model years 2017–2026. Always run a VIN-specific check below for the most up-to-date open recall status.
Common problems
What goes wrong most often
The vehicle systems owners complain about most, ranked from all 1,934 NHTSA complaints — these are the areas to inspect first on a used car.
Owner complaints
NHTSA complaint reports
1,934 totalThese are consumer-submitted safety complaints filed directly with NHTSA. Each complaint describes a real owner's experience. Complaints flagged as crash-related or fire-related are highlighted.
2024 GMC Acadia grounded at dealership for 3+ weeks due to unavailable driver seat belt buckle (Part 26522477), rendering a brand-new vehicle legally un-driveable due to primary restraint part constraints. The buckle will not latch, causing the seat belt to be rendered inoperable. The problem was reproduced by the dealership, and the replacement part is backordered.
At low speeds the brakes squeal horrendously. We have taken the vehicle to the dealer multiple times and each time they state that the brakes are fine. A vehicle with this low of miles should not have squealing brakes since new.
The contact owns a 2024 GMC Acadia. The contact stated that while back out of his driveway while in reverse(R), the contact hit another vehicle that was also parked in the driveway. The contact stated that back over prevention sensor failed to alert him that a vehicle was in his vicinity; also the vehicle did not apply the automatic braking system when closely approaching vehicle. The contact stated that the failure cause significant damage to both vehicles involved in the collision. The vehicle had yet to be diagnosed or repaired for the failure. The dealer nor the manufacturer had yet to be notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 17,500.
The contact owns a 2024 GMC Acadia. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed and depressing the brake pedal, the brakes made an abnormal squealing sound. Additionally, brake pad dust was frequently visible on the rims. The dealer was contacted and advised that the brake issue was caused by driving through a car wash. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the issue. The failure mileage was 25,312.
My complaint does not involve an accident. The brakes on the 2024 Acadia Elevation are squealing very loudly, and have been doing so for the past six months or so. I have approximately 18,000 miles on it. I took my vehicle to the dealership twice for this issue, and I was told this time that the brakes are still good (still 8mm of pads) - even though it was showing 22% brake pad. They told me about the malfunctioning sensor and they fixed that, but the squealing is still there. I was told that it was the metal composition of the brake pads that is making that noise, and GM does not cover brakes past 7,500 miles (this 7,500 warranty is pointless because who would need brakes replaced in that short time frame, anyway?). That means I would have to pay out of pocket for the brakes! There is clearly something wrong with the structure of the brakes and I see on the Acadia forum that this is a common complaint. If the brakes are good, then why are the brakes squealing? Why am I being told that I just have to deal with the squealing sound? What can be done about this issue. It seems unfair to me that I have to come out of pocket to fix something that should not be "broken".
I purchased this vehicle in June 2024 as a demo vehicle with approximately 7,000 miles on it. Within one month of ownership, the vehicle began experiencing serious problems that have continued to worsen. The vehicle currently has approximately 34,000 miles, and the issues have been ongoing from the time of purchase through the present. Since purchasing the vehicle, it has been in the dealership multiple times for the same recurring problems, including but not limited to: * Powertrain issues and loss of power * Reduced acceleration while driving * Complete electrical failure while driving * Engine and electrical warning lights repeatedly turning on * Vehicle running excessively hot * Water pump replacement * Replacement of sensors * Thermostat replacement * Ongoing engine and electrical system malfunctions Despite these repairs, the same problems continue to reoccur. Each time I return the vehicle for service, I am informed that it is a “different issue,” even though the symptoms remain unchanged. This strongly indicates a defective powertrain and/or electrical system that has not been properly repaired. The most serious concern occurred while I was driving on public streets, when the vehicle lost acceleration, electrical power shut off, and the vehicle completely shut down, nearly causing me to be hit by other vehicles. This incident created an extreme safety hazard for myself, my passengers, and other motorists. I have made several formal complaints directly with GMC, and more than four case numbers have already been created regarding this vehicle. Despite these complaints and repeated repair attempts, the problems persist. Given the repeated failures, numerous repair attempts, documented safety risks, and the fact that these issues began shortly after purchase, I believe this vehicle qualifies for relief under applicable lemon laws and consumer protection laws. Incident (Critical)Vehicle lost acceleration and electrical power and completely stalled while roads
Read 14 more owner reports
We purchased our 2024 Acadia in June 2025. Since we have had the vehicle, it has been in the shop going on 6 times. First the sunroof seal came off, then the antenna cover fell off, the driver side rear panel had to be replaced because it was coming off. Once all this was done then the vehicle started leaking transmission fluid, took it to the dealer to get fixed, once we get it back the coolant starts leaking from the radiator hose, took it in to get repaired, now there is knocking noise coming from the engine/hood. Every time we take it in to get repaired a new problem pops up. We purchased the vehicle to have a safe way to get our kids around and it has been nothing but a headache and run around from the dealership. GMC really needs to resolve this issue. Parts seem to be on never-ending backorder with no ETA.
Brakes have been squealing since 6500 miles. The dealer resurfaced the rotors and cleaned the pads only for the brakes to be squealing again. The dealer has cleaned the brakes and applied "squeak stop" only for the brakes to continue to squeal. The service guide from GM says if brakes are making any noises they need to be "inspected immediately" however I'm being told there's nothing further to be done. How do I know if the squealing (which is truly happening every time I drive the vehicle) is normal or if there's a larger and more concerning issue?
In the process of taking my daughter to the emergency room I receive a dash notification on my recently purchased 2024 GMC Acadia "car overheating, possible engine failure". My gauges were within normal range and being that I was in an emergency I kept traveling. Leave hospital to head home the error message is gone. The following Monday, January 5th, heading in to work I receive the same error message on my dash "car overheating, possible engine failure". Drove to the nearest mechanic, left my car, and they discover a leak in the upper radiator hose. They call with bad news that the part is on nationwide back order. GM admitted to a faulty design, in the process of redesign. A SPAC case with a local GM dealership was opened. GM would expedite my case if I towed to a GM dealer. I would have to pay for the tow. And just how can my case be expedited if the part isn't available? It can't. I was told the redesigned hose is going on the new models currently being built. I have lost all faith in GM. Today is February 19th and my car is still at the mechanic with no ETA on part delivery. I called every GM dealership parts department within 100 miles and get the same response, "we have two hoses with four cars needing it, we have 4 hoses with 8 cars needing it, the hose is hell to find, etc.". Why has GM not issued a recall on the upper radiator hose. If you have a 2024 GMC Acadia, you will incur this same issue.
Front left brake was locking up. Happened 1st a couple months ago. Happened again recently and was towed to dealership. Burning smell from brake and hot in wheel area. Left front brake caliper was locked, pads overheated, rotor warped. Replaced front left caliper, front left brake hose, front pads, and front left rotor. Road tested, brakes operate properly. Brake life on monitor shows 18%, brake pads are at 8mm Out of calibration, reprogrammed brake system control module and performed brake percent calibration per bulletin #25-NA-282. Warranty code is 28YZ314171448.
Since we bought the 2024 GMC Acadia in November 2024 when we would get the oil changes we have to dealership to check the brakes because the brakes were always squealing. They inspected and gave us a vehicle back chalking it up that the brakes are fine. they did a multiport inspection three different times and didn’t find any issues with the brakes. The last multipurpose inspection was done in September 13 2025. on December 8, 2025 I took ivehicle to another mechanic. I had to replace all four brake pads. The front brake pads were down to below 20% and the back brake pads were right at 50%. on January 7, 2026 I had to take the vehicle in to the dealership because another brake problem after a week of half. They found out that the electronic brake control module was faulty on the master cylinder. The dealership had to replace it.
I experienced the brakes squeaking on and off for a few weeks this past summer. When at the dealership for an oil change, I was told the brakes pads were still good and the squeaking is common, especially during hot humid weather. Since then, I have lost the brakes twice. Both times, the pedal went all the way to the floor without resistance and after a few seconds, they came back like nothing happened. There was no warning at all. I have also experienced a complete blackout on my dashboard for about 30 minutes without known reason. On a separate occasion, the battery died for no reason. There have been times that a message is displayed on the dash to service rear turn signal lights. They flash fast as if they were out, then the next time I drive the car, they are completely normal. From what has been reported, there are some serious concerns with the 2024 Acadia. I have leased 3 Acadia's before this one and have never experienced anything like this. The brakes failing completely could have ended very badly for myself and/or others. There are several other reports of this nature. Please look into recalling this vehicle to prevent fatalities!!
The contact owns a 2024 GMC Acadia. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle hesitated while coming to a stop while depressing the brake pedal. No warning light was illuminated. In addition, the contact had to apply extra pressure on the brake pedal to stop the vehicle. The contact stated that there was an abnormal squeaking sound coming from the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed; however, no cause for the failure was found. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure reoccurred. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 7,000.
Apparently many vehicles like mine and including mine have defective radiator hoses or a poor set up with routing causing issues with the hoses. They are developing cracks/leaks causing poor circulation in the cooling system as well as possible engine failure. In speaking to mechanics and reading forum posts, it is evident that this is a large scale issue.
On or about I experienced the check engine light on the above vehicle. After checking, the issue has something to do with the low level in the coolant system. I took the vehicle to a Maguire Chevrolet dealership in Grand Island New York. They charged me $200.00 +tax for diagnosis. They found the Radiator hose was leaking and it isn't covered by the warranty or extended warranty. I took the GMC to another shop for repair. They were told by 3 dealerships the part is on back order and they do not know when it will be in. Just to be sure, I called the GMC Dealership in Rome New York where the VFW purchased the vehicle. I was told they were put of stock but there wasn't an issue. That was on 12/24/2025. the salesman said he would call me on Friday to verify the status of the hose needed. as of 12/29/2025 at 13:00Hrs there hasn't been a call back. My feeling is there must be an issue with the hose in question. The should be a recall and GM should repair the leaking part. [XXX] CFO Department of New York VFW. [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
I am submitting a complaint regarding premature front brake wear on my 2024 GMC Acadia. At approximately 16,000 miles, Sewell Buick GMC of Midland inspected my vehicle and measured the front brake pads at 5 mm. Despite the pads not being at the replacement threshold and the vehicle being safe to drive, the dealer is already recommending brake replacement. The dealer also advised that the brake parts are currently on backorder due to the high volume of repairs needed for the same issue with no estimated time of arrival. I am concerned that requiring brake replacement at such low mileage indicates a potential design, material, or manufacturing issue with the braking system on this model year. I am also concerned about the lack of parts availability should brake wear progress more quickly than expected. The vehicle is driven under normal conditions (no towing, no aggressive driving), and routine maintenance has been followed. Given the low mileage and early wear measurement, this is abnormal for a new vehicle. I am submitting this complaint so NHTSA can track similar reports and determine whether further review or investigation is warranted. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Sincerely, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
The upper radiator hose, which is part of the vehicle’s engine cooling system, failed prematurely. The component is available for inspection upon request, and documentation of the repair and replacement can also be provided. Failure of the upper radiator hose caused coolant loss, creating a risk of engine overheating and sudden vehicle disablement. This posed/poses a safety risk, particularly if the failure had occurred at highway speeds or in traffic, where an unexpected breakdown could endanger the driver and surrounding vehicles. The issue was confirmed by an authorized GMC dealership, which diagnosed the failed upper radiator hose and performed the replacement. This issue has also been reported by multiple owners of the same model year, indicating a recurring problem. The vehicle and failed component were inspected by an authorized GMC dealership. No inspection by police or insurance representatives was required, as this was a mechanical failure and not the result of an accident. Prior to the failure, symptoms included coolant loss and cooling system concerns, which ultimately required dealership diagnosis. Any warning indicators appeared shortly before the issue was identified, with little to no advance warning before the component required replacement.
On a highway about an hour from home, my brand new vehicle with 5,318 miles on it, alarmed me to turn off the vehicle. I was going 75 mph. I pulled over and called GMC being that I just had an oil change and thought maybe they possibly didn't reset something. The vehicle said the oil pressure was low. The dealership advised me to check the oil. It was full and clean. The service person advised that I should be able to continue to drive. I then called my husband. Upon starting the vehicle it was making a noise coming from underneath the vehicle. He said do not drive that vehicle and he headed to come get me. We had it towed to a nearby dealership around 6 pm. I called GMC again because the tow truck driver could not figure out how to put the vehicle in neutral. The told us to hold the start button down but do not push the brake. That didn't work. The tow truck driver put plastic slides under the back tires and dragged it onto the tow truck bed. The service center was closed so we were unable to speak to anyone. Days later we were told the engine seized. It took 3 guys to get into the bay. GMC advised the dealership service to take apart the engine in order to investigate the failure. They did and established it was a bearing. It was in the shop for 52 days. I was told the replaced engine was a remanufactured engine by GMC and by the service center more than once. I was very angry. I bought a new vehicle, not a used one. Then I was told it was a new engine. Since I purchased this vehicle I feel like there have been soft truths. I'm not sure what to believe. Upon picking up my repaired vehicle there was not a drop of gas in it and 77 miles added to the mileage. I get that the vehicle needs to be test driven but that seems like a lot. I think new engine, new odometer starting at 0? I bought a new vehicle for safety. I have a 2006 GMC Yukon that has been very reliable which is why we purchased the Acadia. I seriously do not feel safe.
We have experienced multiple recurring issues with our 2024 GMC Acadia that raise significant safety concerns and affect the vehicle’s reliability and overall operation. First, the brake system exhibits persistent squeaking, even at low speeds or light applications. The dealership has inspected the brakes but the noise continues, raising concerns about premature wear or improper brake function. More concerning is the behavior of the automatic braking system while reversing. The system has repeatedly activated the brakes without any obstacle, vehicle, or person behind us. These unexpected braking events have created both physical and psychological stress for occupants and pose a real risk of causing a rear-end collision from another driver who may not anticipate sudden braking. Due to this hazardous condition, we have been forced to deactivate the automatic braking feature entirely, defeating a critical safety system the vehicle is equipped with. Additionally, the engine frequently runs rough during cold start and the initial warm-up period for the first couple of minutes. This rough operation is inconsistent with expected behavior for a new vehicle and has not been fully resolved despite service visits. The TPMS sensors have also been problematic. Several sensors have already been replaced by the dealership, yet we continue to experience intermittent TPMS faults involving at least two wheels. This results in repeated warnings, loss of real-time tire data, and uncertainty about actual tire pressure conditions while driving. We also experience rattling noises from the interior trim near the door seals whenever there is a cross breeze or windy driving conditions. This appears to be a structural or insulation-related issue. We have others, but this space only allows for 2000 characters, and after writing this sentence, there are only 113 characters remaining.
I have had 3 taillights replaced. The first one was the driver's side taillight at Marty's GMC in Kingston MA. The second one was the passenger side taillight at Quirk GMC in Braintree, MA and the third one was the driver's side one again. the vehicle had approximately 28,000 miles when the 3rd taillight was replaced and was purchased in August of 2024. Both dealers stated that it was safe to drive the vehicle with the taillights not operating. The first 2 took approximately one week to get the part and the 3rd one took 4 weeks. I believe that this is a serious safety issue as the vehicle tailgate lights are only visible when directly behind the vehicle.
Showing 20 of 1,934 total NHTSA complaints. Source: NHTSA Complaints Database
Check the exact car
Before you buy, check the exact GMC Acadia
These pages show model-year patterns across 10 years. Enter a VIN to verify the exact vehicle's accident history, title brands, odometer records, and open recall status before purchase.
The basics
How to read this data
Complaints, recalls, investigations — here’s what each number actually tells you about a used GMC Acadia, in plain English.
What is an NHTSA Complaint?
An NHTSA safety complaint is a report filed directly by a vehicle owner or driver describing a safety-related issue. Anyone can submit a complaint at NHTSA.gov. The number of complaints is a signal of how common a problem is — but complaints per model-year matter more than raw totals, since popular vehicles naturally receive more reports. The GMC Acadia has 1,934 complaints on record across 10 model years.
What is a Safety Recall?
A safety recall is a mandatory campaign issued by NHTSA when a vehicle component poses an unreasonable risk to safety or does not comply with federal motor vehicle safety standards. Unlike complaints (which are owner-reported), recalls are formally investigated and confirmed by regulators. Manufacturers must fix recalled vehicles free of charge. The GMC Acadia has 24 recall campaigns in the NHTSA database.
What Are Crash Complaints?
Crash complaints are NHTSA filings where the owner indicates a crash occurred as part of the incident. 41 of the GMC Acadia's 1,934 complaints involved a crash. This metric is particularly important because it indicates how often defects resulted in actual collisions — a key safety signal beyond general reliability.
How Is the Reliability Verdict Calculated?
The reliability verdict (Poor) is generated by analyzing the vehicle's total complaints, recall history, crash complaint ratio, fire complaint ratio, and top component failures relative to class averages. This verdict gives buyers a quick interpretation before they review year-level details and VIN-level history. It should be treated as one decision input, not a substitute for a VIN-specific report.
Why Do Newer Years Have Fewer Complaints?
Newer model years appear to have fewer complaints because there has been less time for owners to file them. Complaints accumulate over years of ownership. A 2020 model year vehicle will typically show fewer complaints than a 2015 model year even if it is less reliable — simply because fewer owners have had time to report issues. Focus on complaints per year of market presence when comparing across model years.
Fleet Data vs. Individual VIN
Everything on this page reflects aggregated data across all GMC Acadia vehicles on the road — not any specific car. Two GMC Acadia vehicles of the same year can have very different histories: one may have been in three accidents and have an open recall; another may be clean. A VIN check gives you the individual car's history: accidents, title brands, odometer records, service history, and real-time recall status.
What Are NHTSA Investigations?
When NHTSA receives a pattern of related safety complaints, it opens a formal investigation. A Preliminary Evaluation (PE) is the first stage — NHTSA determines if a safety defect may exist. If evidence is strong, it escalates to an Engineering Analysis (EA), which can result in a mandatory recall. The GMC Acadia has 0 investigations on record (0 active). Investigations listed above may have already led to the recalls shown on this page.
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GMC Acadia reliability — frequently asked questions
Is the GMC Acadia reliable?
Poor. The GMC Acadia has 1,934 NHTSA owner complaints and 24 recall campaigns across model years. A commonly reported issue area is POWER TRAIN. Use year-level data as a pattern guide, then verify the exact car with a VIN check before purchase.
Which GMC Acadia years to avoid?
Years with the most NHTSA complaints: 2017 (702 complaints), 2018 (392 complaints), 2019 (381 complaints). Use these years as a shortlist for deeper inspection, and always run a VIN check on the exact vehicle before purchase.
What are the most common GMC Acadia problems?
Top reported issues: POWER TRAIN (618 complaints); ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (506 complaints); UNKNOWN OR OTHER (472 complaints).
Does the GMC Acadia have recalls?
Yes — 24 NHTSA recall campaigns have been issued for the GMC Acadia. Check nhtsa.gov/recalls or run a VIN check to see if your specific vehicle has open recalls.