The Most Common GMC Problems
Engine problems, transmission problems, A/C and HVAC issues, and poor lighting and headlight visibility are some of the most common problems with GMC cars.
Written by Kathryn Mae Kurlychek
Reviewed by Melanie Reiff
Engine trouble is the most common problem seen across GMC models, although many also experience A/C and HVAC issues, poor lighting and headlight visibility, and transmission failures.
No car is perfect—-but not every vehicle is made equally, either. GMC trucks and cars are known for their professional-grade storage and capacity, spaciousness, and sleek looks, but what problems lie beneath their shiny exteriors?
Here to cover the most common problems with GMC cars is
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that helps you save. Whether you’re looking for a new GMC or are just interested to know what to watch out for in the one you already own, read on to learn what you can expect to encounter with GMCs top models. We also cover what to expect from GMC insurance costs
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What are the most common GMC problems?
The General Motors Truck Company—a subsidiary of General Motors that manufactures GMC cars—is generally regarded as a reliable company. GMC ranks among the top 20 most reliable car companies worldwide, which is perhaps why current GMC models primarily cater to a professional market.
Nonetheless, no car is perfect—here are some of the most common problems across GMC models:
- Poor lighting and headlight visibility
- Excessive oil consumption
- A/C and HVAC problems
- Engine problems
Overall, we consider the 2015 Sierra 1500 to be the least reliable GMC model—not only for its 20 recalls and reported 611 complaints to the
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
(NHTSA) but also for its likelihood to experience more issues at lower mileage (not to mention higher repair costs).
For a complete breakdown of the most common GMC problems in the models on the market in 2022, check out this table:
Model | Starting price | J.D. Power reliability rating | Most common problems | Years to avoid |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Sierra 1500 | $34,745 | 84/100 | Poor quality headlights, brittle interior door handles, dashboard cracking | 2014, 2015 |
Acadia | $35,945 | 76/100 | Engine problems, A/C problems, faulty power steering | First Generation 2008, Second Generation 2012 and 2013, Third Generation 2016 and 2017 |
Yukon | $54,095 | 73/100 | A/C problems, tail light failure, transmission problems | 2003, 2007, 2015 |
Terrain | $29,095 | 83/100 | Stability control system malfunctions, A/C problems, engine problems | 2010-2013 |
Envoy | $31,370 | 84/100 | Exhaust leaks, excessive oil consumption, engine problems | 2003, 2004 |
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4.7/5 rating on the App Store | Trusted by 5+ million customers and 7 million cars4.7/5 app rating | Trusted by 5M+ driversMost common GMC Sierra 1500 problems
Average annual repair cost: $727
CarComplaints.com complaints: 1,249
The GMC
Sierra 1500
is notable for its high safety ratings and resale value, but owners still have their fair share of complaints about the Sierra 1500’s performance. The most common problems associated with more recent models include low-quality headlights, dashboard cracking, and brittle interior handles. Older models have also had problems with dashboard cracking and faulty fuel pumps.
Most common GMC Acadia problems
Average annual repair cost: $734
CarComplaints.com complaints: 801
GMC Acadias
have a more user-friendly feel compared to other professional-grade cars on the market, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they experience fewer problems. Most notably, Acadia owners with models from the early 2010s complain of intermittent A/C caused by evaporator leaks. Additionally, Acadias made between 2008 and 2011 have experienced troubling engine problems, including sudden slowing or stopping, and a loss of power to the engine without warning.
Resolving engine issues in your Acadia could cost as much as $7,000. Other common problems associated with Acadias include faulty power steering, transmission trouble, and premature breaking of the timing belt.
Timing belt replacement
costs are at least $500.Most common GMC Yukon problems
Average annual repair cost: $747
CarComplaints.com complaints: 645
Yukons are one of GMC’s most reliable full-size SUVs, but they’re not entirely without fault. Yukon owners tend to have problems with the vehicle’s HVAC system—specifically, with condenser failures, which prevent your car from blowing cool air.
AC condenser replacement
costs can be hundreds of dollars.Faulty tail lights are another common Yukon problem, and drivers of the 2015 and 2016 models report experiencing dangerous transmission failures as well.
Most common GMC Terrain problems
Average annual repair cost: $558
CarComplaints.com complaints: 572
GMC Terrains
can last an impressive 300,000 miles if properly taken care of—but throughout its lifespan, you may encounter problems with the engine, airbags, transmission, and HVAC system. 2013 Terrain owners have reported widespread engine issues, from excessive oil consumption to stalling and low engine power, and the transmissions in 2011 models may fail at as early as 88,000 miles.
The airbags in 2017 models have also been reported to fail or malfunction, causing the potential for serious injury in the event of a collision.
Most common GMC Envoy problems
Average annual repair cost: $497
CarComplaints.com complaints: 399
Although
GMC Envoys
are an older breed, they stand the test of time as an overall reliable SUV. The problems that Envoy drivers experience are typically less serious and include blower fan malfunctions, faulty cluster gauges, and exhaust leaks. Engine problems and gas leaks are among the more serious (and costly) concerns.
Are GMC cars reliable?
In general, GMC cars receive fair ratings for reliability from experts like Repair Pal and J.D. Power. Of the 32 brands ranked by Repair Pal for 2022, GMC placed 22nd, with average repair costs of just $744 a year—making it a generally reliable car.
The least reliable GMC model: 2015 Sierra 1500
Most common problem: 4WD Sensor Switch Failure
NHTSA complaints: 613
Overall, the 2015 GMC Sierra 1500 ranks as their least reliable model. Nearly 500 Sierra owners have complained of the 4WD sensor/selector switch failing, making the vehicle’s 4WD feature unavailable. Other car sensors—including the fuel level sensor—have also been known to fail, and HVAC issues are common in this model as well.
The most reliable GMC model: 2020 GMC Terrain
Most common problem: Issues with Vehicle Speed Control
NHTSA complaints: 31
On the flip side, the 2020 Terrain is considered GMC’s most reliable model, with minimal reported complaints and average annual repair costs under $500. Not only does this model promise one of the most comfortable rides, but it also comes with a variety of integrated features. You can even
remote start your GMC Terrain
! The Terrain also has tons of storage—even the front passenger seat folds down flat.How to buy hassle-free car insurance
It’s important to do research on car makes and models before jumping into a big decision—and the same can be said for your
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FAQs
How long do GMCs last?
The exact lifespan of your GMC depends on factors like the model and age of your vehicle, but on average, GMC cars have been known to last between 150,000 and 300,000 miles.
Why is GMC unreliable?
Reliability isn’t just about performance—it’s also about the cost of maintenance when things go wrong. GMCs tend to see engine and transmission problems across the board, which can get pricey (easily $1,000 or more) to repair.
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