GMC Acadia Years to Avoid (Explained)

Even if the GMC Acadia is thought to be a well-rounded and spacious vehicle for some SUV fanatics, the same car model has experienced some continuing issues throughout its history.

At first, it started with some slight issues but it proceeded with some safety disturbances that led to customer criticism and a reputation downfall.

That is why it would be best for you to avoid some of its model years so that you won’t end up with regrets when purchasing it. Read below to find out which are the years that bring safety concerns and other potential vehicle problems.

GMC Acadia – General Overview

This particular car has been on the market since 2006; bringing plenty of baggage room as well as seating space to complete the requirements of any driver.

The first generation of this vehicle was brought up as a full-size SUV; however, for some competition matter the second generation of the GMC Acadia downgraded its model into a mid-size SUV, which happened in 2017 continuing today.

Due to having only two generations; this model does not bring a lot of years that should be avoided; however, those that exist should be kept in mind so that you would not face inconveniences.

Also Read: Which Ford Focus Should be Avoided

Which GMC Acadia Years Should You Avoid?

The GMC Acadia is a crossover vehicle that brings reliability and spacious comfort, however, some of this car’s models might not offer you that. This happens due to them experiencing some electrical and engine issues throughout the years.

The GMC Acadia years you might consider avoidable include: 2008, 2012 & 2013, 2017 & 2018. Let us see briefly which are the reasons behind this categorization.

2008 GMC Acadia

The model of this year was a part of the first generation of the GMC Acadia which brought several issues in mostly all of the model years. The 2008 GMC Acadia especially was tough to handle because of the extensive transmission issues.

The value of this model year immediately fell since with the transmission issues you get to spend a huge amount of money on repair, and nobody wants to waste money just to end up with a continuous transmission failure.

Another thing to keep in mind related to this model year is that occasionally it had an engine shutdown while on the road, risking the driver’s life. On the other hand, it had some outstanding features that could boost the driver’s experience.

2012 & 2013 GMC Acadia

Most of the mechanical issues were solved through the first generation, however, further issues appeared during the 2012 & 2013 model years.

Most of the issues were a part of the 2012 model year bringing four different recalls, and although the issues were most likely repaired, this model year still puts owners in trouble.

As for the 2013 model year, it is known that it had a major number of engine problems, which also led to a repair that costs a huge amount of money. Other issues that were common with this model year were; coolant leaks and inaccurate oil levels.

2017 & 2018 GMC Acadia

With the start of the second generation, the GMC Acadia showed up with two model years that came with some additional issues. The most common issue known to happen during these years was the malfunctioning driveshaft.

An element of the vehicle had a habit of detaching while in movement, which led to evident hazardous driving. Another thing that appeared to be an issue was that even if the car was parked it could glide downward.

Other minor issues were common with these model years such as faulty, seatbelts, airbags, tires, and other mechanical elements. Also, the failure of the high-pressure fuel pumps led to leakage and causes fire in some cases.

Also Read: Which Acura RDX Should be Avoided

Are there best years of GMC Acadia?

With the guide of GMC Acadia years to avoid, you can end up with some of the best model years that this vehicle type has to offer.

As it is commonly known, the latest years of vehicle models bring with them fewer issues than the early ones. That is why you should always consider buying the latest model vehicles because of a potential technological improvement.

With proper maintenance these SUVs can last for about 200,000 miles, meaning you can get a car that can be driven for 13 to 14 years. Let’s see which are the best years that GMC Acadia has to offer.

2015 GMC Acadia

This model year comes as the last model of the GMC Acadia’s first generation. The cabin has a major space with up to 116.1 cu-ft of cargo capacity making the model achieve its selling point.

2016 GMC Acadia

The known features that this model year tends to provide are great safety, comfortable ride, roomy interior, and standard reliability.

Also Read: Which Volkswagen Golf GTI Should be Avoided

Final Words

Every car model tends to bring model years that come with mechanical issues, just like in this case with the GMC Acadia.

Some of them may not be hazardous, but others can put your life at risk; that is why it is best to do better research ahead of time. If you read the article, then you already learned important points related to this vehicle that will aid you with your research.

The GMC Acadia’s best model years besides offering you a spacious interior they are great at giving you a comfortable and safe ride.

I hope you find some helpful information regarding GMC Acadia’s years to avoid and that you got yourself a clearer sense of what you should be aware of and what should you consider as purchasable.