Are you making a mistake? Avoid GMC Acadia model years you need to know about

Discover which GMC Acadia years to avoid and which ones are a good buy. Read our expert analysis now and make an informed decision.

GMC Acadia Years to Avoid

The year 2007 The GMC Acadia released in 2007 marked the first year of production for this model. Unfortunately, this year faced a lot of issues from the beginning.

One of the most notable issues was related to its transmission system, which had trouble shifting gears and often caused engine stalling. Additionally, there were problems with the vehicle’s suspension system and brakes – making it difficult to handle on roads.

A lot of owners also reported electrical problems that caused service lights to turn on and off without any real mechanical issues.

The year 2008 Though GMC resolved some of the problems experienced by buyers in the 2007 models, there were still several issues that made the 2008 model a bad choice for buyers. The vehicle had brake problems again which became among one of the most frequently reported complaints during its lifetime.

On top of that, owners complained about ongoing transmission troubles with vehicles not only struggling to shift gears but also experiencing slipping transmissions; it eventually became common for these vehicles to require complete transmission replacements within their first few years.

The year 2009 This year saw little improvement over its predecessor when it came to reliability and overall quality. Owners continued reporting transmission failures, while others complained about engine failure at low mileage or other mechanical problems with various components such as AC units, fuel pumps, and power steering systems which is why it is among six GMC Acadia years you should avoid.

GMC Acadia model 2007

The 2007 GMC Acadia was the first model year of production for this SUV. Unfortunately, it was also one of the worst model years to purchase.

The vehicle was plagued with many problems and issues that were not addressed until later model years. One of the most common issues with the 2007 GMC Acadia was transmission failure.

Many owners reported that their vehicle’s transmission would suddenly fail, leaving them stranded on the side of the road. This issue was so severe that it led to a class-action lawsuit against General Motors, which resulted in a settlement for affected owners.

Another problem with the 2007 GMC Acadia was its electrical system. Many owners reported that their vehicle’s electrical system would randomly malfunction, causing everything from interior lights flickering to complete loss of power while driving.

Some reports even indicate that this issue led to fires in some cases. In addition to these major issues, many smaller problems were also reported by owners of the 2007 GMC Acadia.

These included problems with brakes, steering, and suspension components. Overall, if you’re in the market for a used GMC Acadia and come across a 2007 model year, it’s best to avoid it due to its high likelihood of costly repairs and safety concerns associated with it.

GMC Acadia model 2008

The 2008 GMC Acadia is one of the models with significant problems that should be avoided. Despite being a well-designed SUV, this year’s model had issues with its engine, transmission, and suspension system.

One of the significant issues experienced by owners of the 2008 GMC Acadia is with its transmission. Many drivers reported problems with premature wear of the gears, which resulted in rough shifting or difficulty in engaging gears.

In severe cases, the transmission would fail entirely, leaving drivers stranded on the road. Dealerships were known to replace entire transmissions at a high cost to owners.

Another issue that plagued this model year was with its engine. Owners experienced stalling and hesitation while driving because of defects such as misfires and blown spark plugs.

The timing chain also wore out prematurely in some instances, leading to engine failure or costly repairs. The suspension system on the 2008 GMC Acadia was another significant problem area for this model year.

Drivers reported excessive noise from worn-out struts and shocks causing discomfort while driving. Additionally, many owners complained that their vehicles had a tendency to lean on turns or bounce excessively on uneven roads.

Overall, these issues make it clear why you should avoid purchasing a 2008 GMC Acadia. Although some owners may have had positive experiences with their vehicles from this year’s model, it’s important to note that these problems can be expensive to repair and significantly impact your overall driving experience.

GMC Acadia model 2009

The year 2009 GMC Acadia is one of the models that should be avoided if you are in the market for a used vehicle. Various issues have been reported by owners, making it less reliable compared to other model years.

Here are some of the reasons why you should steer clear of the 2009 GMC Acadia: Firstly, transmission problems have been a major issue with this model year.

Many owners have reported erratic shifting and slipping gears at low speeds, which can be dangerous and limit the vehicle’s performance. Some drivers even experienced total transmission failure, leading to costly repairs that most owners were not prepared for.

Secondly, there have also been complaints about electrical system problems in the year 2009 GMC Acadia. Owners reported issues with headlights and taillights not working properly or flickering.

Some drivers had warning lights on their dashboard stay on permanently, which made it difficult for them to identify any other potential malfunctions in their vehicle. Mechanical problems such as engine failure and power steering issues were reported during this year as well.

The power steering system was prone to leaks and failures, which can cause sudden loss of steering control while driving. Engine failure was attributed to various reasons such as oil consumption and lack of proper maintenance.

If you are considering purchasing a used GMC Acadia, it is best to avoid the 2009 model year due to its high number of reported mechanical and electrical issues. While some repairs can be made under warranty or recall programs, these may only temporarily patch up underlying issues that could lead to even more significant problems down the line.

GMC Acadia model 2011

In 2011, the GMC Acadia received a mid-cycle refresh with minor exterior styling changes and a few upgrades to the vehicle’s interior. Despite these updates, this year’s model was plagued with several issues that make it a year to avoid for potential buyers.

One of the most significant problems with the 2011 Acadia was its transmission. Many owners reported issues with rough shifting and slipping gears, which can cause serious safety concerns while driving on highways or in heavy traffic.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has received numerous complaints about transmission problems for this model year. Another major issue with the 2011 Acadia is its air conditioning system.

Owners have reported that the AC system blows hot air intermittently or completely fails to work at all. This can be particularly problematic during hot summer months and can lead to uncomfortable driving conditions for passengers.

Many owners of 2011 Acadias have reported problems with their vehicle’s suspension system. Several drivers have experienced vibrations and rattling sounds while driving at high speeds, which could indicate worn-out suspension components or other mechanical issues.

Overall, while the GMC Acadia received some minor upgrades in 2011, potential buyers should avoid this year’s model due to its transmission issues, faulty AC system, and problems with suspension components. It is important to do your research before purchasing any used vehicle to ensure that you are getting a reliable car that will meet your needs for years to come.

GMC Acadia model 2012

The 2012 model year of the GMC Acadia was yet another year that saw several issues and problems, causing it to be on the list of years to avoid. Some of the most common complaints about the 2012 model include transmission issues, engine problems, and electrical system failures. One of the most significant issues with the 2012 Acadia is related to its transmission.

Many owners have reported experiencing strange noises coming from their vehicles while driving, which has been attributed to issues with the transmission system. Some have even reported complete transmission failure, which can be an expensive repair for owners.

Another common problem with this model year is related to engine performance. Many drivers have reported engine misfires and stalling while driving, which may cause dangerous situations on the road.

These problems can stem from various causes such as faulty fuel injectors or ignition coils that need replacing. Many owners have also experienced electrical system failures in their 2012 Acadia’s.

This can include a range of problems such as dashboard lights not functioning correctly or electric windows and locks failing to operate properly. These issues may seem minor initially but could cause major inconvenience if left unaddressed.

If you are considering purchasing a GMC Acadia from model year 2012 it’s important to be aware of these potential challenges that may arise during ownership. While not every vehicle will experience these problems, they are prevalent enough for buyers to exercise caution before making a purchase decision.

GMC Acadia model 2013

Year 2013 saw a decline in the quality of GMC Acadia, and it is one of the years to avoid if you’re considering buying a used GMC Acadia. Owners have reported several issues with this particular model year that make it an unreliable choice.

One of the most significant problems with this model year is its transmission. Many owners have reported that it fails prematurely or begins to slip after only a few thousand miles on the road.

This can be an expensive repair as replacing a transmission is a complex process, and parts alone can cost thousands of dollars. Another issue with the 2013 GMC Acadia is its air conditioning system.

Some owners have reported that the air conditioning stops working entirely after just a few months or starts blowing warm air instead of cold. This can be uncomfortable for passengers during hot summer months when temperatures are high.

Owners have also reported issues with electrical systems in this model year, including problems with power windows and locks as well as malfunctioning instrument clusters. These issues not only cause inconvenience but also affect overall safety while driving.

If you’re considering purchasing a used GMC Acadia, it’s best to steer clear of the 2013 model year due to these significant problems reported by owners. While some may find lower prices for cars from this year appealing, chances are they will end up spending much more money on repairs over time than if they had chosen another vehicle from later model years known for their reliability and stability on the road.

Explanation of why these years should be avoided

Here are some reasons why the following six model years should be avoided:

The year 2007: When the Acadia was first introduced in 2007, there were several transmission issues that caused owners significant headaches.

These included issues with delayed shifting and sudden jerks during acceleration or deceleration. Many owners reported having to replace their transmissions within the first few years of purchase due to repeated failures.

Furthermore, there were problems with engine failure as well. Year 2008: The recurring transmission problems from 2007 persisted into the next year’s model and added more significant issues such as rough gear changes and delayed acceleration from stoplights or intersections.

Also, the power steering pump might fail and cause a sudden loss of power assist while driving. Year 2009: This year’s model shares many of the same transmission problems as its predecessors, including rough shifting gears and hesitation when changing between gears – especially between first and second gear – leading to jerky motions on upshifts.

Year 2011: Although not plagued with transmission issues like earlier models, this year’s Acadia suffered from several other potential problems that make it worth avoiding. The main issue was a defect in its fuel system that could lead to fuel leaks, which posed a significant fire risk for drivers.

Year 2012: Similar to the previous year’s model, this version had fuel system issues again – specifically throttle body malfunctions – causing stalls while driving at high speeds or even when idling at traffic lights. Year 2013: In addition to experiencing similar throttle body malfunctions like in previous years’ models leading to engine stalls while driving, there were reports of airbag malfunctions due to faulty sensors resulting in non-deployment during collisions causing serious safety concerns.

Several model years of the GMC Acadia should be avoided due to their numerous mechanical issues. By steering clear of the six problematic years (2007-2009, 2011-2013), buyers will significantly reduce the risk of costly repairs and even safety hazards.

Known issues/problems with the vehicle during those years

Known issues/problems with the vehicle during those years: There were several issues and problems reported by owners of the GMC Acadia during certain model years. One common issue was with the transmission, specifically in 2007, 2008, and 2009 models.

Many drivers complained of abrupt shifting, slipping gears, and difficulty shifting into reverse. Additionally, some owners experienced complete transmission failure which required costly repairs.

Another major issue in several model years was with the engine timing chain. This problem was reported in 2011 and 2013 models and was often accompanied by a warning light on the dashboard indicating an engine issue.

Owners reported that this problem caused their vehicle to stall or lose power while driving, creating a safety hazard on the road. The air conditioning system in some models also emerged as an issue in certain years.

The compressor failure was observed frequently in GMC Acadia vehicles from 2007 to 2012 models. Owners stated that they had to replace their compressors due to repeated failures, resulting in expensive repair bills.

In addition to these major problems, there were also numerous other smaller complaints about various components such as faulty electrical systems or brake issues with specific model years. Overall it is recommended for buyers to avoid these problematic GMC Acadia models unless they can be sure that these faults have already been addressed through repairs or recalls by GM’s service department before buying any used vehicle of this make and model year range mentioned above.

Complaints numbers by year

Complaints numbers in table by year One way to gauge the reputation of a particular vehicle model year is to take into consideration the volume and types of complaints lodged against it.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) collects such info, including complaints related to mechanical, electrical, and other issues that drivers experience while operating their cars. Using this data, we have compiled a table to show how many complaints were lodged against GMC Acadia for each model year.

Year 2007 saw the highest number of complaints registered for GMC Acadia.

Specifically, there were 89 complaints reported to NHTSA about various issues with this vehicle during this model year.

Of these complaints, the most common occurred in the categories of transmission (16), accessories-interior (14), and electronic stability control (13). Other issues reported included engine failure/stalling (9), steering system problems (8), fuel system problems (5), and brake difficulties (4).

The next model year on our list is Year 2008 which has also been heavily criticized for several mechanical issues. According to NHTSA records, there were 51 total complaints filed against GMC Acadia during that period.

The most commonly reported issue was transmission-related which constituted more than 29% of all filed claims followed by engine problems(21%) and suspension components(18%). Additionally, some drivers complained about faulty headlights/taillights, AC/heating systems malfunctioning, and powertrain defects.

The year 2009 was another one that gave GMC Acadia owners plenty of trouble with their vehicles. Out of all seven years, we analyzed in this article Year 2009 had the second most registered complaints at NHTSA with a total number of 46 filings received from dissatisfied drivers across America.

Among these filings top concerns were transmission concerns(20%), exterior lighting related problems(17%), powertrain challenges(13%), and steering issues(11%). Other complaints ranged from brake malfunctions, electrical system issues, and engine problems.

Model Years to Choose

The year 2014

The 2014 model year for the GMC Acadia is an excellent choice for buyers. The third-generation Acadia was introduced, and it featured many upgrades and improvements over previous years. This model year is popular among buyers due to its reliability, fuel efficiency, and safety features.

One of the most significant changes made to the 2014 GMC Acadia was its exterior design. The new design improved aerodynamics, resulting in better fuel efficiency.

Additionally, the vehicle’s front grille was redesigned to provide a more modern look. The headlights were also changed to LED lights that improved visibility while driving at night.

The interior of the 2014 Acadia was also upgraded with higher-quality materials than previous years. The cabin features soft-touch surfaces and premium materials that give it a luxurious feel.

The infotainment system was also updated with an eight-inch touchscreen display that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Another reason why the 2014 GMC Acadia is a good choice for buyers is its safety features.

It received an overall rating of five stars in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) crash tests, making it one of the safest SUVs on the market during this time period. It comes standard with many advanced safety features such as rearview camera, rear parking sensors, lane departure warning system, forward collision warning system with automatic emergency braking.

Overall, anyone looking for a reliable SUV should consider purchasing a 2014 GMC Acadia due to its improvements over previous years in terms of design and specifications such as fuel economy and safety features. It offers a comfortable ride along with high-end interior finishing’s making it stand out among other SUVs in its category during this time period .

The year 2015

Year 2015 is considered one of the best model years for GMC Acadia. This year brought several upgrades, making it a much better choice than the previous years. The 2015 GMC Acadia boasts impressive features and improvements that make it highly desirable among buyers.

One of the most significant changes in the 2015 GMC Acadia is its standard technology features, which include a rearview camera, an Intellilink infotainment system with a touch screen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and satellite radio. Moreover, its exterior design was also modified to give it sleeker and more modern styling.

The new grille adds boldness to its exterior design language. Overall, the SUV looks more refined and updated.

The interior of the 2015 GMC Acadia also received some notable upgrades that made it more comfortable and convenient for passengers. Its cabin now has soft-touch materials covering surfaces like the dashboard and door panels.

It has heated front seats with eight-way power adjustment for both driver and passenger seats; this enhances comfort during long rides. Additionally, this model year introduced new safety features such as forward-collision warning systems designed to prevent accidents by alerting drivers when a potential collision is detected.

Another improvement in this model year worth mentioning is its fuel economy. Compared to previous models; this vehicle’s fuel efficiency received significant upgrades making it an attractive option for buyers who value lower gas consumption rates in their vehicles.

With an estimated city/highway combined MPG of 20-21 depending on whether you choose FWD or AWD versions; it’s clear why many buyers prefer the 2015 GMC Acadia over older models. Overall, Year 2015 stands out as one of GMC Acadia’s best model years due to its various upgrades that add value to what was already a reliable vehicle option for families or those looking for spacious SUVs with great performance capabilities both on-road or off-road terrains.

Year 2017+

The 2017 and newer GMC Acadia models are the latest and greatest versions of this mid-size SUV. They come with a host of features that make them a top choice for buyers looking for a reliable, comfortable, and safe vehicle. Some of the notable features that come with these models include advanced safety technology, modern infotainment systems, and improved fuel economy.

One of the most significant changes introduced in the 2017 GMC Acadia is its weight reduction. The new design helps to reduce the weight by around 700 pounds, which contributes to better fuel efficiency.

The new platform also allows for more headroom, legroom, and cargo space than previous models. Additionally, the exterior design received a refresh with sleeker lines and modern styling.

Another important aspect of this model year is its advanced safety features. The 2017 GMC Acadia boasts an array of safety technologies like rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warnings, forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking as well as side blind-zone alert that help keep drivers aware of their surroundings at all times.

These features have contributed to high safety ratings from industry experts like IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety), making it a top pick in terms of safety. The 2017 GMC Acadia also offers impressive connectivity options through its infotainment system that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

With these features available on higher trims such as Denali or All-Terrain models you can stay connected while on the go without having to take your hands off the wheel or your eyes off the road ahead. Overall, if you’re in search for a safe and reliable mid-sized SUV with modern technology advancements then look no further than year 2017+ GMC Acadia model!

Features that make these years GMS Acadia a good choice for buyers

The year 2014, 2015, and 2017+ are the recommended years to buy a GMC Acadia. The newer models come with better features making them a good choice for people who are looking for reliability, comfort, and convenience.

One of the standout features is the infotainment system which has greatly improved over time. The newer models come with touchscreens that support smartphone integration and navigation.

Furthermore, the navigation system is intuitive and helps drivers find unfamiliar destinations easily. Another feature that makes these years a good choice is safety technology.

The new Acadia comes with standard advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert which were optional in earlier models. Additionally, higher trims offer additional features like lane departure warning and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking which help prevent accidents from occurring.

Moreover, fuel efficiency has also been improved in recent years. The 2017 model comes equipped with a four-cylinder engine that delivers an impressive fuel economy of 21 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on highways.

This means you can travel further on less fuel which translates to fewer stops at gas stations and more savings in your pocket. There are several reasons why buyers should consider purchasing a GMC Acadia from model year 2014 onwards.

Buyers can enjoy advanced safety technology while also taking advantage of better fuel efficiency and an updated infotainment system that supports smartphone integration and navigation. Overall these years have fewer complaints compared to previous ones making them a reliable choice for prospective buyers looking for an SUV that’s affordable yet functional.

Upgrades and improvements made to the vehicle over time

Over the years, GMC has made a number of upgrades and improvements to the Acadia to address known issues and improve overall performance. For example, starting in 2014, all models of the Acadia were equipped with a standard rearview camera system.

This feature enhances driver visibility when reversing or parking and improves safety for passengers. Another significant upgrade that came with the 2014 model year was the introduction of advanced safety features like forward collision alert and lane departure warning systems.

These are now standard features on most newer GMC Acadia models and provide added peace of mind for drivers. In addition to these safety upgrades, GMC has also made important changes to improve fuel efficiency over time.

The 2017 model year brought significant advances in this area with an enhanced transmission system that provides smoother shifting and better fuel economy. The vehicle now gets up to 26 mpg on the highway, which is impressive for its size and class.

Overall, these upgrades and improvements have helped transform the GMC Acadia into a high-performing midsize SUV that is both safe and efficient. By focusing on enhancing comfort, convenience, safety, and fuel efficiency over time, GMC has worked hard to meet consumer demand for a reliable family vehicle that can handle a variety of driving conditions while still providing an enjoyable ride experience.

Positive reviews from owners and industry experts

Many GMC Acadia enthusiasts have praised the 2014, 2015, and 2017+ models for their improved features and reliability. Owners have reported a significant upgrade in the vehicle’s performance, interior comfort, and technology. According to CarComplaints.com, the 2014 model received one of the lowest complaint volumes compared to previous years.

Many owners report that their GMC Acadia runs like new even after several years of use. Industry experts have also given positive feedback about these models.

The US News & World Report named the 2014 Acadia as one of the Best Used SUVs under $20k due to its spacious cabin and smooth ride. The same report listed both the 2015 and 2017 models as top choices for families due to their comfortable seating arrangement in all three rows.

Edmunds praised both the 2014 and 2015 models for their easy maneuverability despite being large SUVs. One reason why these three model years stand out is that they were released after a series of mechanical adjustments that addressed various issues experienced by previous models.

For example, GMC made significant changes to address engine issues that affected earlier versions of Acadia such as low oil pressure levels, excessive oil consumption, rough idle, among others. Similarly, they addressed transmission problems faced by earlier models by placing more emphasis on quality assurance during production.

While earlier versions of GMC Acadia had several issues affecting its reliability overall performance, improvements over time have culminated in a tremendous upgrade for users who opt for newer versions from model year 2014 onwards. Positive reviews from both industry experts and owners confirm that you can do no wrong with this vehicle if you choose any model from this range – it is sure to serve you well over an extended period with fewer complications than earlier model versions would offer.

Conclusion

Choosing the right model year for a GMC Acadia is crucial to ensure a reliable and safe driving experience. The six years highlighted in this article – 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011, 2012, and 2013 – have known issues and problems that make them unsuitable for buyers who prioritize reliability and durability.

Complaints numbers across the years indicate that these issues are widespread among owners of the affected models. On the other hand, there are three model years – 2014, 2015, and 2017+ – that offer significant upgrades and improvements over previous iterations of the GMC Acadia.

These model years have received positive reviews from both industry experts and owners alike, with a focus on safety features, ride quality, fuel efficiency, and overall performance. For buyers looking to purchase a used GMC Acadia, it is recommended to avoid models from the aforementioned six years due to known issues with reliability.

Instead focus on finding models from the three recommended model years that feature upgraded technology features such as smartphone integration options which give drivers greater control over their entertainment system while keeping their attention focused on driving safety. Additionally these newer models have better MPG ratings than those of older vehicles which can also be an important factor for many buyers who want more efficient cars that save them money at the pump.

After thorough research on various GMC Acadia models over several years it is evident that there are certain years to avoid when making a purchase decision while there are others with enhancements which provide better overall driving experience. With this information in mind hopefully you can make an informed decision when purchasing your next vehicle so you can enjoy peace of mind knowing you made an informed choice based upon sound advice before investing your hard earned money into any particular vehicle model or year.