2021 GMC Canyon: common problems and reliability

The 2021 GMC Canyon has 10 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 2 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are power train and air bags. Owners most often flag poor real-world fuel economy (2.7l turbo) — reports of 13.5 - 19.8 mpg, significantly lower than expectations, particularly with all-terrain tires. frequency: recurrent.

Safety record for the 2021 model year

10
Owner complaints
2
Recalls
2
Crash reports
1
Fire reports

Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2021 GMC Canyon vehicles (US, public record).

Where owners report problems

power train
2
air bags
2
exterior lighting
1
back over prevention
1
steering
1

Recalls affecting the 2021 Canyon

seat belts

Campaign 20V811000

General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Chevrolet Bolt EV and 2021 GMC Canyon and Sierra 1500, 2500 and 3500, Yukon, Yukon XL, Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV and Chevrolet Blazer, Camaro, Colorado, Equinox…

equipment:other:labels

Campaign 21V497000

General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 GMC Canyon vehicles. The load carrying capacity printed on the Tire and Loading Information placard is 22.5 kg (51 lbs.) more than intended. As such, these vehicles fail…

What owners say across generations

Mixed to positive sentiment, heavily dependent on generation and powertrain. Long-term owners of the first-generation models (circa 2005-2012) report very high satisfaction with durability, describing them as "solid," "bulletproof," and capable of lasting well

  • Poor real-world fuel economy (2.7L Turbo) — Reports of 13.5 - 19.8 MPG, significantly lower than expectations, particularly with all-terrain tires. Frequency: recurrent.
  • Build quality / assembly issues (2024+ models) — Reports of loose frame bolts found under rear seats, suspension problems causing unstable highway ride, and general fit-and-finish concerns. Frequency: isolated.
  • Electrical problems (2024+ models) — Complete engine wiring harness failure due to rodent damage (attributed to soy-based coating), requiring replacement at low mileage. Other isolated reports of faulty ECMs causing no-start conditions and random stalling in earlier models. Frequency: isolated.
  • Transmission issues (specific model years) — Mention of "misbehaving" transmissions, particularly for the 2017 model year during a powertrain transition. Frequency: isolated.
  • Sensor and accessory failures (2015-2022 generation) — Reports of various engine/drivetrain sensor issues, AC compressor failure, and alternator replacement around 100,000+ miles. Frequency: isolated.

Owner insights cover all generations of the Canyon.

Typical used price

Used Canyon listings typically run $25,997–$39,790 across 2012 to 2026 model years.

Other Canyon model years

2023 Canyon2018 Canyon2017 Canyon2016 Canyon2015 Canyon2009 Canyon2007 Canyon2004 Canyon
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