Photo: Bull-Doser / Public domain / Wikimedia Commons
2021 GMC Canyon: common problems and reliability
· 2nd generationAn average Canyon year.
12 owner complaints, most about steering. 2 recalls.
Should I buy a 2021 Canyon?The 2021 GMC Canyon has 12 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 2 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are steering and power train. Owners most often flag transmission shuddering and shifting issues with the 8-speed automatic: owners report shuttering, confused shifting, and sticking in higher rpm ranges, with some recommending a transmission fluid change per a tsb or a tune to resolve.
Safety record for the 2021 model year
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2021 GMC Canyon vehicles (US, public record).
The Year Score compares this year with other Canyon years only. How we score it
Is 2021 a good year for the Canyon?
Across the 21 Canyon model years we track, complaint volume runs from 12 (2021) to 321 (2015). With 12 complaints, the 2021 Canyon sits below the model's median of 42.
These are raw NHTSA complaint totals, not adjusted for how many cars sold or how long each model year has been on the road. Older and higher-selling years accumulate more complaints.
Where owners report problems
Recalls affecting the 2021 Canyon
seat belts
Campaign 20V811000General 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, Silverado 1500, 2500 and 3500, Suburban and Tahoe vehicles. Incorrect bolts may have been used at one or more fastening locations to secure the seat belts to the vehicle. If an incorrect bolt was used, the seat belt may not be properly attached to the vehicle.
equipment:other:labels
Campaign 21V497000General 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 to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
What owners report on the 2nd generation Canyon
Owners of the 2015-2022 Canyon generally express positive feelings about the truck's driving dynamics, comfort, and technology, with several describing it as driving more like a car than a truck and praising its smooth, quiet ride.
- Very frequentTransmission shuddering and shifting issues with the 8-speed automatic
Owners report shuttering, confused shifting, and sticking in higher RPM ranges, with some recommending a transmission fluid change per a TSB or a tune to resolve.
- RecurrentTiming chain issues
Owners report timing chain problems requiring replacement, with one stating "needs a new timing chain/belt" and another noting it's "not uncommon at all.".
- RecurrentBattery drain
Owners of 2019 models report battery draining overnight or within days, with one owner stating it drained daily and another noting the battery was replaced but the issue persisted. Heated steering wheel use was suspected by one owner.
- RecurrentBluetooth connectivity issues
Owners report the radio showing "No Device Connected" even when phone functions are connected, requiring unplugging, re-syncing, or restarting the phone to resolve.
- RecurrentWater flowing sound from dashboard
Owners report hearing water flowing or gurgling sounds, often during engine warm-up, attributed to coolant passing through the heater core. One owner noted it's common across GM trucks and not a concern if coolant levels are stable.
Owner insights for the 2nd generation Canyon. Read the full 2nd generation owner report.
Typical used price
Used Canyon listings typically run $20,344–$36,188.
Other Canyon model years
Compare every Canyon year side by side to see how 2021 ranks against the rest.
Compare the Canyon against its rivals
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