2004 GMC Canyon

Introduction:

The 2004 GMC Canyon is a midsize pickup truck known for its rugged capability and versatility. It came with two engine options: a 2.8L I-4 and a 3.5L I-5. The 2.8L I-4 produced 175 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque, while the 3.5L I-5 generated 220 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission.

Owners appreciate the Canyon’s towing capacity, off-road capabilities, and spacious interior. However, it has also faced criticism for its outdated design, poor fuel economy, and limited safety features.

Engine

2.8L I-4

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, engine overheating
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cylinder Head Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, white smoke from exhaust
  • Solution: Replace cylinder head gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L I-5

• Timing Chain Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine rattling, reduced power
  • Solution: Replace timing chain and related components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Valve Seat Recession:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine knocking, reduced power
  • Solution: Replace intake valve seats
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• No Issues Found

4-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Slipping:
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation or slippage during gear shifts
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission overheating, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Suspension Strut Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises, reduced handling
  • Solution: Replace struts and mounts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Leaf Spring Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging suspension, excessive body roll
  • Solution: Replace leaf springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, difficulty starting
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine won’t crank
  • Solution: Replace starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface
  • Solution: Replace dashboard
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Window Motor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows won’t open or close properly
  • Solution: Replace window motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2004 GMC Canyon is a capable pickup truck with some known issues. While engine and transmission problems can be severe and costly, other issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix. Overall, the severity and cost of potential issues should be considered before purchasing a used Canyon.