2012 GMC Acadia

The 2012 GMC Acadia is a full-size crossover SUV that was popular for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and car-like handling. The 2012 Acadia only came with one engine option, the 3.6L LLT V6 engine, which produced approximately 288 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. It was paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally liked the Acadia’s passenger and cargo space, while common dislikes included fuel economy and some reliability concerns.

Engine

3.6L LLT V6

• Timing Chain Wear/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine may exhibit a rattling noise upon startup, especially when cold. Check engine light may illuminate with codes related to timing chain performance, such as P0008 or P0017. The vehicle may experience rough idling, reduced power, and potential stalling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chains, tensioners, guides, and potentially the camshaft actuators.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• High Pressure Fuel Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine may fail to start. Check engine light may illuminate with codes related to fuel delivery. The vehicle may experience rough idling, reduced power, and potential stalling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the high-pressure fuel pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (6T70)

• Wave Plate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, slipping between gears, or complete loss of certain gears. The check engine light may illuminate.
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement, including the installation of a revised wave plate.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+ for a rebuild or replacement
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Wear of Struts and Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy or unstable ride, excessive body roll during turns, and increased stopping distances.
  • Solution: Replacement of the struts and/or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ per axle
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wheel Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding or humming noise from the wheel area, especially noticeable at higher speeds. Excessive play in the wheel when checked.
  • Solution: Wheel bearing replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600 per wheel
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Liftgate Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Power liftgate may fail to open or close properly. May exhibit intermittent operation or complete failure.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the liftgate motor, struts, or latch assembly. Check for broken wires in the harness leading to the liftgate.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Ajar Sensor Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The “door ajar” warning light may remain illuminated even when all doors are closed properly. This can drain the battery and prevent the remote key fob from locking the doors.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door ajar sensor in the affected door.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Liftgate Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust appearing on the lower edge of the rear liftgate, often near the license plate area. This is due to water and salt accumulation.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the liftgate, depending on the severity of the rust.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+ depending on repair vs. replacement
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Air Conditioning Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Insufficient cooling, especially from the rear vents. The A/C compressor may fail prematurely.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the A/C compressor, condenser, or other components of the A/C system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard, particularly in areas exposed to sunlight.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 GMC Acadia, while offering space and comfort, has some notable issues that potential buyers should be aware of. The most significant concerns revolve around the engine, specifically the timing chain wear, which can lead to costly repairs. Transmission issues, particularly wave plate failure, are also common. Other problems include suspension wear, electrical malfunctions, and potential rust issues. Overall, the severity of these issues ranges from moderate to severe, and the cost to fix can be significant, making a thorough inspection before purchase crucial.