2017 GMC Acadia Limited

The 2017 GMC Acadia Limited is a mid-size SUV that offered a comfortable ride, spacious interior, and decent fuel economy. It was exclusively available with a 3.6L V6 engine producing 310 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praised the Acadia Limited for its smooth ride and ample cargo space. Common dislikes included its less responsive handling and sometimes-unintuitive infotainment system.

Category Engine

3.6L V6

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than normal oil consumption, requiring frequent oil top-offs between scheduled oil changes. This can lead to engine damage if not monitored. Symptoms include low oil level warnings and visible exhaust smoke in some cases.
  • Solution: There isn’t a universally agreed-upon fix. Some have success with replacing the PCV valve, while others require more extensive engine work like piston ring replacement to address the oil consumption issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain can stretch or fail prematurely, leading to engine misfires, rough running, and potential engine damage. Symptoms can include a check engine light with codes related to timing, rattling noises from the engine, and decreased performance.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, sprockets, and tensioners.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported harsh or erratic shifting between gears, as well as hesitation or delay when accelerating. This can be particularly noticeable during shifts between 1st and 2nd gear.
  • Solution: In some cases, a transmission fluid flush and software update can resolve the issue. In more severe cases, valve body replacement or a complete transmission rebuild/replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature wear or failure of struts and shocks, leading to a bouncy or unstable ride, excessive body roll during turns, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected struts or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per axle
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced unexplained battery drain, leading to difficulty starting the vehicle or a completely dead battery. This can be intermittent and difficult to diagnose.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the parasitic draw causing the battery drain. This may involve tracing the circuit and identifying the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, Crashing, Inconsistent Bluetooth connectivity
  • Solution: Resetting the system, Software update, or complete radio replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $1500
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Liftgate Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The power liftgate may fail to open or close properly. This can be due to a faulty liftgate motor, damaged struts, or issues with the liftgate latch.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Air Conditioning Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Inconsistent or weak AC performance, failure to blow cold air, or unusual noises coming from the AC system. This can be due to a refrigerant leak, compressor failure, or a faulty blend door actuator.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the AC system. This may involve recharging the refrigerant, replacing the compressor, or replacing the blend door actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 GMC Acadia Limited has several common issues to be aware of. Engine problems such as excessive oil consumption and timing chain issues can be costly and are generally considered a moderate to severe issue. Transmission issues may vary in severity, with some cases resolved by a fluid flush, while others require more significant repairs. Electrical issues like battery drain and infotainment problems can be frustrating but are generally less expensive to fix. Suspension and exterior issues, such as strut failure and liftgate malfunctions, can also add to the overall cost of ownership. Addressing these potential problems proactively can help maintain the vehicle’s reliability.