2020 GMC Canyon
Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2020 GMC Canyon, organized by category and powertrain configuration. The 2020 GMC Canyon is a mid-size pickup truck that offers a blend of practicality and comfort. It is often praised for its maneuverability, comfortable ride (especially on higher trims), and user-friendly infotainment system. However, some owners have reported concerns regarding reliability and certain quality issues. Available engine options include a 2.5L inline-4 producing 200 horsepower and 191 lb-ft of torque, a 3.6L V6 making 308 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.8L Duramax Turbo-Diesel producing 181 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. The 2.5L inline-4 is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, while the 3.6L V6 and the 2.8L Duramax Turbo-Diesel is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
Engine
2.5L Inline-4
- Excessive Oil Consumption
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than expected oil consumption, requiring them to add oil between regularly scheduled oil changes. Symptoms include low oil level warnings and the need to frequently check and top off the oil.
- Solution: There isn’t a universal fix. Some owners have reported success with switching to a different brand or viscosity of oil. In more severe cases, piston ring replacement might be necessary, but this is less common on the 2.5L engine compared to other engines.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Variable, depending on the severity. Can range from under $100 for an oil change, to $2,000 - $5,000+ for engine work.
- Recalls: None Found
3.6L V6
- Lifter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Ticking noises originating from the top of the engine, misfires, rough idle, and potentially a check engine light. This is due to faulty lifters that wear prematurely, causing reduced engine performance and potential damage.
- Solution: Replacement of the affected lifters is the primary solution. In some cases, the camshaft may also need replacement if it has been damaged by the failing lifters.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Fuel Injector Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, reduced power, and a check engine light are common symptoms.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty fuel injector(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per injector
- Recalls: None Found
2.8L Duramax Turbo-Diesel
- Defective Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Cooler
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant loss, white smoke from the exhaust, and potential engine overheating. This is due to internal leaks within the EGR cooler.
- Solution: Replacement of the EGR cooler.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) System Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, reduced engine power, and messages related to DEF system malfunctions. Problems can stem from faulty DEF level sensors, DEF injectors, or the DEF pump.
- Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of the faulty DEF system component.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on the specific part needing replacement.
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
8-Speed Automatic Transmission (8L45/8L90 - Typically paired with the 3.6L V6 and 2.8L Diesel)
- Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
- Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky shifting, particularly between lower gears. Hesitation when accelerating, especially from a stop. This is often related to the transmission’s shift programming and the valve body.
- Solution: Transmission flush with updated fluid and reprogramming of the transmission control module (TCM) is often the first step. In some cases, valve body replacement may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ for fluid flush and reprogramming. $800 - $2,000+ for valve body replacement.
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Premature Wear of Shocks/Struts
- Description/Symptoms: Bumpy ride, excessive bouncing after hitting bumps, and reduced handling stability.
- Solution: Replacement of the worn shocks/struts.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,000+ per axle, depending on the brand and labor costs.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
- Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen freezes, becomes unresponsive, or randomly reboots. This can affect navigation, audio, and other vehicle functions.
- Solution: Software updates can sometimes resolve the issue. In other cases, the infotainment unit may need to be replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (if software update) to $500 - $1,500+ for unit replacement.
- Recalls: None Found
- Sensor Malfunctions (e.g., Tire Pressure Monitoring System - TPMS)
- Description/Symptoms: Inaccurate readings from sensors, false warnings, or a complete failure of the sensor to communicate with the vehicle.
- Solution: Diagnosis to identify the faulty sensor and replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ per sensor, including labor.
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- No Issues Found
Interior
- Center Console Latch Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The center console latch breaks or becomes difficult to operate, preventing the console lid from staying closed securely.
- Solution: Replacement of the latch mechanism or the entire center console lid.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ depending on the component needing replaced and the labor.
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2020 GMC Canyon, while appreciated for its size and features, has some common issues that prospective buyers should be aware of. Engine problems, particularly lifter failures in the 3.6L V6 and EGR cooler failures in the 2.8L diesel, can be expensive to repair. Transmission issues, mainly rough shifting, can also affect the driving experience. Electrical problems, especially with the infotainment system, can be frustrating. While not all Canyons will experience these issues, a thorough inspection and a review of the vehicle’s maintenance history are recommended before purchase. The severity and cost of repairs vary, but addressing these issues proactively can save owners significant expenses in the long run.