2021 GMC Acadia

Here’s a breakdown of common issues reported for the 2021 GMC Acadia, organized by category and including relevant details when available. The 2021 GMC Acadia is a mid-size SUV known for its spacious interior and comfortable ride. Engine options for the 2021 Acadia include a 2.5L 4-cylinder (193 hp, 188 lb-ft of torque), a 3.6L V6 (310 hp, 271 lb-ft of torque), and a 2.0L Turbo 4-cylinder (228 hp, 258 lb-ft of torque). All engines are paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Acadia’s user-friendly infotainment system and ample cargo space. Criticisms frequently include the smaller third-row seating compared to some competitors, and the sometimes sluggish performance of the base 4-cylinder engine.

Engine

2.0L Turbo 4-Cylinder

• Engine Misfires/Check Engine Light
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners report experiencing engine misfires, rough idling, and the check engine light illuminating. Diagnostic codes often indicate issues with the ignition coils or spark plugs. This can lead to reduced power and poor fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty ignition coils or spark plugs is the common repair. A proper diagnosis is crucial to identify the specific cylinder(s) affected.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring them to frequently add oil between scheduled oil changes. This could be a sign of issues with piston rings or valve seals.
  • Solution: A diagnostic test for oil consumption can be performed to see if there is a larger issue. If the piston rings are failing, the engine will have to be rebuilt.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.6L V6

• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature wear of the timing chain is a somewhat common issue. Symptoms include a rattling noise from the engine, especially upon startup, and the check engine light illuminating. Diagnostic codes may indicate timing chain misalignment.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing chain, tensioners, guides, and possibly the camshaft sprockets. This is a labor-intensive repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

9-Speed Automatic (All Engines)

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported harsh or jerky shifting between gears. Others experience hesitation or delayed engagement when accelerating from a stop. This can be more pronounced at lower speeds.
  • Solution: A transmission flush, software update, or replacement of faulty solenoids could resolve this issue. In severe cases, a full transmission rebuild or replacement might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission hesitates or fails to engage properly when shifting gears. The engine may rev higher than usual without a corresponding increase in vehicle speed.
  • Solution: Diagnosis is necessary to pinpoint the cause. Potential fixes range from replacing worn clutch packs or valve body components to a complete transmission overhaul or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Malfunctioning
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen freezes, becomes unresponsive, or experiences glitches. This can affect navigation, audio, and climate control functions.
  • Solution: Performing a system reset or updating the software. In some cases, the head unit may need replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially when the vehicle is not in use. This can make it difficult to start the car.
  • Solution: Identifying the parasitic drain. This may involve replacing the battery, alternator, or faulty electronic components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Sunroof Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaking into the cabin, especially after rain or a car wash. This can damage the headliner and other interior components.
  • Solution: Clearing the sunroof drain tubes or replacing the sunroof seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Summary

The 2021 GMC Acadia has some reported issues. The most common issues appear to be related to the 2.0L Turbo engine and its potential for engine misfires and excessive oil consumption, as well as the 9-speed transmission’s shifting behavior. Electrical problems with the infotainment system and battery drain are also concerns. Some of the issues are less severe and cost less, but some can be more severe and cost more.