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The 2021 GMC Acadia is meant as a luxury-minded SUV that should impress. After all, the automaker claims it is “built for families that go.” Yet, some major malfunctions are causing it to break down. From the defective electrical system and faulty powertrain to the camera, customers are livid.
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NHTSA Complaints for the 2021 GMC Acadia
| Complaint Category | Number of Complaints |
|---|---|
| Electrical System | |
| Service Brakes | |
| Unknown Or Other | |
| Air Bags | |
| Forward Collision Avoidance: Automatic Emergency Braking | |
| Back Over Prevention: Rearview System Braking | |
| Back Over Prevention: Warnings | |
| Engine | |
| Fuel/propulsion System | |
| Engine And Engine Cooling:exhaust System:emission Control |
Most Common Problems with the 2021 GMC Acadia
Customer complaints to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) show that drivers are having issues with many components and systems in the 2021 GMC Acadia. Electrical system problems top the list with the powertrain and brakes coming a close second, with complaints citing various safety issues.
The rear-view camera is another important safety component that keeps malfunctioning. There is even an open investigation into this problem.
Problems with the Electrical System
The electrical system is responsible for running just about every part of a new car, from the steering to the radio. With 2021 GMC Acadia models, the faults are causing some major concerns.
Here is one NHTSA complaint. “Car steers to left, volume does not work after a connected call while driving, screen blacks out and noise coming out of left driver door panel while car is off. Also message that SD card was removed, no apps working.”
While all of these problems are alarming, it’s important to look closer at the steering system complaint. In fact, steering issues are nothing new to GMC. It wasn’t that long ago that there were proposed class action lawsuits because of defective power steering in Acadia models. These systems were failing after just 30,000 miles. It would appear that the Acadia should actually be “built for families that can’t go.”
Problems with the Camera
Most complaints to the NHTSA are listed under Electrical System and/or Back Over Prevention. The NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) confirms that it has received multiple complaints about the rear-view camera. These relate not only to GMC Acadia vehicles, but to Cadillac XT5 and XT6 luxury SUVs as well.
However, a manufacturer communication from GMC on file with the NHTSA lists a total of 59 affected vehicles. These include the ones mentioned already as well as GMC Sierra 1500 and 2500s and Terrains. A whole lot of Buicks and Chevrolets are also on the list.
“Preliminary information” supplied by GMC describes the problem and lists possible causes. These include the possibility of water intrusion, VPM SPS programming issues, and connection problems that might be caused by vibration.
Acadia ODI Camera Investigation
The ODI opened a preliminary investigation on July 22, 2022 to determine the scope and severity of the problem. They say they also need to fully assess the potential safety-related issues.
They say that complaints report the camera screen being black, sometimes with a red triangle and a circle with a line through it. Most complaints to them are from owners with low vehicle mileage.
Needless to say, it stands to reason that when the camera fails or malfunctions, it will reduce visibility in the area behind the vehicle. This limited view, as the ODI states, “may lead to an increased risk of incidents resulting in injury and/or property damage while the vehicle is in reverse.”
Complaints to the NHTSA range from a 2021 GMC Acadia owner simply saying “rear view camera stopped working,” to one that reports the camera causing an accident.
Acadia NHTSA Complaint Examples
An owner from California states: “I got into an accident because my back-up crap camera did not warn me that a car had turned behind me.” The driver had other issues too. For example, when backing up and a car is coming it doesn’t indicate the presence of the car “until it’s behind me.”
“I’ve taken it to the dealer and they say there’s nothing wrong with it. Also there is no brake when you come too close to something in front of you.”
An owner from Pennsylvania states: “Vehicle purchased new (in) mid-March 2021 and in less than 30 days the rear back-up camera stopped working intermittently. This has occurred several times and the vehicle is currently at the dealer being diagnosed.”
An owner from Ohio states: Since purchase of this vehicle in Dec 2020, the rear camera vision has been intermittent. I originally thought it to be (a) driver problem, however I am now told that there is a module that needs to be replaced and it is not available and possibly not being manufactured at the present time. As a result, the entire Camera parking assist system is completely out of service with no information on when the module may be available to repair the issue. I believe this may be a Safety issue as backing up into traffic be it parking lots or roadways, this equipment is an essential addition to safety to other vehicles and pedestrians.”
This complaint was received in August 2021 even though the incident date is January 15, 2021.
Problems with the Powertrain
The powertrain takes the energy created by the motor and directs it to the wheels for motion. Yet, the Acadia can’t get this basic concept down.
One Edmunds review states, “I purchased a 2021 GMC Acadia SLT on December 30th 2020. On March 11th (70 days and 1800 miles into my ownership) the vehicle lurched forward and the check engine light came on. I’m being told by the dealer it is a stuck valve problem that GM is aware of and put out a paper on. The transmission needs (to be) replaced. Now nobody can answer whether I’ll get a new or remanufactured transmission. I obviously am disgusted this would happen to a brand new vehicle. I would expect GM to put a new transmission in not remanufactured. ”
GMC isn’t blindsided by the transmission complaints. Not only have owners been discussing a known Shift to Park issue that is causing accidents, but Service Bulletin #16NA019 also talks about harsh transmission shifting, slipping and flaring that is leading to driveability concerns. It seems this SUV wants to do anything but “go,” creating just another lemon on today’s roadway.
Your Lemon Law Legal Rights
Think you have a lemon? Sit back and let the experts work out your lemon case at no cost to you. The law makes GMC pay legal fees. You may be able to get your lemon out of your life. Every year, auto manufacturers buy back, replace or pay cash settlements to thousands of ‘lemon’ owners like you.
Complaint Data
| Category | Electrical System, Unknown Or Other |
| Date | Feb 25, 2023 |
| State | MI |
| Description | Vehicle has previously been brought in to gmc dealership at least 2-3 times for the dash turning on and off while driving. Started happening around 5,000 miles here and there. First took it in just over 7,000 miles as it was happening more and more frequently. It was last in for the issue on 2/6/23. The dash turned completely off while driving going approx 45-50 mph, is not turning back on, unable to see speed while driving. |
| Category | Unknown Or Other |
| Date | Feb 05, 2023 |
| State | NJ |
| Description | Gm recall n222378380 vehicle was taken to dealer for the recall for "surround vision". Dealer performed the recall yet the backup camera continues to work intermittently. Not having a reliable back up camera is a serious safety concern. |
| Category | Air Bags |
| Date | Jan 20, 2023 |
| State | AK |
| Description | The vehicle was traveling at a very low speed in a parking lot and impacted a light pole. All front airbags deployed and the drivers steering wheel airbag deployed severely breaking the drivers arm, causing shoulder injuries, and neck injuries. The occupant would have been completely fine had the airbags not deployed. |
| Category | Service Brakes |
| Date | Dec 29, 2022 |
| State | MI |
| Description | Taken from service report; customer states brake pedal some times sinks to the floor and brake fluid on driveway. Tech performed brake fluid check and found that the brake fluid leak is coming from the left front and right front caliper hose, caliper hose has rub marking, making contact with cv boot. Tech replaced the left and right front brake caliper hoses and performed brake fluid fill and bleed, rechecked the operation of the brakes-brakes are working as design also on service report: left front cv axle leaking, left front outer cv axle boot is torn, replaced the c axle assembly. Not on the report is that the service manager informed me that I should not have driven the vehicle in but had it towed in. Service performed under warranty at linus cadillac buick gmc, vero beach, fl |
| Category | Service Brakes |
| Date | Nov 30, 2022 |
| State | TX |
| Description | The contact owns a 2021 gmc acadia. The contact stated while reversing out of her parking space, the contact heard a squeaking sound coming from the brakes. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and the brakes were replaced; however, the failure persisted. The dealer was contacted and stated that there was an upcoming recall and to wait for the recall. The manufacturer was contacted and stated that the vehicle needed to be diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 26,000. |
| Category | Electrical System, Fuel/propulsion System |
| Date | Nov 15, 2022 |
| State | SC |
| Description | Was driving and vehicle engine dead stopped with out warning. Could not get started and had to call a wrecker to tow to gmc dealership. Were told it wasn't the first time that they had seen this. They had a part in stock to repair it. It was diagnosed as the “drivers fuel pump module†. Was surprised that there was not a recall as this could have been a deadly incident during rush hour on the roads in my area. While researching found a recall on full size gmc 2021 suvs from last year (nhtsa campaign number 21v739000) ! Why is this not being dealt with on the 2021 acadias? My daughter has one she bought the same day and now I am in fear it will do the same thing !!! No insurance issues or police issues. After engine died several symbols including engine icon came on when trying to restart. Also received an email “diagnostic alert†from on star immediately : an issue with the engine and transmission system in your 2021 gmc acadia has been detected. Please service your vehicle within 7 days…. |
| Category | Forward Collision Avoidance: Automatic Emergency Braking |
| Date | Nov 15, 2022 |
| State | OH |
| Description | While driving down a busy road automatic braking engaged for no reason causing the acadia to abruptly come to a dead stop in the middle of the road with nothing in front of me. Red collision lights came on at the same time as braking with no prior warnings. Could not get the car to move for a few minutes (when giving gas there were grinding sounds) then the braking system let up. Drove for another few minutes and it did it again. Called gm and we had to figure out how to get the car to the dealership with a major safety issue. Took the car in and it was throwing b390f, u0184, b395a codes. When we received the vehicle back one of the codes was for a bad back up camera so the new rear back up camera view is so stretched you can't use it to back up nor does it have the lines anymore. The rear view camera now has a view that is sideways. So I took the car back to the dealership and they had no clue how either could be happening and would look into it again. Did my own research and figured out there are two cameras on the tailgate so the rear view camera was reinstalled wrong. Sent proof of how I came to the conclusion and that I wanted the backup camera replaced/fixed also. Its been over a month and I cannot get my car fixed because I refuse to pay for a rental on something they messed up because they have no loaners. Well on 11/14/2022 my cars automatic braking system activated again only this time it stopped in the middle of the road and was not as dramatic as last time. The warning lights came on as the car was coming to a stop. This time I was able to move shortly after it came to a complete stop. Gm dealership wants me to bring the car in somehow and I will be carless for who knows how long. There is also a safety recall for a cable for the backup camera with no parts available. I have an ro number and a complaint number. |
| Category | Air Bags |
| Date | Nov 05, 2022 |
| State | FL |
| Description | October 2021 warning light service service seat restraint system. Schumacher lake park fl replaced sir module. Mileage 3741 took 2 weeks to repair. October 2022 warning light service seat restraint system. Mileage 7180. Vehicle at starling gmc stuart fl for 2 weeks effective this coming week - nov. 7. Airbag module issue again. |
| Category | Service Brakes |
| Date | Oct 17, 2022 |
| State | OH |
| Description | My brakes are awful. They sqeak and sqeal constantly. I've taken it to ken ganley buick gmc several times. Prior to that, it was taken to nick abraham bmc. The dealerships are able to duplicate the sound and problem over and over again. None of the dealership representatives are able to offer a solution other than paying out of pocket to replace the brake pads because the material the brake pads are manufactured from are falling short. There is no way the brakes are functioning the way they were designed. Thankfully, I have not been in a situation where I need to slam on my brakes but I am not confident that they would do their job in an emergent situation. I have a toddler and a new baby on the way. I purchased a big suv with the mindset that it would keep my family and I safe. We have leased several gmc products over the years and have never had an issue like this. We will absolutely not be renewing our lease to prove our loyalty to this brand. The fact that I'm being told the only way to fix the manufacturers problem is to pay out of pocket and fully replace the brakes on my vehicle that is 1. 5 years old with 28k miles on it, is absolutely absurd. We are willing to give gmc the opportunity to make it right. At this point, I'll be honest, I doubt anything will even be addressed. |
| Category | Engine And Engine Cooling:exhaust System:emission Control |
| Date | Oct 03, 2022 |
| State | AL |
| Description | The contact owns a 2021 gmc acadia. The contact stated that while driving, he heard a loud rattling noise coming from the exhaust. The contact then stated that the rpm's increased and the rattling noise became louder. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the exhaust resonator failed the whole exhaust assembly needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 28,000. |
| Category | Back Over Prevention: Rearview System Braking, Back Over Prevention: Warnings, Electrical System |
| Date | Sep 29, 2022 |
| State | PA |
| Description | We purchased the vehicle in march 2021 and within a few weeks, the rear camera started working intermittently. At one point, it displayed a black screen with a red warning triangle. The dealership ultimately replaced the camera and we haven't had the problem since. |
| Category | Electrical System |
| Date | Sep 02, 2022 |
| State | LA |
| Description | Make a left turn engine stopped. Fuel pump driver module failure. Electrical short in module. Several fuses also blown. All dash warming lights stayed on. Vehicle had to be towed from middle of roadway. Battery also had to be replaced. Vehicle mileage 8100 miles. |
| Category | Engine |
| Date | Aug 31, 2022 |
| State | CO |
| Description | Car had only 5000 miles . We live in denver took it to mountains for first time. We are both in our late 70 s . Going down mouintains vail pass car engine exploded car went into complete stop at highway speed. Lucky we did not die as car went off to berm on I 70 west. Milemarker 180 or so. Gmc roadside called after 18 hours finally consented to tow car back to denver. We called 911 for fear of our life with trucks wheezing by. " gmc national" would not buy back car. My wife and I explained to gmc we were in a panic when this happened. Dealer auto nation found that pistons were blown up as well as engine. They offered to give us new ? Rebuilt engine .. We refused as we are very frightened to be in this car. Dealership finally offered to buy car which we consented . Gmc refuses to pay any of our trip interruptions expenses case no sr9-8150020854 april 1-866 790 5600 ext 5913625 pistons confrimed by auto nation west golden co to be defective and sponateously broken pistons there was defect in production of pistons no safety warning that car engine exploded car just completely stopped suddenly |
| Category | Service Brakes, Vehicle Speed Control:accelerator Pedal |
| Date | Aug 28, 2022 |
| State | TX |
| Description | As I was stopped in line behind a car at the atm, my foot slipped from the brake, I quickly placed it back only to find that I ended up going forward. I quickly moved my foot more to the left for the brake only to end up going forward even faster hitting the car in front of me. I then put my left foot firmly on the brake. Now with both feet on the brake the car is climbing up the car in front of me and not braking. Finally, I put it in park and cut the engine. The whole front end of my car is crushed. Now 5 days earlier my husband had a similar incident when he was parking the car and thankfully only hitting the curb. Looking at the brake pedal you will find that there is a rubber edge hanging down on the right side. If your foot slips below it while crossing from the accelerator going right to left, you will not hit the brake but will continue to press the accelerator. In fact, if you raise your foot upward, you will only raise the brake. The only way to get to the brake is to get out from under it by going toward the accelerator and then back to the left. This action does not work in an emergency! I believe this rubber edge is too large is a safety hazard. We are still in the process of assessment by insurance, body shop and gmc. |
| Category | Parking Brake |
| Date | Jun 14, 2022 |
| State | NY |
| Description | My emergency parking brake keeps engaging on its own, as I come to a stop, jeeking me forward. I never even put it in park, but it just engages the parking brake in a forceful manner. At a couple different times, while going at about 40 mph, the car starting shaking terribly, slowing the vehicle. The check engine light came on as well as both parking brake lights on the dash (the indicator light saying the parking brake was on and the indicator light saying there was a problem with the brakes). It felt light the vehicle had engaged the parking brake with I was driving and was dragging the parking brake. I have been having problems with the brakes with the vehicle and have taken it to the dealership a few times for this issue. They only kept it overnight and told me there was nothing they could do because it didn't happen while they had it. I have a fractured back and am disabled, and this issues actually hurts me when it does it. |
| Category | Forward Collision Avoidance: Automatic Emergency Braking, Service Brakes |
| Date | May 31, 2022 |
| State | AL |
| Description | While driving through intersection auto braking system activated for no apparent reason . Could have caused a crash due to sudden unexpected braking. No warning lights or alarm noted during or after event. Dealership was unable to find any problems with the automatic braking system. |
| Category | Back Over Prevention: Rearview System Braking, Electrical System, Engine |
| Date | May 09, 2022 |
| State | CA |
| Description | I got into an accident because my back up crap camera did not warn me that a car had turned behind me. Also when and backing up and a car is coming it doesn't indicate the car is coming until it's behind me. I've taken it to the dealer and they say there's nothing wrong with it. Also there is no break when you come too close to something in front of you. |
| Category | Forward Collision Avoidance: Automatic Emergency Braking |
| Date | May 28, 2021 |
| State | TN |
| Description | Was on the interstate driving when the emergency brake engaged causing the car skid the tires and almost completely coming to a stop in heavy traffic. Shortly after this the transmission had issues which caused the car to be undrivable and had to be towed. The dealership had the car for over a month and replaced the tcm. There were no other warnings prior to this. |
| Category | Back Over Prevention: Warnings, Electrical System |
| Date | May 07, 2021 |
| State | PA |
| Description | Vehicle purchased new mid-march 2021 and in less than 30 days the rear back-up camera stopped working intermittently. This has occurred several times and the vehicle is currently at the dealer being diagnosed. |
| Category | Power Train |
| Date | Apr 23, 2021 |
| State | TX |
| Description | Wife was driving southbound on us287 between vernon, tx and wichita falls, tx in a 75mph speed zone. Vehicle abruptly and for no apparent reason slowed as if the brakes had been applied with sufficient force to cause her to bend forward at the waist. Subsequently, the vehicle speed became erratic and she slowed to 25 while moving onto the shoulder. Could easily have caused a fatal accident had traffic not been unusually light. I am enclosing gm service bulletin issued in july of 2020 (I found it posted on the nhtsa web site) regarding the transmission used in this car. A safety recall should be immediately issued . Gm nhtsa should have required gm to notify buyers of this condition prior to purchase when the inherent potential defect first became apparent. We bought the vehicle new in question on 2 feb 21 and it had been driven just 4,063 miles at time of incident. |
| Category | Electrical System |
| Date | Apr 06, 2021 |
| State | TX |
| Description | Rear camera stopped working. |
| Category | Electrical System, Steering, Unknown Or Other |
| Date | Dec 12, 2020 |
| State | TX |
| Description | Car steers to left,volume does not work after a connected call while driving,screen blacks out and noise coming out of left driver door panel while car is off,also message that sd card was removed no apps working |
| Category | Air Bags |
| Date | Nov 24, 2020 |
| State | TX |
| Description | We bought our car on 11/7/2020 ,2 days after starting the messages appear on the screen (service safety restraint system) car and on my phone, this always happen when in motion, on a city or highway doesn't matter where you're driving. We have no idea what could cause the problem cause only had 2 miles when took it out from the dealer. I feel that is a defective product installed on the vehicle. Also the passenger seat doesn't move to be adjusted. Went to the dealer a week ago but still waiting for call back to made the repair. |
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About the Author:
Brian Jones spent more than 20 years working as an ASE Certified Master Tech and Parts Specialist at multiple dealerships. Brian has become an authority in the industry, traveling across the country to consult for car dealerships and contributing his expertise as a writer for several major automotive publications. In his spare time, Brian enjoys working on pickup trucks, muscle cars, Jeeps and anything related to motorsports.
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