2021 GMC Acadia
This year had at least 30% fewer complaints than this model's typical year.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2007 | 428 |
| 2008 | 854 |
| 2009 | 331 |
| 2010 | 343 |
| 2011 | 269 |
| 2012 | 296 |
| 2013 | 135 |
| 2014 | 462 |
| 2015 | 243 |
| 2016 | 236 |
| 2017 | 702 |
| 2018 | 393 |
| 2019 | 383 |
| 2020 | 100 |
| 2021 | 149 |
| 2022 | 49 |
| 2023 | 42 |
| 2024 | 55 |
| 2025 | 63 |
| 2026 | 7 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Percentages can add to more than 100% -- a complaint can name more than one system.
26% of complaints: electrical system — 38 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing speedometer/odometer.
CRASH INJURYShow complaint excerpts
While driving vehicle stalled multiple times in the middle of the road, with service transmission and engine light coming on, causing unsafe conditions, causing accident and leaving passengers stranded.
NHTSA ODI report, 20241211
Also filed under ENGINE and POWER TRAIN
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 doesnât indicate the car is coming until itâs behind me.
NHTSA ODI report, 20220509
Also filed under ENGINE
While driving home from work the car displayed a "No Fuel" warning, despite having a full tank of gas. Within seconds of the display showing the car stalled out and stopped right in the middle of the road.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260914
19% of complaints: engine — 29 distinct reports on file.
CRASH16% of complaints: fuel/propulsion system — 24 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
I have seen numerous complaints for this same issue. My 2021 Acadia with 31,600 miles failed to start when parked in garage. It turned over just fine but wouldn't fire as if it wasn't getting any fuel. I had it towed to my regular mechanic.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260718
12% of complaints: service brakes — 18 distinct reports on file.
CRASHShow complaint excerpts
While driving the brake vacuum pump exploded leading to catastrophic brake failure. My husband was driving and was able to stand on the brakes to get the car to stop, but had i been driving, I am not strong enough to have stopped the car.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260825
11% of complaints: power train — 17 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing torque converter.
CRASHSAFETY TIMELINE
General Motors, LLC. (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Cadillac XT5, XT6, and GMC Acadia vehicles. The fuel supply lines may be improperly attached and seated.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace fuel supply lines as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 1, 2021. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006 and GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782.
Campaign 21V422000 — check if this car was fixed
Rear-View Camera Failure
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Cadillac XT5, XT6, and GMC Acadia vehicles equipped with the optional Surround Vision feature.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the coaxial cables, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 18, 2023. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782.
Campaign 22V709000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2021 GMC Acadia — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (38 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine issues (29 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for fuel/propulsion system issues (24 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 21V422000 (fuel system, gasoline) has been completed.
- Verify recall 22V709000 (back over prevention) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2021 GMC Acadia reliable?
Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2021 GMC Acadia is rated "better than typical".
What are the most common problems with the 2021 GMC Acadia?
The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 26% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2021 GMC Acadia have?
2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.