2008 GMC Canyon
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
- 38
- Recalls
- 2
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- Electrical system
Campaigns on file for 2008
None on file
39% of complaints
Complaints per year
2008: 38 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2004 | 80 |
| 2005 | 113 |
| 2006 | 48 |
| 2007 | 42 |
| 2008 | 38 |
| 2009 | 27 |
| 2010 | 8 |
| 2011 | 12 |
| 2012 | 23 |
| 2015 | 302 |
| 2016 | 271 |
| 2017 | 66 |
| 2018 | 53 |
| 2019 | 17 |
| 2020 | 14 |
| 2021 | 11 |
| 2022 | 28 |
| 2023 | 61 |
| 2024 | 207 |
| 2025 | 8 |
| 2026 | 8 |
Known problem areas
Percentages can add to more than 100% — a complaint can name more than one system.
Electrical system
39% · 15 reportsShow complaint excerpts
Tl* the contact owns a 2008 GMC Canyon. While driving approximately 70 MPH, the contact noticed a burning odor. The air conditioner was on speed 2 as smoke and plastic particles emitted into the interior of the vehicle.
NHTSA ODI report, 2017-11-20
1. "Theft deterrent" Illuminates and truck will not start. Have to wait 10 minutes with key in the "Acc" Position and then it starts. Happens often at least 2 times a week.
NHTSA ODI report, 2017-11-09
Also filed under Engine
Engine
37% · 14 reportsShow complaint excerpts
When sitting at idle, the engine miss & spark knock at times. When start driving down the road the throttle seems hard to Press & takes a little time to reach up to road speed. The truck does not get good gas mileage at all.
NHTSA ODI report, 2026-06-17
Also filed under Vehicle speed control and fuel/propulsion system
Tl* the contact owns a 2008 GMC Canyon. The contact stated that the vehicle stalled without warning while turning at unknown speeds. The failure was experienced numerous times. The vehicle was towed to the dealer.
NHTSA ODI report, 2013-05-01
Service brakes
21% · 8 reportsVehicle speed control
13% · 5 reportsShow complaint excerpts
Tl* the contact owns a 2008 GMC Canyon. While attempting to park the vehicle, it gently touched the median and independently accelerated. The vehicle failed to stop until it crashed into the side of a building. The air bags did not deploy.
NHTSA ODI report, 2015-11-05
Also filed under Air bags
Structure
13% · 5 reportsMost commonly citing body and frame and members.
Show complaint excerpts
This is a new 2008 extended cab 4X4 GMC Canyon. The doors rattle all the because the rear doors are not mounted to the frame but only to the skin of the vehicle.
NHTSA ODI report, 2009-02-11
Also filed under Seats
Safety timeline
2 recalls · 0 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
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2010-08-02Exterior lighting09V310000 GM is recalling 185,903 model year 2004-2009 Colorado, GMC model year 2009-2004 Canyon, model year 2006 i-280, i-350, model year 2007-2008 i-290, and i-370, passenger vehicles originally sold in or…
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the necessary components as specified in the recall bulletin free of charge. GM anticipates that parts will be available by June 2010. A special coverage for…
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2010-12-14Child seat10V575000 GM is recalling certain model year 2004-2011, Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon, model year 2006, isuzu i-280/i-350, and model year 2007-2008, i-290/i-370, regular cab vehicles and extended cab…
Remedy: Dealers will cut a hole into the back panel trim cover to allow access to the top tether anchor for the front center seat position and will provide supplemental information as to use in the owner's…
Buy-smart checklist
2008 GMC Canyon — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Electrical system: 15 reports on file for this year.
- Engine: 14 reports on file for this year.
- Service brakes: 8 reports on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 09V310000 · Exterior lighting
- Recall 10V575000 · Child seat
Other years of this model
See all years ranked →FAQ
- Is the 2008 GMC Canyon reliable?
- Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2008 GMC Canyon is rated "better than typical".
- What are the most common problems with the 2008 GMC Canyon?
- The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 39% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 2008 GMC Canyon have?
- 2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.