2012 GMC Canyon
Only 23 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
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.
Only 23 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 23
- Recalls
- 2
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
Campaigns on file for 2012
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
2012: 23 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
Only 23 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Electrical system
9 of 23 total reports mention: electrical system, most commonly citing control module.
Show complaint excerpts
On all chevy / canyon models 05 thru 12 there is an issue called "passlock" which prevents the vehicle from starting, it will leave you stranded.
NHTSA ODI report, 2024-03-03
There is a problem whit the passlock system . Often 3 times in the past 3 days the truck will not start. The security lock dash light flashes and the security system will not allow the tuck to start .
NHTSA ODI report, 2018-10-15
My mother has been left stranded in parking lots or drive ways many times. The engine won't start, and the security light is flashing, wait ten minutes then it will finally start.
NHTSA ODI report, 2018-05-24
Service brakes
3 of 23 total reports mention: service brakes, most commonly citing hydraulic.
Steering
2 of 23 total reports mention: steering.
Electronic stability control (esc)
2 of 23 total reports mention: electronic stability control (esc).
Show complaint excerpts
While driving, the security light came on. Engine power was reduced or completely eliminated. Headlights went out every thing reset in about thirty seconds.
NHTSA ODI report, 2014-02-12
Air bags
2 of 23 total reports mention: air bags.
Show complaint excerpts
In fresno, ca at 5:30 p.m., I was heading east on shaw ave., a three lane street, near brawley ave. A van, waiting for cross traffic at the center island, suddenly jolted into three lanes of heavy christmas traffic.
NHTSA ODI report, 2015-05-29
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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2011-12-07Seat belts11V552000 General Motors (GM) is recalling certain model year 2012 Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon vehicles, manufactured from September 9, 2011, through October 19, 2011, for failing to comply with the…
Remedy: GM will notify owners and dealers will replace the seat belt buckle electrical connector terminals free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin on or before December 7, 2011. Owners may…
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2013-01-24Latches/locks/linkages12V594000 General Motors is recalling certain model year 2010-2012 Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon vehicles manufactured from November 9, 2009, through August 28, 2012, for failing to comply with the…
Remedy: General Motors will notify owners and instruct them to inspect their vehicle for the presence of a secondary hood latch. Dealers will replace the hood on any affected vehicles, free of charge. The…
Buy-smart checklist
2012 GMC Canyon — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Electrical system: 9 reports on file for this year.
- Service brakes: 3 reports on file for this year.
- Steering: 2 reports on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 11V552000 · Seat belts
- Recall 12V594000 · Latches/locks/linkages
Other years of this model
See all years ranked →FAQ
- Is the 2012 GMC Canyon reliable?
- There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
- What are the most common problems with the 2012 GMC Canyon?
- The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 39% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 2012 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.