Model-year record

2021 GMC Acadia
See the complaints, recalls, crash rating, and fuel economy in the public record. Then check the mileage and history of the car you found.
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Complaints filed
145
Reports to NHTSA, 2021
Safety recalls
2
NHTSA campaigns on record
NHTSA crash test
Overall NCAP rating
Combined MPG
23
EPA estimate
Known issues
Electrical System issues lead owner complaints (19% of 145 reports), followed by fuel/propulsion system (11%).
+ 14 more component categories with fewer reports.
Share of all 145 NHTSA complaints for this model year, grouped by the component owners named. Bars are scaled to the largest category. Examples: ODI 11647636, ODI 11463901, ODI 11735258, ODI 11721893, ODI 11715591.
Individual complaint reports(145)
Showing the 50 most recent reportsFuel/Propulsion SystemJul 2026 · ODI 11751305Details +Close −
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. He troubleshot it and told me it was the "Fuel Pump Power Control Module". He said he could replace it but it would have to be programmed by a GM dealer as he didn't have the equipment to do that. So I had it towed to the local GMC dealer. Two tow bills equal $360. There is a recall for this issue. It is called "Emission Recall N252516900, Fuel Pump Power Control Module". part number 13554820 I have yet to receive a recall notice. I have seen mentioned in several of the other complaints that I have read that many of the service employees say that this has been an ongoing issue for several of the GM vehicles. Hopefully I will get a recall notice soon and be able to get reimbursed for the cost of the repair.
- Reported
- Jul 2026
- Incident date
- Jun 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Service BrakesJun 2026 · ODI 11746671Details +Close −
My brake pedal got stiff when I was driving. I had zero control of my brakes. I was informed by a GMC dealership that my BRAKE BOOSTER blew up causing my brakes to stop working and metal shrapnel to be sent into my engine. My 2021 vehicle is a complete loss. GMC has done NOTHING to help me.
- Reported
- Jun 2026
- Incident date
- Jun 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SuspensionJun 2026 · ODI 11745670Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Acadia. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle was unintendedly drifting to the right. The vehicle was taken to Dally Tire Company, where it was diagnosed with rear links failure and misalignment. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, and the contact was informed that the VIN was not under recall. The dealer scheduled an appointment and provided an estimate for the repair. The manufacturer was not yet contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 42,200.
- Reported
- Jun 2026
- Incident date
- Jun 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Service BrakesJun 2026 · ODI 11743108Details +Close −
I was driving and all of a sudden my break pedal was inoperable. It was stiff and unable to be used. Luckily I was only going 40 MPH. I pulled into a parking lot and my car started shaking and apparently the metal parts from the vacuum pump blew into my engine, which completely wrecked my engine. I nearly could have died and now my 2021 car is completely destroyed.
- Reported
- Jun 2026
- Incident date
- Jun 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringMay 2026 · ODI 11741035Details +Close −
Display suddenly says "Steering assistance reduced, drive with care" Temp gauge goes to C and stays there. Radiator fans speed up and stay on after the car has been turned off. Dealer unable to find a diagnostic code for the problem.
- Reported
- May 2026
- Incident date
- Mar 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringMay 2026 · ODI 11740094Details +Close −
My thermostat failed in my car, my temp goes out and reads at 0° then my steering assist says it’s reduced. There are many forums online regarding this issue.
- Reported
- May 2026
- Incident date
- Feb 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainMay 2026 · ODI 11737300Details +Close −
This is a very known issue that has been reoccurring with GMC Acadia. The torque converter slipping. That cost alone is over $7.000 for the transmission. I am still making monthly payments for my 2021 Acadia. With rising cost above the board GMC could have resolved this issue before releasing this vehicle to the public for purchase. Only had this vehicle for 2 years and already a new transmission is needed. Other individuals i personally know have the same issue. From my research GMC is aware and fails to do a recall on this issue.
- Reported
- May 2026
- Incident date
- Feb 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineMay 2026 · ODI 11736741Details +Close −
I am submitting this complaint regarding ongoing mechanical and electrical issues with my 2021 GMC ACADIA that have been occurring intermittently for approximately the past year and a half. The primary issues involve the coolant temperature sensor, thermostat system, engine cooling fan, and dashboard warning messages. The vehicle repeatedly experiences problems related to the coolant temperature sensor and thermostat. During these episodes, the engine cooling fan continues running even after the vehicle has been turned off, sometimes for an extended period of time. In addition, the dashboard frequently displays the warning message: “Steering Assist is Reduced – Drive With Care.” These warning messages and symptoms occur off and on without consistent resolution. The vehicle has already undergone repairs, including replacement of the radiator, yet the problems continue to return. Despite previous service attempts, the underlying issue has not been permanently corrected. The recurring nature of these problems raises concerns about the reliability, safety, and dependability of the vehicle, especially considering the steering assist warning and possible overheating or electrical system concerns connected to the cooling system malfunction. The repeated failures have caused significant inconvenience, concern for safe operation of the vehicle, loss of confidence in the vehicle’s reliability, and ongoing disruption due to repeated repair needs. I am requesting a thorough diagnosis and permanent repair of the coolant temperature sensor, thermostat, cooling fan system, and any related electrical or control module issues contributing to these recurring problems.
- Reported
- May 2026
- Incident date
- May 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineMay 2026 · ODI 11736208Details +Close −
Bought the acadia in june of 2021, in december of 2022 had to have the radiator replaced due to it leaking. This was found on routine maintenance and was not having any issues whatsoever. I received no alerts on my dash such as a check engine light. Fast Forward to March 2026, I received a message of "steering assist reduced. drive with care." The engine seemed like it was still running despite the car being off. This was happening intermittently and definitely not every time I drove. I made an appointment for the regular oil change and to have this message investigated. Initially they told me it was the temperature regulator, however, they put a new regulator on and tried to re-pressurize the system. The system failed to re-pressurize due to the radiator leaking AGAIN. Of course, there was a 2 year warranty on the radiator after it was replaced initially and now we are about a 1.5 years outside the warranty.
- Reported
- May 2026
- Incident date
- Apr 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemMay 2026 · ODI 11735258Details +Close −
The camera system has failed. The screen is black and there is an exclamation point and a camera on the screen.
- Reported
- May 2026
- Incident date
- May 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherApr 2026 · ODI 11730224Details +Close −
Rear view camera won’t display when out in reverse. Also, when the camera does come on, it’ll flicker off and on
- Reported
- Apr 2026
- Incident date
- Sep 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Service BrakesMar 2026 · ODI 11728151Details +Close −
On March 27, 2026, I experienced a complete brake failure while driving a 2021 GMC Acadia in a school zone at approximately 3:00 PM. When I pressed the brake pedal, the vehicle did not respond. I attempted multiple times, including using the emergency brake, which did not activate immediately. The vehicle remained in motion for several minutes in an area with children and parents present. The emergency brake only engaged after approximately 30–45 seconds of repeated attempts. I was forced to steer off the road to avoid a collision. The vehicle had been inspected at a GM dealership on March 16, 2026, just eleven days prior, where the brake system was evaluated and no issues were identified. After the incident, the dealership diagnosed a leaking vacuum pump, which is a component that supports the brake booster system. This failure occurred without warning and created a dangerous situation. I am concerned this may indicate a broader safety defect.
- Reported
- Mar 2026
- Incident date
- Mar 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Engine And Engine CoolingMar 2026 · ODI 11725820Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Acadia. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. In addition, the coolant fan was running after the engine was turned off. The vehicle was taken to Auto Zone to be diagnosed due to the check engine warning light being illuminated. The contact was informed that DTC: P1098; was retrieved, which indicated a fault with the coolant control valve. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was confirmed that the coolant control valve had failed. The vehicle remained at the dealer unrepaired. The contact related the failure to the Manufacturer Recall Number: N252508341. However, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised that the VIN was not under recall. The failure mileage was approximately 69,000.
- Reported
- Mar 2026
- Incident date
- Mar 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringMar 2026 · ODI 11722994Details +Close −
My vehicle’s steering became dangerously stiff while driving on the highway, nearly causing my wife to be involved in a serious accident. While she was traveling on I-95 in Miami, Florida, the steering suddenly got so hard that she could barely control the vehicle and was unable to turn the wheel properly. This created an extremely dangerous situation and put her life, as well as the lives of others on the road, at risk. She was thankfully able to get off the highway, and I had to come take over the vehicle to make sure she got home safely. This was terrifying and completely unacceptable. A failure like this should never happen while a vehicle is in motion. When I took the vehicle to the dealership, I was told I would have to pay over $3,500 for the repair. That is outrageous for such a serious safety issue. I also found information online showing recalls for similar steering problems in GMC Yukons, yet GMC Arcadias do not appear to be included. That is deeply concerning, especially since this same dangerous defect is clearly affecting my vehicle. This issue could have caused a major crash, severe injuries, or even death. GMC needs to take responsibility for this problem instead of forcing customers to pay thousands of dollars for a dangerous defect that should be addressed as a safety recall.
- Reported
- Mar 2026
- Incident date
- Mar 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemMar 2026 · ODI 11721893Details +Close −
Car has had multiple issues with check engine light coming on for the last 2 years and stays on especially during the winter months. The purge pump has failed multiple times. The cooling fan has run after engine shutting off for multiple years now. The thermostat has been failing for the last 6 months. Now yesterday low power protection suddenly turned on driving on the expressway limiting power in the middle of traffic. Was able to get off at exit without accident and get car home. I guess we have to pay out of pocket to get fixed. This is a known issue that GM fails to include every VIN with the 2021 year or certain models and VINS.
- Reported
- Mar 2026
- Incident date
- Mar 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Fuel SystemFeb 2026 · ODI 11719020Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Acadia. The contact stated that while driving approximately 30 MPH, the vehicle started running rough before the vehicle stalled. The contact attempted to restart the vehicle, but the vehicle failed to restart. There was no warning illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the fuel pump module had failed and needed to be replaced. The dealer informed the contact that the part to do the repair was on backorder. The contact researched online and associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V639000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the model year and VIN were not included in the recall. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 46,000.
- Reported
- Feb 2026
- Incident date
- Feb 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineFeb 2026 · ODI 11718832Details +Close −
Car was taken in for an oil change at 62k Miles. Dealer advised that it needed a radiator replaced. At 64k miles it was brought into the dealer for warranty work due to a failing thermostat. While being diagnosed, we were told not only the radiator needed to be replaced, but the oil cooler also needed to be replaced. So a 5 year old car with just over 60k Miles had the thermostat/sensor fail and need to be replaced. A radiator fail and need to be replaced and and an oil cooler fail and need to be replaced. Vehicle has been at a GM dealer for all maintenance. No crashes or reasons these parts should fail. Vehicle has never towed anything to but any sort of strain on the cooling system.
- Reported
- Feb 2026
- Incident date
- Feb 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainFeb 2026 · ODI 11717130Details +Close −
Had vehicles looked at twice and serviced once for the transmission slipping. No issues were found when looked at and light was deleted. Took to another mechanic who drained and refilled transmission. Transmission still slips after service. This happens at acceleration and continues til 3rd gears where it jerks in between gears. Stops while driving continuously, the starts up again if stopped for any reason.
- Reported
- Feb 2026
- Incident date
- Nov 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineFeb 2026 · ODI 11716760Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Acadia. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated and DTC: P04FB; was displayed. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with moisture of the crank case. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that the failure was a quick fix and was covered under the warranty. The contact stated that the failure had occurred several times and was covered under warranty. The contact was informed that there was no fix for the failure. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 37,000.
- Reported
- Feb 2026
- Incident date
- Aug 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemFeb 2026 · ODI 11715591Details +Close −
Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2021 GMC Acadia. The contact discovered a mileage discrepancy after the purchase. The vehicle was a dealer sale. At the time of purchase, the mileage was approximately 29,000. The contact attempted to trade in the vehicle, and the purchasing dealer checked the VIN and retrieved a Carfax Report. The Carfax Report indicated that the mileage on the Title on 11/04/2024 was 58,000; however, on 02/04/2025, the mileage was 28,000, and the vehicle had been in an accident in the past.
- Reported
- Feb 2026
- Incident date
- Jan 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Fuel SystemJan 2026 · ODI 11712434Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Acadia. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the vehicle started, and the contact exited the vehicle and ran into the house for a while. The contact stated that while reentering the vehicle, the contact noticed that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact was employed by an independent mechanic, and the vehicle was driven to the place of employment. The independent mechanic attached the mobile diagnostic tester to the vehicle and retrieved DTC: P023F, which indicated fuel pump secondary circuit failure. The contact was advised that the fuel pump module needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V422000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the VIN was not associated. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 78,200.
- Reported
- Jan 2026
- Incident date
- Jan 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineJan 2026 · ODI 11712579Details +Close −
Been happening for a year and a half. Muffler is very loud and rattles constantly. Getting worse over time. There is a current recall but my vin isn’t included even though my car is having the same issue.
- Reported
- Jan 2026
- Incident date
- Jan 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemJan 2026 · ODI 11709819Details +Close −
The electronic dashboard goes black while driving. I was driving to work on the highway at highway speeds and the entire electronic dashboard went black including the hud display and the radio screen. The radio screen turned back on and auto reconnected to my phone and android auto. I was able to safely get to an exit and park, turn off the car and restart and the dash did come back on to then go black about 5 minutes later this time the hud stayed on and I was able to get to work where the car sat off for 8 hrs , when leaving work the dash stayed on. The radio screen would turn off randomly and unable to connect to a programmed cell phone via Bluetooth or data cable. I brought the vehicle in for a service and this issue plus the concern of the transmission shuddering. The dealership found the problem and both the dashboard and radio needed service updates and both were charged to fix. A service update should not be charged for the dash as you have no speedometer when it goes out. There was no warning or alert that the dash or radio needed an update.
- Reported
- Jan 2026
- Incident date
- Aug 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainJan 2026 · ODI 11709573Details +Close −
Cars is not keeping track of temperature showing engine is cold after 30 minutes of driving, fan runs for extended periods of time after shutting off, check engine light comes on, steering assist alert comes in screen. All of this happens in a cycle. To stop it the battery has to be unplugged and reconnected resetting the car and everything goes back to being fine for a short period of time.
- Reported
- Jan 2026
- Incident date
- Jan 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherJan 2026 · ODI 11708654Details +Close −
My car suddenly out of the blue started overheating. By the time I could get stopped safely and turn the car off the engine fan kept running to try to cool it down. I’ve never had any issues with my car. It only has 47,000 miles on it. I now have to have it towed to a mechanic shop to get diagnosed, but I’m hearing that it’s probably a thermostat and that the GMC Acadia’s are famous for that being a problem. I’m not sure why GMC would not do a recall on this part! this is an extremely expensive fix.
- Reported
- Jan 2026
- Incident date
- Jan 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineNov 2025 · ODI 11701422Details +Close −
VEHICLE'S ENGINE INCURRED COOLANT TEMPERATURE ISSUES, SET DTC CODE, AND COOLING FAN RAN AFTER ENGINE WAS TURNED OFF. DEALER DIAGNOSED AS THERMOSTAT FAILURE AND COMPLETED REPAIRS. DEALER CHECKED AND FOUND NO SERVICE ASSISTANCE FOR REPAIR EVEN THOUGH THERE WAS A BACK ORDER FOR REPLACEMENT PARTS AND WAS SECURED THROUGH DEALER IN DETROIT CURRENT NHTSA ID NUMBER 110243390 / MFG COMMUNICATION # N252508350 REFERRING TO 3.6 V-6 ENGINE. GMC DECLINED ANY MONETARY ASSISTANCE TOWARDS REPAIRS WITH 76278 MILES I ALSO OWN A 2020 CHEVROLET BLAZER WITH A 3.6 V-6 ENGINE THAT EXPERIENCED SAME FAILURE PAID $400 DEDUCTABLE TOWARD REPAIR
- Reported
- Nov 2025
- Incident date
- Dec 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemNov 2025 · ODI 11701600Details +Close −
The infotainment center/and On Star alert systems ( crash detections / SOS ) No access to anything in the infotainments center along with most of the safety setting not alerting due to and over the air update failure. yes is available for inspection upon request. all On star safety features are not working if a crash were to happen i would not be able to get help if i was injured. Yes and it is ongoing. BY a GMC certified dealer. No.
- Reported
- Nov 2025
- Incident date
- Oct 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringNov 2025 · ODI 11701173Details +Close −
For the 3rd time of ownership the cooling fan stays on after vehicle is turned off and the display “steering assist is reduced, drive with caution”.
- Reported
- Nov 2025
- Incident date
- Nov 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringNov 2025 · ODI 11701250Details +Close −
"STEERING ASSIST REDUCED. DRIVE WITH CARE" message, fan runs nonstop, even after the vehicle is off. Sounds like a plane taking off. This seems to be EXTREMELY common after doing my research. Please consider turning this into a recall!
- Reported
- Nov 2025
- Incident date
- Jan 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherNov 2025 · ODI 11701260Details +Close −
Getting a pop up that says “steering assist reduced”. Temp gauge drops completely. AC won’t work and fan kicks on
- Reported
- Nov 2025
- Incident date
- Apr 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringNov 2025 · ODI 11701121Details +Close −
The thermostat failed which cause the steering system to fail and car to not read temperature
- Reported
- Nov 2025
- Incident date
- Apr 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Fuel SystemNov 2025 · ODI 11700332Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Acadia. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power. The driver was able to coast to the shoulder of the roadway, where the vehicle failed to restart. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the fuel pump control module. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was 36,970.
- Reported
- Nov 2025
- Incident date
- Nov 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineNov 2025 · ODI 11699969Details +Close −
GM need to be looked at for faulty Thermostats being put into vehicles. While driving the message "steering assist is reduced " You get to a safe place and shut you car off and the fan still runs. After speaking with my dealer today, he said he has done 7 in last week. And if you look online, everyone especially Acadia models is having this problem. Customers are getting charged alot of money for the repair. To me this is a defective thermostat on GM and needs to be addressed
- Reported
- Nov 2025
- Incident date
- Nov 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Service BrakesNov 2025 · ODI 11699678Details +Close −
ABS Modulator failed leaking oil. Loss of braking Repair service found the same problem. Part was scrapped.
- Reported
- Nov 2025
- Incident date
- Apr 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringNov 2025 · ODI 11699159Details +Close −
Often times, on the heads-up display I would get "Steering Assist is Reduced Drive with Care" and my temp gauge will stop working and when I stop, my fan continues to run until I disconnect the battery for 20 secs.
- Reported
- Nov 2025
- Incident date
- May 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Fuel SystemNov 2025 · ODI 11698177Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Acadia. The contact stated while driving 75 MPH, the check engine warning light illuminated. Additionally, the accelerator pedal was depressed, but the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. The vehicle was driven to the shoulder of the road. The contact stated while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start as intended. The contact stated that the failure had nearly caused the vehicle to be run over by a tractor trailer. The contact's wife and three minor children were also occupying the vehicle during the failure. The contact stated that he and his family could have been killed due to the failure. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with fuel pump power control module failure. The contact was informed that the fuel pump power control module needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The contact related the failure to an unknown recall; however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The failure mileage was approximately 35,500.
- Reported
- Nov 2025
- Incident date
- Nov 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainNov 2025 · ODI 11698037Details +Close −
Transmission feels like it’s slipping, almost like a jerky shift from any stop, seems like a common issue and should be recalled!
- Reported
- Nov 2025
- Incident date
- Sep 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringNov 2025 · ODI 11697020Details +Close −
I was driving home and about 10 minutes into my drive I got a notification about my steering assistance being disabled. When I arrived home about 10 minutes or so later and went to shut my car off I noticed that a very loud fan sound from the hood of my vehicle began roaring. I restarted my car and it went away. I looked at my temperature gauge and it was all the way on C. I tried shutting my car off again and the loud electrical fan sound picked right back up again. I stayed in my vehicle while it was turned off waiting to see if it would stop while trying to call for answers. I couldn’t risk having a dead battery for work tomorrow morning. After what was about 6-7 minutes the electrical fan finally shut off. Turns out my aunt JUST had this exact same issue with her 2021 GMC Acadia as well. According to Reddit MANY people are having this issue yet there is still no recall for this problem. My car is only at 85K miles, has always been dealership maintained and has never had any issues like this until now. If this is a wide spread make and model issue a recall should have been issued.
- Reported
- Nov 2025
- Incident date
- Nov 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringOct 2025 · ODI 11696423Details +Close −
Recently took vehicle for alignment for a pull to the right. After 3 alignments at the dealership I was told the rack and pinion gear sensor shorted out causing the vehicle to pull to the right. Also the exhaust has a rattle in the resonator confirmed by 2 sources. I asked the dealer to fix years ago under bumper to bumper and tsb PIT5863. I was told not enough techs and not enough time so now the warranty is expired and the issue isn't fixed.
- Reported
- Oct 2025
- Incident date
- Oct 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringOct 2025 · ODI 11694926Details +Close −
While driving, error popped up stating steering assist is reduced; drive with caution. Heat was no longer working. Engine temp was reading cold even though vehicle had been running for half hour and temp outside was 65 F. After vehicle was stopped, engine fan ran very loudly for at least 15 minutes. Took vehicle in to have diagnostics ran, and received error P0128 pointing to faulty engine coolant thermostat and sensor. Also received U0401 indicating insufficient data coming from ECM/PCM. I was told that together with U0401 and P0128 together indicate a communication problem between control modules. Check engine light was never on.
- Reported
- Oct 2025
- Incident date
- Oct 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainOct 2025 · ODI 11692057Details +Close −
*Transmission or torque converter. *Vehicle shuddering or shaking at low speeds or when shifting. *Studders while trying to drive fromstop. Can casue accident. *No check engine lights or any warnings prior to failure. *Did not accuse anything when checked by diagnostice tool. *Issue started in Sept but is ongoing
- Reported
- Oct 2025
- Incident date
- Sep 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainSep 2025 · ODI 11688963Details +Close −
Received message "Steering assist is reduced. Drive with care". This is related to a faulty thermostat and temperature sensor.
- Reported
- Sep 2025
- Incident date
- Sep 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringSep 2025 · ODI 11688739Details +Close −
I have a 2021 GMC Acadia that keeps saying steering assist not available. But when it does this, the temperature gage stops working and so does the AC. After you turn the car off the fan still runs for at least 10 minutes.
- Reported
- Sep 2025
- Incident date
- Sep 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringSep 2025 · ODI 11685299Details +Close −
This is a well known issue. On the dash it keeps reading steering system is being reduced drive with care. I have been dealing with this issue almost years. Been to the dealership too many times for this issue
- Reported
- Sep 2025
- Incident date
- Mar 1981
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Fuel/Propulsion SystemAug 2025 · ODI 11682800Details +Close −
My Acadia, 2021 has just 36011 miles. Car sputtered a few times like it was running out of gas and stalled as I was driving home in rush hour traffic. I couldn't even get it off the road. No warning lights or advance warning. Waited 3 hours for AAA (told 20 minutes) and then towed to dealer. Tow person could not get it into neutral so they used the sleds to ramp it up onto the flatbed. The dealer replaced the fuel module board which seems to be a common problem with these cars. Dangerous in that I thought someone might rear end the car while sitting in the single lane. Look on the Acadia forum and you'll see this is common and no recall has been issued and it sounds like it could very well happen again.
- Reported
- Aug 2025
- Incident date
- Aug 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Fuel/Propulsion SystemAug 2025 · ODI 11682193Details +Close −
I was driving down a heavy traffic expressway with a lot of semi traffic and the SUV started puttering. All of a sudden it died, the check engine light came on and I started to slow down quickly. I was in the middle lane of 3 lanes going 70 mph. VERY LUCKILY, I was able to pull to the right and barely made it onto the shoulder. The SUV had $28,972 miles on it. It was more that 100 degrees outside at the time. I called for a tow and had to wait over 2 hours. My car was nearly hit many times during the wait. The whole situation was very dangerous. What if my children were in the car at the time???? The tow truck driver was nearly killed while trying to get it on the truck. He had to call the police to block the lane. He stated that he could not put it in neutral and had to do something else with it to get it up. It was towed to the dealership where I purchased it. They did the diagnostics and said it was a fuel pump module issue. Less than 30,000 miles and this happened. I was planning to take a trip through the mountains, but at this point I do not feel safe at all in this vehicle. THIS SHOULD BE A RECALL IF GMC IS AWARE OF THIS ISSUE!!!!!
- Reported
- Aug 2025
- Incident date
- Aug 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemAug 2025 · ODI 11679159Details +Close −
Instrument cluster malfunction. Entire instrument cluster blacking out every 60 seconds, then rebooting nonstop while driving. While this was occurring, none of the advanced driver assistance systems functioned, nor did the speedometer or other gauges. This occurred while on a trip, and meant having to travel a long distance without having emergency braking, collision warnings or the ability to monitor speed. The car was taken to local dealer and they replaced the entire instrument cluster.
- Reported
- Aug 2025
- Incident date
- Jul 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemAug 2025 · ODI 11679168Details +Close −
Car was parked overnight in my garage and in the morning it would turn over, but not start. Had to have it towed to my GMC dealer, but had great difficulty moving the car out of the garage because the transmission remains in PARK if the engine is not running. Had this happened on a highway while driving and without a place to safely get off the road ( which HAS happened to others who have made this same complaint to NHTSA), this could have been an extremely hazardous situation for the occupants of the vehicle. The engine will suddenly shut down, power steering is lost, and power braking will also be lost. This problem was diagnosed as a failed fuel pump module. The failed part was replaced by the dealer (GM part#13554820). The service manager acknowledged that this is a known and common issue and that GM is aware of it but has not issued a voluntary recall. The manager also advised that this part has not been updated and that it may fail again without warning. Please....this is a serious safety issue that needs to be addressed before someone is injured or killed while abandoning a car stalled in traffic that cannot be moved.
- Reported
- Aug 2025
- Incident date
- Jul 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemAug 2025 · ODI 11678212Details +Close −
The fuel pump control module failed, 2021Acadia Denali First time, 9/22/21 8073 miles, the car was parked at the residence under the car port, when needed, the car would not start. No check engine or other indicators. Car was towed to dealer for repairs under warranty. Second time, 10/6/23 31879 miles, we were driving the car on a rural road, 55 mph speed limit with no shoulders when the car stopped in a curve. Had to flag down cars to keep them from hitting us for an hour till the wrecker loader it on the truck to take back to same dealership for warranty repairs. Third time, 7/29/25 48199 miles, we were again on a rural road 55 mph speed limit when the car stopped with my 71 year old wife alone in the car, again in a curve. This time there was a check engine light. I drove my truck to pick her up and assist her until the wrecker came. This time with luck I was able to restart the car and I followed her to our home where the tow truck picked it up and brought it to the same dealership for the third time for repairs under warranty. All three times the culprit was the fuel pump control module. Each time it was the same code in the ECM. Each time the dealership said they did a full check on the fuel system, pump, etc. and only replaced the fuel pump control module.
- Reported
- Aug 2025
- Incident date
- Jul 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainJul 2025 · ODI 11671334Details +Close −
Driving out of state. My 2021 Acadia with 41,172 miles. When pushing the gas to go there is slippage when trying to accelerate. MY car went automatically into neutral saying transmission and then not start. After a rest period it would start then repeat the same issue. In bumper to bumper traffic on I75. The most Terrifying & UNSAFE place to be at 75 to 80 mph. We happened to be driving up on construction and slow down traffic. When the car stalled. Towed it to a transmission place because of code. They replaced the DTR1 PCM.
- Reported
- Jul 2025
- Incident date
- Jun 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
This page shows the latest 50 reports to keep it usable. The count above includes every complaint NHTSA has returned for this model year.
Recalls(2)
Open a recall to read what NHTSA says is wrong, what can happen, and how it gets fixed. Check the VIN and remedy eligibility with a dealer; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though a manufacturer may offer more coverage.
Fuel SystemMar 2021 · 21V422000Details +Close −
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.
Risk: Improperly attached and seated fuel supply lines may loosen or separate, causing a fuel leak and increasing the risk of a fire.
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. GM's number for this recall is N212335590.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Back Over Prevention · 22V709000Details +Close −
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Cadillac XT5, XT6, and GMC Acadia vehicles equipped with the optional Surround Vision feature. The rearview camera coaxial cable connectors may have been crimped improperly, causing the rearview camera to fail or function intermittently.
Risk: An inoperative rearview camera can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
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. GM's number for this recall is N222378380.
Open full NHTSA recall record →A campaign can apply to this model year without being incomplete on a specific vehicle. Check the VIN with NHTSA or a dealer to confirm whether a particular car needs repair.
Investigations
1 NHTSA investigation on record
Investigations are agency reviews, not findings that a vehicle is defective.
On July 22, 2022, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a Preliminary Evaluation (PE22-006) to assess alleged failures of the rear-view camera (RVC) in Model Year (MY) 2020-2021 Cadillac XT5, XT6, and GMC Acadia vehicles. The complaints report that the screen for the RVC is black, sometimes with a red triangle and a circle with a line through it. To date, ODI has received a total of 18 complaints and several EWR Field Reports with allegations of the RVC image failing to display when the vehicle is in reverse. The reports have been received over the past 28 months with most occurring with low vehicle mileage.During the investigation, ODI learned incorrect crimping specifications were utilized in the production of the coaxial cable connector. Improper crimping leads to loss of connection between the RVC and dashboard screen that results in failure of the RVC image to display. Failure or malfunction of the RVC image to display results in reduced visibility of the area behind the vehicle. This limited view may lead to an increased risk of incidents resulting in injury and/or property damage while the vehicle is in reverse.The improperly crimped connectors were only present on subject vehicles equipped with the optional RVC surround vision feature (UV2). Vehicles not equipped with the optional RVC surround vision feature were not affected by this failure. On September 28, 2022, General Motors (GM) filed a defect information report (NHTSA number 22V-709) recalling certain MY2020-2021 Cadillac XT5, XT6, and GMC Acadia vehicles equipped with the optional RVC surround vision feature (UV2). GM will replace the coaxial cables with properly crimped connectors.In view of the recall action being taken by GM, ODI is closing this preliminary evaluation. NHTSA reserves the right to take additional action if warranted by future circumstances. The ODI complaints cited above can be viewed at www.nhtsa.gov. The ODI identification numbers for the complaints cited above can be found below: 11343838, 11390254, 11406709, 11415261, 11415501, 11425365, 11429267, 11431846, 11446363, 11463278, 11463901, 11471702, 11475437, 11476809, 11477176, 11481806, 11484360, and 11484360.
Crash-test ratings
2021 GMC Acadia SUV FWD NHTSA source
- Overall
- Frontal
- Side
- Rollover
2021 GMC Acadia SUV AWD NHTSA source
- Overall
- Frontal
- Side
- Rollover
Fuel economy by trim
| Trim | Engine | Drivetrain | Transmission | City | Hwy | Combined |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acadia FWD | 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic 9-spd | 22 | 29 | 25 |
| Acadia AWD | 2.0L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic 9-spd | 22 | 27 | 24 |
| Acadia FWD | 2.5L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic 9-spd | 21 | 27 | 23 |
| Acadia FWD | 3.6L 6-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic 9-spd | 19 | 27 | 22 |
| Acadia AWD | 3.6L 6-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic 9-spd | 19 | 26 | 21 |
EPA laboratory estimates by trim and engine. Actual mileage varies with driving, weather, load, and maintenance. EPA source.
Before you buy
Useful next checks
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Compare the year-by-year record
Open another year for its own evidence-gated decision. TireKick does not crown a best year from raw complaint totals.
2021 GMC Acadia: frequently asked
What does the complaint record show for the 2021 GMC Acadia?
Owners filed 145 NHTSA complaints about the 2021 GMC Acadia. This is raw owner-reported complaint volume with no production or exposure normalization, so it is not a reliability score or a best/worst-year ranking.
What are the most common problems on the 2021 GMC Acadia?
The most-reported problem areas are Electrical System (19% of complaints) and fuel/propulsion system (11%).
How many recalls does the 2021 GMC Acadia have?
2 recalls have been issued that affect the 2021 GMC Acadia, covering components such as fuel system. Check the VIN with NHTSA and ask a dealer to confirm remedy eligibility; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though manufacturers may offer more coverage.
What gas mileage does the 2021 GMC Acadia get?
The EPA rates the 2021 GMC Acadia between 21 and 25 mpg combined, depending on trim and drivetrain.