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2013 GMC Acadia Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Daniel Wilson·2 Critical Recalls
2013 GMC Acadia Report

Overall Score

7.0/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Significant electrical system issues, including stalling and power loss, are the primary concern for owners.
  • Powertrain and airbag system complaints are also prevalent, indicating potential for costly repairs.
  • The Acadia achieved a top 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA.
  • Fuel economy is average for its class, with a combined 18 MPG.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2013 GMC Acadia

The 2013 GMC Acadia offers a spacious interior and comfortable ride, making it a practical choice for families. However, its below-average reliability verdict, driven by frequent electrical and powertrain complaints, requires careful consideration for used car buyers. With a strong safety score of 5 overall, it provides a secure environment, but potential buyers must prioritize thorough inspections of its known weak points.

Critical Failure Risk

Frequent complaints center on the electrical system, leading to issues like intermittent stalling, power loss, and warning lights. This can stem from faulty wiring harnesses, control modules, or sensors.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$3,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls3
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

187
Electrical System37
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
18
MPG
City
16
MPG
Highway
23
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.5/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing passenger space and comfort over long-term mechanical certainty.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers who need a completely dependable vehicle with minimal unexpected repair bills.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2013 GMC Acadia Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2013 GMC Acadia.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Transmission
Automatic 6-spd
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
18

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Most Common Issues

1. Electrical System

Most reported

Usage: 37 reports

2. Airbags

Usage: 27 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Inspect Brake System

Est. shop cost: $80 - $150

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
3 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2013 GMC Acadia reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2013 GMC Acadia is 8.5/10. Reliability score is 8.5/10. NHTSA recalls: 3. Owner complaints: 187.

How practical is the 2013 GMC Acadia for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 18 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2013 GMC Acadia?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2013 GMC Acadia is 7.0/10. Overall score is 7.0/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.9/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2013 GMC Acadia?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Inspect Brake System at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Electrical System (Wiring Harness/Module) (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1,500).

What engine is in the 2013 GMC Acadia?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.6.

What transmission does the 2013 GMC Acadia use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 GMC Acadia, transmission is Automatic 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2013 GMC Acadia?▾

EPA combined estimate is 18 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2013 GMC Acadia?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2013 GMC Acadia?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 GMC Acadia, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2013 GMC Acadia use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 GMC Acadia, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 6-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2013 GMC Acadia?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

What are the most common electrical system problems on the 2013 GMC Acadia?▾

Top complaint category: electrical system (37 reports, 19.8% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2013 GMC Acadia?▾

This model year has 3 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2013 GMC Acadia?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2013 Toyota Highlander and 2013 Honda Pilot.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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