What are the most common problems with the 2016 GMC Acadia?

Significant safety concerns exist regarding airbag system recalls, with prolonged remedy delays reported.

How many recalls does the 2016 GMC Acadia have?

The 2016 GMC Acadia currently has 4 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2016 GMC Acadia a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. Significant safety concerns exist regarding airbag system recalls, with prolonged remedy delays reported. Frequent power steering failures are a notable issue, posing a direct safety risk. Electrical system problems, particularly those affecting safety features, are common. The vehicle earned top safety ratings, with 5 stars overall from NHTSA. Expect average fuel economy for a vehicle of its size, with a combined 17 MPG. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2016 GMC Acadia?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2016 GMC Acadia.

2016 GMC Acadia Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026Ethan Miller2 Critical Recalls

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

Significant safety concerns exist regarding airbag system recalls, with prolonged remedy delays reported.
Frequent power steering failures are a notable issue, posing a direct safety risk.
Electrical system problems, particularly those affecting safety features, are common.
The vehicle earned top safety ratings, with 5 stars overall from NHTSA.

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Overview

2016 GMC Acadia

The 2016 GMC Acadia offers a spacious interior and a comfortable ride, making it a practical choice for families. However, its below-average reliability rating, driven by significant airbag recalls and common steering and electrical issues, demands careful consideration for used car shoppers. With 4 recalls and 269 complaints logged by NHTSA, vigilance during inspection is key. Its 3.6L V6 engine provides adequate power, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and available All-Wheel Drive. Fuel economy is respectable for its class, achieving an EPA-estimated 17 MPG combined. Despite its utility, potential buyers must weigh the known issues against the vehicle's overall appeal.

Critical Failure Risk

Numerous complaints and recalls point to issues with the air bag system, including fasteners and inflator modules. These can lead to non-deployment or unintended deployment, posing a significant safety risk. Prolonged remedy delays for recalls have been reported.

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

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls4

Service Bulletins0

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

269

Air Bags127

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Families seeking a spacious and comfortable three-row SUV.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers who prioritize long-term mechanical reliability and minimal unscheduled repairs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2016 GMC Acadia Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Regular
Transmission: Automatic 6-spd
Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Suv
EPA Combined MPG: 17

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Most Common Issues

1. Airbags

Most reported

Usage: 127 reports

2. Electrical System

Usage: 23 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 - Brake System Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (coolant, brake, power steering)

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

7,500 mi

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

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist

Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)

Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context

Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it

Full specs and trim-level context

4 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2016 GMC Acadia reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 GMC Acadia is 7.8/10. Reliability score is 7.8/10. NHTSA recalls: 4. Owner complaints: 269.

How practical is the 2016 GMC Acadia for daily use?

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 17 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2016 GMC Acadia?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 GMC Acadia is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.5/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2016 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 - Brake System Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (coolant, brake, power steering) at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Air Bag System (typical at 45,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $2,000+).

What engine is in the 2016 GMC Acadia?

Engine specs list 6 • 3.6.

What transmission does the 2016 GMC Acadia use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 GMC Acadia, transmission is Automatic 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2016 GMC Acadia?

EPA combined estimate is 17 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2016 GMC Acadia?

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

What body style is the 2016 GMC Acadia?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 GMC Acadia, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2016 GMC Acadia use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 GMC Acadia, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 6-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2016 GMC Acadia?

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

What are the most common air bags problems on the 2016 GMC Acadia?

Top complaint category: air bags (127 reports, 47.2% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2016 GMC Acadia?

This model year has 4 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2016 GMC Acadia?

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2016 Toyota Highlander and 2016 Honda Pilot.