What are the most common problems with the 2017 GMC Acadia?

The 'Shift to Park' defect is a major concern, potentially preventing the vehicle from shutting down and leading to rollaway risks.

How many recalls does the 2017 GMC Acadia have?

The 2017 GMC Acadia currently has 4 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2017 GMC Acadia a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. The 'Shift to Park' defect is a major concern, potentially preventing the vehicle from shutting down and leading to rollaway risks. Significant complaints exist for the **powertrain** and **electrical systems**, indicating potential for costly repairs. Four recalls were issued, including critical ones for **airbags** and **brakes**; confirm these have been addressed. The Acadia achieved a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, with 5 stars in frontal and side crash tests. Fuel economy is modest, with a combined EPA rating of 17 MPG, contributing to potentially high fuel costs. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2017 GMC Acadia?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2017 GMC Acadia.

2017 GMC Acadia Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026Ethan Miller3 Critical Recalls

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

The 'Shift to Park' defect is a major concern, potentially preventing the vehicle from shutting down and leading to rollaway risks.
Significant complaints exist for the powertrain and electrical systems, indicating potential for costly repairs.
Four recalls were issued, including critical ones for airbags and brakes; confirm these have been addressed.
The Acadia achieved a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, with 5 stars in frontal and side crash tests.

See the 5 checks before you buyFree • Takes 20s • Saves Thousands $

Overview

2017 GMC Acadia

The 2017 GMC Acadia offers a comfortable ride and a respectable set of safety features, earning a 5-star overall NHTSA rating. However, its below-average reliability verdict, driven by significant powertrain and electrical system complaints, warrants careful consideration for used car buyers. The most concerning issue is the 'Shift to Park' defect, which impacts vehicle security and operability. With 4 recalls and a high volume of complaints, potential buyers must prioritize thorough inspections and verification of completed repairs.

Critical Failure Risk

A persistent issue where the vehicle incorrectly displays 'Shift to Park' or fails to register when the transmission is in park. This can prevent the vehicle from shutting off, lead to battery drain, and critically, allow the vehicle to roll away.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$1,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls4

Service Bulletins0

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

898

Power Train221

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

Buyers prioritizing safety ratings and a comfortable ride over long-term reliability.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience or a vehicle with a strong reliability record.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2017 GMC Acadia Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Regular
Seating Capacity: 6
Transmission: Automatic 6-spd
Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive
EPA Combined MPG: 17

CarFocal account required

See the full 2017 GMC Acadia buyer report before you decide

Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Powertrain

Most reported

Usage: 221 reports

2. Electrical System

Usage: 170 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter, Drain Plug Gasket) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Exhaust System - Inspect Suspension Components

Est. shop cost: $100 - $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 (6 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

Create free account

Free • Takes 20 seconds • Saves Thousands $

Already have an account? Log in

FAQ

Is the 2017 GMC Acadia reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2017 GMC Acadia is 5.3/10. Reliability score is 5.3/10. NHTSA recalls: 4. Owner complaints: 898.

How practical is the 2017 GMC Acadia for daily use?

Practicality score is 4.6/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 17 MPG. Seating capacity is 6. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 363 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2017 GMC Acadia?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2017 GMC Acadia is 6.0/10. Overall score is 6.0/10 (Mixed). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.0/10. Practicality 4.6/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2017 GMC Acadia?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter, Drain Plug Gasket) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Exhaust System - Inspect Suspension Components at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Shift to Park Actuator/Module (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $800).

What is the MSRP range for the 2017 GMC Acadia?

Base MSRP is $32,450.

What engine is in the 2017 GMC Acadia?

Engine specs list 6 • 3.6.

What transmission does the 2017 GMC Acadia use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 GMC Acadia, transmission is Automatic 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2017 GMC Acadia?

EPA combined estimate is 17 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2017 GMC Acadia?

12 standard and 1 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2017 GMC Acadia?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 GMC Acadia, seating capacity is 6.

What drivetrain does the 2017 GMC Acadia use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 GMC Acadia, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 6-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2017 GMC Acadia?

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

What are the most common power train problems on the 2017 GMC Acadia?

Top complaint category: power train (221 reports, 24.6% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2017 GMC Acadia?

This model year has 4 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2017 GMC Acadia?

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2017 Toyota Highlander and 2017 Honda Pilot.