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2023 GMC Acadia Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Ryan Davis
2023 GMC Acadia Report

Overall Score

7.5/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Significant electrical system, engine, and powertrain issues are the primary ownership risks.
  • Early-life failures and persistent problems across mileage ranges indicate potential systemic weaknesses.
  • Four recalls have been issued, with some affecting critical driveline and transmission components.
  • A perfect 5-star NHTSA overall safety rating provides a strong safety net.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2023 GMC Acadia

The 2023 GMC Acadia presents a mixed bag for used car shoppers. While it boasts a strong safety rating with 5 stars overall from NHTSA, its reliability is a significant concern. The vehicle has accumulated a notable number of complaints, particularly within its electrical, engine, and powertrain systems. These issues can manifest early in the vehicle's life, even under 400 miles, and persist across various mileage points. With four recalls issued, including critical driveline and transmission components, potential buyers must be diligent. The Acadia offers all-wheel drive and achieves a combined EPA-estimated 21 MPG, but these practical aspects are overshadowed by documented reliability shortcomings.

Critical Failure Risk

Reports indicate issues ranging from starter solenoid failures and intermittent power loss to backup camera malfunctions and even fires originating from the electrical system. CAN bus communication errors have also been noted.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,000-$4,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls4
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

45
Electrical System7
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Horsepower
228–310HP
Torque
258–271 lb–ftLB-FT
Fuel Efficiency
Combined
21
MPG
City
19
MPG
Highway
26
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.5/ 10

Practicality

6.6/ 10

Watch-outs include high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

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

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience with minimal repair concerns.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2023 GMC Acadia Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2023 GMC Acadia.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
7
Horsepower
228-310 hp
Torque
258-271 lb-ft
Transmission
Automatic 9-spd
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
21

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

Most Common Issues

1. Electrical System

Most reported

Usage: 7 reports

2. ENGINE

Usage: 7 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 - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Exhaust System - Inspect Suspension Components

Est. shop cost: $150 - $250

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

FAQ

Is the 2023 GMC Acadia reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2023 GMC Acadia is 8.5/10. Reliability score is 8.5/10. NHTSA recalls: 4. Owner complaints: 45.

How practical is the 2023 GMC Acadia for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 6.6/10. Watch-outs include high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 21 MPG. Seating capacity is 7. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 2237 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2023 GMC Acadia?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2023 GMC Acadia is 7.5/10. Overall score is 7.5/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.0/10. Practicality 6.6/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2023 GMC Acadia?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Exhaust System - Inspect Suspension Components at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $600 - $1,000. Repair prediction highlight: Electrical System (typical at 35,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $1,500+).

What engine is in the 2023 GMC Acadia?▾

Engine specs list V6 • 6 • 3.6. Output is 228-310 hp • 258-271 lb-ft.

What transmission does the 2023 GMC Acadia use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 GMC Acadia, transmission is Automatic 9-spd. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2023 GMC Acadia?▾

EPA combined estimate is 21 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2023 GMC Acadia?▾

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

What is the fuel economy range for the 2023 GMC Acadia?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 GMC Acadia, fuel economy range is 19-26 mpg combined.

How many people fit in a 2023 GMC Acadia?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 GMC Acadia, seating capacity is 7.

What body style is the 2023 GMC Acadia?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 GMC Acadia, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2023 GMC Acadia use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 GMC Acadia, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 9-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2023 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 2023 GMC Acadia?▾

Top complaint category: electrical system (7 reports, 15.6% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2023 GMC Acadia?▾

This model year has 4 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2023 GMC Acadia?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2023 Toyota Highlander and 2023 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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