CARFOCALvehicle research
Research CarsCompareRankingsArticles
  1. Home›
  2. Manufacturers›
  3. GMC›
  4. Canyon›
  5. 2017

2017 GMC Canyon Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Ryan Davis·1 Critical Recall
2017 GMC Canyon Report

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Powertrain issues, including transmission shudder and torque converter problems, are the most significant concern for owners.
  • Engine oil leaks and steering system faults are also frequently reported, warranting close inspection.
  • The Canyon received an overall 4-star safety rating from NHTSA, with 5 stars in side crash tests.
  • Fuel economy is modest, averaging 15 MPG combined, leading to potentially high fuel costs.
See the 5 checks before you buyFree • Takes 20s • Saves Thousands $
OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2017 GMC Canyon

The 2017 GMC Canyon offers a capable mid-size truck package, but used buyers should proceed with caution. Its 3.6L V6 engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission provides adequate power, and it achieves a combined 15 MPG. Safety ratings are respectable, with an overall score of 4 out of 5 stars from NHTSA. However, a significant number of complaints and a 'Below Average' reliability verdict point to potential ownership challenges, particularly concerning the powertrain and steering.

Critical Failure Risk

Recurring problems with the torque converter and transmission, including shuddering, hard shifting, and outright failure, are frequently reported at relatively low mileages.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,500-$4,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls1
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

89
Power Train17
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
15
MPG
City
15
MPG
Highway
15
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.8/ 10

Practicality

3.6/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption, and limited seating.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers seeking a mid-size truck for occasional hauling or towing who prioritize capability over long-term reliability.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers prioritizing bulletproof reliability and minimal unexpected repair costs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2017 GMC Canyon Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2017 GMC Canyon.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
4
Transmission
Automatic 8-spd
Drivetrain
Rear-Wheel Drive
EPA Combined MPG
15

CarFocal account required

See the full 2017 GMC Canyon 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: 17 reports

2. ENGINE

Usage: 14 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 - Inspect Steering and Suspension Components

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
1 recall campaign details & remedy notes
Create free account

Free • Takes 20 seconds • Saves Thousands $

Already have an account? Log in

FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2017 GMC Canyon reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2017 GMC Canyon is 8.8/10. Reliability score is 8.8/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 89.

How practical is the 2017 GMC Canyon for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 3.6/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption, and limited seating. EPA combined economy is 15 MPG. Seating capacity is 4. 4 passenger doors are listed.

What is the overall score for the 2017 GMC Canyon?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2017 GMC Canyon is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.1/10. Practicality 3.6/10.

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

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 - Inspect Steering and Suspension Components at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $1,000. Repair prediction highlight: Transmission (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $1,500 • Max: $4,000+).

What is the MSRP range for the 2017 GMC Canyon?▾

Base MSRP is $34,405.

What engine is in the 2017 GMC Canyon?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.6.

What transmission does the 2017 GMC Canyon use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 GMC Canyon, transmission is Automatic 8-spd. The paired drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2017 GMC Canyon?▾

EPA combined estimate is 15 MPG.

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

10 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2017 GMC Canyon?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 GMC Canyon, seating capacity is 4.

What drivetrain does the 2017 GMC Canyon use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 GMC Canyon, drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 8-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2017 GMC Canyon?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 3/5.

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

Top complaint category: power train (17 reports, 19.1% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2017 GMC Canyon?▾

This model year has 1 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2017 GMC Canyon?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2017 Chevrolet Colorado and 2017 Toyota Tacoma.

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

We may earn a commission if you buy parts through our links. Learn more.