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2019 GMC Canyon Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Daniel Wilson
2019 GMC Canyon Report

Overall Score

7.2/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Powertrain issues, particularly with the transmission, are the most significant concern for owners.
  • Fuel system problems, including high-pressure fuel pump failures, pose a risk of stalling and potential fire hazards.
  • Electrical system glitches, such as ignition key failures, can render the vehicle inoperable.
  • The truck earns a 4-star overall safety rating, with a perfect 5-star score in side crash tests.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2019 GMC Canyon

The 2019 GMC Canyon offers a robust V6 engine and a capable platform for truck duties. However, prospective used buyers should be aware of its below-average reliability verdict. The primary concerns revolve around the powertrain and fuel systems, with numerous complaints detailing transmission slippage, harsh shifting, and high-pressure fuel pump failures. While safety ratings are generally good, these mechanical issues can impact drivability and potentially lead to costly repairs. With 18 complaints and a high TSB count, a meticulous pre-purchase inspection is non-negotiable.

Critical Failure Risk

Complaints indicate issues like transmission slippage, harsh shifting, and hesitation, sometimes occurring shortly after purchase or under 50,000 miles. This can impact vehicle control.

Early detection can help you avoid a $2,000-$5,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

18
Power Train6
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

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

Reliability

9.4/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers who prioritize utility and a V6 engine over long-term, worry-free reliability.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a completely dependable vehicle with minimal risk of unexpected repairs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2019 GMC Canyon Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2019 GMC Canyon.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Transmission
Automatic 8-spd
Drivetrain
Rear-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Pickup
EPA Combined MPG
15

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Most Common Issues

1. Powertrain

Most reported

Usage: 6 reports

2. Fuel System

Usage: 3 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 Brakes

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 (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
Full safety recall details
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2019 GMC Canyon reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2019 GMC Canyon is 9.4/10. Reliability score is 9.4/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 18.

How practical is the 2019 GMC Canyon for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 15 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2019 GMC Canyon?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2019 GMC Canyon is 7.2/10. Overall score is 7.2/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2019 GMC Canyon?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Transmission (typical at 60,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $1,500 • Max: $3,500).

What engine is in the 2019 GMC Canyon?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.6.

What transmission does the 2019 GMC Canyon use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 GMC Canyon, transmission is Automatic 8-spd. The paired drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2019 GMC Canyon?▾

EPA combined estimate is 15 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2019 GMC Canyon?▾

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

What body style is the 2019 GMC Canyon?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 GMC Canyon, body style is pickup.

What drivetrain does the 2019 GMC Canyon use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 GMC Canyon, drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 8-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2019 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 2019 GMC Canyon?▾

Top complaint category: power train (6 reports, 33.3% of complaints).

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2019 GMC Canyon?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2019 Toyota Tacoma and 2019 Honda Ridgeline.

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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