2021 GMC Canyon Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Significant safety concerns exist regarding airbag non-deployment during collisions.
- Powertrain complaints, including transmission shudder and suspension noise, warrant attention.
- An electrical fire incident near the rear passenger seat belt is a critical safety risk.
- Three recalls were issued, primarily concerning seat belt fasteners and tire loading information labels.
2021 GMC Canyon
Critical Failure Risk
Complaints indicate potential airbag non-deployment during collisions. This is a critical safety concern that requires immediate attention if suspected.
Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$3,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption, and limited seating.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Buyers needing a mid-size truck for moderate hauling and towing.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Drivers prioritizing top-tier reliability and minimal repair risk.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2021 GMC Canyon Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 GMC Canyon.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 4
- Transmission
- Automatic
- Drivetrain
- 4-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Pickup
- EPA Combined MPG
- 18
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Most Common Issues
1. Airbags
Most reportedUsage: 2 reports
2. Powertrain
Usage: 2 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes
Est. shop cost: $100 - $200
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FAQ
Is the 2021 GMC Canyon reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 GMC Canyon is 9.2/10. Reliability score is 9.2/10. NHTSA recalls: 3. Owner complaints: 12.
How practical is the 2021 GMC Canyon for daily use?
Practicality score is 2.9/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption, and limited seating. EPA combined economy is 18 MPG. Seating capacity is 4.
What is the overall score for the 2021 GMC Canyon?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 GMC Canyon is 7.3/10. Overall score is 7.3/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.2/10. Practicality 2.9/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 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 - $800. Repair prediction highlight: Airbag System (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $2,000).
What engine is in the 2021 GMC Canyon?
Engine specs list 6 • 3.6.
What transmission does the 2021 GMC Canyon use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 GMC Canyon, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is 4-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 GMC Canyon?
EPA combined estimate is 18 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 GMC Canyon?
8 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2021 GMC Canyon?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 GMC Canyon, seating capacity is 4.
What body style is the 2021 GMC Canyon?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 GMC Canyon, body style is pickup.
What drivetrain does the 2021 GMC Canyon use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 GMC Canyon, drivetrain is 4-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 GMC Canyon?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 3/5.
What are the most common air bags problems on the 2021 GMC Canyon?
Top complaint category: air bags (2 reports, 16.7% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2021 GMC Canyon?
This model year has 3 official safety campaigns listed.
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2021 GMC Canyon?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2021 Chevrolet Colorado and 2021 Toyota Tacoma.