How many problems does the 2016 GMC Canyon have?

The 2016 GMC Canyon currently has 256 owner-reported complaints according to NHTSA database. These complaints are organized by component to help identify common issues.

What are the most common problems with 2016 GMC Canyon?

The most common problems reported for the 2016 GMC Canyon are organized by component above. Each component section shows owner-reported issues, crash reports, and fire incidents to help identify patterns and problem areas.

2016 GMC Canyon Problems

STEERING

133 complaints

Power steering goes out intermittently while driving, almost causing wrecks. A warning pops up that power steering needs to be serviced...but when truck is turned off and restarted the issue goes away. This is an extremely dangerous situation and seems to be affecting thousands of vehicles according to internet research. GM needs to be held accountable and recall and fix the issues immediately.

Oct 30, 2025

Power steering turned off while driving Pulled over cycled the key it came back on Has happened 3 times in two weeks

Oct 23, 2025

I believe the steering gear torque sensor cover assembly is causing my power steering to intermittently stop working I read the report for the 2015 model year and my truck is doing the exact same thing truck was produced in 10/15 but is not part of the recall after further searching online I’ve found other people owning the 2016 model year that has the same issue I believe the recall needs to be moved to cover the 2016 model year as well

Sep 12, 2025

The contact owns a 2016 GMC Canyon. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the steering wheel became stiff and difficult to turn. The message "Drive with Care" was displayed. The traction control warning light and an unknown warning light were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the power train torque sensor needed to be replaced. An unknown local dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. The contact related the failure to an unidentified recall; however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.

Aug 04, 2025

The contact owns a 2016 GMC Canyon. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost electric power steering, and the steering wheel became difficult to steer. The contact pulled to the shoulder of the roadway and turned the vehicle off. The contact stated that upon restarting the vehicle, the power steering became operable; however, the failure recurred while driving. The power steering warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by the dealer or an independent mechanic. The contact related the failure to an unknown recall; however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and a case was filed. The contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 120,000.

Jul 30, 2025

+ 128 more complaints for this component

POWER TRAIN

21 complaints

I have not been in an incident yet, but when I slow down coming off the highway and try to come back up to traffic speed the the transmission bucks or shutters. Also when starting from a red light or stop sign the truck bucks or shutters very notable in 3-4-5th gear. I watched the tachometer and it shutters most of my drive. In all fairness, I have not brought it to the dealership yet. I see other people are having this problem with the Canyons and Colorado also. Please advise!

Jan 20, 2024

•Water coolant valve, and torque converter. •my Truck temp gage will fluctuate towards red line and back to normal. Torque converter caused my vehicle to shake, vibrate, slow accelerating, made it seem vehicle will shut off on highway or in heavy traffic. •I went to several mechanics, including the dealerships and they fixed my water coolant valve but issue persisted, the dealerships said my truck was running fine until I had requested to ride along with mechanic, that's when he guessed it would be torque converter. •has not been inspected, just test drove and replaced by mechanic •no lights indicated on dash board and I felt the shake and vibration around 08/01/2021 and reported to dealership. The water temp gage was reported back in Nov 2018 but the problem still persist.

Sep 17, 2021

TRANSMISSION CONSISTENTLY SHUDDERS WHEN ACCELERATING IN ALL DRIVING CONDITIONS AND SPEEDS, AND SOMETIMES GOES TO HIGHER RPMS WHEN ENGINE IS WARM AND RESTARTED. DEALER SAID THIS WAS NORMAL WHEN RECENTLY BROUGHT IN. IT WAS NOT SHOWING ANY CODES. DEALER SAID NOT TO KEEP 4X4 IN AUTO MODE. LESS THAN A WEEK AFTER RECEIVING TRUCK BACK FROM DEALER, A 4 WHEEL DRIVE WARNING MESSAGE WAS DISPLAYED AND THE CAR WOULD NOT GO INTO 4 WHEEL DRIVE OR AUTO. MESSAGE AND PROBLEM COMES AND GOES. SHUDDERING SHOULD NOT OCCUR AND KEEPING IN AUTO MORE DURING RAIN AND COLD WEATHER IS A SAFETY PRECAUTION THAT SHOULD NOT BE AN ISSUE.

Oct 22, 2020

VEHICLE HAS FREQUENT SLOW ACCELERATION WHEN ENTERING HIGHWAYS. I HAVE TO STEP ON THE ACCELERATOR HARD TO HAVE THE ENGINE PICK-UP SPEED, WHICH LEADS TO THE ENGINE OVER ACCELERATING. WHEN I SLOW DOWN ON SHARP ROAD TURNS AND ACCELERATE TO PICKUP SPEED THE TRANSMISSION SHIFTING THE GEAR HARD (MAKING A THUMP SOUND). HAVE GONE TO DEALER AT MERCED GMC AND TURLOCK CHEVROLET. BOTH STATE CAR IS RUNNING THE WAY GMC MANUFACTURED IT.

Oct 30, 2019

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 GMC CANYON. ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS, WHILE ATTEMPTING TO ACCELERATE, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO RESPOND. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO GAY BUICK GMC (3033 GULF FWY, DICKINSON, TX 77539, (832) 769-4378) TO BE DIAGNOSED, BUT THE DEALER STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS OPERATING AS INTENDED. THE CONTACT WAS ALSO INFORMED BY THE MECHANIC THAT THE VEHICLE SHOULD BE PLACED IN TRAILER MODE TO RECTIFY THE FAILURE IF IT HAPPENED AGAIN. THE CONTACT WAS CONCERNED THAT THE VEHICLE COULD CAUSE A CRASH. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 7,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.

Aug 29, 2018

+ 16 more complaints for this component

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

11 complaints

The contact owns a 2016 GMC Canyon. The contact stated that after arriving to his destination, he became aware that the ignition switch would not release the key. After restarting the vehicle and then turning the vehicle off, the contact was able to remove the key, but the failure became a regular occurrence. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 50,000.

Jul 30, 2024

The key does not always release from the ignition after parking the truck. I have to shift into Drive and back into Park multiple times or wait up to a minute to remove the key. Took it to the dealership, but at that time, it was only happening once a week or so, and they could not reproduce the problem. 3 years later and it still happens and it's getting much worse. Happens at least once a day. I have seen this problem pop-up on many forums, and while it is not a safety issue, it is a quality issue that should be addressed by GMC.

Nov 25, 2022

The malfunction is: no power, no crank, no electricity at all, can not use key fob to lock/unlock, radio does not work, dash does not work, literally 0 lights 0 power when key is in ignition to and turning to start or when key is not in ignition. The positive battery terminal also overheats to extreme temps which caused my dad a 3rd degree burn since positive terminals should never be hot. Dates of malfunction that have left me stranded 7/16, 8/3, 8/5, 8/11, 8/12, 8/28. I have video evidence of the malfunction on each of those dates. The way we got it to fix is by banging on the battery. on 8/12 I brought the truck to the dealership because I banged on the battery I got error codes- Engine Power Reduced, and Stabilitrak Offline. The engine was shaking very badly, I have video. hey have the truck for a week, get it to trigger the same incident and determine its a bad battery cell that could only be detected when the malfunction was happening. They replaced the battery. On 8/28 the same malfunction happens except nothing is fixing it, not banging on the battery, not waiting 24+ hours. Prior to me buying the truck on June 28th the previous owner has an invoice in the glove box dated May 25th to try to fix the same issues. I bought this from the dealership not the previous owner. The vehicle still sits at the dealership trying to diagnose the issue.

Sep 12, 2022

When I put my GMC Canyon into park, the key will not release from the ignition. This does not happen every time, but it is a recurring problem. I first had the issue back on April 6, 2018 and the dealer "fixed" the issue. Three weeks later, April 27, 2018, I had the same issue. This time the dealer replaced the "shift control assembly". The truck was still under warranty so there was no financial burden on me. Then on September 2, 2020 the same issue happened and the shift control assembly had to be replaced again. This time the truck was not under warranty and it cost me $688.72. Now August 2022 the key is not releasing from the ignition once again. This is the 4th time for the same issue. I believe GMC needs to recall this part and come up with a fix that will work.

Aug 23, 2022

The contact owns a 2016 GMC Canyon. The contact stated that while the gear shifter was in park(P), the contact was unable to be removed from the ignition. The contact was able to remove the key after several attempts. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the ignition switch needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 55,223.

Jul 21, 2022

+ 6 more complaints for this component

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

8 complaints

The stabilitrac system fails causing the traction system to turn off

Nov 21, 2024

DEF Fluid/nox sensor. My truck has 37,000 miles on it. I have been limited to 65mph, 55mph, and then 5mph 3 separate times already because DEF fluid quality poor permanent code. It all comes down to a dirty nox sensor #2 in the exhaust. The DEF fluid is not actually poor quality. I frequently travel long distance. This permanent code should not be limiting my speed. I want a full recall and have this removed from the truck. I did not buy a truck for it to tell me I can't go a certain distance for so many miles because it may be polluting a little extra. This is a safety hazard and a costly hazard when you get stranded on the side of a highway or cannot keep up with traffic because the truck is limited to a certain speed. The message also blocks all digital functions from being accessed at all times.

Jul 13, 2022

Ignition key randomly will not release from ignition switch. The key is stuck in the ignition in the accessory position which in turn kills the battery. Unable to remove key! I have read this is a common problem with my vehicle year / model. When placing vehicle in PARK it is not reliably returning the confirmation to the solenoid lock on the ignition switch that the transmission is in PARK. My dealer finally admitted this is a common problem. GM needs to take responsibility and activate a recall.

May 01, 2022

I PUT THE CAR INTO PARK AND TURN THE KEY TO TURN THE IGNITION OFF. ENGINE TURNS OFF BUT KEY DOES NOT TURN IN TO OFF POSITION. I HAVE TO START AND TURN THE TRUCK OFF MULTIPLE TIMES TO RELEASE THE KEY.

Nov 05, 2020

TRUCK HAS STARTING ISSUES WHEN SHOPPING OR GETTING GAS. ENTIRE TRUCK SYSTEM GOES DEAD. TRUCK HAS TO SIT FOR 10 MINUTES OR SO. THEN OUT OF THE BLUE ALL THE SYSTEMS IN TRUCK WILL START WORKING. THIS AFFECTS THE ALL DOOR LOCKS, POWER SEATS, POWER WINDOWS, RADIO, INSTRUMENT PANEL, IGNITION SWITCH ALL INTERIOR LIGHTS AND ALL EXTERIOR LIGHTS HEADLIGHTS, ALL TURN SIGNALS, ALL WINDSHIELD WIPERS, IN SHORT ALL ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS INCLUDING AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION GEAR SHIFT. THIS HAPPENS WARNING REASON FOR THIS OCCURRENCE.

Sep 15, 2020

+ 3 more complaints for this component

STEERING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)

8 complaints

The contact owns a 2016 GMC Canyon. The contact stated while driving approximately 50 MPH, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. The power steering and stabili-trak warning lights were illuminated. The contact called the dealer and was informed that the vehicle was not covered under a recall. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who stated that the failure was due to the gear torque sensor. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 73,000.

Sep 28, 2023

The contact owns a 2016 GMC Canyon. The contact stated while driving 65 MPH, the stability control and power steering warning lights illuminated. The vehicle then lost stability control functionality and the steering wheel became firm. The contact stopped on the side of road and turned off the vehicle. The vehicle was restarted and operated normally. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and stated that the vehicle needed to diagnosed. The failure mileage was 116,000. The VIN was not available.

Jul 06, 2023

The contact owns a 2016 GMC Canyon. The contact stated while driving at approximately 35 MPH, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. The stabili trac warning light was illuminated. The contact was able to drive safely to his residence. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V213000 (Steering). The approximate failure mileage was 58,000.

Sep 08, 2022

The contact owns a 2016 GMC Canyon. The contact stated while driving approximately 70 MPH, the stabilizer and the steering power assist warning lights illuminated. The vehicle then lost power steering functionality. The contact was able to pull over safely to the side of the road. The contact then turned off and restarted the vehicle. The contact also stated that the vehicle was reset overnight occasionally. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who diagnosed the vehicle with steering assist and rack and pinion failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 120,000.

Sep 01, 2022

LATELLY I'M HAVING PROBLEM IT A GMC CANYON 2016 THAT CAUSE THE VEHICLE TO LOOSE POWER STEERING LOSS, AND STABILITY CONTROL ASSIST WHICH MAKE THE CAR TO BECOME VERY HARD TO MANEUVER, IN THE HIGHWAY AND LOCAL ROADS THE FIRST TIME THIS HAPPEN WAS BEGINNING OF AUGUST I BROUGHT TO THE DEALER HE RESET THE CONTROLS AND PROBLEM DISAPPEARED JUST TO RETURN ONE MONTH LATER.

Sep 08, 2020

+ 3 more complaints for this component

ENGINE

7 complaints

At approximately 92k miles the diesel High Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) failed, all internal seals were disintegrated (technician's verbage). This is apparently a common problem (but no recall was ever issued), which can lead to premature engine failure due to sending foreign material into the engine. This pump was replaced, however the new pump failed, after 2 days, and required replacement again, May 2023. The total cost for this was $6200. At 100,450 miles my engine blew up while driving, 01 Feb 2024. There is a very good chance that when the HPFP pump had failed, 10 months earlier, it in fact send foreign material into the engines cylinders which might have led up to this catastrophic failure. Fortunately, I was on a rural street travelling at about 20 miles an hour, and not on the highway travelling at 70 miles an hour, like I was 10 minutes before this happened. When the engine blew it sent pieces of cast iron flying out the bottom of the truck, on a highway this could have seriously damaged vehicles travelling behind me. When it blew I also lost all 'propulsion', the truck immediately began coasting to a stop, had this happened at high speeds it would have been extremely dangerous because without the engine running the brakes lose pressure, plus the oil leaking out could have caused a loss of traction. From what I have found, while researching online, these 2.8l diesel engines have a fairly high failure rate (often being referred to as "a bomb just waiting to explode"), especially the HPFP, which might be part of the reason the General Motors discontinued using this engine in 2022. I feel that a recall should be done on all current 2.8l Duramax engines to do a complete inspection and replace all suspect components, as well as to reimburse those of us who were placed in harms way when our engines blew up on the road, due to GM's neglect.

Feb 04, 2024

1 inch section of magnetic strip GLUED to outer rim of reluctor rim broke off. For an item that sees such a high rate of speed, gluing anything to the outside is piss poor engineering.

May 28, 2022

Alert for emissions control malfunction.

Nov 26, 2021

WHEN TRYING TO ACCELERATE VEHICLE STUDDERS AND HAS NO POWER UNTIL MORE GAS IS APPLIED. VEHICLE CHANGES GEARS WAY TO FAST CAUSING YOU TO HAVE TO APPLY MORE ACCELERATION. VEHICLE DOESN'T DOWNSHIFT CAUSING YOU TO ALSO HAVE TO APPLY MORE ACCELERATION TO GAIN SPEED. SERIOUS SAFETY HAZARD. *TR

Jun 12, 2020

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 GMC CANYON. WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, THE RPM METER INCREASED FROM 1,000 TO 4,000 AND THE VEHICLE FAILED TO DECELERATE OR ACCELERATE. THE VEHICLE SLOWED DOWN AFTER BEING SHIFTED INTO NEUTRAL AND WAS ABLE TO FUNCTION PROPERLY. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO DIAMOND HILLS CHEVROLET BUICK GMC (4545 W RAMSEY ST, BANNING, CA 92220, (866) 220-9099), BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND ADVISED THE CONTACT TO TAKE THE VEHICLE BACK TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 22,000. *TT CONSUMER STATED I SPOKE WITH TIFFANY AT GMC. SHE INFORMED ME THAT THEY WOULD DO NOTHING AND ANY FURTHER TESTS WOULD BE AT MY EXPENSE. THE FIRST TIME IT HAPPENED IT WAS A VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION. I HAD JUST PASSED A CAR ON A 2 LANE HWY (CA 395) WHEN THE ENGINE FROZE. THE CAR I PASSED HAD TO APPLY ITS BRAKES TO KEEP FROM HITTING ME. UPDATED 10/19/18*JB

Aug 09, 2018

+ 2 more complaints for this component

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

5 complaints

It keeps putting my vehicle into limp mode with the def system and tell me that I have poor exhaust quality. I can’t keep taking my vehicle into the shop not sure if it’s a sensor or the soot again or what but something has got to give

Jun 18, 2022

AN ANIMAL CHEWED THROUGH THE FUEL LINE CAUSING A SIGNIFICANT FUEL LEAK. THIS WAS CAUSED BY THE CONSTRUCTION ON THE FUEL LINE CONTAINING SOY BASED PRODUCTS WHICH ATTRACTS WILDLIFE. THIS OCCURRED WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED (STATIONARY).

Feb 01, 2021

ON JULY 2ND, I LOOKED WHERE MY CANYON WAS PARKED AND FOUND A SIGNIFICANT AMOUNT OF DIESEL FUEL ON THE GROUND. UPON FURTHER INSPECTION, I FOUND FUEL ALL OVER THE UNDERSIDE OF THE VEHICLE AND A SEVER LEAK FROM A HOSE. THE HOSE WAS RUBBING ON A CAN COMING FROM THE AC COMPRESSOR. THE VEHICLE DOES NOT LEAK WHEN PARKED (OTHER THAN DRIPPING) BUT LOOSES SIGNIFICANT FUEL WHEN IDLING OR DRIVING. THIS ISSUE LIKELY STARTED A FEW DAYS AGO BUT WAS NOT DISCOVERED UNTIL 7/2. THE FUEL ITSELF IS CLOSE TO SEVERAL HOT COMPONENTS INCLUDING THE TRANSMISSION, EXHAUST AND TRANSFER CASE.

Jul 03, 2019

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 GMC CANYON. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FUEL TANK WAS MISSING THE METAL SKID PLATE AND FUEL LEAKED FROM THE VEHICLE. WHEN THE CONTACT APPROACHED THE VEHICLE, HE NOTICED THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS PRESENT TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT ALSO NOTICED A STRONG FUEL ODOR COMING FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A REPAIR SHOP. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER OR INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING OR REPAIRS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 18,446.

Sep 04, 2018

TRUCK SEEMS TO BE MISSING WHEN CRUISING, THEN HESITATION WHEN ACCELERATING. SEEMS TO BE NOT GETTING ENOUGH FUEL FREQUENTLY WHEN JUST ACCELERATING. DEALER SAYS THEY CAN'T FIND ANYTHING WRONG. TOLD THEM THE PROBLEM IS 90% REDUCED WHEN USING PREMIUM FUEL. STILL NO IDEA.

Sep 08, 2016

STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

4 complaints

The contact owns a 2016 GMC Canyon. The contact stated that the headlights failed to activate automatically. Additionally, one of the phone charger ports had become inoperable. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. A message advising that the power steering was inoperable and to drive carefully was displayed. The contact pulled over to the side of the road and turned off and restarted the vehicle, and the power steering functionality returned. Additionally, the contact stated while driving 50-55 MPH after the power steering failure, the vehicle was pulling to the right. The dealer was contacted, and an appointment was scheduled for a diagnostic test. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 105,000.

Sep 29, 2025

While driving the power steering went out making the vehicle difficult to control. Once I stopped the vehicle and turned it off then back on, the power steering came back on leading me to believe an electrical issue is the cause

May 02, 2025

The vehicle will lose power steering while driving. The lights come on for stabilitrak and traction control then it says power steering is gone. It randomly deactivates the power steering, while driving. It's extremely dangerous and have almost had accidents. They are telling me that it may not be under a recall. If gmc used the same steering box as the previous model year, the same issue is occurring. Intermittent power steering failure.

Mar 29, 2025

Received a stabilitrck error and lost power steering and traction control while driving. This appears to be a common and dangerous issue with this model vehicle.

Jun 16, 2024

STEERING,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

3 complaints

At random the power steering and traction control turn off making it difficult to drive.. This happens randomly and has become unable to steer. Once the vehicle is turned off for a period of time you can start it up and the steering returns. The issue was reported in the 2015 models. That recall needs to extend into the 2016 models since most of the parts were most likely manufactured tot eh same specs as the 2015. The vehicle was diagnosed by an independent repair shop. The dealership wanted $200 for just the diagnostics. Every time this happens it becomes very difficult to drive and is a safety issue. The issue first appeared 2 months ago and after the restart stopped. Then all of a sudden it seems to occur daily.

Oct 21, 2025

Complete loss of power steering and traction control while driving. Very difficult to make turns. Would have to pull off the road and restart vehicle to fix problem. I have not taken it to a service center. It has not been inspected. Warning lights for loss of stabilitrak do come on.

Feb 08, 2024

Key is not pulling out of ignition after truck has been put in park. Mechanic has replaced the shifter twice, and yet the problem is more pronounced. The Dealership (Anthony GMC) has now stated there is no problem, and yet the key wont come out for them either.

Nov 10, 2021

AIR BAGS

3 complaints

July 30, 2021 airbag warning - dealer replaced left front impact sensor mileage 33905 March 9, 2022 rough idling and stalling - dealer replaced evap purge solenoid valve mileage 39067 April 20, 2023 airbag warning - dealer replaced right front impact sensor and air bag module mileage 44496

Jun 02, 2023

On September 14, 2021, my 2016 GMC Canyon struck another vehicle from behind going approximately 55 MPH and the airbags did not deploy. Every mechanic and insurance adjuster has stated that the airbags should have deployed in this collision.

Dec 01, 2021

Crash: 1

Injuries: 2

WE RECENTLY PURCHASED A 2016 CANYON TRUCK FOR ABOUT 45K WITH THE NEW SMALL DIESEL ENGINE. ON 10-19-16 WE TOOK IT IN TO DEALERSHIP FOR ROUTINE SERVICE AND A MAJOR LOUD VIBRATION RATTLING UNDER THE DASH IN THE PASSENGER AIR BAG AREA. WHEN WE PICKED VEHICLE UP WE WERE TOLD THAT THEY DID NOT HAVE A FIX FOR NOISE COMING FROM UNDER DASH AIR BAG AREA AND OTHERS CANYONS HAVE BEEN IN FOR THE SAME PROBLEM AND THAT THEY ARE DEALERSHIP WAITING ON PROCEDURE FROM GMC FOR FIX? WE HAVE A CONCERN THAT THIS COULD BE A SAFETY ISSUE, SINCE NOISE IS COMING FROM AIR BAG AREA AND WOULD LIKE YOUR EXPEDITIOUS ATTENTION REGARDING THIS MATTER.

Nov 22, 2016

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

3 complaints

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 GMC CANYON. WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED, BUT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO RESPOND. ALSO, THE VEHICLE DECELERATED ON ITS OWN. THE FAILURE OCCURRED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER (TWIN CITY BUICK GMC, 3046 ALCOA HWY, ALCOA, TN 37701) WHERE NOTHING WAS DONE AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE ISSUE WAS NORMAL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AT 800-462-8782 AND STATED THAT THEY WOULD PASS THE ISSUE ON TO THE SENIOR MANAGER. CASE NUMBER: H3455690739 WAS PROVIDED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 18,000.

Oct 18, 2017

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 GMC CANYON. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS ENGAGED AND THERE WAS A DELAYED RESPONSE OF SEVERAL SECONDS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE OCCURRED WITHOUT ANY WARNING. THE FAILURE RECURRED SEVERAL TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 11,000.

Feb 01, 2017

ABOUT EVERY 3-5 WEEKS THE ENGINE WILL ACCELERATE BY ITSELF. THE FIRST 3 TIMES IT ACCELERATED TO 3,000 RPM, THE LAST 4 TIMES 4,000 RPM. SO FAR AS I CAN TELL IT DOES THIS WHEN SHIFTING FROM 1ST TO 2ND. I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER AND THEY SAID THEY COULD NOT DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM SO THEY COULD NOT FIX IT. HAPPENS IN MOTION ON CITY STREET OR IN PARKING LOTS. I HAVE STANDARD TRANSMISSION SO WHEN IT HAPPENS I CAN LEAVE CLUTCH IN, TURN OFF ENGINE AND RESTART. PROBLEMS STARTED AT ABOUT 3,400 MILES. STILL DOING IT.

Jan 23, 2017

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE

2 complaints

On [XXX] at approximately 5:30p, I was driving normal highway speed when I saw what I thought was exhaust trailing behind. There were NO dash warning lights, engine temperature showing normal range, car was performing normally. I pulled over to shoulder, turned off car, released the hood latch. My husband tried to open hood but it was too hot. We then realized it was smoke coming from under hood, not exhaust. Smoke began to come inside car through vents. I quickly exited the car, and within a minute the entire front end engine area was engulfed in flames. 911 was called, fire, police, highway patrol responded. Fortunately there was no injury to myself or husband. There was also concern of starting a brushfire risk here in SoCal, but it was all extinguished thoroughly. Truck was towed to Al’s Towing, 475 W Vermont Ave, Escondido CA 92025, ph 760-745-5933. A report has been filed with our insurance USAA, inspection by adjuster is pending. I also notified Temecula GMC, where I purchased vehicle from, of the incident. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Jul 29, 2024

Fire: 1

VEHICLE IGNITION KEY CAN NOT BE REMOVED AND IT DOES NOT STAY IN PARK. VEHICLE CAN CRASH CAUSING INJURIES AND PROPERTY DAMAGE VEHICLE HAS ABOUT 35000K MILES UNDER WARRENTY AND GMC REFUSES TO DO ANY THING ABOUT IT.

Feb 19, 2019

Crash: 1

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

2 complaints

Purchased this vehicle brand new and paid extra for Nav and a backup camera as I am a disabled Veteran! Currently have 32000 miles or so as i don't drive that much. No other lights or warnings came up before the following happened. Recently the radio stopped playing and the infotainment system went blank. It occasionally pops up a screen that says waiting on update, other than that it stays blank most of the time. The backup camera comes on intermittently but not always when backing up, maybe 1 out of every 5 times. Also the bluetooth went dead since this all started. As a disabled Vet I depend on the backup camera and built in Navigation so this is an issue! Called the dealer and 3 other radio and entertainment car stores and they stated this is a know issue and would cost around $1000 to $1200 to replace the HMI 2.5 module behind the dash which is the known issue. Looking online this is a well known and common issue and GMC has bulletins to diagnose but no free or discounted replacement or repair, even though it's all over the internet that GMC and Chevy Infotainment centers have issues. There is a class action lawsuit going on due to this issue as well. I'm sure there are others that just haven't complained and should be fixed by the dealer.

Jan 27, 2023

When turning off vehicle the key will not to “off” mode. It stays in accessories mode and prevents the key from being able to be removed.

Jun 26, 2021

SERVICE BRAKES

2 complaints

The brakes locked up and stayed locked for several minutes about 6 times when the brake peddle was lightly touched. I was told by the dealership service department that the computer needed reprogramming. A software glitch caused the brakes to lock up? Not very confident in this product!!! I am trading in this GMC for a Ford.

Mar 17, 2022

This is the 4th time I have had a problem with my brakes. The brake pedal will be extremely hard to push to brake and this has happened while driving. The brake booster has been replaced 3 times now and is now at the dealership, where they have discovered that this is happening due to the break booster pump being bad. Now we get to add another $900 to this truck towards this problem. I am really surprised that there is no recall for this. This truck us not that old and we have had problems since we've owned it.

Feb 19, 2022

STEERING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

2 complaints

While driving, the power steering and stabillitrac warnings come on, and I lose power steering. When I stop, turn the vehicle off, and restart the vehicle, the power sterring returns. This has happened three times in the past week, ranging in speed from 5 mph to 65 mph.

Feb 07, 2022

UNABLE TO GET THE KEYS OUT OF THE IGNITION WHEN COME TO A COMPLETE STOP AND IS IN PARK.. THE KEY WON'T GET RELEASED FROM THE IGNITION.. I HAVE TO RESTART THE TRUCK SEVERAL TIMES AND REPEAT TAKEN THE KEYS OUT. IT IS AS IF THE IGNITION WON'T RECOGNIZE THE KEY..

Mar 18, 2021

POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

2 complaints

Ignition key randomly will not release from switch. The key is stuck in the ignition in the accessory position which in turn kills the battery. As far as I can tell (and I have read about and experienced this problem for many months) the root cause is the gear shift assembly or Part # 23397472. It is not reliably returning the confirmation, to the solenoid lock on the ignition switch, that the transmission is in PARK reliably. For the first time last w/e my dealer admitted this is a problem and that replacing 23397472 usually resolves the issue. I need GM to take responsibility and activate a recall

Nov 10, 2021

TOUCH SCREEN AND IN DASH DIGITAL SPEEDOMETER RANDOMLY CHANGES ON ITS ON, THE TOUCH SCREEN WILL NOT RESPOND AND CHANGE RADIO STATIONS, VOLUME, CONTACT ON STAR, TRY TO USE PROJECTION OPTION, MOVE THE MAP ON GPS, AND CHANGE THE DIGITAL SPEEDOMETER FROM SPEED LIMIT TO RADIO STATIONS. ON MULTIPLE OCCASIONS WHILE DRIVING AT NIGHT THE ENTIRE DASH, RADIO, GAUGES LIGHTS EVERYTHING WENT BLACK RANDOMLY AS IF THE TRUCK WAS NOT TURNED ON BUT THE TRUCK CONTINUED TO DRIVE NORMAL AND AFTER WHAT LOOKS LIKE A RESET MAYBE 20-30 SECONDS EVERYTHING REBOOTS AS IF YOU JUST STARTED THE TRUCK. THEN IT'S BACK TO RANDOM BERSERK OUTBURSTS BY THE TOUCH SCREEN. TRANSMISSION STARTED GETTING JERKY BETWEEN GEARS AT 15K MILES AND HAS ONLY GOTTEN WORSE AT 35K MILES. ENTIRE VEHICLE SHAKES BETWEEN GEARS FRONT TO REAR AND BACK. THROUGH ALL GEARS. ALSO SOME STRONG HARD HITTING SHIFTS. DEALERSHIP HAS HAD VEHICLE 2 TIMES FOR BOTH ISSUES AND SEE NOTHING WRONG. THEY ARE CLEARLY LYING. GM WILL ALSO NOT HELP AND HAVE BEEN CONTACTED DIRECTLY.

Feb 29, 2020

POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE

2 complaints

Have had truck in shop several times, currently in the shop and has been there for almost 3 weeks nobody seems to know what the problem is. Vehicle losses power and goes into a limp mode. Temperature gauge keeps failing, exhaust break does not work, ac cuts out often and does not work often, keeps trying to clean exhaust filter over and over again and again.

Jun 16, 2021

TRAVELING DOWN CITY STREET APPROX 35MPH VEHICLE UNEXPECTEDLY SHUT OFF, DASH WENT DARK BUT INFOTAINMENT SYSTEM CONTINUED TO WORK. LOSS OF ALL POWER. BRAKES SHUTTERED WHEN ATTEMPTING TO COME TO A STOP. PUT THE VEHICLE IN PARK, TURNED IT OFF, AND BACK ON. VEHICLE DROVE NORMALLY AFTER THAT.

Feb 26, 2020

POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

2 complaints

VEHICLE DOES NOT RESPOND TO ACCELERATION COMMAND WHILE ENTERING A HIGHWAY OR DURING HIGHWAY DRIVING, INCREASING THE RISK OF COLLATION WITH OTHER VEHICLES DUE TO TRANSMISSION FAILURE, SUSPECT THE TORQUE CONVERTER NOT WORKING PROPERLY. THIS IS A MAJOR AND WELL KNOWN ISSUE, GM CONTINUES TO IGNORE AND I DO NOT WANT TO BECOME THE NEXT STATISTIC DEAD IN US HIGHWAYS. THE VEHICLE IS MOVING, DURING A RED TRIANGLE YIELD SIGN ENTERING THE HIGHWAY, THE VEHICLE WILL NOT RESPOND TO ACCELERATION COMMAND CAUSING A BOTTLE NECK OF TRAFFIC BEHIND ME AND HIGH RISK OF BEING REAR ENDED. THIS IS A SERIOUS DEFECT AFFECTING THE TRANSMISSION, IT NEEDS TO BE INVESTIGATED AND RESOLVED AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.

May 10, 2021

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 GMC CANYON. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY, WITH THE BRAKE PEDAL DEPRESSED, THE RPMS SUDDENLY INCREASED AND THE VEHICLE ERRONEOUSLY ATTEMPTED TO DRIVE FORWARD. ALSO, WHILE DECELERATING FROM APPROXIMATELY 15 TO 20 MPH, THE VEHICLE SHOOK AND SHUTTERED WHEN DEPRESSING THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL AND WOULD NOT ACCELERATE AS NORMAL. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURES WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER AND LOCAL DEALER WERE NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURES. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 1,000.

Jun 19, 2017

STEERING,ENGINE

2 complaints

GM CASE #[XXX]; GM RECALL BULLETIN: 15595A NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION CAMPAIGN ID FOR RECALL: 16V054 GM ISSUED A RECALL BULLETIN RELATED TO A DEFECT IN CERTAIN 2015 GMC CANYON TRUCKS DUE TO LOSS OF POWER STEERING DUE TO A POOR ELECTRICAL CONNECTION WITHIN THE TORQUE SENSOR HARNESS CONNECTOR. THIS PRESENTS A GREATER RISK OF A CRASH AND A SAFETY CONCERN. MY NAME IS [XXX] AND I OWN A 2016 GMC CANYON VIN #[XXX]. MY STABILITY TRACK INDICATOR CAME ON AND MY POWER STEERING STOPPED WORKING. I TOOK MY VEHICLE INTO A GM DEALER AND WAS CHARGED $180 TO DIAGNOSE THE PROBLEM. I WAS TOLD DUE TO LOW VOLTAGE THE RECOMMENDATION WAS A NEW BATTERY. THE BATTERY WAS REPLACED COSTING ME AN ADDITIONAL $140. THE NEXT DAY, THE STABILITY TRACK INDICATOR CAME ON AND MY POWER STEERING STOPPED WORKING AGAIN. I TOOK IT INTO THE GM DEALER AGAIN AND WAS TOLD THIS TIME THERE WAS AN ISSUE WITH MY TORQUE SENSOR WHICH IS THE SAME ISSUE IN THE RECALL BULLETIN #15595A FOR THE 2015 TRUCKS RELATED TO POWER STEERING. CONCERNED AND FRUSTRATED, I CALLED GM AND WAS ISSUED WITH THE AFOREMENTIONED CASE #. I WAS TOLD SOMEONE WOULD CALL ME, WHICH NO ONE DID. THE DEALER THEN INFORMED ME THAT GM WOULD COVER 80% OF THE COST STILL LEAVING ME WITH A BILL OF $734! I WROTE THIS COMPLIANT TO GMC FOR SEVERAL REASONS AND INCLUDING NHTSA DUE TO THE SAFETY ISSUE. THIS IS OBVIOUSLY THE SAME ISSUE BEING EXPERIENCED IN THE 2016 TRUCKS NOT JUST THE 2015 TRUCKS. I AM BRINGING ATTENTION TO THIS ISSUE AS THIS ISSUE MAY CONSTITUTE A RECALL NEEDED FOR THE 2016 WHICH HASN'T BEEN DONE. THIS IS NOT ONLY CONCERNING AS THE ISSUE PRESENTS RISK OF A CRASH, A SAFETY CONCERN AND OWNERS LIKE ME HAVING TO INCUR OUT OF POCKET EXPENSES. I AM REQUESTING AN INVESTIGATION INTO MY ISSUE AND FOR GMC CONSIDERATION OF REIMBURSEMENT OF $734 IN ADDITION TO $320 OUT OF POCKET EXPENSES. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR

Apr 13, 2021

THE CONTACT OWNED A 2016 GMC CANYON. THE CONTACT STATED THAT ON 10/14/2019, WHILE BRAKING TO MAKE A RIGHT TURN INTO THE GMC DEALERSHIP (BROWN & BROWN AT1550 E DRIVERS WAY, GILBERT, AZ 85297, (480) 835-0900) FOR ROUTINE MAINTENANCE, THE VEHICLE LOST POWER AND THE POWER STEERING WAS DISABLED MAKING STEERING VERY DIFFICULT. THIS OCCURRED AGAIN BEFORE ARRIVING AT THE SERVICE ENTRANCE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT MULTIPLE WARNING LIGHTS WERE ILLUMINATED BOTH TIMES. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO RESTART THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT A SOFTWARE UPDATE NEEDED TO BE PERFORMED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT INFORMED OF THE INITIAL FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 47,216. SEE INVOICE ATTACHMENT. HE SECOND FAILURE OCCURRED ON 9/16/2020 WHILE THE DRIVER WAS SLOWING DOWN TO MAKE A RIGHT TURN. THE VEHICLE LOST POWER AND THERE WAS A LOSS OF STEERING ASSIST MAKING STEERING VERY DIFFICULT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT MULTIPLE WARNING LIGHTS WERE ILLUMINATED BOTH TIMES. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO RESTART THE VEHICLE, BUT THE PROBLEM OCCURRED AGAIN THAT DAY. ON 9/17/2020, THE VEHICLE WAS TOLLED TO HENRY BROWN BUICK GMC LOCATED AT 1550 E DRIVERS WAY, GILBERT, AZ 85297, (480) 835-0900. THE SECOND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 55,468. THE PROBLEM COULD NOT REPLICATED OR IDENTIFIED. SEE INVOICE ATTACHMENT. THE CONTACT SOLD THE VEHICLE ON 9/29/2020.*JB

Sep 17, 2020

POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE

2 complaints

VEHICLE FREQUENTLY SHUTS OFF DURING BRAKING OR WHILE STOPPED AND MUST BE RESTARTED BEFORE THE VEHICLE CAN OPERATE AGAIN. VEHICLE EXPERIENCES VIOLENT GEAR CHANGES AND SIGNIFICANT LAGGING DURING PERIODS OF MODERATE ACCELERATION AT LOW SPEEDS. GEAR CHANGES RESULT IN EITHER SEVERE UNRESPONSIVENESS AND A GENERAL LACK OF ACCELERATION OR AN AGGRESSIVE GEAR CHANGE THAT JERKS THE VEHICLE AND SPINS THE TIRES.

Dec 01, 2020

THE THROTTLE AND TRANSMISSION FEEL AS THOUGH THEY WERE SEPARATELY DEVELOPED FOR TWO DIFFERENT VEHICLES AND JUST RANDOMLY MATCHED IN THE TRUCK. THE ACCELERATOR IS VERY NON-LINEAR AND UNRESPONSIVE. THEN THE TRANSMISSION IS CONSTANTLY IN THE WRONG GEAR. THIS TRUCK IS A NIGHTMARE TO DRIVE IN TRAFFIC OR ON WINDY HILLY ROADS. YOU HAVE TO CONSTANTLY GUESS WHERE YOUR FOOT SHOULD BE TO GET ANY KIND OF STABILITY OR ACCELERATION FROM THE TRUCK. IF YOU ARE TRYING TO PULL OUT IN TRAFFIC YOU BETTER BE PREPARED TO HAVE A LOT OF ROOM BECAUSE IT MIGHT JUST SHAKE AND SHUTTER BEFORE FINDING A GEAR AND ACTUALLY ACCELERATING. THIS IS DANGEROUS AND I FIND IT ODD THAT THERE HAVENT BEEN COLLISIONS ATTRIBUTABLE TO THIS. IF ANYONE FROM GM IS READING THIS, KNOW THIS WILL BE THE LAST GM PRODUCT I EVER BUY. EITHER YOU DONT KNOW HOW TO ENGINEER A VEHICLE, OR YOU SIMPLY JUST DONT CARE ABOUT YOUR CUSTOMERS. IM GUESSING THE LATTER.

Aug 09, 2020

POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

2 complaints

IGNITION WILL NOT FULLY TURN OFF AND RELEASE KEY WHEN TRUCK IS PLACED IN PARK. I'M ADDITION IGNITION AND KEY BECOME VERY HOT TO THE TOUCH AFTER DRIVING FOR OVER 20 MINUTES (TEMP OUTSIDE IS COOL 50-60). TRUCK WILL EVENTUALLY TURN OFF AND RELEASE THE KEY AFTER RESTARTING AND SHIFTING THROUGH ALL GEARS MULTIPLE TIMES (TURNING OFF, BACK ON, SHIFTING, ETC.). ALREADY ATTEMPTED CLEANING KEYS (BOTH SETS) WITH NO CHANGE IN BEHAVIOR.

Mar 05, 2020

1) <POWERTRAIN> I HAVE 40K ON MY CANYON AND AM EXPERIENCING ACCELERATION ISSUES 0-40MPH 1-3RD SHIFT POINTS (AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION). THE TRANSMISSION ACTS LIKE IT CANNOT DECIDE TO EITHER SAY IN 2ND OR SHIFT TO 3RD AND THERE'S A LAG OR SURGING AFFECT WHEN THIS HAPPENS. I HAD THE TRANSMISSION FLUID AND TRANSFER CASE FLUIDS CHANGED AR THE GM DEALERSHIP. PROBLEM STILL PERSISTS. 2) <OTHER> KEY GETS STUCK IN THE IGNITION. WHEN PLACING THE TRUCK IN PARK THERE'S AN INTERNAL RELAY/SWITCH WITHIN THE SHIFTER THAT IS SUPPOSED TO ACTIVATE A RELAY/UNLOCK SIGNAL TO THE KEY TUMBLER IN THE STEERING COLUMN. THIS DOESN'T ALWAYS HAPPEN AND THE KEY WON'T TURN TO THE OFF POSITION TO ALLOW IT TO BE RELEASED. I HAVE TO TURN THE KEY TO THE ACC POSITION PUT THE TRUCK IN DRIVE THEN BACK INTO PARK TO GET THE RELAY/SWITCH TO DIS-ENGAGE THE KEY POSITION FROM BEING LOCKED IN ACC.

Jul 12, 2019

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

1 complaint

The contact owns a 2016 GMC Canyon. The contact stated that while driving 5 MPH in a parking lot, the brake pedal was depressed, and the vehicle failed to stop as intended. The contact stated that the brake pedal was very firm while being depressed. The contact stated there was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic. The mechanic diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the vacuum pump and brake booster needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000.

Dec 01, 2025

STEERING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),ENGINE

1 complaint

The contact owns a 2016 GMC Canyon. The contact stated that upon attempting to leave the driveway, the vehicle was shifted into drive and the engine experienced a complete loss of automotive power, with several unknown warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that on a separate occasion, the vehicle lost power steering functionality while driving at 65 MPH, and the traction control and vehicle stabilization warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the 4-WD assembly, steering electronic motor, steering angle sensor, and the electric belt drive rack and pinion steering needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 70,263.

Oct 08, 2025

STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE

1 complaint

EPS becomes difficult to steer occasionally, Brakes seem to lose stopping ability Leaking oil @ either oil pan or transmission

Aug 28, 2025

POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

1 complaint

Transmission has been shuddering since 15,000 miles till now. Dealerships says it's normal on these transmissions, 6 fluid and filter changes and now at 72,000 miles the transmission is failing just outside of warranty. They scammed me and kept my transmission barely alive until warranty ran out and now they want 8k-10k for a replacement. They knew. Dash goes crazy from the touch screen to the digital information screen in the speedometer. They say it's normal and happens on all the units. But it's distracting and has been messing up since bought the truck new. Again they just kept saying it was nothing they can do. Now they say it needs to be replaced after my warranty has run out. DEF system is failing conveniently after the warranty has run out. It's dangerous because they programmed the truck to go into limp mode when anything emissions related fails stranding me anywhere at anytime. Emission failures like sensors should not restrict travel. This is a major issue with the diesels in these trucks and they need to be forced to remove anything that's not dangerous to the health of the engine or drive train from the software or hardware from being able to restrict travel. In every situation I've been restricted to limp mode by dirty particulate sensors, but the code that pops and puts my truck in limp mode says that the NOX sensor is bad. This is false and is just a way for GM to get service at their dealers. Then they charge customers a fortune to replace parts that don't need to be replaced when you can just remove and clean the four particulate sensors and the restrictions will clear themselves shortly after. EMISSIONS RELATED ISSUES SHOULD NOT RESTRICT TRAVEL BY ANY MEANS! It is dangerous to be stranded on a trip because your emission sensors may be malfunctioning.

Aug 14, 2025

STEERING,AIR BAGS

1 complaint

As I was pulling away from the stop sign my power steering quit working and I was almost hit by another vehicle. The dash light flashed and said there was Drive System problems. I was able to get the truck turned back around and headed back home. I got into my garage and checked the power steering fluid and it was full. I started my truck back up and was able to drive to the dealership (Everett GMC where I purchased the truck new) The service representative said he will put it on the diagnostic machine and find out what was wrong. The next day they called me and said they found out what it was a drive gear that quit working. He said that he would get this ordered and put it in, I got a call 2 days later and said it was finished. My wife checked to see if there was a recall. There was a recall for this problem for 2015 Canyon in 2021 for the same issue. I am thinking that this issue and a very

Jul 21, 2025

STEERING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM

1 complaint

The contact owns a 2016 GMC Canyon. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds on several occasions, the traction control warning light illuminated and the messages "Service Power Steering" and “Service Stabili-trak" were displayed. Additionally, the contact stated that the steering wheel became stiff and was very difficult to turn. On several occasions, the vehicle was pulled over to the side of the road and restarted. The vehicle was taken to a dealer however, the failure was not duplicated. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 139,000.

Mar 28, 2025

STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

1 complaint

I am the owner of a 2016 GMC Canyon truck, which i purchased used in approx 2020 with about 43,000 miles on it...today's date is now 1/5/25 and the truck has approx 99,0000 mile on it. Over the last 2 years the electronic stability control has failed approx 20 times. A warning light appears on the dash stating the failure of the power steering and the stabilitrac. When this happens steering the truck and be extremely difficult and I am forced to pull off the road. Usually when the truck is turned off for a short while and then turned back on the problem will fix itself, but only for a few minutes or hours and the problem reoccurs. Last week I took the truck to a GM dealer and had the steering angle sensor recalibrated..which fixed the problem for 1 month. Now it is failing again! My wife is afraid and refuses to drive the truck because if this happens again while she is driving she isn't strong enough to turn the wheel..particularly from a complete stopped position. This is a very serious and dangerous problem that GM needs to be responsible to resolve.

Jan 05, 2025

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)

1 complaint

The contact owns a 2016 GMC Canyon. The contact stated while driving 65 MPH, the ABS, and service stabili-trak warning lights were illuminated. The steering wheel began to vibrate, and the brake pedal became firm. The contact was able to continue driving. The vehicle was not taken to a dealer. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 220,674.

Oct 03, 2024

STEERING,SUSPENSION,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)

1 complaint

The contact owns a 2016 GMC Canyon. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 45 MPH, an error message for the “Stabili-track” failure was displayed on the instrument panel. Additionally, the contact stated that the failure had occurred several times before. The contact stated that several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the vehicle needed an alignment and steering rack replacement. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 48,000.

Aug 28, 2024

STEERING,SUSPENSION

1 complaint

I have had this repeated issue since i purchased my 2016 GMC Canyon in 2020. The power steering goes out at different speeds with NO indication . The lights that appear on dash are power steering and stabilatrax. I have had the battery and all connectors replaced and now the rack and pinion that the sensor is in. These repairs have been very costly and this situation has been very dangerous as it happens without any warning. Just when i thought it was fixed with a new battery and cables it quit again in heavy traffic and i was almost hit by 2 vehicles. It has been in 3 different repair shops and now at a Chevrolet Dealership. They have ordered the parts twice and the 1st 1 came to them broken from the Factory, This part was recalled for all 2015 models, but not the 2016? Receiving broken parts even shows that there is an issue. I have read on some of your sites from others posting about their 2016 Colorado and Canyons having this same issue. Please look into this and try to help me if possible. I am beyond frustrated. Thank you very much

Apr 14, 2024

STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES

1 complaint

Driving down the road and power (electric) steering goes out. Power steering and traction control warnings lit up on the display. Almost impossible to steer without power steering. I am lucky that this didn't cause an accident-- very scary. This seems to be the same issue as the recall for the 2015s, but GM didn't recall the 2016s (even though online forums report that it was the same part number for 2016 as 2015). Reported same codes when the truck was the same as those reported by others (C0545: Steering Wheel Torque Sensor, also U0420: invalid data reported from steering control module). Upload button below disappears when I try to upload my invoice--but invoice included remove and replace of rack and pinion, diagnosis, alignment-- total invoice $2003.78

Dec 20, 2023

STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

1 complaint

Stability track Cameondoing 50mph transmission geared down motor shut down on and off yes it's available problem not found by dealer took to 2 different ones stability track comes on side lights stay on and off press brakes it shut down turn left it shut down motor running in park put in reverse shut down Will drive and run sometimes but gets worse

Oct 24, 2023

STEERING,LANE DEPARTURE

1 complaint

The stabilitrak power steering system fails randomly at high speeds causing loss of control and risk of crashing. This is a known problem to GMC and a recall was issued for 2015 canyon trucks requiring the dealer to replace the steering gear torque sensor cover assembly free of charge due to defective electrical connections within the assembly. They have excluded 2016 and it is a serious problem. This problem is widely reported on GMC and Chevy forums and Reddit for 2016 models. It’s essentially all over the internet for anyone willing to simply look. The error “loss of power steering, proceed with caution” appears as does the lane departure light and check engine light. The errors “Stabilitrack has failed” “Torque sensor failure” Fault Code C0545 also appear. After shutting the car off and restarting , all error codes and lights disappear and do not appear on a code reader. The issue then happens sporadically again at very dangerous times. It is the exact same issue as the 2015 recall # 21V213000 issued on Mar 25, 2021 but GMC refuses to help.The problem is a defective torque censor connection. Please help. I don’t want to die on the freeway.

Aug 15, 2023

STEERING,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

1 complaint

Vehicle Stability Control systems light comes on sporadically and stalls the power steering. In other words, the power steering turns off at any time and dangerously on a highway, when the Vehicle Stability Control lights comes on the dashboard. The first diagnosis (May27, 2023) of the above issue was performed at Green Brooks, a Certified NJ GMC Service Dealership yielded no results from their inspection. A second diagnosis was needed due to the vehicle's malfunctioning danger to me and other drivers on the road. The Certified GMC Service Dealership Ewing Buick/GMC TX diagnosis (June 12, 2023) showed a "STEERING GEAR INTERNAL TORQUE SENSOR" costing two thousand one hundred and eight dollars and fifty cents ($2,108.50) to complete. The codes were C0545 00 stored in DSCM followed by S14849247 requiring Steering Gear Replacement. The total cost including labor cost was two thousand seven hundred and ninety dollars and eighty-eight cents ($2,719.88).

Jun 27, 2023

STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS

1 complaint

I have a power steering failure.I also have a fuel problem while pumping gas, the truck doesn’t want to start.

Aug 15, 2022

Crash: 1

STEERING,POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

1 complaint

Driving and the Stabilitrak warning comes on as well as the Power steering warning. later after the vehicle is turned off it will not restart (no crank, no Start) and there is no communication with the ECM until it has had the battery disconnected for an extended period. This is very dangerous losing power steering and stabilitrak while driving is going to cause an accident. I would like to see a recall on the 2016 like there is on the 2015 with this same issue. I have not had the issue repaired yet. waiting to get it into a shop who tells me they will likely need to replace the Rack and Pinion on this truck to correct the issue.

Jul 21, 2022

SEATS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

1 complaint

We are always getting a code P1478 on our truck when we add def fuel in it when it is time to do so. We have tried to clear it out on our own but never goes away and have to end up taking it to the dealership to get it done. They said it's because the soot it built up. We have always used Blue Def in our vehicles. There was a recall on this system where they have to reset the system or a sensor. I don't understand whey this is always happening, The drivers seat was recalled once for it not being manufactured corrected. It fabic held up a few years when we got the few years when we got the vehicle and it is has done it again. We have asked the dealership about about another recall on the seat and they said they haven't seen one. We have tried to get it fixed on our own but no one have the fabic to do it. It isn't but together very well at all.

May 11, 2022

STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES

1 complaint

As I started the vehicle I got a notification that the power steering has Maldonado I got a few warning lights on the dashboard. As I drove the vehicle the power steering did not work and it makes it hard to steer. This has been happening for a week now

Oct 21, 2021

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE

1 complaint

MY WIFE AND I WERE TRAVELING AT APPROXIMATELY 55 MILES AN HOUR WHEN ALL DASH LIGHTS NAV SYSTEM GAUGES ETC. TURNED OFF. IT WAS AS IF I TURN THE IGNITION OFF. THEN IT TURNED ITSELF BACK ON AND SEEM TO FUNCTION NORMALLY. THE VEHICLE HAD A SIMILAR PROBLEM PREVIOUS TO THIS AND THERE WAS A RECALL PERFORMED ON IT RECENTLY. ALSO THIS VEHICLE IS SUPPOSED TO GET CLOSE TO 30 MPG AND NOW THE BEST I CAN GET IS 21 MPG. IT HAS HAD A ROUGH IDLE AND SHUT DOWN ON ME SEVERAL TIMESDURING THE LAST FEW YEARS. I FEEL LIKE THIS VEHICLE IS UNSAFE AND GMC SHOULD BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE. I BOUGHT THIS VEHICLE BECAUSE I WANTED GOOD FUEL ECONOMY FROM A DIESEL AND THAT IS NOT THE CASE. THIS VEHICLE HAS HAD A NUMBER OF MAJOR ISSUES AND NUMEROUS RECALLS BUT NONE HAVE ADDRESSED THE VEHICLE SHUTDOWN. I HAVE READ MULTIPLE ACCOUNTS OF OWNERS NEARLY GETTING KILLED WHEN THEIR VEHICLE RANDOMLY SHUTS OFF WHILE DRIVING. THE VEHICLE SEEMS UNSAFE AND I FEEL THEY MISREPRESENTED THE FUEL ECONOMY OF THE DIESEL ENGINE.

Feb 13, 2021

AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS

1 complaint

VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN TWO VEHICLE ACCIDENT. DRIVER AIRBAG IN 2016 CANYON FAILED TO DEPLOY UPON IMPACT WITH OTHER VEHICLE. ACCIDENT OCCURRED ON A CITY STREET IN GULFPORT, MS. WAS GOING STRAIGHT AT POSTED SPEED OF 35MPH, SECOND VEHICLE FAILED TO YIELD AT CROSS STREET. "T" BONED 2ND VEHICLE IN DRIVER DOOR. *TR

Jun 19, 2020

Crash: 1

STEERING,SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

1 complaint

I WAS DRIVING ON A FREEWAY 80MPH AND THE STEERING WENT OUT. THIS CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO VEER FROM THE LEFT LANE INTO THE CENTER LANE, FORTUNATELY THERE WAS NO VEHICLE IN THE CENTER LANE. GMC STATED IT WAS JUST A DEFECTIVE PART. MY OPINION IS THAT IT IS A FAILED DESIGN THAT WOULD ALLOW A VEHICLE TO LOOSE STEERING AT 80MPH. THE VEHICLE HAS 46,700MI. I HAVE HAD NOISES IN THE FRONT AND REAR OF THE VEHICLE AND AM CONCERNED THAT THIS MAY HAVE CONTRIBUTED TO THE LOSS OF STEERING. I HAVE RETURNED THE VEHICLE TO GM FIVE TIMES TO FIX THE NOISES WITH NO SUCCESS.

Sep 16, 2019

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,ENGINE

1 complaint

FRONT PASSENGER SIDE FLOOR-CARPET AND FLOOR BOARDS WET, ENGINE LIGHT ON, INTEL LINK COMPUTER FAILED HAD TO REBOOT TOOK TO DALE EARNHARDT TALLAHASSEE FL THEY FIXED THE ENGINE LIGHT IT WAS THE PURGE VALVE AND IT HAD SHORTED OUT, THEY STATED THAT WE WOULD NEED TO TAKE TO A BODY SHOP AS THE LEAK IS COMING IN AT THE BOTTOM OF THE A-PILLAR FILLING UP AND THEN STREAMING OUT OF A "CHRISTMAS TREE HOLE AT BOTTOM OF FUSE BOX ON RIGHT SIDE. THIS HAPPENS ANYTIME ANYWHERE DRIVING OR STATIONARY WHEN IT RAINS. WE JUST PURCHASED THIS TRUCK ON 04/02/2019. 45,710 MILES THEY SAID THEY WOULD NOT FIX IT WE HAD TO TAKE IT TO A AUTOBODY SHOP.

Jul 10, 2019

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

1 complaint

THE STABILITY TRACK LIGHT COMES ON AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON AND THE CAR REDUCES ITS SPEED TO 25 MPH ON THE HIGHWAY VERY DANGEROUS VERY SCARY THE DEALER CANNOT SEEM TO FIX THE ISSUES AND FIND THE PROBLEMS

May 26, 2019

STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

1 complaint

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 GMC CANYON. EVER SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED, THE VEHICLE HAS PULLED TO THE RIGHT. ADDITIONALLY, ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS, THE VEHICLE INDEPENDENTLY ACCELERATED. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE TRANSMISSION WAS SLIPPING WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS BEING DRIVEN. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AL SERRA GMC (LOCATED AT 6201 SAGINAW RD, GRAND BLANC, MI 48439, (810) 202-0226) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE ENTIRE STEERING COLUMN WAS MISALIGNED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. ADDITIONALLY, THE BRAKE ROTORS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 9,735.

Feb 15, 2019

SUSPENSION

1 complaint

THE REAR SUSPENSION LEAF PACKS EMIT A LOUD SQUEAKING NOISE WHEN MOVING OVER UNEVEN TERRAIN. THIS HAPPENS AT ALL SPEEDS. THE SUSPENSION SOUNDS LIKE IT IS IN A BIND AND THEN SLIPS. THE SOUND CAN BE DESCRIBED AS A SQUEAKING RATTLE OR A LOUD CHIRP. THE DEALER SERVICE BULLETINS SAY TO GREASE THE COMPONENTS AND NOT TO REPLACE THEM. THE ISSUE IS UNRESOLVED AND COULD LEAD TO A SAFETY ISSUE IF ANY PARTS FAIL.

Aug 13, 2018

UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

1 complaint

TRANSMISSION DOES NOT MOVE INTO NEXT GEAR WHEN DRIVING 20/25 30/35THIS VEHICLE IS AN ACCIDENT WAITING TO HAPPEN YOU CAN'T PASS ANYONE ALSO IT YOU CAN'T MERGE ON HIGHWAY SAFELY YOU MUST DRIVE VEHICLE IN A ADJUSTED MANNER

Feb 28, 2018

WHEELS

1 complaint

DRIVING IN LEFT LANE ON US 1 SOUTH BOUND IN SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ AT THE SPEED LIMIT. HEARD SOUND LIKE A BACKFIRE OR SHOTGUN GO OFF. DASH BOARD SHOWED LOSS OF TIRE PRESSURE RIGHT REAR TIRE. PULLED OVER INTO EMPTY PARKING LOT. SIDEWALL HAD EXPLODED. TIRES HAD RECENTLY BEEN ROTATED BY DEALER. ALL TIRE PRESSURES WERE SET TO 35 PSI. TIRES HAVE APPROX 6,600 MILE USE. VEH. NOT DRIVEN MUCH AS I AM RETIRED. THESE ARE OEM GOODYEAR 265/60R18 TIRES.

Aug 16, 2017

SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE

1 complaint

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 GMC CANYON. WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH, THE CHECK ENGINE INDICATOR ILLUMINATED WITHOUT WARNING. IN ADDITION, THE BRAKES ENGAGED WITHOUT WARNING AND WITHOUT THE ASSISTANCE OF THE DRIVER. THE VEHICLE DECREASED TO SPEEDS OF 20-30 MPH. THE CONTACT COULD NOT ACCELERATE BEYOND 30 MPH. IN ADDITION, OIL LEAKED ONTO THE EXHAUST MANIFOLD AND CREATED A BURNING ODOR. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 4,000.

Jan 24, 2017

Fire: 1

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

1 complaint

THIS COMPLAINT IS CONCERNING THE HEADLIGHTS. I DON'T DRIVE MUCH AT NIGHT BUT WHEN I DO IT'S FRIGHTENING. THE NEW PROJECTOR HEADLIGHTS ARE, IN MY OPINION, FLAT OUT DANGEROUS. I LIVE IN A RURAL AREA WITH MANY ROLLING HILLS AND FEW STREET LAMPS. WITH THE LOW BEAMS ON, GOING DOWN A SLOPE, IT ACTUALLY SEEMS LIKE A SHADE IS BEING PULLED DOWN ON MY WINDSHIELD. THE "LIGHT CURTAIN CUTOFF" BASICALLY DISAPPEARS INTO DARKNESS ON A DOWNSLOPE. ON A FLAT STRETCH SIGHT DISTANCE FORWARD AND TO THE SIDES IS MINIMAL. I HAVE SEEN THE INSURANCE INDUSTRY HAS RATED MOST VEHICLES WITH THESE HEADLIGHTS AS "POOR". ITS TIME FOR THE NHTSA TO TAKE ACTION.

Dec 26, 2016

POWER TRAIN,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

1 complaint

I BOUGHT A BRAND NEW 2016 CANYON, TEST DRIVE WENT WELL, ALTHOUGH I ADMIT IT PROBABLY WASN'T LONG ENOUGH. PURCHASED ON SUNDAY, AND DURING THE NEXT WEEK DRIVING I BEGAN NOTICING THE TRANSMISSION WAS NOT SHIFTING AT THE PROPER TIMES. LIKE MOST PEOPLE ON HERE, THE TRANSMISSION APPEARS TO BE VERY CONFUSED , ESPECIALLY WHEN DECELERATING INTO THE 20-35 MPG RANGE AND ATTEMPTING TO RE-ACCELERATE BACK UP. IT WILL MISFIRE OR BE VERY UNRESPONSIVE, AND THEN CLUNK AND JERK YOU FORWARD ONCE IT DECIDES TO CHANGE GEARS. IT ALSO DOES SOMETHING THAT I THINK IS EVEN MORE DANGEROUS WHEN YOU ARE GOING AROUND 30-40 MPG AND THEN SIMPLY LET OFF THE ACCELERATOR. IN THIS INSTANCE, I FEEL LIKE IT DOWN SHIFTS INSTANTLY AND IT FEELS LIKE THE TRUCK IS BEING PULLED BACK (INSTEAD OF SIMPLY COASTING LIKE I WOULD WANT), AND THEN AT SOME POINT IT "RELEASES" FROM THIS AND THE TRUCK ACTUALLY STOPS DECELERATING AND SPEEDS UP A BIT, EVEN THOUGH THE GAS HAD BEEN RELEASED MANY SECONDS AGO. THIS IS PARTICULARLY DANGEROUS IN STOP AND GO CITY TRAFFIC. I THINK THE OVERARCHING PROBLEM HERE IS THE SHIFT POINTS THAT THE ECM HAS DETERMINED (OR BEEN PROGRAMMED WITH). YOU CAN TELL THIS WHEN ACCELERATING FROM A STOP, MY TRUCK GETS TO THIRD GEAR BY 15 MILES PER HOUR AND NEVER GOES ABOVE 2K RPM'S??? I ADMIT I AM A BIT LIGHT-FOOTED ON DRIVING, WHICH COMPOUNDS THE PROBLEM BECAUSE I EVENTUALLY AM GIVING A SMALL AMOUNT OF ACCELERATION TO A TRUCK IN 4TH GEAR ONLY GOING 20 MPH, WHICH SUCK. I HAVE ALSO READ THIS WAS A COMMON PROBLEM ON 15 CANYON (OBVIOUSLY READ AFTER PURCHASE), AND GMC EVENTUALLY CAME OUT WITH A FEW FIXES, INCLUDING ECM PATCH UPDATES OR LOWER VALVE REPLACEMENT. I IMAGINE THAT MANY OF THE 2016'S WERE ALREADY OFF THE LINE BY THE TIME THESE '15 FIXES CAME OUT (IN APRIL 15 I BELIEVE), BUT THE DEALERSHIPS HAVE NOT RECEIVED ANY OF THESE FOR THE 2016.

Oct 01, 2016

2016 GMC Canyon Problems & Complaints

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