2018 GMC Canyon Problems and Complaints

In the midsize pickup truck class, the GMC Canyon Crew Cab resonates with functionality. It’s an apt concoction of commercial and familial capabilities and builds its place in the market with its versatility. It is easy to drive and a rather safe proposition, which scores 4 out of 5 stars on safety tests. Even in terms of reliability, the Canyon sets standards for the segment. It has 25 complaints and a single recall in 2018, with a majority of its concerns pertaining to its transmission unit. It shares its underpinnings with the Chevrolet Colorado Crew Cab and remains resilient in its build. The 2018 GMC Canyon price starts at around $21,000 and apart from its corporate sibling, the truck receives competition from the likes of the Nissan Frontier Crew Cab and the Toyota Tacoma Double Cab.

2018 GMC Canyon User Complaints and Problems

Safety Complaints

• Improper functioning of the airbags: In one case, a buyer of the 2018 GMC Canyon Crew Cab has reported the airbag deploying at the slightest impact. The buyer stated that by hitting a ditch at the speed of 3 MPH, the airbags deployed, while the situation did not warrant their use.

Electric System Complaints

• Malfunctioning infotainment system: On the unofficial forums, buyers of the 2018 Canyon Crew Cab have reported the Android Auto functioning erratically. In some cases, complainants have also observed the inability of the system to connect the user’s phones via the available USB port.
• Problems with the touchscreen unit: In one case listed on NHTSA, one buyer of the truck has mentioned the rearview camera displaying an excessively bright image during the night, which causes a bearing on the driver’s visibility. On unofficial forums, owners of the truck have also reported dead spots on the screen, which become devoid of touch sensation, and consequently, lack responsiveness.

Mechanical Complaints

• Problem with start/stop function: The GMC Canyon starting problems deal with the truck’s inability to start and stop when the key is used. Despite turning the key repeatedly, the truck fails to crank up or shut down, leaving the driver’s in a jiffy. While the case has recurred for several users, in one case, a buyer has also reported the key getting stuck in its position.
• Transmission slips: The 2018 GMC Canyon transmission issues are concerned with the rough performance of the unit. Buyers have reported the transmission to slip gears, and in some situations, also shift harshly between them. As a result, the vehicle shudders excessively. While the problem is known to the brand, the only solution that has been provided is the replacement of the transmission fluid. On the owner forums, buyers have voiced similar concerns with the 8-speed automatic unit.
• Problems with the steering system: Among the GMC Canyon issues, buyers have also reported problems with the steering system. In one case while the complainant has recorded the failure of the power steering assist, another buyer found the steering knuckle to be cracked. While there have been no recurrences, both situations can increase the chance of a crash.

2018 GMC Canyon Recalls

Should you buy the 2018 GMC Canyon Crew Cab?

Without a doubt! The 2018 GMC Canyon Crew Cab proves its worth in a centric segment with its reliability. Neither are its issues concerning nor are they widespread. While the transmission unit does seem to be an issue, due diligence by the buyer, when purchasing the vehicle, can help reduce the possibility of occurrence of the concern. Additionally, GMC’s after-sales service is easy and accessible, so for any minor niggles, users can have specialists look into the vehicle. However, if you still want a competing alternative, the 2018 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab is the next viable option.