In order to help you avoid picking the worst GMC Acadia years and pick the best, we’ve ranked each model for all generations.
My goal is to deliver in this article a comprehensive analysis of all GMC Acadia generations, and to reveal the best years for the GMC Acadia and the worst years to stay away from.
The following is a comprehensive performance and reliability review of the GMC Acadia that I compiled using information from reputable sources including NHTSA, Consumer Reports, among other sources.
The GMC Acadia has experienced good and bad years, technological advancements, common problems, and recalls over the years, and its average resale value is high.
Let’s get started!
GMC Acadia Generations
GMC Acadia was introduced as a midsize crossover SUV for the first time in the first generation. The interior of the vehicle was spacious, and it comfortably seated eight passengers. A V6 engine was also available. Due to its versatile design and family-friendly features, the original Acadia quickly became popular.
The GMC Acadia has been produced in several generations from 2007 to 2023.
| Generation | Years |
| 1st generation (GMT960) | 2007-2016 |
| 2nd generation (C1XX) | 2017-2023 |
In order for people to have a better understanding of the generations, we have listed them, since they have undergone many changes, especially concerning features, technology, and design, all of which can be crucial factors to consider before purchasing a GMC Acadia.
GMC Acadia Best, Neutral, and Worst Years
The following factors are taken into consideration when determining the best, neutral, and worst years for the GMC Acadia:
According to the above factors, we categorize the model years of the GMC Acadia into three categories: best, neutral, and worst.
| Generation | Best Years | Neutral Years | Worst Years |
| 1st generation (GMT960) | 2013 2015 2016 | 201020112012 | 2007200820092014 |
| 2nd generation (C1XX) | 2019 2021 2022 2023 | 20182020 | 2017 |
Years that are neutral fall between those that are best and those that are worst. The feedback from these years tends to be mixed, and they do not usually stand out in terms of the positive or negative aspects.
In addition, some factors, such as recalls by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, may negatively impact a year’s rating. There is a direct correlation between a particular year’s overall reliability score and the number of complaints and recalls it has.
As we move forward, let’s take a look at the best, neutral, and worst years of the GMC Acadia.
Best & Worst Years for GMC Acadia 1st Generation (2007-2016)
In 2007, GMC introduced its first generation Acadia, launching this midsize crossover SUV on a successful path. It quickly gained popularity among families thanks to its spacious interior and powerful V6 engine.
In terms of first-generation GMC Acadias, the best years are 2013, 2015, and 2016, while the worst years are 2007-2009 and 2014.
The Best Years: 2013, 2015, 2016
There have been fewer complaints and recalls reported on the NHTSA website for the 2014 and 2015 Acadias, according to our research.
In 2013, the GMC Acadia was equipped with a 3.6L LLT V6 engine that produced 288 horsepower, an automatic 6T75 transmission, and optional All-Wheel Drive (AWD).
In addition, this year saw the introduction of the Denali trim, boasting premium materials and advanced safety features. Its fuel economy was reasonable, rated at 17 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway by the EPA.
It was the 3.6L V6 engine that powered the 2015 and 2016 GMC Acadia models, which offered enhanced fuel economy of 17 city/24 highway mpg.
With lane departure warning and forward collision warning systems, it featured advanced safety technology.
The Neutral Years: 2010, 2011, 2012
GMC Acadia models from 2010, 2011, and 2012 had 3.6L V6 engines, which were capable of providing adequate power and towing capacity of 5,200 pounds.
Fuel efficiency was similar to what it was in the best years, at 17 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. Transmission and steering issues were less frequent during these years, but overall the cars were more reliable.
These vehicles offered a comfortable and spacious ride, making them ideal for families.
The Worst Years: 2007, 2008, 2009, 2014
The first-generation GMC Acadia had numerous issues, including electrical problems, engine and powertrain problems, and steering problems. As far as the first-generation GMC Acadia goes, these are the worst years to avoid.
Sunroof leaks caused electrical problems, changes in transmission performance, and slipping and jerking at low speeds, according to owners.
Several recalls were required due to problems such as faulty transmission shift lever indicators, inoperative windshield washer modules, and short circuits in heated windshield washer modules.
Other issues with the 2014 GMC Acadia included power steering problems, transmission issues, and electrical system malfunctions.
A recall addressed contamination of the chassis electronic module, causing fuel gauges to be inaccurate and electrical malfunctions to occur.
Here are the recalls and complaints about the GMC Acadia from 2007, 2008, 2009, and 2014.
Best & Worst Years for GMC Acadia 2nd Generation (2017-2023)
A number of changes were made to GMC Acadia’s second generation, which debuted in 2017. An advanced safety system and a wider range of powertrain options were available in this generation.
In this generation, you should avoid the 2017 GMC Acadia, while the best years for the second-gen Acadia are 2019 and 2021-2023.
The Best Years: 2019, 2021, 2022, 2023
There are four best and most reliable years for the GMC Acadia in its second generation in 2019, 2021, 2022, and 2023.
There was a 2.5L LCV four-cylinder engine and a more potent 3.6L LGX V6 engine available on the 2019 GMC Acadia. Both engines were mated to six-speed automatic transmissions 6T50/6T70. Combined with 18 city/25 highway mpg, the V6 engine provided strong acceleration and towing performance.
Besides advanced driver assistance features such as forward collision warnings and automatic emergency braking, the infotainment system was significantly updated.
With the 2021, 2022, and 2023 Acadia models, GMC continued to offer the V6 engine, which was a popular choice for those who wanted power and performance.
Modern styling and technology were offered, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and an improved infotainment system.
Driver assistance features and advanced safety technology remained a major focus.
The Neutral Years: 2018, 2020
The 2018 GMC Acadia offers the same engine choices and safety features as previous models. However, its spacious and comfortable interior made it a good choice for families.
A transmission oil leak may have been caused by the inoperative rearview camera and missing bolts on the start/stop accumulator for the 2020 GMC Acadia.
The Worst Years: 2017
We discovered some challenges with the second-generation Acadia’s electrical system and transmission in 2017 – its first year. You would be wise to avoid the 2017 GMC Acadia in favor of the 2018 and 2019 models, which are more reliable.
It has been reported that owners have encountered issues like an intermittent “Shift to Park” message, which prevents them from turning off the vehicle, as well as transmission and gear slippage issues.
The 2017 GMC Acadia is one of the worst years to avoid in this generation of models, although these issues have been addressed later.
Recalls and complaints regarding 2017 GMC Acadia can be found at the NHTSA website.
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Conclusion
The best GMC Acadia model years in terms of overall reliability are now clearly visible. Avoid the problematic GMC Acadia model years of 2007-2009, 2014, and 2017, and choose the best years like 2013, 2015, 2016, 2019, 2022, and 2023.
Are you a GMC Acadia owner from a good or bad year? Can you tell me about your experience?
Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!