The GMC Acadia is a midsize SUV that has been popular for many years. It is famous for its robust design and many features.
Over time, the Acadia has changed, and each new model is better than the last. Therefore, Acadia has become the most competitive SUV in the SUV industry.
GMC always makes high-quality vehicles, and the Acadia is no exception. However, some model years of GMC Acadia are better than others.
These model years set the standard for other GMC SUVs to follow. In this article, I have discussed the best model year and reliability of the GMC Acadia as well as why they’re the best.
The best years for the GMC Acadia are 2015, 2016, and 2020. These model years received high-reliability ratings from consumers and critics alike, and they have few reported problems. Additionally, 2009, 2010, and 2019 are also considered good model years, but the above 3 are the best.
Here is an in-depth analysis of each of these model years to help understand why these model years are the best:
Best Years for GMC Acadia: 2015
The 2025 GMC Acadia is the first-generation model and less problematic than its predecessor.
Here are the 2015 GMC Acadia reliability ratings:
- RepairPal: 5 stars out of 5.0
- D. Power: 81 out of 100
- Edmunds: 4.6 stars out of 5
- Kelly Blue Book: 0 out of 5 stars
Here are the 2015 GMC Acadia Features:
- Standard with a 6-speed automatic transmission
- Six-speaker audio system
- Heated steering wheel
- Airbags
- A sunroof
- Tri-zone automatic climate control
- A rear entertainment system
- Navigation system
Here are the 2015 GMC Acadia Safety ratings:
The 2015 GMC Acadia received a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
It also received a 5-star overall safety rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
2015 GMC Acadia Price:
Currently, a used 2015 model GMC Acadia’s price ranges from $13,999 to $28,285.
The price depends on the vehicle’s mileage, repair history, condition, and some other factors.
Best Years for GMC Acadia: 2016
The 2016 GMC Acadia has established itself as a reliable and versatile midsize SUV in the automotive industry.
This model year’s features and improvements reflect GMC’s dedication to progressive design and innovation.
Here are the 2016 GMC Acadia reliability ratings:
- RepairPal:0 stars out of 5.0
- D. Power: 79 out of 100
- Edmunds: 4.5 stars out of 5
- Kelly Blue Book: 0 out of 5 stars
Here are the 2016 GMC Acadia Features:
- Standard with a 6-speed automatic transmission
- A sunroof
- Tri-zone automatic climate control
- All-wheel drive
- 3 years or 36,000 miles of basic warranty
- Rear entertainment system
- Child door lock
- Six-speaker audio system
Here are the 2016 GMC Acadia Safety ratings:
The 2016 GMC Acadia received the same safety ratings as the 2015 Acadia.
2016 GMC Acadia Price:
On the current market, a used 2016 GMC Acadia price ranges from $12,999 to $29,285.
It is important to note that the price depends on the vehicle’s mileage, repair history, condition, and some other factors.
Best Years for GMC Acadia: 2020
The 2020 GMC Acadia made a strong impression when it first arrived.
Its redesigned front grille with new LED headlights makes it look more modern and sharper.
In the 2018 model year, Acadia’s reliability rating fell because of its bad performance and a lot of problems.
However, the 2020 GMC Acadia regained its reliability by providing the best performance and advanced features.
Here are the 2020 GMC Acadia reliability ratings:
- RepairPal:5 stars out of 5.0
- D. Power: 83 out of 100
- Edmunds: 3.6 stars out of 5
- Kelly Blue Book: 2 out of 5 stars
Here are the 2020 GMC Acadia Features:
- Standard 9-speed automatic transmission
- Seven-speaker audio system
- Smart slide flat-folding second-row seats
- Rear entertainment system
- Navigation system
- Sunroof
- Tri-zone automatic climate control system
- Automatic emergency braking
- IntelliBeam
- Front pedestrian braking
- Rear cross-traffic alert
Here are the 2020 GMC Acadia Safety ratings:
- NHTSA: Five stars overall
- IIHS: Five stars overall
2020 GMC Acadia Price:
As 2020 GMC Acadia reliability and performance are good, a used 2020 model year Acadia price ranges from $17,999 to $43,999.
As a new model with good reliability, the 2020 GMC Acadia price range is high.
However, the price range depends on a few other factors, including mileage, repair history, and vehicle’s condition.
Also read GMC Acadia years to avoid.
What is GMC Acadia?
The GMC Acadia is a midsize crossover SUV introduced in 2006 for the 2007 model year.
It is praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and versatile features.
The Acadia is available in six- and seven-passenger configurations and offers various engine and drivetrain options.
It was also one of the first SUVs to offer a three-row seating configuration as standard equipment.
In 2013, the Acadia received a mid-cycle refresh, including new exterior styling, updated interior features, and a more powerful engine.
The Acadia was also redesigned in 2017, and it received a new look, more standard features, and a new engine lineup.
The Acadia has won numerous awards over the years, including “Best Midsize SUV” from Edmunds and “Best Vehicle for Families” from Kelly Blue Book.
Ultimately, the GMC Acadia is a good choice for families and people who need a spacious and versatile SUV.
It offers a comfortable ride, good fuel economy, and a high safety rating.
However, some models have had reliability problems, and the third-row seat is cramped for adults.
So, choosing the GMC Acadia’s most reliable years is important to avoid issues.
GMC Acadia Generations
Currently, there are 3 generations of GMC Acadia:
1. First Generation [2007-2013]
The first-generation Acadia was built on the GM Lambda platform and shared many components with the Chevrolet Traverse and Buick Enclave.
It has a 3.6L V6 engine and is available in six- and seven-passenger configurations.
The first-generation Acadia is praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and versatile features.
However, it is also criticized for its high fuel consumption and reliability problems.
2. Second Generation [2017-2023]
The second-generation Acadia was built on the GM C1XX platform and completely redesigned from the previous generation.
It is also available in six and seven-passenger seats and has several engine options, including a 2.5L inline-four, a 3.6L V6, and a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
The second-generation Acadia is praised for its improved fuel economy, more modern interior, and better handling.
However, it is also criticized for its cramped third-row seat and limited cargo space.
3. Third Generation [2024-Present]
The third-generation Acadia was introduced in 2023 for the 2024 model year and is built on the GM C1XX-2 platform.
It is also available in 6- and 7-passenger seats.
The current-generation Acadia is only available with the 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
This engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and is available with all-wheel drive or front-wheel drive.
The third-generation Acadia is popular for its updated styling, more comfortable interior, and improved performance.
8 Factors to Consider When Buying a Used GMC Acadia
Here are 08 important factors to consider when buying a used GMC Acadia:
1. Model Year
As mentioned above, the 2015, 2016, and 2020 GMC Acadias are considered to be the best years for the Acadia.
These model years received high-reliability ratings and received few reported problems.
2. Vehicle Mileage
It is important to consider the mileage of the Acadia you are buying.
If the Acadia has high mileage, it is more likely to require repairs.
So, it is important to have it inspected by a professional mechanic before buying it.
3. Vehicle Condition
The condition of the Acadia is also important to consider.
Look for any signs of damage, such as dents, scratches, or rust.
You should also check the interior for any signs of wear and tear.
4. Mechanical Issues
Go for a test drive with Acadia.
Listen for any unusual noises, and pay attention to how it handles brakes and accelerates.
If you inspect the vehicle with a professional mechanic, it will be best.
5. Features
Make a list of the features that are important to you and look for an Acadia that has those features.
Some common features to consider include the sunroof, heated seats, a rear entertainment system, and the navigation system.
6. Vehicle History Report
The vehicle history report tells you about the Acadia’s past, such as whether it has been in any accidents or has any liens on it.
7. Price
The price of the Acadia will vary depending on the model year, mileage, condition, and features.
So, buy the Acadia that best meets your needs and fits your budget.
8. Fuel Efficiency
Consider the fuel efficiency of the GMC Acadia.
The latest Acadia models are fuel-efficient, but the older models are not.
So, remember it before buying a used Acadia.
4 Common Problems with the GMC Acadia
The GMC Acadia is a reliable SUV overall, but it does have some common problems.
Here are 04 common problems of GMC Acadia and their solutions:
1. Transmission Issues
One of the most common problems with the GMC Acadia is transmission issues.
These problems include slipping gears, hard shifting, and loss of reverse gear.
Solution
The solution to transmission problems depends on the specific problem.
The best way is to take your vehicle to a professional mechanic for proper treatment.
2. Gas Cap Faults
Another common problem with the GMC Acadia is gas cap issues.
A faulty gas cap typically causes the check engine light to come on and also reduces fuel efficiency.
Solution
The solution to a faulty gas cap is simply to replace it.
Gas caps are relatively inexpensive and can be purchased at most auto parts stores.
3. Check Engine Light Issue
The check engine light in Acadia can come for several reasons.
However, some common reasons for check engine light in the GMC Acadia are:
- Faulty oxygen sensor
- Faulty catalytic converter
- Faulty mass airflow sensor
- Faulty spark plugs
- Faulty ignition coils
Solution
The solution to the check engine light depends on the problems that cause it.
However, one common solution to this problem is replacing the faulty sensor, spark plug, or ignition coil.
4. Roadside Vehicle Stops
Some Acadia owners reported this problem.
If your Acadia stops in the middle of the road, it is important to pull over to the roadside safely and try to restart.
If the restart fails, call a tow truck.
This is a serious problem that is mostly caused by the following things:
- Transmission failure
- Engine failure
- Brake issues
- Faulty fuel pump
- Electrical problems
Solution
The best way to solve this problem is to take the GMC Acadia to a professional mechanic.
The mechanic will diagnose the problem properly and recommend the best solution.
GMC Acadia Maintenance Schedule and Tips
The GMC Acadia is a reliable vehicle, but it is important to follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule to keep it running smoothly and prevent costly repairs.
To make your GMC Acadia’s best model years long-lasting, follow these maintenance tips:
- Oil Change and Filter Replacement: Acadia’s engine oil should be changed every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. Change the oil filter at the same time too.
- Tire Rotation: Rotate Acadia’s tire every 7,500 miles or 12 months. This will help to ensure that the tires wear evenly and last longer.
- Air Filter Replacement: Replace the Acadia’s air filter every 12 months or 15,000 miles.
- Brake Inspection: Inspect the brakes every 15,000 miles or 12 months after. Replace the brake pads and rotors at this time if their condition is bad.
- Replace Spark Plugs: Acadia’s spark plugs should be replaced every 4 years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first.
- Clean the Fuel System: You should clean the Acadia’s fuel system every 30,000 miles or 24 months. Cleaning the fuel system will help to remove deposits from the system and improve fuel economy.
Final Thoughts
Overall, 2015, 2016, and 2020 GMC Acadia are the best model years.
However, if you have a 2009, 2010, or 2019 model year GMC Acadia, it’s not a problem.
These model years have good reliability ratings, safety ratings, and advanced features.
If you are looking for a reliable and affordable GMC Acadia, the 2015 or 2016 model year is a good choice.
On the other hand, if you are looking for the newest and most advanced GMC Acadia, the 2020 model year is the better choice.
No matter which model year you choose, the GMC Acadia is a great SUV that offers a variety of features and options.
