2017 GMC Canyon Problems
Compared with other GMC Canyon years
Typical for this model
56/100 1.1× a typical year · 50 = typical
- Complaint rate is 1.1× that of a typical GMC Canyon year, weighted for crashes, fires, injuries, recalls and mileage, and allowing for the era and for how long each year has had to collect complaints.
- 24 of its 66 complaints were filed by the end of 2019.
- Most reported problem: Transmission shudder, hard shifts, torque converter (15 complaints, median 27,803 mi).
- 1 recall campaign on record. A VIN search at nhtsa.gov/recalls shows open recalls for a specific vehicle.
Nearby years with a typical complaint level and no open NHTSA investigation: 2018
Based only on NHTSA complaints, recalls and investigations. Not adjusted for how many vehicles were sold, and not a reliability rating. How this is calculated
- Complaints
- 66filed with NHTSA
- Median mileage
- 27,803miles, 40 complaints with mileage
- Recalls
- 1campaigns on record
- Trend
- FallingComplaints filed in the last 3 full calendar years are at least 25% lower than in the 3 years before.
- NHTSA crash rating
- 4 / 5stars overall, 4 rated versions
- EPA fuel economy
- 22 mpgcombined, 2.5L 4-cyl RWD · 19 city / 26 hwy
Sources: NHTSA records for the 2017 GMC Canyon (complaints, recalls, investigations), NHTSA crash tests, EPA fuel economy. Report an error
What owners report
Owners of the 2017 GMC Canyon most often describe transmission shuddering, hard or delayed shifts and, in some cases, torque converter replacement, frequently well under 40,000 miles. A second common theme is oil leaking from engine cooler lines, and a third is loss of power steering assist with a warning message on the dash. Many complaints were filed within the first few years of ownership, and several owners report that dealer fluid flushes or repairs did not permanently resolve the symptoms.
- Transmission and drivetrain
Transmission shudder, hard shifts, torque converter
- 15 complaints (23%)
- median 27,803 mi at 3.2 yrs old (10 state mileage)
- filed 2017–2025
Owners describe shuddering or vibration while accelerating or at steady speed, hard or harsh shifts at low speeds, a clunk when engaging reverse, and occasional slipping or failure to engage a gear. Several say the dealer flushed the transmission fluid or replaced the torque converter, sometimes more than once, and that the shudder returned afterward. Some were told the behavior was a normal characteristic of the eight-speed transmission, and others reported the transmission was eventually replaced. Mostly reported between roughly 16,000 and 64,000 miles, often within the first few years of ownership.
What to check: Ask for the transmission service history, including whether a fluid flush or torque converter replacement was done and when. During a test drive, accelerate gently from a stop and at highway speed, and note any shudder, harsh downshift or delay going into gear.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“Torque converter fails at 12000 miles for many. There is a Gmc notice out since 2016. Mine failed at 16000 miles and the one they replaced will likely fail again in another 16k miles. This is bad. I noticed it when I pressed on the accelerator and as I increased speed up to 45 MPH. It rattled and rocked badly. …”
NHTSA complaint #11164167, filed 2018-12, 16,000 miles“Transmission experiences torque convertor shudder. With very hard shifts at 5 and 18 MPH. Dealer complied with bulletin 18-na-355. Had improvement in shift for a while. Then hard shift return at 5 and 18 MPH. During decelerations there would be a shudder. When using cruise control when reducing speed transmission would shudder. Return to dealer, when oil pan was removed found aluminum chips and one metal chip. Dealer replace with remanufactured transmission. Drove vehicle home. …”
NHTSA complaint #11307047, filed 2020-02, 27,606 miles - Steering
Loss of power steering assist
- 7 complaints (11%)
- median 47,000 mi at 3.8 yrs old (5 state mileage, few)
- filed 2018–2023
Owners describe the steering suddenly becoming very firm or losing assist entirely while driving, with a service power steering message on the dash; some report the assist returning intermittently, which can cause the wheel to move abruptly. Complaints mention dealer diagnosis of a steering gear replacement or no diagnosis at all where no warning was stored. A few owners also describe the key not turning in the ignition, which they initially suspected was a steering lock issue. Reported from about 1,800 miles up to roughly 99,000 miles, across a wide range of conditions.
What to check: During the test drive, check that the steering assist warning lamp does not appear and that effort feels consistent at low speed and in turns. Ask whether the steering gear or assist system has been serviced.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“Truck was in motion on the highway travelling at 110 km/hr when the power assisted power steering warning light came on and the vehicle lost all functionality to steer the vehicle. I pulled over to the highway shoulder and shut the vehicle off. I waited two minutes and then started the vehicle . The warning light was still visible, but the power assisted steering was working intermittently. I took the vehicle to the dealer for inspection.”
NHTSA complaint #11339295, filed 2020-07, 47,000 miles“I was driving down the road when all of a sudden I received a warning “power steering” drive with care and something called “stabilitrack” my power steering had shut off. I was driving down a highway going about 65 around Walker lake no with turns. Coming around one of the turns the power steering kicked back on and I almost jerked off the road. The trucks power steering continues to go in and out making is extremely scary to drive. I have parked it since”
NHTSA complaint #11512092, filed 2023-03 - Engine
Engine oil leaks from cooler lines
- 6 complaints (9%)
- median 6,660 mi at 2.5 yrs old (5 state mileage, few)
- filed 2018–2021
Owners report oil leaking from the engine oil cooler lines, in several cases from a small hole in the rubber section between the radiator and engine, with oil spreading under the engine bay and onto the roadway. Some describe low oil pressure warnings, a gasoline or oil smell, or finding a large pool of oil after parking; one had a line replaced and the leak returned. Complaints often mention replacing a line or hose as the dealer repair. Reported from as little as about 1,700 to 5,000 miles up to roughly 62,000 miles, with several in cold weather.
What to check: Check the engine oil level and look for oil residue or dampness on the lines between the radiator and engine, and on the underside of the front of the truck. Ask whether any oil cooler line has been replaced.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“Gm had a recall on the 3.6 lgz equipped in trucks in canada. Cold weather caused oil pump to over pressurizing of oil and damage to oil cooler and lines. Leaking oil in to engine compartment and on roadway. This has happened to me twice now once in march of 2018 and now again in november 2019. Doing research this is a common complaint. I would like national highway traffic safety department to look into this an do similar recall as canada. Here in minnesota it gets as cold or colder than canada.”
NHTSA complaint #11281339, filed 2019-11, 18,367 miles“Gm had a recall on the 3.6 lgz equipped in trucks in canada. Cold weather caused oil pump to over pressurizing of oil and damage to oil cooler and lines. Leaking oil in to engine compartment and on roadway. This has happened to me twice now once in march of 2018 and now again in november 2019. Doing research this is a common complaint. I would like national highway traffic safety department to look into this an do similar recall as canada. Here in minnesota it gets as cold or colder than canada.”
NHTSA complaint #11281338, filed 2019-11, 3,072 miles - Engine
Stalling or reduced power, often on diesel models
- 5 complaints (8%)
- median 14,500 mi at 2.3 yrs old (3 state mileage, few)
- filed 2019–2022
Owners of diesel trucks describe the engine shutting off or dropping into reduced power with warning messages, sometimes while driving at speed or with a low fuel level, requiring a restart or a tow. Complaints mention sensor faults, a diesel particulate filter that would not complete a regeneration, and dealers being unable to reproduce the problem or find stored codes. Some gasoline owners separately report a check engine light and purge or evaporative system faults. Mostly reported between about 3,000 and 54,000 miles, some in cold weather and some with a low fuel tank.
What to check: Ask whether any stored fault codes or sensor repairs are documented, and whether the diesel exhaust system has needed regeneration or filter service. Note any hesitation, warning message or power reduction during the test drive.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“Vehicle stalled when I was making a left turn onto route 23 from route 296 in windham ny. Car shuttered and stalled. Almost got t-boned by a semi. Extremely lucky that I was able to roll backwards onto the bridge behind me. I did go online and saw that were other owners with the duramax diesel that experienced similar problems. This could have been a fatal issue. I'm actually worried about driving this pick up. Contacted the dealer and they told me without the error code they couldn't help me. …”
NHTSA complaint #11416569, filed 2021-05, 54,000 miles“This is the 2nd time this has happened. The 1st time making a left onto route 23 from route 296 in Windham NY. Almost got T-Boned. Stalled wouldn't start. Waited 5 minutes and it started again. Ran rough then died again thankfully in a more opportune spot. MY car randomly & without warning loses all power and electric and shuts down. The 1st time I had it towed to Matthews GMC (where I purchased 4 pick ups) and they stated it was a NOX sensor and repaired it. …”
NHTSA complaint #11427418, filed 2021-08 - Electrical system
Key stuck in ignition
- 5 complaints (8%)
- median 54,500 mi at 3.8 yrs old (2 state mileage, few)
- filed 2019–2024
Owners report that the key will not come out of the ignition after shutting the vehicle off, sometimes staying lodged for minutes or hours, and that restarting and shutting off again may eventually release it. Some say electrical power stays on with the key stuck, and that repeated dealer visits did not resolve it. Reported from around 37,000 to 77,000 miles, typically after the vehicle has been in use for a few years.
What to check: After a test drive, shut the engine off and try removing the key several times, and check that all electrical accessories turn off. Ask whether the ignition switch or lock cylinder has been replaced.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“I am having problem with my 2 year old truck sometimes I can`t get the key out sometimes lights stay on in the sunny day but my main problem is the key stuck in and can`t get it out”
NHTSA complaint #11288552, filed 2019-12, 37,000 miles“I can not remove my key from ignition . Sometimes it takes up to 30 minutes to get it to release. Have taken to multiple places they all have different answer and no one knows how to fix it . Getting worse everyday. Today was told to contact you that they could not help me”
NHTSA complaint #11586124, filed 2024-04
Buying note. A 2017 Canyon is worth a careful test drive: check for transmission shudder and hard shifts at low speed, make sure the steering assist warning stays off, and look for oil leaks around the cooler lines. Ask for service records showing any transmission fluid flushes, torque converter, oil line or ignition work already done.
Summary written with AI from a sample of 60 NHTSA complaints for this model year (picked at random, with complaints that state a mileage and recent ones taken first), then checked automatically against the source records. Where a problem shows a complaint count, every complaint for this model year was matched with fixed keyword rules (written with AI and tested against the sample), and the mileage, age and repair figures are calculated from those complaints; owners' figures are as stated, not verified. Other counts refer to the sample. The excerpts come from NHTSA's public complaint records and are unverified; capitalisation is normalised, NHTSA staff notes are removed, and shortened text ends with “…”. Something wrong? Request a correction.
NHTSA recorded 66 consumer complaints for the 2017 GMC Canyon. 40 of the complaints include a mileage, and 68% of those were filed for vehicles with under 50,000 miles; the median is 27,803 miles. Of all complaints, 3 involved a crash, 4 an injury, according to the filers. NHTSA lists 1 recall campaign and 1,479 technical service bulletins for this model year. Compared with the other 7 GMC Canyon model years that have at least 25 complaints and are old enough to compare, this one scores 56 out of 100, where 50 is a typical year for the model (typical for this model). The comparison allows for the era and for how long each year has had to collect complaints, but not for how many vehicles were sold.
Which parts are reported most
Complaints can name more than one part, so the counts add up to more than the total. Select a part to see its complaints, recalls and bulletins.
- Engine14 21%
- Other or unknown13 20%
- Electrical system12 18%
- Steering8 12%
- Fuel system7 11%
- Brakes5 7.6%
- Air bags3 4.5%
- Engine cooling2 3.0%
Also reported: Forward collision avoidance (2), Suspension (2), Visibility (wipers, defrost, mirrors) (2), Equipment (1), Seats (1), Vehicle speed control (1).
Example complaints
Transmission and drivetrain: “Truck stalls as if in neutral after starting. Unfortunately, I have to let this truck run for t least 10 minutes or more before I can take off. If I start the truck and put it in drive any sooner, truck won't move. Actually, it runs then send to slam (very hard jerk) into drive, studders, then functions normal. I took it back to dealer and they say there has been multiple complaints about these trucks. I also was told GM put a statement out about these complaints and said there is nothing they can do to fix, in so many words. Dealer say it will go away. …”
NHTSA complaint #11322085, filed 2020-04, 18,000 milesEngine: “Owned this 2017 Gmc Canyon for 1 year and 1 month with 5000 miles when it developed an oil leak. Brought to dealer who found the oil leak coming from a pinhole in the oil coolant hose. When I researched this specific oil leak online a found a forum post with many other people who have had this same issue since the 2015 model year. Other people did not notice the leak until all of their oil had drained and had to be towed to service. I noticed it early enough that I still had oil when I arrived at the dealership to get it checked out. …”
NHTSA complaint #11124380, filed 2018-09, 5,000 milesOther or unknown: “We have a 2017 Gmc Canyon diesel with 56570 miles on it. While we were driving down the street (it was raining) going about 30 miles an hour and all of the sudden the service stabilitrak censor came on am it instantly put the brake on. We turned the truck on and off. Over and over letting it sit for more that a minute completely and still nothing....we were down the street from our house and my husband had to push it home. …”
NHTSA complaint #11354315, filed 2020-09, 56,570 milesElectrical system: “Constantly getting a message and beeping to service my trailer brake system while in park and driving. I’ve never used this before for towing any trailers or anything. This message and beeping cause a distraction and i find it to be dangerous. And the fact I’ve never used this is quite annoying.”
NHTSA complaint #11479157, filed 2022-08Mileage when problems were reported
68% of the 40 complaints with a mileage were filed for vehicles with under 50,000 miles; the middle half falls between 14,500 and 54,000 miles.
Complaints by year filed
Trend: falling. Complaints filed in the last 3 full calendar years are at least 25% lower than in the 3 years before.
Crash test ratings
NHTSA's 5-Star Safety Ratings for the 2017 GMC Canyon. Frontal results are shown driver / passenger; rollover shows the star rating and NHTSA's estimated risk of rolling over in a single-vehicle crash.
| Version | Overall | Frontal | Side | Side pole | Rollover |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canyon · crew cab 4WD | ★★★★☆ | 4 / 4 | 5 | 5 | 3 · 21.2% risk |
| Canyon · extended cab 4WD | ★★★★☆ | 5 / 4 | 5 | 5 | 3 · 21.4% risk |
| Canyon · extended cab RWD | ★★★★☆ | 5 / 4 | 5 | 5 | 3 · 22.0% risk |
| Canyon · crew cab RWD | ★★★★☆ | 4 / 4 | 5 | 5 | 3 · 21.9% risk |
Driver aids listed by NHTSA for the 2017 model year: forward collision warning optional, lane departure warning optional, automatic emergency braking not available.
Neighbouring years: 2016: same overall rating; 2018: same overall rating. A redesign between years can change both the car and the test.
Source: NHTSA New Car Assessment Program (5-Star Safety Ratings), nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Fuel economy and running cost
EPA ratings for each 2017 GMC Canyon version. Annual fuel cost is the EPA's estimate at its current fuel prices for 15,000 miles a year (55% city driving).
| Version | Engine | Transmission | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel / yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canyon 2WD | 2.5L 4-cyl | 6-speed manual | 19 | 26 | 22 | $3,050 |
| Canyon 2WD | 2.5L 4-cyl | 6-speed automatic | 20 | 26 | 22 | $3,050 |
| Canyon 2WD | 3.6L 6-cyl | 8-speed automatic | 18 | 25 | 20 | $3,350 |
| Canyon 4WD | 2.5L 4-cyl | 6-speed automatic | 19 | 24 | 21 | $3,200 |
| Canyon 4WD | 3.6L 6-cyl | 8-speed automatic | 17 | 24 | 19 | $3,550 |
| Canyon 2WD | 2.8L 4-cyl · diesel | 6-speed automatic | 22 | 30 | 25 | $3,850 |
| Canyon 4WD | 2.8L 4-cyl · diesel | 6-speed automatic | 20 | 28 | 23 | $4,150 |
Source: U.S. EPA and Department of Energy, fueleconomy.gov. Ratings are for comparing vehicles; real-world mileage varies with driving and conditions.
Recalls and investigations
- 18V358000May 31, 2018Fuel system, gasoline › Delivery › Fuel pumpCovers: GMC Canyon 2015–2018, Chevrolet Malibu 2016–2018, Colorado 2016–2018 +6 more
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2015-2018 GMC Canyon, 2016-2017 Buick Envision, 2016-2018 Chevrolet Colorado and Malibu, 2017-2018 GMC Acadia, 2018 Buick LaCrosse, Cadillac ATS, Chevrolet Equinox, and GMC Terrain vehicles. The high pressure fuel…
Recall details for the 2017 GMC Canyon → · Check a VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls
Technical service bulletins
TSBs are manufacturer notes to dealers about known repair procedures. They are not recalls and do not by themselves mean a vehicle has a fault. 1,479 on record; the latest 10 are shown.
- 11037555Sep 26, 2026Other or unknown. This PI provides Diagnostics tips on how the LIN bus works and how to diagnosis it.
- 11037550Sep 21, 2026Other or unknown. This PI communicates the proper part numbers for transmission connectors and internal harness to prevent confusion when ordering
- 11037253Sep 4, 2026Other or unknown. This preliminary information advises a dealer on how to email GDS2 session logs into Technical Assistance.
- 11035340Jul 21, 2026Other or unknown. PI to help diagnose A/C concern
- 11035308Jul 21, 2026Other or unknown. This PI provides diagnostic tips for diagnosing electric trailer brakes issues.
- 11032777May 14, 2026Other or unknown. This PI provides diagnostic tips for diagnosing electric trailer brakes issues.
- 11030974Apr 1, 2026Other or unknown. This preliminary information communicates information about how to determine if a wheel and tires size change is available.
- 11030092Mar 9, 2026Other or unknown. This Preliminary information communicates the steps on how to save a GDS2 Session Log and upload to a Technical Assistance Case in CX Connect.
- 11030091Mar 9, 2026Other or unknown. This preliminary information advises a dealer on how to email GDS2 session logs into Technical Assistance.
- 11027689Jan 12, 2026Other or unknown. This PI communicates the proper part numbers for transmission connectors and internal harness to prevent confusion when ordering
Other model years of the GMC Canyon
| Year | Complaints | Median mi | Recalls | Crash ★ | MPG | Score (50 = typical) | Trend |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 8 | 350 | 2 | 4 | 20 | — | Too new |
| 2025 | 8 | 13,500 | 2 | 4 | 20 | — | Too new |
| 2024 | 207 | 4,000 | 3 | 4 | 20 | Too new to compare | Too new |
| 2023 | 62 | 3,000 | 3 | 4 | 20 | 99 · More | Too new |
| 2022 | 27 | 22,212 | 1 | 4 | 22 | 40 · Typical | Rising |
| 2021 | 12 | 46,500 | 2 | 4 | 22 | — | Not enough data |
| 2020 | 14 | 18,500 | 0 | 4 | 22 | — | Not enough data |
| 2019 | 17 | 36,082 | 0 | 4 | 22 | — | Rising |
| 2018 | 53 | 22,000 | 1 | 4 | 22 | 43 · Typical | Stable |
| 2017 | 66 | 27,803 | 1 | 4 | 22 | 56 · Typical | Falling |
| 2016 | 271 | 46,523 | 4 | 4 | 22 | 100 · More | Stable |
| 2015 | 303 | 54,680 | 8 | 4 | 22 | 100 · More | Falling |
| 2012 | 23 | 45,000 | 2 | — | 21 | — | Stable |
| 2011 | 12 | 51,073 | 5 | — | 21 | — | Not enough data |
| 2010 | 8 | 10,000 | 2 | — | 21 | — | Not enough data |
| 2009 | 27 | 49,928 | 3 | — | 20 | 30 · Fewer | Falling |
| 2008 | 38 | 68,000 | 2 | — | 20 | 0 · Fewer | Stable |
| 2007 | 42 | 73,651 | 3 | — | 18 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2006 | 48 | 60,000 | 4 | — | 19 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2005 | 113 | 50,106 | 3 | — | 18 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2004 | 80 | 74,456 | 3 | — | 18 | Not compared (before 2008) | Stable |
All GMC Canyon model years · Best and worst years by complaints
Frequently asked questions
What are the most common problems with the 2017 GMC Canyon?
Owners of the 2017 GMC Canyon most often describe transmission shuddering, hard or delayed shifts and, in some cases, torque converter replacement, frequently well under 40,000 miles. The issues reported most often: Transmission shudder, hard shifts, torque converter; Loss of power steering assist; Engine oil leaks from cooler lines.
How many NHTSA complaints does the 2017 GMC Canyon have?
NHTSA recorded 66 consumer complaints for the 2017 GMC Canyon as of Oct 27, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
What part of the 2017 GMC Canyon is reported most often?
Transmission and drivetrain is named most often, in 18 complaints (27% of the total), followed by engine with 14.
Has the 2017 GMC Canyon been recalled?
NHTSA lists 1 recall campaign for this model year. To check a specific vehicle, enter its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
How did the 2017 GMC Canyon do in NHTSA crash tests?
NHTSA's 5-Star Safety Ratings give the 2017 GMC Canyon 4 out of 5 stars overall, across 4 rated versions (body style and drive). Ratings from different model years are only comparable when the vehicle was not redesigned in between.
What gas mileage does the 2017 GMC Canyon get?
The EPA rates the 2017 GMC Canyon (Canyon 2WD, 2.5L 4-cyl) at 22 mpg combined, 19 city and 26 highway, with an estimated annual fuel cost of $3,050 at 15,000 miles a year. Other engine and drive versions are rated differently.
At what mileage are problems with the 2017 GMC Canyon reported?
Among the 40 complaints that include a mileage, the median is 27,803 miles and the middle half falls between 14,500 and 54,000 miles; 68% were filed for vehicles with under 50,000 miles.
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 27, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate. Crash ratings are from NHTSA’s New Car Assessment Program. Fuel economy is from the EPA and DOE (fueleconomy.gov).
Complaint counts come from NHTSA’s public complaint database; we count each complaint once. The source records for this vehicle are on nhtsa.gov. Scores and trends are our own summaries of that data, described in the methodology. This page is not legal, safety or repair advice: for a specific vehicle, check its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls and ask a qualified mechanic. See an error? Tell us.