On XXX my Acadia started flashing dash lights and messages and had significantly reduced engine power and power steering. This caused it to come near to a stop in the middle of the [XXX] eastbound span. There is no area to pull over so I limped the car the rest of the way at 20 mph with hazards on. Vehicle was leaking oil and had camshaft trouble codes. I took it to a mechanic and was told it should go to a GM dealer because it needed major engine work. The dealer replaced the oil pan and other things. The car was returned to me only to have to go immediately back for the same camshaft trouble code. The car was repaired and again returned to me only for it to start leaking a significant amount of oil. The car went back to the shop (about 1 week after picking it up) and was diagnosed with a fault crankshaft seal. This was covered by GM because the mechanic had just replaced the crankshaft seal during the first visit. The car was returned to me, again, and is currently leaking oil again from what appears to be the crankshaft. If it is the crankshaft seal, this will be the 4th visit in 2 months, 3 directly involving the crankshaft area. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
GMC Acadia loss of power problems
204 of the 5,599 owner complaints about the GMC Acadia describe sudden loss of power, most of them for the 2008 model year.
- owner complaints
- 204
- worst model year
- 2008
- typical repair cost reported
- $2,800
- typical mileage
- 77,400
By model year
Often reported together
Power steering loss 74Check engine light 36Transmission failure 14Stalling 14Slipping 9Steering noise 8Whining noise 7Won't shift 7
Trouble codes mentioned
P2762 1P2138 1P1682 1P0776 1P0700 1P0171 1P0123 1
What owners say
I am reporting three safety-related incidents involving a 2023 GMC Acadia SLE purchased XXX. 1. XXX – Washer Pump: Since purchase, the windshield washer pump activated but no fluid sprayed. The issue was reported at purchase. During repairs on December 5, we were told the pump had smoked and nearly caught fire. Warranty records list a washer pump repair costing $474.81. 2. XXX – Severe Shaking and Loss of Power: The vehicle developed severe shaking, reduced power, and a flashing check-engine light. It could only travel about 25 mph and had to be towed to a dealership. Warranty records list a camshaft position actuator repair costing $516.36. 3. XXX – Unexpected Shutdown: While driving toward [XXX], the vehicle shut off without warning at a traffic light. Multiple warning lights illuminated, and the emergency parking brake activated. The driver disengaged the brake and moved the vehicle to a nearby parking lot. These separate incidents raise serious concerns about the vehicle's safety and reliability, including potential fire risk, loss of power, and unexpected shutdown while driving. The vehicle had approximately 47,490 miles at purchase and now has approximately 79,000 miles. I request that the federal safety agency document these incidents and determine whether they indicate a potential safety defect or warrant further investigation. Complete diagnostic reports and repair orders are not currently available. I can provide additional information if needed. The repeated failures create concerns about the vehicle's ability to operate safely and reliably. An unexpected shutdown in traffic could cause a collision or leave the vehicle in a dangerous position. I request that these incidents be considered together when evaluating whether further investigation is warranted.These incidents occurred on separate dates and involved different vehicle systems. I am concerned that additional failures could occur without warning. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Today, on [XXX] outside of Sapulpa Oklahoma, while in the inside lane of three southbound lanes, cruise control on at 80mph. The car suddenly reduced power, air conditioning stopped, assisted power brakes stopped working, gauge cluster full of flashing warnings. Pulled to the right shoulder, stopped with difficulty. Had to pump and stand on brakes to get stopped. Shut off engine, then restated and everything stated working again. Scary situation in heavy traffic. Lucky to be alive!! INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
the transmission kept slipping. the car continued to lose power until it just wouldn't go anymore. The mechanic said it is definitely the transmission and drive shaft but my particular VIN is not included. I am looking at $7,000 in repairs on a car I owe $13,000.00
I purchased this vehicle in June 2024 as a demo vehicle with approximately 7,000 miles on it. Within one month of ownership, the vehicle began experiencing serious problems that have continued to worsen. The vehicle currently has approximately 34,000 miles, and the issues have been ongoing from the time of purchase through the present. Since purchasing the vehicle, it has been in the dealership multiple times for the same recurring problems, including but not limited to: * Powertrain issues and loss of power * Reduced acceleration while driving * Complete electrical failure while driving * Engine and electrical warning lights repeatedly turning on * Vehicle running excessively hot * Water pump replacement * Replacement of sensors * Thermostat replacement * Ongoing engine and electrical system malfunctions Despite these repairs, the same problems continue to reoccur. Each time I return the vehicle for service, I am informed that it is a “different issue,” even though the symptoms remain unchanged. This strongly indicates a defective powertrain and/or electrical system that has not been properly repaired. The most serious concern occurred while I was driving on public streets, when the vehicle lost acceleration, electrical power shut off, and the vehicle completely shut down, nearly causing me to be hit by other vehicles. This incident created an extreme safety hazard for myself, my passengers, and other motorists. I have made several formal complaints directly with GMC, and more than four case numbers have already been created regarding this vehicle. Despite these complaints and repeated repair attempts, the problems persist. Given the repeated failures, numerous repair attempts, documented safety risks, and the fact that these issues began shortly after purchase, I believe this vehicle qualifies for relief under applicable lemon laws and consumer protection laws. Incident (Critical)Vehicle lost acceleration and electrical power and completely stalled while roads
Dear General Motors Customer Assistance Center, I am writing to formally file a complaint and request assistance regarding a serious mechanical failure with my 2018 GMC Acadia SLT. I purchased this vehicle when it had approximately 7,000 miles on it after it was transported from Florida. Since owning the vehicle, I have properly maintained it and had it serviced through Suttle Motors dealership in Newport News, Virginia. Recently, while driving on the highway to have tires installed, the vehicle suddenly stalled while I was in traffic. This caused a very dangerous situation, as traffic behind me was forced to abruptly slow down and I was nearly rear-ended due to the sudden loss of power. Because the vehicle was no longer drivable, I had it towed to Suttle Motors for inspection. After examining the vehicle, the service department informed me of the following issue: “The transmission solenoid valve is stuck and it has burnt the transmission fluid. The vehicle will require a full transmission replacement. The estimated cost is $7,769 with a 3-year/100,000-mile warranty.” I was extremely shocked and disappointed to receive this news. My vehicle currently has only 67,000 miles, and I have taken care to maintain it properly through the dealership. Experiencing a complete transmission failure at such relatively low mileage is very concerning, especially considering the dangerous situation it created on the highway. Given the circumstances, I am requesting that General Motors review this matter and advise whether any goodwill assistance, repair support, or coverage options may be available to help resolve this issue. I would greatly appreciate your prompt attention to this matter. I can provide service records and documentation from Suttle Motors if needed. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to your response.
The torque converter in the transmission has been vibrating for over a year now. I can imagine it is causing more damage to the rest of the transmission. Now I can feel the shifting starting to get rough, loss of power, and dark transmission fluid. I had the problem confirmed with an independent service center. There have been no warning lamps as of yet. But it's only a matter of time that I will need a torque converter replacement and/or full transmission replacement.
Dear Sir/Madam, For the 3rd time now, my transmission is being rebuilt. After purchasing it from the dealership and it was still under warranty GMC Bakersfield rebuilt the transmission, then again in 2020 at 119,000 miles it broke down again and All Automatic in Bakersfield rebuilt it for $3500 and now here it is 2026 and only 60.000 miles later again All Automatic is having to rebuilt the transmission again and asking now for another $4950. I was excited to finally hear there was a recall, only to find it was only for 2014 GMC Acadia's. The transmission have failed again and yes it is available for inspection at All Automation in Bakersfield, CA on Quantico. During the course of breaking down the my safety and the safety of my children was at risk. My vehicle was jumping, jerking the RPM's were all over the place and at one point in the course of driving on the freeway it felt like it lost power and nearly stopped. This has been an ongoing problem since the purchase of the vehicle. It has been inspected and diagnosed by All Automatic. There were no warnings, messages or symptoms that were constant. It was sporadically slipping up until the time it gave out. I have spoke to several 2013 GMC Acadia owners who have the exact same problem along with the back light covers falling off and All the plastic coverings on the inside falling off.
The vehicle has experienced repeated electrical and engine-related malfunctions, including random engine shutdowns while driving and random no-start conditions. The thermostat and cooling system failed and were replaced in 2024. Multiple sensors have failed. The braking system remains noisy even after brake replacement. The lane detection safety system does not provide audible alerts. The vehicle is currently operational and available for inspection upon request. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? The vehicle has randomly shut off while driving on both highways and city roads in Azle, Texas. This occurred while my two children were in the vehicle. When the engine shut off, there was a risk of losing power steering and braking assist, which could have caused an accident, especially at highway speeds and in traffic. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? The thermostat and cooling system failure were confirmed and repaired by a service center in 2024. Electrical and sensor issues have occurred repeatedly but have not been fully diagnosed or resolved. Brake noise persists despite replacement. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives, or others? UNKNOWN. The vehicle has been serviced by repair facilities, but the manufacturer has not provided a definitive diagnosis for the engine shutdown and electrical failures. Were there any warning lamps, messages, or other symptoms prior to the failure? When did they first appear? Yes. Various warning lights and symptoms appeared prior to failures, including cooling system warnings and sensor alerts. Electrical issues and battery failures have occurred repeatedly, with batteries lasting only 2–3 years. Symptoms began after purchase and have continued throughout ownership. Additional details The brakes have been noisy even after replacement, and the lane detection system does not produce audible warni
New vehicle. At 935 miles on odometer, displayed “Service Power Steering” “No Assist Soon” message on dash. Contacted OnStar and was advised of potential loss of power steering & advised to take car to dealership. Car spent 10 days in service to have a new steering gear installed at GMC dealership.
Related recalls
No recalls on record for this model year.
Questions about the GMC Acadia loss of power
Which GMC Acadia years have sudden loss of power problems?
The model years with the most reports are 2008 (44 complaints), 2014 (24 complaints) and 2010 (23 complaints).
How much does it cost to fix sudden loss of power on the GMC Acadia?
Owners who mentioned a price put the repair at about $2,800 (median of 40 complaints that include a dollar amount). Costs vary with mileage, warranty and where the work is done.
VIN decoder
See the problems and recalls for an exact car
Buying a used GMC Acadia?
Check the exact car before you pay: accidents, salvage or flood titles, odometer readings and previous owners.
Check its history