Last updated: 2026-10-10

RELIABILITY SCORE: 71/100 (GOOD)

2018 GMC Canyon Reliability Report

The 2018 GMC Canyon has a good reliability standing, but its 8-speed automatic can shudder and shift harshly. Check service records before buying.

Full Breakdown Compare Models

Recalls

Complaints

Complaint Rate

N/A

Est. Repair Cost

$548

Annual Fuel Cost

$2,700–$4,000

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint SeverityN/A

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs60/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact88/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue DiversityN/A

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Consider

Mid-pack among Canyon years, with above-average standing for 2018 trucks, one fuel system recall, and transmission shudder as the main complaint.

Top Issues to Watch

POWER TRAIN (24)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (9)
STEERING (3)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Post-Redesign (Year 4)

2018 is year 4 of the Second generation (RG; 2011).

Redesigned for the 2015 model year.
Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
A refresh arrives in 2020.
2nd generation Canyon (US).

What this means for buyers

Well into the generation cycle — most design and manufacturing issues should be resolved by now.

2015: Second generation (RG; 2011) Launch

Generation start — new platform.

2018: This Model Year

2018 is year 4 of the Second generation (RG; 2011).

2020: Mid-Cycle Refresh

Updated features and styling tweaks.

Should You Buy the 2018 GMC Canyon?

Good is the verdict here, and it ranks above average among 2018 trucks. Within the Canyon's own run, it lands in the middle of nine scored model years. The 2019 rates better, with fewer complaints and no recalls, so it is worth comparing.

Transmission trouble leads the complaints. The 8-speed automatic shudders, often described as driving over rumble strips, and some owners report harsh shifts or clunky downshifts, typically starting at 25,000 to 35,000 miles. Dealers often try fluid flushes and a software update first, and some trucks still need a torque converter or a new transmission. A key that sticks in the ignition is the next most common issue, and a battery can go flat in 4 to 6 hours if the truck is left in accessory. A few owners report the engine shutting off at highway speed. There is one federal recall, for the fuel system.

Test drive at 55 to 60 mph and watch for shudder. Ask for transmission service records and proof the fuel system recall was completed.

Compared to the 2019 GMC Canyon, which scored 5 points higher.

Pros

+Acceptable reliability score
+Infrequent unscheduled repairs
+Low major repair risk (12%)
+Low recall count

Cons

−POWER TRAIN: 8-speed automatic shudders, often described as driving over rumble strips (24 complaints)
−ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: Key often sticks in the ignition after the truck is put in park (9 complaints)

Compare 2018 GMC Canyon With

2018 Chevrolet Colorado

Reliability: 75/100

Good

2018 Toyota Tacoma

Reliability: 55/100

Mixed

2018 Nissan Frontier

Reliability: 79/100

Good

2018 Honda Ridgeline

Reliability: 70/100

Good

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK

1 manufacturer recall issued

Other

HIGH RISK

POWER TRAIN (24)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (9)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

recall on record

The 2018 GMC Canyon carries 1 recall — a low count. Authorized dealers repair any open recall free of charge, regardless of warranty status.

NHTSA.gov →

Complaint Breakdown

complaints

LowAvgHigh

Very Low

Safety Incidents

Crashes

Fires

Injuries

Deaths

★★★★★

NHTSA 4/5 Stars

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

2018 GMC Canyon Recall Details

1 recall has been issued for the 2018 GMC Canyon. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

18V3580002018-05-31

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

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 pump may detach from its mounting flange, possibly resulting in the pump damaging the high pressure fuel line.

Consequence

A damaged fuel line can create a fuel leak, increasing the risk of a fire.

Remedy

GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the high pressure fuel pump, and high pressure fuel pipe, free of charge. The recall began July 2, 2018. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is 18188.

VIN History Report

Buying a used 2018 GMC Canyon? Check its history first

Power train problems lead owner complaints about the 2018 GMC Canyon, and 1 recall was issued for it. A VIN check shows whether this car's recall work was done, plus accident, title, and odometer history.

Accidents
Open Recalls
Title History
Odometer Rollback

2018 GMC Canyon NHTSA Safety Ratings

Overall Safety Rating

Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Driver: 5/5Passenger: 4/5

Rollover risk: 22.0%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger)Advanced Belt Feature (Standard)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Curtain (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Pelvis/Torso (Driver, Front Passenger)Knee (Not Available)Additional Air Bags (Not Available)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)LATCH Locations (Rear Seat)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver)

View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

GMC CanyonRepair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.

Est. Annual Maintenance

$548

vs $548 avg for midsize trucks

vs $652 avg for all vehicles

Repair Frequency

0.2

unscheduled repair visits per year

Severe Repair Probability

12%

chance of a major repair

Annual Cost Comparison

Canyon

$548

Category Avg

$548

All Vehicles

$652

Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.

GMC Canyon Resale Value

The GMC Canyon is estimated to retain about 96.3% of its original value after 5 years, based on observed used-car listings.

This benchmark covers the GMC Canyon model overall and is not specific to the 2018 model year.

Value Retained: 96.3%
Depreciation: 3.7%
Listings Analyzed: 62

Listings observed in May 2021. This is a historical market benchmark, not a current price quote.

Explore GMC Canyon depreciation and resale value on CarResaleValue.com

MPG & Annual Running Costs

Gas

15–25 MPG

Running cost: $3,250–$4,550/yr

Fuel + repair

15–22 city / 15–30 hwy MPG

Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2018 EPA label cycle.

Gas trims

Trim	Drive	Trans.	City	Hwy	Comb	Fuel Cost
Canyon 2WD 2.5L 4-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Automatic 6-spd	20	26	22	$2,700
Canyon 2WD 2.5L 4-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Manual 6-spd	20	26	22	$2,700
Canyon 4WD 2.5L 4-cyl	4-Wheel Drive	Automatic 6-spd	19	24	21	$2,850
Canyon 2WD 3.6L 6-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Automatic 8-spd	18	25	20	$3,000
Canyon 4WD 3.6L 6-cyl	4-Wheel Drive	Automatic 8-spd	17	24	19	$3,150
Canyon 2WD 2.8L 4-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Automatic 6-spd	22	30	25	$3,250
Canyon 4WD 2.8L 4-cyl	4-Wheel Drive	Automatic 6-spd	20	28	23	$3,500
Canyon Cab Chassis 2WD 3.6L 6-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Automatic 8-spd	15	15	15	$4,000

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2018 GMC Canyon.

Drive between 25 and 60 mph, including up a gentle hill, and feel for a rumble-strip shudder.
Start the engine cold, shift into drive, and note any harsh or clunky early shifts.
Park and turn off the truck several times, confirming the key turns off and comes out each time.
Engage 4WD on the test drive and watch for a "Service 4WD" message.
Look under the truck and confirm both fuel tank straps and their bolts are tight and in place.
Check the coolant level and look for oil leaks or corrosion on the oil cooler lines near the front axle.
Let the truck idle 10 to 20 minutes, then check steering effort and the ABS and traction lights.
Ask for records of transmission fluid flushes, torque converter work, or ignition and shifter repairs.

2018 GMC Canyon Common Problems by Component

49 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

POWER TRAIN (24)ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (9)STEERING (3)EXTERIOR LIGHTING (2)SEAT BELTS (2)ENGINE (2)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (2)VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (1)Other (4)

POWER TRAIN

24 complaintsSafety-related

The 8-speed automatic shudders, often described as driving over rumble strips. It shows up around town, on gentle hills, or at highway speeds near 55-60 mph. Other reports describe harsh shifts when cold, clunky downshifts, and brief slipping followed by a surge. Dealers often try repeated fluid flushes and a software update first. Some trucks still need a torque converter or a new transmission. Separately, 4WD can drop out in snow with a "Service 4WD" message, and one crash followed that loss of traction. One diesel owner reports a fuel tank strap bolt falling out, leaving the tank hanging against the driveshaft.

24 complaints total1 crash

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

9 complaints

The key often sticks in the ignition after the truck is put in park. Owners have to restart, shift, or jiggle it to get it out. Left in accessory, the battery can go flat in 4-6 hours. Dealers sometimes cannot duplicate the problem, and one shifter assembly replacement did not stop it from coming back. More serious reports describe the engine shutting off at highway speed, once right after a "Service Emissions System" warning. Other complaints cover a backup camera screen that is too bright at night and an intermittent "Service Trailer Brake System" message.

9 complaints total

STEERING

3 complaints

Electronic power steering cuts out at random, then comes back. It happens after the truck idles for 10-20 minutes and also at highway speeds, and on long trips the traction control, ABS, and brake warning lights come on. In another case a steering knuckle cracked where it meets the ball joint at about 3,000 miles, and the replacement part was on order with no arrival date. There are only 3 complaints, and one of them mainly describes transmission trouble on a different GM truck.

3 complaints total

EXTERIOR LIGHTING (2 complaints)

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

2 complaints

Backup lights stop working even though the bulbs are good. Cleaning the ground strap does not fix it, and no wiring damage turns up. The other complaint is about the reverse camera display, which goes to full brightness at night and lights up the whole cab. That glare makes it hard to see out the windows or mirrors while backing up, and one driver nearly hit a person behind the truck. Brightness cannot be adjusted in reverse, and a dealer called the system normal.

2 complaints total

SEAT BELTS (2 complaints)

SEAT BELTS

2 complaints

Buckles become hard to latch and take several tries to lock. Cleaning the buckle does not help, and replacement is the recommended fix. The other report involves the side airbags firing during a slow crawl through a ditch at about 3 mph on a dirt road. The belt pretensioner fired with them, and the seat heaters stopped working afterward. With only 2 complaints, there is not enough here to show a wider pattern.

2 complaints total

ENGINE (2 complaints)

ENGINE

2 complaints

Coolant goes missing from the reservoir because of a cracked head gasket, reported at 76,000 miles. The owner caught it before the engine overheated. In another case the engine oil cooler lines failed at about 40,000 miles and 4 years of age. They leaked oil near the front axle, where it could reach the tires and brake rotors. The removed lines showed more corrosion than expected for the truck's age. Each problem appears in only one report.

2 complaints total

UNKNOWN OR OTHER (2 complaints)

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

2 complaints

Shuddering under acceleration and a general vibration are the symptoms here. In one case a diagnostic check traced the vibration to a failing torque converter, which the owner considered far too early for that repair. These reports match the transmission shudder covered under power train complaints, where torque converter replacement also appears as a fix after fluid service fails. Only 2 complaints are filed in this category, and neither gives a mileage.

2 complaints total

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (1 complaints)

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

1 complaint

2026-03-25

The warning light is saying engine power reduced having to do with the DEF system

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (1 complaints)

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

1 complaint

2023-06-24

The contact owns a 2018 GMC Canyon. The contact stated while driving 60-65 MPH, the message “Bad Exhaust Fluid Warning” was displayed. The contact stated that he added exhaust fluid to the vehicle per owner manual’s instructions; however, the message remained displayed. The vehicle was taken to an unknown dealer, where the failure could not be duplicated. The dealer advised the contact that the vehicle would return to normal operation if he continued driving the vehicle. The contact stated that as he continued driving, the vehicle failed to exceed 55 MPH. A message indicating that the speed would decrease to 45 MPH for 40 miles, and then to 5 MPH, was displayed. The contact pulled into a gas station. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The vehicle was then driven to the dealer, where the failure could not be duplicated. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 74,000. The VIN was unavailable.

SUSPENSION (1 complaints)

SUSPENSION

1 complaint

2018-01-18

Transmission slipped almost from start. Took three appointments and two years - If my shop foreman knew the third time, why did he not call and tell me we now know your problem. I finally got fed up and brought it in one more time. Starter from day ONE maybe 50% of time made loud bang when Bendix retracted. Shop refused to take it off!!! I checked ball joint boots. One feels like no grease in it. They 'LOOKED' at it. No answer and nothing was done. Has had 'lifter noise' since new when small acceleration. Noise rate accelerates till shift and then repeats. I'm told they don't hear anything. I am 76 and hard of hearing. Pleeeeeze - don't tell me there isn't any. Not my best day today and felt it's time to say crap is crap.

When Do 2018 GMC Canyon Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

25,000–35,000 milesTransmission shudder and harsh shifts

18,000–38,000 milesKey stuck in ignition

Best & Worst GMC Canyon Years

Best GMC Canyon Years to Buy

Based on reliability index score

Top Pick

Good

GMC Canyon Reliability Score Trend

Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.

GMC Canyon reliability scores by year
Year	Score	Rating
2018	71/100	Good
2019	76/100	Good
2020	76/100	Good
2021	68/100	Good
2022	71/100	Good
2023	66/100	Good
2024	79/100	Good
2025	72/100	Good
2026	76/100	Good

GMC Canyon Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
Year	Score	vs Prior Year	Rating	Recalls	Complaints
2026	76/100	+4	Good	0	0
2025	72/100	-7	Good	2	8
2024	79/100	+13	Good	3	204
2023	66/100	-5	Good	3	51
2022	71/100	+3	Good	1	22
2021	68/100	-8	Good	2	10
2020	76/100	0	Good	0	13
2019	76/100	+5	Good	0	14
2018(selected)	71/100	—	Good	1	49

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2018 GMC Canyon reliable?

Yes, it holds a good reliability standing and ranks above average among 2018 trucks. Owners filed 49 complaints, mostly about the transmission and electrical system. Among the Canyon's scored model years it sits in the middle, and the 2019 rates better. Federal crash testing gave it 4 of 5 stars.

What are the most common problems with the 2018 GMC Canyon?

The transmission is the biggest issue. The 8-speed automatic can shudder, shift harshly, or downshift with a clunk. Next come electrical complaints, led by a key that sticks in the ignition. Smaller groups of owners report power steering cutting out at random and backup lights or a reverse camera acting up.

Does the 2018 GMC Canyon have transmission problems?

Many owners say so. Power train complaints are the largest group, with 24 filed. The shudder often feels like rumble strips and tends to start between 25,000 and 35,000 miles. Dealers often begin with fluid flushes and software, and some trucks later needed a torque converter or a replacement transmission.

Has the 2018 GMC Canyon been recalled?

Federal records show one recall for this model year, in the fuel system on gasoline models. Run the VIN through the federal recall lookup or ask a GMC dealer whether the repair was done. Do not rely on a seller's word alone.

Is the 2019 GMC Canyon better than the 2018?

By this data, yes. The 2019 also has a good standing but rates better than the 2018. It has 14 owner complaints and no recalls, compared with 49 complaints and one recall for the 2018. Its newer age may explain some of the gap.

Don’t buy a 2018 GMC Canyon without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

Look Up a VIN →

How we score the 2018 GMC Canyon

Of the four inputs behind this score, the 2018 GMC Canyon does best on recall impact (88/100) and worst on repair costs (60/100). Scores weight complaint severity at 35%, repair costs at 30%, recall impact at 20%, and the spread of complaints across systems at 15%, with complaint counts adjusted for US sales. Read the full methodology.

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