Last updated: 2026-04-20

RELIABILITY SCORE: 71/100 (GOOD)

2018 GMC Canyon Reliability Report

Name: 2018 GMC Canyon
Brand: GMC

The 2018 GMC Canyon scores 71/100 ("Good"). With 1 recall and 49 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.

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

Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.

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?

At 71/100, the 2018 GMC Canyon lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2018 is year 4 of the Second generation (RG; 2011).

Owners log 49 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.

Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to power train (24). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.

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 issues reported (24 complaints)
−ELECTRICAL SYSTEM issues reported (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

Every 2018 GMC Canyon has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.

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.

Test for transmission shudder and rough shifting, especially between 1st and 2nd gears
Check if the ignition key can be easily removed from the ignition
Inspect for any engine oil leaks or coolant loss
Verify the functionality of backup lights and camera display brightness at night
Ensure electronic power steering functions without intermittent failures

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

Owners of the 2018 GMC Canyon frequently report transmission issues, with symptoms such as shuddering, shaking, and rough shifting, particularly between 1st and 2nd gears or at speeds around 45 mph. These problems often occur at mileage ranges from 25,000 to 75,000 miles. Some complaints indicate severe consequences, including a crash when the vehicle switched out of four-wheel drive, causing a loss of traction. Additionally, there are reports of transmission failures requiring replacement, with some owners mentioning that a torque converter issue is a known problem. Potential buyers should be aware of these recurring powertrain issues and their associated safety implications.

24 complaints total1 crash

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

9 complaints

Owners of the 2018 GMC Canyon frequently report issues with the ignition system, particularly difficulty removing the key from the ignition cylinder. Symptoms often include the key getting stuck in the accessory position, which can lead to battery drainage if unresolved. These issues are reported across a range of mileages, commonly around 18,000 to 38,000 miles. Additionally, some owners describe problems with unexpected vehicle shutdowns and electrical system warnings, such as "Service Emissions System" and "Service Trailer Brake System," which can lead to vehicle immobilization. Safety implications include potential stranding due to battery drainage or vehicle shutdowns, which can be hazardous if they occur in traffic or remote areas.

9 complaints total

STEERING

3 complaints

Owners report several steering-related issues with the 2018 GMC Canyon. Common complaints include intermittent failures of the electronic power steering, particularly after idling for 10-20 minutes or during highway driving, often accompanied by illumination of the traction control, ABS, and brake lights. Another issue involves a cracked steering knuckle at the ball joint connection, noted at approximately 3,000 miles. These problems may lead to a loss of steering control, posing potential safety risks. Buyers considering this model should be aware of these recurring issues, especially if the vehicle has a history of similar symptoms.

3 complaints total

EXTERIOR LIGHTING (2 complaints)

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

2 complaints

Owners of the 2018 GMC Canyon report issues with the exterior lighting, particularly involving backup lights and the backup camera display. One owner describes non-functioning backup lights despite good bulbs and no visible wiring issues, occurring at approximately 48,000 miles. Another owner highlights the brightness of the backup camera display at night, which illuminates the cabin excessively and hinders visibility outside the vehicle, posing a potential safety risk when reversing. This owner notes that dealership feedback acknowledges the issue in larger trucks but not in mid-sized models like the Canyon. These reports suggest potential visibility and safety concerns related to the vehicle's lighting and camera systems.

2 complaints total

SEAT BELTS (2 complaints)

SEAT BELTS

2 complaints

Owners of the 2018 GMC Canyon report two distinct seat belt issues. One complaint describes difficulty in latching the seat belts, with multiple attempts needed to secure them, even after cleaning and mechanical inspection, suggesting potential buckle failure. Another report involves an unintended activation of the seatbelt pre-tension device following a low-speed impact on a dirt road, which also triggered the side airbags and affected the seat heaters. These issues do not specify mileage or ownership duration, and while there are no reports of crashes or injuries, the difficulty in securing seat belts and unexpected airbag deployment could pose safety concerns.

2 complaints total

ENGINE (2 complaints)

ENGINE

2 complaints

Owners of the 2018 GMC Canyon report issues with engine components, particularly involving the head gasket and engine oil coolant lines. Symptoms of these failures include abnormal coolant loss, which can lead to overheating, and oil line corrosion resulting in oil loss. These issues are noted at relatively low mileages, with one owner experiencing a head gasket crack at 76,000 miles and another encountering oil line failure at 40,000 miles. Safety concerns arise from the potential for overheating and oil contamination, which could affect tire traction and brake performance. Buyers considering this model should be aware of these reported issues, especially given the noted mileages.

2 complaints total

UNKNOWN OR OTHER (2 complaints)

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

2 complaints

Owners of the 2018 GMC Canyon report issues related to vehicle vibrations and shuddering. Specifically, complaints frequently mention a failing torque converter as a source of vibration, described as occurring prematurely. Additionally, multiple owners describe a shuddering sensation during acceleration. The complaints do not specify mileage ranges or timelines, and there are no reported safety implications such as crashes or loss of control. These symptoms could be relevant for used car buyers considering this model.

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.

25,000–75,000 milesTransmission shudder

18,000–38,000 milesIgnition key issues

Best & Worst GMC Canyon Years

Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.

Best GMC Canyon Years to Buy

Based on reliability index score

The best GMC Canyon year is 2024 with a reliability score of 79/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2026 (76/100) and 2020 (76/100).

Top Pick

Good

GMC Canyon Years to Avoid

The worst GMC Canyon year is 2023 with a score of 66/100, primarily due to electrical system (16) issues.

Good

2023

3Recalls

51Complaints

See full GMC Canyon years-to-avoid analysis

GMC Canyon Reliability Score Trend

GMC Canyon reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 73/100.

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?

The 2018 GMC Canyon has a "Good" reliability rating with a score of 71/100. It is reasonably reliable with 1 recall and 49 owner complaints, though some issues have been reported.

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

The most commonly reported problems with the 2018 GMC Canyon include: POWER TRAIN (24 complaints), ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (9 complaints), STEERING (3 complaints), EXTERIOR LIGHTING (2 complaints), SEAT BELTS (2 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.

How many recalls does the 2018 GMC Canyon have?

The 2018 GMC Canyon has 1 recall on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.

Is the 2018 GMC Canyon expensive to maintain?

The 2018 GMC Canyon has estimated annual repair costs of $548/year, which matches the midsize trucks average. With a reliability score of 71/100, some repairs may be needed, but overall ownership costs are manageable.

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

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.

Look Up a VIN →

How We Calculate Reliability Scores

Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.

Key Ranking Factors

Complaint Severity

NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

Recall Impact

Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.

Issue Diversity

Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.

Scores are grouped into four tiers:

80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution

Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.

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