2021 GMC Canyon: problems, recalls and reliability
2 recalls and 11 owner complaints on record; most reports concern power train.
Data updated weekly · 1 new complaint in the last 90 days · latest recall Jul 2021
All counts are reports filed with NHTSA in the United States - US market only, not worldwide totals.
Common problems
Computed from 11 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for this exact model year.
“While driving a few days ago, power steering abruptly stopped working and a service power steering message appeared. It was very difficult to steer the vehicle back home. I've tried replacing the battery and resetting the steering sensor to no avail.”Owner report · Steering · Jul 2026
“The contact owns a 2021 GMC Canyon. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the driver's side low beam headlight failed to illuminate as intended. No warning light was illuminated. In addition, the contact stated that upon further inspection, an unknown electrical fuse was burned. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed; however, a cause for the failure was not found. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 36,121.”Owner report · Exterior Lighting · Feb 2026
“The contact owns a 2021 GMC Canyon. The contact stated that while reversing, the back over prevention screen image was solid blue, and there was no image displayed, creating a visibility hazard for the driver. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, and it was determined that the rearview camera coaxial cable connectors were faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the vehicle was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V709000 (BACK OVER PREVENTION). The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was 46,000.”Owner report · Back Over Prevention · Oct 2025
Show 4 more owner reports
“The electric power steering motor stopped working while driving on the highway. The vehicle was almost impossible to control and almost caused me to enter the oncoming lane of traffic.”Owner report · Steering · Feb 2025
“unknown the gmc dealership refuses to repair recalls as they say, theres no recalls on the vehicle. There are 2 recalls and were not told of these recalls when purchasing”Owner report · Seat Belts · Feb 2024
“The contact owns a 2021 GMC Canyon. The contact stated while driving 6 MPH and going over a speed bump, the contact heard an abnormal knocking sound emanating from the driver's side suspension. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who determined that the upper control arm was striking the suspension spring. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was 47,000.”Owner report · Power Train · Dec 2023
“I was involved in a serious front end collision that totaled my vehicle. My truck was deemed not repairable and declared total by the insurance company. I was driving on the nj garden state parkway when the accident occurred. Not one airbag was deployed!”Owner report · Air Bags · Apr 2021
When filing, owners marked a crash in 2 of these complaints and injuries in 5 - self-reported to NHTSA, not verified accident statistics.
Recalls - 2 campaigns
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 GMC Canyon vehicles. The load carrying capacity printed on the Tire and Loading Information placard is 22.5 kg (51 lbs.) more than intended. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
Remedy: GM will mail owners a new B-pillar label, free of charge. Owners may apply the label, or bring it to a dealer for installation. Owner notification letters were mailed on August 17, 2021. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N212340735.
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Chevrolet Bolt EV and 2021 GMC Canyon and Sierra 1500, 2500 and 3500, Yukon, Yukon XL, Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV and Chevrolet Blazer, Camaro, Colorado, Equinox, Silverado 1500, 2500 and 3500, Suburban and Tahoe vehicles. Incorrect bolts may have been used at one or more fastening locations to secure the seat belts to the vehicle. If an incorrect bolt was used, the seat belt may not be properly attached to the vehicle.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the suspect bolts, free of charge. The recall began January 29, 2021. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8785, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N202322230.
How other years compare
Check your exact Canyon by VIN
Recalls and equipment differ between individual vehicles. Decode your VIN to see what applies to yours.
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Is the 2021 GMC Canyon reliable?
NHTSA has 11 owner complaints and 2 recall campaigns on record for the 2021 GMC Canyon. The most complained-about area is power train.
Does the 2021 GMC Canyon have open recalls?
2 recall campaigns have been issued, the latest concerning equipment:other:labels. Check your specific vehicle by VIN - recall repairs are free at franchised dealers.
Source: NHTSA recall campaigns and owner complaints (public domain). Counts reflect reports on file and are not a defect rate.