According to Au7o's analysis of 1,360+ owner reports, the 2023 GMC Canyon has 10 documented known issues, with 5 rated critical. The most serious are 8L45 8-Speed Transmission Torque Converter Shudder ($150-$4,000 repair), Active Fuel Management (AFM) Lifter Failure (V6) ($800-$2,500 repair), Front Camera Module False Object Detection Causing Unexpected Automatic Emergency Braking (Recall 24V133000) ($0-$0 repair), Over-Tightened / Damaged Front Wheel Hub Bolts Allowing Wheel Hub Separation (Recall 24V237000) ($0-$0 repair) and Upper Radiator Hose Quick-Connect Seal Leak on 2.7L L3B - Coolant Loss, Overheating and P3075 ($250-$550 repair). The most commonly reported issue is Front Suspension Clunk and Stabilizer Bar End Link Failure with 510 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $80 to $4,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2022 GMC Canyon and Chevrolet Colorado vehicles equipped with a manual passenger seat. The front passenger seat may have a hook attachment that was not properly welded, allowing it to separate from the inboard track of the seat frame.
Campaign #22V37500026/05/2022
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2024 Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon vehicles. The lock ring that secures the fuel pump to the fuel tank assembly may not have been fully locked during assembly, which can result in a fuel leak during a crash.
Campaign #24V49100028/06/2024
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2024–2026 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV vehicles. Incorrect sensing and diagnostic module (SDM) software may cause a second stage passenger air bag deployment when only a first stage is intended. As such, these vehicles fail to conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 208, “Occupant Crash Protection."
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According to Au7o's analysis of 1,360+ owner reports, the 2023 GMC Canyon has 10 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: 8L45 8-Speed Transmission Torque Converter Shudder, Active Fuel Management (AFM) Lifter Failure (V6), Front Camera Module False Object Detection Causing Unexpected Automatic Emergency Braking (Recall 24V133000). Of these, 5 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the GMC Canyon reliable?
The 2023 GMC Canyon has 10 known issues documented across 1,360+ owner reports. 5 issues are rated critical: 8L45 8-Speed Transmission Torque Converter Shudder and Active Fuel Management (AFM) Lifter Failure (V6) and Front Camera Module False Object Detection Causing Unexpected Automatic Emergency Braking (Recall 24V133000) and Over-Tightened / Damaged Front Wheel Hub Bolts Allowing Wheel Hub Separation (Recall 24V237000) and Upper Radiator Hose Quick-Connect Seal Leak on 2.7L L3B - Coolant Loss, Overheating and P3075. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common GMC Canyon problems?
Repair costs for known GMC Canyon issues range from $0 to $4,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, 8L45 8-Speed Transmission Torque Converter Shudder, typically costs $150-$4,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2015-2025 GMC Canyon 8L45 8-Speed Transmission Torque Converter Shudder?
The 2015+ Canyon with the 3.6L V6 uses the GM 8L45 8-speed automatic (smaller sibling of the 8L90 in full-size trucks) which suffers the same torque converter lock-up clutch shudder at light throttle between 25-50 mph. The clutch friction material degrades and contaminates the fl… Repairs typically run $150-$4,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2015-2025 GMC Canyon Active Fuel Management (AFM) Lifter Failure (V6)?
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.
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On the 2015-2025 GMC Canyon, the 3.6L V6 with Active Fuel Management experiences lifter failure where the AFM lifters collapse, causing misfires and a ticking noise. The collapsing lifter can damage the camshaft lobe if not addressed.
Replace failed lifters and inspect camshaft for damage. AFM delete kits are available that disable cylinder deactivation and replace all AFM lifters with standard lifters. Requires ECM tune to disable AFM.
On the 2016-2025 GMC Canyon 2.8L Duramax LWN, the 2016+ Canyon Duramax 2.8L LWN diesel uses DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) injection and a DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) as part of its SCR emissions system. Owners frequently report DEF quality/level sensor faults, DPF regeneration failures in stop-and-go use, DEF pump failures, and NOx sensor faults. Trucks used primarily for short trips often cannot complete DPF regeneration cycles, leading to DPF plugging and the truck going into reduced power mode. GM issued multiple TSBs on DEF sensor calibration and DPF regen procedures.
Check engine light with DEF quality codes (P204F, P2BAD, P20EE)
Reduced Engine Power message
DIC message: DEF Quality Poor - see dealer
Rough idle or loss of power (plugged DPF)
Regeneration warning lamp
Exhaust smoke during forced DPF regen cycle
Speed limiter engaging below 5 mph when DEF is empty
How to Fix
For DPF regeneration issues: take a 20+ minute highway drive at 55+ mph weekly to allow forced regen. For DEF sensor codes: replace DEF quality sensor (GM 84006963). For plugged DPF: forced stationary regeneration at dealer. Keep DEF tank above 1/4 to avoid speed limiter activation. Use only API certified BlueDEF or equivalent.
High Confidence390 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026
On the 2023 GMC Canyon, certain 2023 GMC Canyon trucks left the plant with front wheel hub bolts that were over-torqued during assembly. Over-tightening damages (stretches) the bolts, and a damaged bolt can fracture in service. If enough bolts fail, the front wheel hub assembly can loosen or separate from the steering knuckle, causing loss of vehicle control. GM issued NHTSA recall 24V237000 covering the wheels/hub bolts on the 2023 Canyon. This is a first-model-year build-quality defect of the redesigned truck and is not the same as the previously documented stabilizer-bar-link or steering-gear-connection issues.
Common Symptoms
Clunking or knocking from the front wheel area
Grinding or growling noise that changes with steering input
Wheel wobble or vibration felt in the steering wheel
Loose or vague front end / abnormal steering feel
How to Fix
Free recall remedy: dealers replace both the left and right front wheel hub bolts with new correctly-torqued fasteners under recall 24V237000, at no charge. Do not simply re-torque an existing bolt - a stretched bolt must be replaced. Any owner hearing a growl, clunk or feeling front-end looseness on an unremedied 2023 truck should stop driving it and have it inspected.
On the 2015-2025 GMC Canyon, the 2015+ Canyon experiences front end clunking and rattling over bumps and during steering inputs. The most common cause is worn front stabilizer bar end links, though lower control arm ball joints and upper strut mounts also contribute. The end links use a ball-and-socket design that wears quickly on trucks used off-road or in harsh winter road conditions. GM issued TSB PIT5488 for front end noise diagnosis on the Canyon/Colorado platform. The issue is shared with the Chevrolet Colorado, which shares the identical GMSV platform.
Clunk when turning steering wheel at parking lot speeds
Front end noise when rocking the truck side to side
Visible play in end link ball joints
How to Fix
Replace front stabilizer bar end links (Moog K750744, or OEM GM 23377014). Inspect and replace ball joints if play detected (Moog K500119 lower ball joint). Upper strut mount replacement if clunk is isolated to strut area (GM 84131517). Torque all suspension fasteners to spec — loose bolts cause clunking symptoms.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Suspension Stabilizer Bar Link
Cross-refK700902
Fitment confirmed against the ShowMeTheParts catalog for this vehicle's year and engine.
High Confidence510 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
460 owners
On the 2015-2025 GMC Canyon, the 2015+ Canyon with the 3.6L V6 uses the GM 8L45 8-speed automatic (smaller sibling of the 8L90 in full-size trucks) which suffers the same torque converter lock-up clutch shudder at light throttle between 25-50 mph. The clutch friction material degrades and contaminates the fluid. GM issued TSB 18-NA-355 and Customer Satisfaction Program 18302 extending coverage to 6 years/100,000 miles. The fix and fluid are identical to the Sierra 1500 8L90 procedure — Mobil 1 Synthetic LV ATF HP (GM 19417577). This is the same issue affecting the Chevrolet Colorado V6.
Full fluid exchange with Mobil 1 Synthetic LV ATF HP (GM 19417577 / Mobil 124715). Check CSP 18302 coverage. Torque converter replacement (GM 24288818 for 8L45) if fluid exchange fails. Full exchange requires 10-12 quarts for the 8L45.
High Confidence460 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026
On the 2023 GMC Canyon, on 2023 GMC Canyon trucks (3rd generation), the forward collision avoidance system's front camera module can falsely detect an obstacle that is not present and command an unexpected automatic emergency braking event while driving. GM recalled the vehicles under NHTSA campaign 24V133000 (Electrical System / Forward Collision Avoidance). An unexpected hard brake application at speed, particularly with traffic following, increases crash risk. This is a launch-year software calibration defect on the new-architecture ADAS camera introduced with the 2023 redesign, and it is separate from the later headlight and seat-belt campaigns already documented for this truck.
Common Symptoms
Sudden unexpected hard braking with no obstacle present
Forward collision alert chime and red windshield projection with clear road ahead
Brake pedal pulses / vehicle lurches at highway speed
Driver assistance warning messages in the driver information center
How to Fix
Free recall remedy: dealers reprogram/update the front camera module software under NHTSA recall 24V133000. No hardware replacement is required. Owners should check their VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup; if the truck has already had the update it will show as complete. If phantom braking persists after the reflash, have the dealer inspect windshield-mounted camera aim and calibration (a windshield replacement without recalibration produces the same symptom).
On the 2023-2026 GMC Canyon L3B 2.7L Turbo, 2023-2026 GMC Canyon trucks with the L3B 2.7L turbocharged four-cylinder use plastic quick-connect fittings at the radiator hose ends. The seal at the upper radiator hose quick connector can fail relatively early in service, allowing a slow coolant leak. Low coolant leads to elevated running temperature, reduced engine performance or limp mode, and in a neglected case sudden shutdown and engine damage. GM issued Service Bulletin PIT6494A in March 2026 addressing upper radiator hose quick-connect seal failure on the Colorado and Canyon, but the bulletin only applies while the truck is inside the 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. A class action (Dixon v. GM, filed 2026) alleges the defect - the named plaintiff's truck logged DTC P3075 with low coolant from a leak at the quick-connect end of the upper radiator hose at about 44,400 miles and was charged $489.36 out of pocket. The same connector family is alleged on the 2.5L LK0 Traverse/Acadia/Enclave, but on the Canyon the affected engine is the 2.7L L3B.
Visible coolant seepage or crust at the upper radiator hose connector
Coolant smell after shutdown / puddle under the front of the truck
Rising coolant temperature or overheat warning
Reduced engine power / limp mode
How to Fix
Have the dealer perform the repair in Service Bulletin PIT6494A - replace the upper radiator hose assembly with the revised quick-connect/seal, pressure test the cooling system and refill with DEX-COOL. It is covered free under the 3/36,000 bumper-to-bumper warranty; outside that window owners have generally been charged roughly $250-550. There is no safety recall for this - do not wait for one. Check the coolant surge tank level monthly on these trucks; a low-coolant message or a sweet smell after shutdown should be diagnosed immediately, because continued driving on low coolant is what converts a $400 hose into an engine repair.
On the 2023-2024 GMC Canyon, nHTSA campaign 24V673 covers certain 2024 GMC Canyon vehicles. The headlights can flicker while driving or while parked, causing the trucks to fail federal lighting requirements.
Common Symptoms
Headlights may flicker while driving or parked
How to Fix
Check the VIN with GMC. Dealers replace the affected headlight module free of charge under GM campaign N242468880.
On the 2023-2025 GMC Canyon, 3rd-generation GMC Canyon trucks (2023-2024 especially) suffer repeated dead-battery / no-crank events traced to two distinct electrical-architecture faults. First, an Over-The-Air software update that begins but fails to complete can leave modules awake and drain the battery flat. Second, GM has directed technicians to check for excessive parasitic draw from the radio module - the radio can remain powered for up to about 11 minutes after Retained Accessory Power should have cancelled - and separately for a Vehicle Communications Unit (VCU) that does not power down. GM addressed these in Service Bulletin PIT6232 (2024 Canyon), bulletin 24-NA-136 (radio parasitic draw) and 24-NA-228 (VCU not powering off). Owners on ColoradoFans report the problem persisting into 2024 build trucks, often on vehicles that sit for a few days.
Common Symptoms
Dead battery / no crank after the truck sits 2-5 days
Repeated jump starts needed
Radio or screen stays on well after the doors are locked
Multiple unrelated warning messages on startup after a jump
Battery saver active message
How to Fix
Diagnosis order matters. Have the dealer (1) verify no OTA update is stuck pending - check the Vehicle Updates menu, ensure at least 70 percent battery state of charge and a strong cellular signal, and let the update complete; (2) measure parasitic draw after the modules go to sleep and apply bulletin 24-NA-136 if the radio is the offender; (3) apply 24-NA-228 if the VCU fails to power down. Software updates are the primary remedy and are covered under the bumper-to-bumper warranty. A battery repeatedly run flat is permanently damaged - insist it be load-tested and replaced with the repair, or the no-crank returns even after the software fix.
What you need to diagnose it
The fix here starts with a test, not a part — which repair you need depends on what the test finds.
UNI-T UT210E Low-Current DC Clamp Meter
1 mA resolution on the 2 A range — a 0.1 A meter reads a 50 mA drain as zero
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Testing and isolating the fault is DIY work. Replacing or reprogramming a control module is not — most are VIN-programmed, so a new one does nothing until a shop codes it to your car. Check for an open recall or service bulletin before buying anything.
On the 2023-2024 GMC Canyon, the 2023 redesign moved the Canyon and Colorado to a new rear axle from a different supplier than the previous generation, and early-build trucks developed a moaning, howling or groaning noise from the rear end, sometimes accompanied by a driveline clunk on the Drive-to-Reverse shift. GM addressed it with Service Bulletin 23-NA-208 (originally released November 2023). The bulletin has technicians look past the differential carrier bearings: if the carrier bearings are not the source, the axle shafts are pulled and inspected, and where chatter marks are found on the axle shaft the seal, the bearing and the axle shaft are all replaced. Important for this generation - because the axle hardware changed in 2023, the older Colorado/Canyon rear-axle TSBs and their fixes do NOT apply to these trucks.
Common Symptoms
Moaning, howling or groaning noise from the rear of the truck at steady speed
Noise that varies with vehicle speed rather than engine speed
Clunk when shifting from Drive to Reverse
Whine on deceleration / coast down
How to Fix
Have the dealer diagnose per GM bulletin 23-NA-208 rather than accepting a fluid change as the fix. The documented repair path is: inspect the differential carrier bearings, then remove the axle shafts and inspect for chatter marks; where present, replace the axle shaft along with its bearing and seal. Repair is covered under the 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper and the 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. A separate driveline clunk on the Drive-to-Reverse shift can indicate excessive gear backlash or a G80 automatic locker concern and should be measured, not dismissed as normal.
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2024 GMC Canyon vehicles. The headlights may flicker while driving and while the vehicle is in park. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2023 Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon vehicles. The front camera module (FCM) system may falsely detect an obstacle, causing the automatic emergency braking (AEB) to engage unexpectedly.
The 3.6L V6 with Active Fuel Management experiences lifter failure where the AFM lifters collapse, causing misfires and a ticking noise. The collapsing lifter can damage the camshaft lobe if not addressed. Repairs typically run $800-$2,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2023 GMC Canyon Front Camera Module False Object Detection Causing Unexpected Automatic Emergency Braking (Recall 24V133000)?
On 2023 GMC Canyon trucks (3rd generation), the forward collision avoidance system's front camera module can falsely detect an obstacle that is not present and command an unexpected automatic emergency braking event while driving. GM recalled the vehicles under NHTSA campaign 24V… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.
What is the 2023 GMC Canyon Over-Tightened / Damaged Front Wheel Hub Bolts Allowing Wheel Hub Separation (Recall 24V237000)?
Certain 2023 GMC Canyon trucks left the plant with front wheel hub bolts that were over-torqued during assembly. Over-tightening damages (stretches) the bolts, and a damaged bolt can fracture in service. If enough bolts fail, the front wheel hub assembly can loosen or separate fr… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.
What is the 2023-2026 GMC Canyon Upper Radiator Hose Quick-Connect Seal Leak on 2.7L L3B - Coolant Loss, Overheating and P3075?
2023-2026 GMC Canyon trucks with the L3B 2.7L turbocharged four-cylinder use plastic quick-connect fittings at the radiator hose ends. The seal at the upper radiator hose quick connector can fail relatively early in service, allowing a slow coolant leak. Low coolant leads to elev… Repairs typically run $250-$550. Severity: high.
What is the 2016-2025 GMC Canyon 2.8L Duramax DEF System Faults and DPF Regeneration Issues?
The 2016+ Canyon Duramax 2.8L LWN diesel uses DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) injection and a DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) as part of its SCR emissions system. Owners frequently report DEF quality/level sensor faults, DPF regeneration failures in stop-and-go use, DEF pump failures,… Repairs typically run $200-$3,500. Severity: medium.
What is the 2023-2024 GMC Canyon 2024 Headlight Flicker (24V673) and 2023-2024 Seat Belt Buckle Bolt Recalls (2nd-Gen Canyon)?
NHTSA campaign 24V673 covers certain 2024 GMC Canyon vehicles. The headlights can flicker while driving or while parked, causing the trucks to fail federal lighting requirements. Severity: medium.
What is the 2023-2024 GMC Canyon Rear Axle Moan, Howl or Groan from Carrier Bearing and Axle Shaft Chatter (Bulletin 23-NA-208)?
The 2023 redesign moved the Canyon and Colorado to a new rear axle from a different supplier than the previous generation, and early-build trucks developed a moaning, howling or groaning noise from the rear end, sometimes accompanied by a driveline clunk on the Drive-to-Reverse s… Repairs typically run $0-$1,400. Severity: medium.
What is the 2023-2025 GMC Canyon Parasitic Battery Drain from Failed OTA Update and Radio/VCU Not Powering Down - No Crank?
3rd-generation GMC Canyon trucks (2023-2024 especially) suffer repeated dead-battery / no-crank events traced to two distinct electrical-architecture faults. First, an Over-The-Air software update that begins but fails to complete can leave modules awake and drain the battery fla… Repairs typically run $0-$400. Severity: medium.
What is the 2015-2025 GMC Canyon Front Suspension Clunk and Stabilizer Bar End Link Failure?
The 2015+ Canyon experiences front end clunking and rattling over bumps and during steering inputs. The most common cause is worn front stabilizer bar end links, though lower control arm ball joints and upper strut mounts also contribute. The end links use a ball-and-socket desig… Repairs typically run $80-$800. Severity: low.
