CarComplaints.com Notes: Ahh, the ole' sophomore slump. The 2008 Acadia suffers from widespread transmission failure around 75,000 miles.

10.0

really awful
Crashes / Fires:
3 / 3
Injuries / Deaths:
4 / 0
Average Mileage:
107,922 miles

About These NHTSA Complaints:

This data is from the NHTSA — the US gov't agency tasked with vehicle safety. Complaints are spread across multiple & redundant categories, & are not organized by problem.

So how do you find out what problems are occurring? For this NHTSA complaint data, the only way is to read through the comments below. Any duplicates or errors? It's not us.

2008 GMC Acadia engine problems

engine problem

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2008 GMC Acadia Owner Comments (Page 5 of 7)

« Read the previous 20 complaints

problem #42

Aug 102010

Acadia

  • 10,000 miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

My husband and I purchased a new 2008 GMC Acadia in August 2009. Within the first year or so I noticed that the headlights were dim and the plastic over the lights started to peel. I contacted the dealership and they said there was nothing they could do, that wasn't covered under the warranty. I called GM direct and they also said there wasn't a recall and that it was probably a chemical that we used to wash our car, that caused the peeling. They quoted me $800 for a new set of headlights... ugh... a year or so later, I began having trouble with the struts. They began to leak. I thought it was my brake line and I took it into the shop and they told me that the struts were bad and needed replacing. At that time there was around 36,000 miles on the vehicle. I had them changed out and the mechanic told me they were the worst he had ever seen. After the repair, the vehicle has never been the same. It's not near as smooth as it was and it makes noise. I had it checked to be sure they were installed properly and they were. The whole process cost me about $900 the next issue I have had is more sever. This just happened a few months ago. I was taking my children to school and the vehicle stalled. All the lights came on and said stable track went off and the engine lost pressure and the vehicle stalled. After it cooled down I could drive a little further and the same thing would happen again. I took it back to the shop and they said it was the throttle and it would probably need to be replaced. They cleaned it for now, but I am scared to drive it anywhere! now the power steering is making noise when you turn the wheel, sounds like the power steering pump might be going out now as well. The vehicle only has 65,000 miles on it..

- Tucumcari, NM, USA

problem #41

Dec 092014

Acadia 6-cyl

  • 118 miles
I am requesting a recall on 2008 GMC Acadia's (throttle body). I have a 2008 GMC Acadia that is experiencing major issues. These issues include speed reducing in the middle of a busy intersection with my (xxx) year old son in the car. The panel displayed a red message "service traction control". went a few blocks further when the car shut off completely on a busy street; police pushed me off the main street to a less populated side street. Messages displayed on panel "'traction control reducing power". I'm concerned not only for my safety but concerned about the many other customers of GMC who have experienced the same issue (similar issues found on the internet/blogs). My son and I could have been seriously injured if not killed because of this faulty part. I trust that GMC will do the right thing and recall this item before someone is seriously injured. *trparts of this document have been redacted to protect personally identifiable information pursuant to the Freedom Of Information Act (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).

- Chicago, IL, USA

problem #40

Mar 012010

Acadia 6-cyl

  • 73,000 miles
Steering locks up. When you take off from a stop sign or traffic light and want to make a right or left turn the steering will lock up to a point where you can't turn. There had been several occasions that I was almost in an accident. Replaced rack and pinion 3 times and power steering. Water pumps are defective, replaced 2 before 100,000 miles transmission went out at 73,000 miles. Every issue that is stated above the dealer didn't want to replace under warranty, even after contacting GM. It took a lot of fighting with GM to replace the transmission when there was known problems with these transmissions being faulty.

- Kennewick, WA, USA

problem #39

Aug 262014

Acadia 6-cyl

  • 43,000 miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

While on vacation the weekend of August 15-17, our vehicle's check engine light came on. We took it to the garage on 8-26-14. After 2 1/2 days of diagnosing the vehicle, the dealership advised us we had 2 bent rods in cylinder 3 and 4. we contacted GM to open a case study. The dealership called us and asked us what we were looking for as a resolution. We felt that with only 43,000 miles on it, our vehicle should not be having such drastic engine issues. Furthermore, the engine/timing cover was already replaced at 23,118 miles. The dealership asked us to verify that the vehicle had no flood history, get details of the warranty provided by the dealer from whom we purchased it, and provide maintenance records. We did that. The dealership first told us they would give us $1,000 off a new vehicle (really?). we said we still had a loan and payment. They advised us they would be able to come close to our current payment. When we spoke with them next, they advised that GM would not be providing any assistance and that they think now it is just a valve issue. How can you go from 2 bent rods to a valve issue? we told the dealership to put the vehicle back together; we were coming to get it. We towed it home. We contacted GM again to let them know what a bad experience we had with a dealership that kept changing their story about what GM was going to do to help and what our problems were. They advised us we could take it to another garage and have all the diagnostics done again (at our expense). Then the dealership could contact them to see if there is any cost assistance available. They said that since we didn't buy our vehicle from a GM dealer and didn't service it at a GM dealer (we never had an issue prior to this), we wouldn't score high for cost assistance from GM. We aren't the only one in this situation according to research. Help!

- Petersburg, PA, USA

problem #38

Jun 182014

Acadia 4WD 6-cyl

  • 117,000 miles
I have brought my vehicle in before our trip to massachussetts to the GM dealer in hastings, mn as the stop engine now/fuel pressure light kept coming on all the time. They told me that it is probably just a sensor issue. So I drove my car. In the last few weeks more lights came on such as traction control is out, stabilization needs attention, breaks need attention, and check engine. So they figured just more sensor issue. 9/9/14 I was backing out a parking spot with a friend of mine and my power steering was disabled and almost caused and accident when the break service light came on. Finally my husband took it back to the dealer to find that now I need a new timing chain and updates $2045, transmission control module w/solenoid $1226.58, and master cylinder and brake booster $690. They should have caught this before as GM is well aware of the issues according to complaints online and the service man who told me he sees this a lot. I noticed there is a recall on 2007 and 2009 for several of these issues. Had I not have my husband bring this in again I am sure there would have been a severe accident involving me and possibly my children. GM offered to pay for half the services but honestly they know this is an issue with their model. To tell people nothing is wrong, nothing is wrong and bam everything wrong at just 120K miles seems fishy. I want this fixed before someone gets hurt. I have a friend with the same model with many of the same issues. This is not fair to leave consumers in the dark considering this is vehicle mostly used by families.

- Cannon Falls , MN, USA

problem #37

Sep 022014

Acadia

  • 72,255 miles
In the last few months we have been having problems with different service lights coming on multiple times and one time while driving down highway the computer engine revved up and then slowed the vehicle to minimal speed until later shutting off car reset the vehicle. Service stabiltrak, ABS, engine light, traction control light and air bag light. Some times we can hear engine noise while idling and cruise control does not work at times. This car only has approximately 72,255 miles as of 09/2/14 when taken to get checked for issues. After checking serviceman recommended full timing chain overhaul and replacement of throttle body for an estimated cost of $3,727.85. After looking online regarding these issues we found many complaints regarding timing chain but no recalls on 2008 model. 2007 models I saw had extended warranty for timing chain but not 2008 models. This is our only family vehicle which our three children are riding in daily and making payments now looking at large repairs we can not afford. Please tell me why there are extended warranty for timing chain on 2007 but not 2008 when they are having the same issues? if this is not resolved we will never buy Chevy or GMC again.

- South Whitley, IN, USA

problem #36

Aug 132014

Acadia

  • 80,000 miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

The contact owns a 2008 GMC Acadia. The contact stated that the vehicle experienced several electrical failures. The rear doors would not unlock, the liftgate failed to open, the check engine indicator illuminated intermittently, and the battery failed while the key was stuck in the ignition. When the battery was replaced, the key was removed; however, the engine was still operable. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for diagnostic testing where it was stated that the body control module needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was notified. The approximate failure mileage was 80,000.

- Atpleboro, MA, USA

problem #35

Aug 052014

Acadia

  • 80,000 miles
My GMC Acadia 2008 constantly stalls on me the issues started August 5 and has continue up to last night August 17th. While I'm driving the car would shut off on me and the check engine light would appear. I wont be able to restart the car so I had the car towed to the nearest GMC dealer. After paying for a diagnostic report the mechanic told me they could not find any codes indication the check engine light even came on. Last night I was scared because I left work at midnight after driving about 10 minutes the car started jumping then turned off and the check engine light came on in the middle of the street. I called on-star and they were dispatching a tow truck because the car would not come on. After 45 minutes I tried to turn the car on and it came on so I cancelled the tow truck service. This is a issue that's been happening for the last 2 weeks. I cant get the issued fixed because the last 2 diagnostic reports that were ran states no issues. I also had on-star run a diagnostic report right when the issue happened and they also told me they don't see any issues. I took a picture with my cell phone when the check engine light came on but no one seems to know the issues the SUV is facing. Everything stays on the radio the lights just the car shuts off and wont start for like 45 minutes to an hour. I've looked on different GMC Acadia forums and it seems I'm not the only person having this issue with this same make model and year car. Someone on the forum suggested I make a compliant at the ntsa.

- Bronx , NY, USA

problem #34

Jul 212014

Acadia

  • 85,000 miles
The contact owns a 2008 GMC Acadia. The contact stated that while driving approximately 45 mph, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the timing chain needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The VIN was unavailable. The approximate failure mileage was 85,000.

- Chardon, OH, USA

problem #33

Mar 082011

Acadia 6-cyl

  • 48,001 miles
When first starting engine a loud pop would occur. Signals, clock, stereo, dome light, battery gauge stopped working. Chevrolet dealer replaced the stereo and amplifier ($1500 ). then if I left Acadia in the rain I would find a small puddle of water on the floor under the emergency brake and a drop of water on the air bag on the driver side in front of the vehicle. Was told it could be the sun roof tubes were blocked so I took it to the auto glass place and had the tubes cleaned out. Very concerned about the water because I do not want to loose power in vehicle again. Just went on a trip and had to park outside in parking area and had a real puddle on my mat and underneath the mat. Today I called an auto windshield repair shop to see if the windshield could be leaking and was told that if the car was not in an accident or if it has not had the windshield replaced, they didn't think it would be the windshield leaking, that GM was good about installing and sealing the windshield. My car is kept in the garage and I am the only driver. It has never been in an accident and I am afraid that the wiring will short out, cause a soft spot in the floor, or start a fire. This automobile has only 69,285 miles and has been very well taken care of by only General Motors dealerships. Serious problem involving wet elements and electrical problems here. Please let me know what to do!

- Willis,, MI, USA

problem #32

Jul 012014

Acadia 6-cyl

  • 140,000 miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

Since 2011 my 2008 GMC Acadia has stalled on the highway and streets several times. The first major incident, the vehicle would not accelerate - thankfully I was at a stop light. The vehicle had to be towed and repaired. Then while driving on the highway, the vehicle slowed down by itself and would not accelerate past 25 mph. The first time GMC covered the repair cost done by a certified GMC dealership because the vehicle was still under warranty. The same exact thing happened 20 miles later (when the car was out of warranty) and GMC said they could not cover it because the car was out of warranty - but it was the same issue. All the times I have had this vehicle checked, I have been told it's transmission issues. Not to mention a whole bunch of other issues with this vehicle. This car is a huge safety hazard.

- Easton, PA, USA

problem #31

Apr 212014

Acadia

  • 63,458 miles
I just had the clutch wave plate break into pieces inside my transmission causing us to almost get into an accident as my kids and I were getting on the freeway. We lost our gears and had to be towed. I looked up the issue and it sounds like this is a more than common issue with the Acadia at this mileage. If this is such a well-known issue why does GM not fix this issue?

- Mead, WA, USA

problem #30

Apr 182014

Acadia

  • 97,940 miles
The contact owns a 2008 GMC Acadia. The contact stated that upon inspection, it was found that the timing chain had worn prematurely. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was found that the timing chain needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was contacted about the failure and informed the contact that the vehicle was not included in the manufacturer's recall. The vehicle was repaired. The failure mileage was 97,940.

- Blair, NE, USA

problem #29

Apr 012014

Acadia 6-cyl

  • 60,000 miles
The contact owns a 2008 GMC Acadia. The contact stated that while traveling approximately 60 mph, the vehicle suddenly failed to respond to acceleration attempts. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who stated that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted about the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 60,000. Also, the check engine light illuminated. Updated 06.19.14

- Brandon, FL, USA

problem #28

Mar 192014

Acadia 6-cyl

  • 83,858 miles
My 2008 GMC Acadia gave me the scare of my life. I purchased my vehicle just last month and was very proud, I have been dreaming of this car for a while. However while traveling to my sons track meet my Acadia started jerking as if it was not getting any gas and the engine started making a loud humming or buzzing noises on farm market 521. The car slowed down to about 25 miles. Despite my continuing to press the gas pedal. I ended up jerking my way onward with my hazards on. I had cars screeching and flying around me. My kids and I are a nervous wreck. The 521 does not have a shoulder to pull off on. Miles later varying speeds as low as 15 and up to 35 mph I found a gas station (thank god) & pulled over. I powered down waited a few minutes then restarted the car. It started normally but I noticed I could not go into reverse while trying to leave the parking lot. I made my way forward all seemed well but 3-4 minutes into driving on 521 the same thing happened and now my check engine light is on. I started to panic I'm not familiar with the area. This is my first time here & the 521 is the only major road on my gps. I put-putted along and finally made it to the track meet in the middle of nowhere. Called my husband to come and check the car. After his look around he thinks my transmission is going out. He took the children in the Suburban while I drove slowly ahead. Then I get a new message - engine hot idle something - I freak out and pull off as soon as I could. He ended up towing me home. I am one week past the 30 day warranty this sucks. I really love my Acadia & am very possessive of her, no one else can drive her, I don't want my kids to touch her. I take excellent care of her, she is clean, driven with love, but just don't understand what happened. I'm scheduling to take her to the shop in the morning, husbands mad but I'm hoping this can be resolved quickly.

- Houston, TX, USA

problem #27

Jan 102011

Acadia

  • 75,000 miles
Transmission originally started skipping around 75,900 miles. At 100,000 miles started system alert of " transmission running hot, idle to cool down". transmission serviced on 11/11/13. Transmission drained and refilled by GMC dealer in el paso, tx. Ran ok until 2/06/14. In GMC repair shop in richmond, ca. Transmission completely failed! $4000 repair.

- Hercules, CA, USA

problem #26

Jan 302014

Acadia

  • 108,000 miles
The contact owns a 2008 GMC Acadia. The contact stated that after the ignition was turned off and the key removed the vehicle remained on for five minutes. The failure was not diagnosed nor was the vehicle repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 108,000.

- 32340, FL, USA

problem #25

Jun 262013

Acadia

  • 125,503 miles
I have experienced multiple issues with my 2008 GMC Acadia my first problem was with the transmission having to be replaced. Which just barely was covered under the warranty I had after buying the vehicle used since that first incident I have had continual problems. My engine will stay running after the key is turned to the off position and the key is removed from the ignition the car continues to stay running the engine does that is all other lights go off no radio or ac stay on. I have had it in the shop different times no one can correctly diagnose and fix the issue. I am now watching the tow truck hook my car up to be taken to the GMC dealer which is going to cost more than I am sure I can afford to pay as a single mother trying to make ends meet. So besides the engine running with no key in it. It also kills the battery drains it when it sits. I have also had issues with the wiring harnesses to the head lights melting to the back if the bulbs having to be replaced costing over $200. There has to be some kind of electrical issue with this car there seem to be many people on here with similar issues with transmission and odd issues. Please help I can't afford this car and the continual issues.

- Leesburg, GA, USA

problem #24

Dec 182013

Acadia

  • 92,000 miles
The contact owns a 2008 GMC Acadia. The contact stated that while traveling various speeds, the vehicle failed to accelerate over 20 mph. The stabilitrac and several other warning lights illuminated. Additionally, the vehicle shook violently. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where the failure could not be diagnosed. The manufacturer was not contacted about the failure. The failure mileage was 92,000. The VIN was unavailable.

- Mivland, TX, USA

problem #23

Dec 202013

Acadia

  • 80,000 miles
Approximately 80000 miles on a 2008 Acadia, the engine starts ticking. Bring it in to the dealer, they change the oil, check to see if it still ticks, yes it does. Tell us that we need a new engine, $7000 parts, labor and new warranty. I find it hard to believe that an '08 with 80000 miles and just 6 months past original warranty requires a new engine. Please explain?

- Rosemount, MN, USA

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