How Long Do GMC Acadias Last? The Scoop on Vehicle Lifespan

Published October 20, 2023
in Reliability

The midsize SUV segment is one of the most competitive automotive industries. With consumers valuing space, versatility, and performance, manufacturers are in a relentless race to outdo each other. This cutthroat market sees constant innovation, with brands vying for that sweet market share. Furthermore, it’s dominated by some of the most popular models, such as the Ford Edge, Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, and Chevrolet Traverse. One model that could compete with the best is the GMC Acadia.

The GMC Acadia has enjoyed a fair amount of popularity since its introduction. This SUV has gained popularity among families and people who need a versatile vehicle with a spacious interior, advanced technology, and impressive performance. However, like any other car, its popularity has fluctuated based on market trends, competition, and changes made to its models over the years.

If you’re interested in this midsize SUV, you’re likely wondering: how long do GMC Acadias last? As vehicles age, components can wear out or degrade, potentially leading to malfunctions. Knowing the expected lifespan can help owners anticipate and address issues to prevent safety hazards and unexpected costly repairs.

For today, we talk about the longevity of the GMC Acadia, how many miles it can last, and whether it’s a good purchase for used car buyers.

Just How Reliable is the GMC Acadia?

How long do GMC Acadias last? First, let’s talk about this SUV’s long-term reliability. After all, a reliable vehicle is a long-lasting one. Based on data and trends, a reliable vehicle tends to have a longer operational life. If the Acadia consistently performs without significant issues, it’s likely to last longer, offering more value for your investment.

Sadly, the GMC Acadia is a mixed bag regarding reliability. As per RepairPal, the GMC Acadia has a reliability rating of 3.0 out of 5.0, making it the 23rd most reliable out of 26 midsize SUVs. However, what really hurts the Acadia’s reliability is its high ownership costs, as it has an average annual repair cost of $734 – a far cry from the average of $573 for all midsize SUVs. Meanwhile, WithClutch also gave the SUV a low rating of 30, which is considered “not very reliable” by the website.

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Over the web, owners also have polarizing opinions about the Acadia’s reliability. For instance, this Acadia Forum thread briefly overviews the SUV’s reliability. One user mentioned issues they faced with their 2014 Acadia. Some problems included needing a new transmission, front struts, rear shocks, wiper motors, and issues with the Radio/HVAC knobs. Another user, who purchased a secondhand Acadia from a dealer, expressed dissatisfaction with the numerous repairs they had to undertake in less than four years.

However, not all experiences were negative. Some users mentioned that their Acadias had been relatively reliable, with only a few issues cropping up due to normal wear and tear or the vehicle’s age.

As always, the reliability of the Acadia will depend on the model year. In fact, some GMC Acadia model years are best avoided due to the high number of owner complaints and known reliability problems.

How Many Miles Can a GMC Acadia Last?

GMC has a reputation for making durable, long-lasting vehicles, which certainly applies to the GMC Acadia. On average, the Acadia can reach up to 200,000 miles with proper care and maintenance. This translates to roughly 13 years of service, which is certainly not bad for a daily-driver midsize SUV. Compared to other SUVs in the market, the Acadia holds its own, but models like the Toyota Highlander, Sequoia, and Ford Expedition tend to have higher life expectancy.

While it’s not hard evidence, many owner accounts confirm the Acadia’s potential for a longer lifespan. For instance, this thread from the Acadia Forum has people sharing their high-mileage SUVs. One owner of a 2012 GMC Acadia reported driving the vehicle up to 192k miles. The owner noticed that the vehicle felt rejuvenated after some significant repairs, such as the transmission at 120k miles. Another owner mentioned their 2007 Acadia lasted up to 220k miles before experiencing compression issues in one cylinder. A third owner reported that their 2010 Acadia reached an impressive 315k miles before they decided to trade it in.

However, the poor reliability of the Acadia may significantly cut down its lifespan. This is why steadfast maintenance and timely repairs are crucial to extending the lifespan of the Acadia.

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How Many Miles are Too Many for a Used GMC Acadia?

When considering a used GMC Acadia, it’s essential to understand that its longevity isn’t solely determined by mileage – it can only tell you the general idea of the vehicle’s wear and tear. Below are what you can expect from a used Acadia based on mileage range.

General Tips: Some older models of the Acadia have reported transmission problems, so check for any transmission shudders or slips. A well-maintained Acadia can outlast a neglected one, regardless of mileage. Always request maintenance records.
Under 50,000 Miles: This used vehicle has low mileage and may be covered by the manufacturer’s warranty. Ensure all routine maintenance, such as oil changes and tire rotations, has been completed.
50,000 to 100,000 Miles: This is typical for many used vehicles; major components should be in good condition. You should find many used Acadias with excellent value propositions in this range.
100,000 to 150,000 Miles: At this range, some significant components might need replacement, such as the timing chain or water pump. Also, to consider models in this range, you need a pristine maintenance record or might be caught off-guard by costly repairs/replacements.

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Is a Used GMC Acadia a Worthy Investment?

How long do GMC Acadias last? We hope this guide has answered your questions about the Acadia’s lifespan. This midsize SUV may not be the most popular, but it has a good potential for longevity, which is always a plus for used car buyers. However, potential buyers should know the vehicle’s common issues and prioritize models with a solid maintenance history.

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