Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2017 GMC Acadia
The 2017 GMC Acadia has significant recalls related to airbag, fuel system, driveshaft, and brake caliper issues. With numerous complaints about the powertrain, electrical system, and airbag, thorough inspection is advised before purchasing. Ensure all recall repairs are completed by verifying with the seller.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2017 GMC Acadia has 4 NHTSA recall campaigns and 707 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars, averaged across 2 NHTSA-tested trims.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #23V334000 Driver's Air Bag Inflator May Explode NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V358000 Fuel Pump Flange Weld may Fracture NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17V516000 Driveshaft Fracture and Separation NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16V802000 Front Brake Calipers may Leak Brake Fluid NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Power Train 236 complaints
- Electrical System 193 complaints
- Unknown or Other 167 complaints
- Air Bags 76 complaints
- Engine 62 complaints
- Steering 35 complaints
Of the 707 complaints on file, 11 report a crash and 2 a fire; across all 707 complaints, owners report 20 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Driver airbag inflator may explode
How to check: Verify recall repair and inspect airbag warning light during startup.
Fuel pump detachment
How to check: Check for any signs of fuel leaks or odors under the hood.
Driveshaft may fracture
How to check: Inspect driveshaft for any visible damage or recalls.
Brake caliper piston seal leak
How to check: Inspect for signs of brake fluid leaks near calipers.
Frequent electrical faults reported
How to check: Test all electronic functions, including lights and infotainment.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for any unusual ticking or knocking noises.
Red flag: Loud engine noises persist.
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Watch for abnormal warning lights on dash.
Red flag: Persistent warning lights.
- 03
Low-speed driving
What to check: Check brake responsiveness and any abnormal sounds.
Red flag: Brakes feel spongy or noisy.
- 04
Moderate speed turn
What to check: Listen for clunking or clicking from suspension.
Red flag: Suspension noises during turn.
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Observe if the vehicle smoothly accelerates without hesitation.
Red flag: Hesitation or stuttering during acceleration.
- 06
Cruise control test
What to check: Ensure cruise control engages and maintains speed.
Red flag: Cruise control fails to engage.
- 07
Braking from speed
What to check: Note any vibration or pulling to one side.
Red flag: Severe vibration or vehicle pulls.
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the airbag inflator recall been addressed?
- Were all recall repairs completed recently?
- Are there any current electrical issues?
- Have you experienced suspension problems?
- When was the last fuel system inspection?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall repair records
- Service and maintenance history
- Vehicle inspection report
- Previous owner's contact info
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2017 GMC Acadia at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2017 GMC Acadia? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.