Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2019 GMC Acadia
The 2019 GMC Acadia faces significant issues, particularly with its power train and electrical system, as indicated by numerous complaints. Recalls focus on potential transmission problems affecting the start/stop system. Buyers should be vigilant of these areas during inspection and test drives.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2019 GMC Acadia has 2 NHTSA recall campaigns and 388 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 #21V115000 Tire Failure may Cause Sudden Air Loss NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #20V668000 Missing Bolts on Start/Stop Accumulator NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Power Train 154 complaints
- Unknown or Other 120 complaints
- Electrical System 106 complaints
- Engine 53 complaints
- Steering 33 complaints
- Service Brakes 16 complaints
Of the 388 complaints on file, 6 report a crash and 2 a fire; across all 388 complaints, owners report 3 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Missing bolts on endcap
How to check: Inspect transmission for missing bolts or leaks.
Electronic malfunctions
How to check: Test all electronic functions thoroughly.
Engine stalling issues
How to check: Observe for unusual noises or stalling.
Steering issues
How to check: Check for resistance or noise in steering.
Brake system complaints
How to check: Test brakes for responsiveness and noise.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for rough engine noises or misfiring.
Red flag: Persistent rough noises
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check if any warning lights appear.
Red flag: Warning lights persist
- 03
City driving
What to check: Assess smoothness of gear shifts.
Red flag: Rough or delayed shifting
- 04
Parking lot maneuvers
What to check: Feel for steering ease and accuracy.
Red flag: Hard or noisy steering
- 05
Braking test
What to check: Feel brakes for smooth and quiet stop.
Red flag: Noisy or unreliable brakes
- 06
Highway acceleration
What to check: Check for hesitation or power loss.
Red flag: Significant power loss
- 07
Return parking
What to check: Notice any final alerts or warnings.
Red flag: Persistent warning signs
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Have any recalls been addressed?
- Any issues with the transmission?
- Has the electrical system been serviced?
- Are there service records available?
- Any past accidents or repairs?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Vehicle recall history
- Service and repair records
- Title and registration
- Warranty documentation
- Accident history report
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2019 GMC Acadia at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2019 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.