Used 2009 GMC Acadia SUV Consumer Reviews
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Like a Toddler - This car needs constant attention
Tiffany, 01/14/2016
updated 07/24/2019
2009 GMC Acadia SLT-2 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
83 of 84 people found this review helpful
In 2014 we bought a 2009 with 60,000 miles. One owner - low miles. Nearing a year later and not even putting 10,000 miles on it we have had to have continuous repairs done. Luckily we purchased the extended warranty offered thru the bank. The navigation went out. The front day running light burned out. The lift gate stopped working. Replaced the entire exhaust system. Replaced the Rack and Pinion, tie rods, steering hose. 2017 - the transmission went out and the rear heat did not work and was blowing cold air. Had to get that all fixed and was covered the warranty thru our bank. 2018 - still driving the same vehicle. Just recently had to install a new engine flex pipe. Warranty didn't cover this $1,000 repair. I keep wondering "What's Next"? 2019 - still driving the same vehicle. Alternator went out cost $1,500. Catalytic converter went out along with needing new spark plugs $1,200. Buyer Beware!
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Power Steering
hayley1, 03/02/2011
2009 GMC Acadia SLT-1 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
46 of 46 people found this review helpful
I bought my 2009 GMC Acadia on December 27, 2010. Before I made may first payment my power steering went out. Got it back had it two weeks, and once again the power steering went out almost caused us to flip. It has been in the shop more than I have had it. It only has 24,000 miles. This car makes me very nervous! Not for sure I even want it back this round.
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Waste of my money
wilsonmom, 07/01/2014
2009 GMC Acadia SLE-1 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
61 of 63 people found this review helpful
I purchased this vehicle with 30,000 miles 2 1/2 years ago with all of my savings. I wanted a vehicle that was sturdy, built well and going to last me at least 4 years. Now, 2 1/2 yrs later the transmission is blown, it needs a timing belt (which requires dropping the engine), rack and pinion needs replacing, both rear control arms are bad, and the catalytic converter is bad. This is besides the 10 other times its been into the dealer or repair shop in the 2 1/2 years for other problems. Now this vehicle is worth nothing for trade in and I have no choice but to pay over $6,000 in repairs. I spent $28,000 on this car, for what?!?! Two years of nothing but trouble. Never again GMC
No wonder GM went bankrupt
Dan, 10/31/2009
2009 GMC Acadia SLT-2 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
50 of 54 people found this review helpful
We've had the car for about a year and a half. Put plenty of miles on it. It breaks every month. Its been back to the dealer 16 times since we've had it. Leaks, trans problems, failed water pump, electrical problems, brake problems, rear hatch lifters, etc. Whenever I see someone who has put all 10s in their edmunds review, I immediately discount those reviews as someone who is congratulating themselves for a purchase, rather than reviewing a car. The amount of lemon law lawsuits over the Acadia is stunning. Too bad actually, because this could have been a great car, but unfortunately, GM has too many problems as a company to take care of their customers.
Good & bad points
chickaroo, 07/08/2014
updated 07/10/2017
2009 GMC Acadia SLT-2 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
42 of 46 people found this review helpful
Update: Now have 60K miles on my 8 year old Acadia & the extended warranty ran out last year... I'm getting rid of it before something else big/expensive goes wrong - which I expect to be soon!!! In 8 years it's been in the shop about a dozen times, & just had to have it towed a few months ago. All sorts of annoying things inside are breaking and mechanically, it's been one thing after another! And I take good care of my vehicles! Am getting a Honda Pilot or Toyota 4-Runner. This review was at 45k miles: Overall, while I like many of the practical, daily-use aspects of the Acadia, which is why I ended up buying this car (see fave features below), the mechanical unreliability would probably cause me not to buy a GMC again. I was hoping American car manufacturers had figured out the quality-thing. In the past, we've owned several Toyotas & Hondas and, while I'm "all American", next time I'll go back to the more reliable brands.
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Do not buy this car!
Scott M. Combs, 08/17/2015
2009 GMC Acadia SLT-1 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
11 of 11 people found this review helpful
Lots of electronic and mechanical issues. Many trips to the dealer. Rack and pinion went out $2200, 3 fuel injectors $1800, struts $400, lots of electrical sensors and mystery check engine issues. Would not buy another GMC!
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2009 acadia in cab air filter
karen105, 11/15/2012
2009 GMC Acadia SLT-1 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
9 of 9 people found this review helpful
Never have had such a bad experance before! Purchased this used SUV this last July from Gilbert Ford in Moscow, Id. Drove this car home and when I got on a country road, which is gravel the air conditioning started blowing dirt into the cabin. There is NO in cab air filter!!! Thus the whole enviorment, durt, allergens and fumes are taken into the cab with you. Complained to dealer and at this time still do NOT have a filter in place. After sale service is horrible at the above dealership. If your thinking of buying an Acadia older than a 2012 make sure there is an in cab filter if you want to be able to breath.
GMC Acadia 2009
taram1, 07/18/2012
2009 GMC Acadia SLT-1 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
9 of 9 people found this review helpful
I just posted a review about my first suv now this is after I traded that in for a year older model to see if it was better because I just love it. Sadly I found my self so disappointed. At 55,000 something miles the battery kept going dead. I took it to a mechanic and he performed a full checkup and found the alternator went bad. I couldn't believe it...it was happening again. Inw just so torn because I really love this car. I knew even if I fixed the 800.00 repair on top of my car payment...later it would happen again. Today I left GMC and sold my car to a Volvo dealer and now have an XC90. I'll post on this experience as well in time. Please GMC keep gm here in the USA and not China
Great Car To Drive...When It Starts
Kelly, 01/03/2010
2009 GMC Acadia SLT-2 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
We are heading back to dealer again for repairs on our Acadia which we have owned for only 9 months. We have added roadside assistance to our speed dial after having to call for problems with battery, starter, and fuel pump. This is our first and last GMC purchase.
GMC disappoints BIG TIME!
GMC disappoints BIG TIME, 09/22/2016
2009 GMC Acadia SLT-2 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
This was the most expensive mistake I have ever made. This vehicle requires constant trips to the dealership. I have had the timing chains done twice (under warranty), coil packs (1,3 & 5) engine de-sludged, recall after recall. The dealership suggested I consider if I want to invest any more money in this vehicle. I purchased this vehicle because of the size to accommodate my family. GMC disappoints BIG TIME. I will buy foreign when I unload this LEMON.
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Acadia vs Yukon
bill, 08/23/2010
2009 GMC Acadia SLT-1 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I traded my '06 Yukon for a '09 Acadia. At the time gas was $$ and I felt compelled to get a better mileage vehicle. Oops! I paid more for the Acadia than I would have for another Yukon (with the factory and dealer spiffs they were giving back then). Turns out my Yukon got BETTER mileage! The Acadia is O.K., looks good, reliable, etc, but it is more like driving a van than an SUV. My only complaint is the acceleration hesitation in wet and cold weather, which nobody can seem to fix. Other than that, no problems at all in the first 20k miles. But, next time around, Im back to a Yukon.
Updated Review
Geoff Chamberlain, 10/20/2009
2009 GMC Acadia SLE-1 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
Just a quick update on our ownership expierience so far.We are happy with our Acadia and the nit picks are very few ( and minor ).I just put on the winter tires , Bridgestone Blizzaks ,fuel milage is getting better with more miles on the vehicle,great on long trips,kids love it,better sound system should be standard for the price,effortless to drive on the highway (120 km/h)very quiet inside.
I can’t wait to pay this thing off
Michele Canary, 02/04/2019
2009 GMC Acadia SLT-1 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
8 of 9 people found this review helpful
I do love this truck only because I got everything I wanted, low miles, a sun roof and leather interior but oh my god the problems are horrific and I drive like an old lady. I stay up to date with everything inc oil changes, tire rotations and fluid checks monthly. First month we have it the back rear plate goes so dealership took care of it and luckily we got the free rental. Now a year later the transmission seems like it is slipping in 1000 to 2000 rpms the lever goes up and down and also the truck shakes when accelerating at these points. We have put so much into this truck and we are still upside down on the loan. I’m not too sure what to do with it next as the warranty is up. A new transmission will kill me and idk how to handle this one. I would never buy another Acadia for as long as I live. The interior is to die for though as you have the double sun roofs which one does not open at all and I think it’s just for decoration. We have the pull down t v/dvd player that came with earphones and a remote for the kids, third row seating which is awesome for those long trips with the pup. The two kids take up the second down and the pup has the back all to herself after we fold down that third row. The room in this thing is amazing and with the heated and cooling seats, it really is quite a treat. Mileage is terrible. Fill up is 25 gallons and u will be lucky to get 325 miles out of that. Mirrors go to night vision when it gets dark. Also I highly recommend changing out your headlights because factory sucks big time. It’s a nice interior and with the Bose system we have never had to change speakers at all. It’s just a huge money pit for everything else. The tire monitor system gets out of whack all the time and the oil gauge is always way off. Now the battery which is brand new fluctuates a lot and I mean going from 10 to 16 which I thought wasn’t normal but apparently several battery checks say it most definitely is.
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I wish I bought a Pilot
John , 03/21/2010
2009 GMC Acadia SLT-2 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
8 of 9 people found this review helpful
I had a Honda Pilot for the last 7 years. I loved that car. We bought the Acadia because we really liked the look of the outside. Now that we have owned it a few months the feel of the car has taken a toll. The interior plastic features are really cheap and the doors are not solid like they were in our Honda when you close them. I don't know why they used chrome trim in the interior it is a constant distraction when driving. The back seat floor area is a great crumb catcher for my two girls. I think the passenger seats gave up comfort when they made them slide and such as they do, nice that they slide but comfort was given up in our opinion when GMC did this.
2009 GMC Acadia FIRE
njustman, 08/24/2013
2009 GMC Acadia SLT-1 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
14 of 17 people found this review helpful
One month ago I took my 2009 GMC Acadia to the dealer because I noticed a smell and steam coming from it. They did some minor repairs and wanted me to bring it back in a few days for more work as they spotted a small oil leak but couldn't figure out where it was coming from. The next day after driving the vehicle 20 miles when I put it into park there was smoke coming through the vents. It quickly went from what appeared to be overheating, although no warning lights ever came on, to a full fire! I was able to get my children and sister out of the vehicle. I called 911 and fire responders put the fire out. Thankfully no one was injured.
Stay Away - It's Time for a Class Action Suit
lynnlove62, 11/05/2012
2009 GMC Acadia SLE-1 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
13 of 16 people found this review helpful
I purchased my 2009 Acadia new in 2009. Within the first month, Tire pressure sensor was bad, Service engine soon light came on twice, had to replace Rack inpinion within the first year, Water pump went out, traction control/antilock break/stabilitrack system sensors have been replaced/reset/you name it, numerous times and still is not fixed, head lights went out and they tired to charge me over $400 for the repair which i refused, received a recall for the headlights exactly one month later, vehicle rolls back when in gear if i'm on an incline (drastic roll back), seatbelts had a sensor problem twice, airbags had a sensor problem twice, and i'm out of space for the rest..............
Don't waste your time or money
motherof3nj, 12/16/2012
2009 GMC Acadia SLT-2 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
13 of 16 people found this review helpful
We are a family of 5 and my husband I wanted to purchase a vehicle that was not a minivan. With this in mind we looked for vehicles that had the 2nd row captain chairs and were in our price range. After searching we set our hearts on the Acadia. Sadly two days after purchasing the low tire pressure signal kept coming on. We had to return to the dealer for a spark plug to be replaced. However, when my husband picked up the car the next day all things went down hill. He left the dealership and the the car stalled. We were told that there was a problem with the transmission. Four weeks later and they were still repairing the transmission. Thats when we returned the car. So disappointed!!
STAY AWAY!!!!!
chellelynn1962, 12/31/2010
2009 GMC Acadia SLE-1 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I purchased my 2009 Acadia March 09. Had rack and pinion replaced, seatbelt sensor, tire sensor, keyless remote collapsed/not covered by bumper to bumper, frame around 2nd row seats coming apart not covered, inside pat of front driver/passenger door coming apart, not covered. Vehicle is a piece of expensive junk, substandard equipment and GMC has no customer relations. Save yourself the trouble and stay away. The bumper to bumper warranty is limited and that is not stated at time of purchase. You find this out after the fact.
Nothing but transmission problems & noises
Kasey Fiorella, 03/15/2016
2009 GMC Acadia SLT-2 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I have had nothing but issues with the transmission in my 2009 Acadia since I bought it. When the recall came out I had an issue with my transmission regarding some of the issues in included with the 3-5-R Waveplate recall but not all of them. I am now at 126k miles and GMC will do nothing to help me. I have talked to multiple people and the one person who gave her extension and said she would help, I cannot reach. What do I do? It is going to cost $3,000 to rebuild the transmission and my husbands truck is about to kick the bucket. My husband has a 2008 GMC avalanche and it has 315k miles on it!! Amazing truck. I am currently rethinking whether or not we will be spending any more money with GMC. Why put a deadline on a faulty item in a vehicle. If it's bad it's bad!! I think the service departments at the dealerships are told to make people happy but don't work too hard towards assisting them with warranty issues, this will take too much time. Get this, while my vehicle was in the shop for the hundredth time someone from the dealership called and offered me $6k for my car because the manager told him to. Are you joking?!! GM really needs to step up on this one or Toyota will be getting my husbands business and my daughters next year.
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Nice, but internals not so good.
Greg, 01/07/2022
2009 GMC Acadia SLT-2 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Bought a 2009 Acadia in February 2020. Mileage was less than average, but should have seen the warning signs. By June 2020 the timing chain was grinding turning the wheel to the left. Had it replaced in September 2020 @$3800 at a GM dealership and it came with a 1 year/12,000 mile warranty. March 2021, the water pump went out. May 2021 saw the rack and pinion go out, along with all the struts needing to be replaced, along with bearings in the front wheels. Also replaced rotors and brakes on a 4 wheels. November 2021 saw the grinding starting back up turning left. Timing chain started throwing coded again with the check engine light on. 14 months since replacing the timing chain, 2 MONTHS OUT OF WARRANTY, GM will not cover it. Fixing it is now over $4000. No thanks. Outside and interior of Acadia was excellent though. Towing was also great as a 6x8 trailer on the back felt light. Only towed twice and under 3000 pounds each time. Disappointed in my purchase and should have listened to other reviewers and mechanic who told me it's a lemon.
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The Fuel Injectors Stopped Working
15monthsapart, 08/09/2010
2009 GMC Acadia SLE-1 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I've had my Acadia for almost two years, come February. Two of the fuel injectors started leaking two weeks ago. The engine light came on at the same time my engine started smoking and hesitating in rush hour traffic. OnStar ran a diagnostic and reported the findings to me. I had it towed in to the dealer, they wouldn't tell me the problem until I told them that OnStar had already made it known to me. Four days later I drove my Acadia back home and fumes were coming through the air vents. I took it back to the dealer. They said the other fuel injectors had stopped working. I'm not an auto mechanic, but this is bad, right?
Uncomfortable at any speed
julian lupenski, 04/02/2010
2009 GMC Acadia SLT-2 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Drivers seat lumbar feels like someone is poking you in the back. Uses a piston instead of bladder so I'm told by dealership. Passenger seat has more comfort. Sluggish at takeoff when cold. Muffler and other components are ripe for damage. Placement below frame. Do not recommend anyone to buy.
So far, So good...wait, So GREAT!
jcavfish, 10/02/2009
2009 GMC Acadia SLT-2 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
My wife, baby boy, and I shopped for our new vehicle for about a month. We test drove Lexus's, to Toyota's, to Volvo's, etc...you name it, were were there. We were in the market for an SUV/Crossover. After driving them all, we found the Acadia to be the clear winner on all fronts: great & smooth ride for a large vehicle; super spacious; great gas mileage for this size of car (don't agree w/ other folks who are voicing their concerns about the true MPH?); and all the functionality one would want w/ a car in this class. We have had the car for two mos and are 100% satisfied w/ our purchase. Should n e thing go wrong, the 100k warranty should cover us...A+ car;oh, 5 star crash rating too
Time to Sell...Maybe???
joemerchant47, 01/08/2013
2009 GMC Acadia SLE-1 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
8 of 10 people found this review helpful
I have an '09 Acadia,well pleased.Had only one problem-rattle in A pillar.Dealer replaced trim-fixed.Headlight recall.No big deal.Bulletin/recall notifying possible stretching of timing chain.Took car in to reset computer for more frequent oil changes.I change more often than recommended anyway.Talked to mechanic,he hadn't gotten one back in yet for repair but said engine had to come out to replace chain.Power train warranty increased by GM to 100K.Here's my problem.We don't travel much.My car is just about to turn 26K miles so by the time any major problem occurs my warranty will have run out.Is it time to sell this car which is now in excellent condition?
Stay away!
see1, 11/16/2012
2009 GMC Acadia SLT-1 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
We bought this car 3 years ago because of the comfort of the 3rd row seat and cargo space. We have had numerous electrical issues, seat belts and tire sensor issues and replacement of the rack and pinion steering. We paid $400 to have the headlight replaced! Within the last month we have had to replace 3 engine mounts that ROTTED (car is kept in a garage but mechanic says this happens to "all" cars!). 2 weeks after that the transmission failed. We bought this car because it was big enough for our family. Now we don't even feel it's safe enough to put our family in. The steering wheel squeaks everytime you turn the wheel and the dash board shakes at high speeds. Awful!!
A 3 year old car should not have these problems!
nhkathyc, 08/28/2012
2009 GMC Acadia SLE-1 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
That is what I was told by three different mechanics ... "A 3 year old car with 58K miles should not have these problems" My car failed the state inspection this year because it was leaking power steering fluid. The mechanic told me this but then asked me to come out so he could show me more concerns. In addition to the power steering fluid leak there were 3 oil leaks. 1 from the crank case and 1 from the transfer case that were especially concerning to him. Also, my A/C is not working right & my car had begun to overheat that day and I had to keep pulling over to let it cool down just to make it to the mechanic. He told me to get it right into the dealership. I did & left a LOT poorer!
Very Disappointed
Disappointed, 07/26/2009
2009 GMC Acadia SLE-1 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I bought 2009 Acadia in March 2009 and have had nothing but problems. The dealership has tried to fix the air conditioning and pick up with no resolve of problem. LV is very hot and w/o good air, it is impossible. Freeway driving is terrible when a Prius passes you up with no acceleration. Car has been in shop several times with no fix. I would not recommend this car if they all drive the same way. No one wants to actually fix the problem. It may be a LEMON. GMC does not seem to care. So GM cars with all their problems may best be avoided to buy until they resolve to take care of customer problems or replace their LEMONS. Milage has averaged less than 17 miles to gallon more like 15 even HWY
Mixed Emotions
tank26, 01/10/2011
2009 GMC Acadia SLE-1 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I bought my 2009 Acadia in May of 2010 with 24,727 mi on it. So far, I have had to take it back to have one of the middle seat plastic seatbelt covers replaced, the cover for one of the middle seat pull downs replaced, and now the plastic at the base of the gear shift has slipped off of the top part and there are wires exposed. Needless to say, I agree with the statement about the cheap plastic parts. I also agree about the chrome lining around the radio and all of the AC vents. It theres bright sun light, it gets you from one angle or another; no matter what.
Beware - Transmission/Throttle
SLC David, 09/30/2010
2009 GMC Acadia SLT-2 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Good feature set. Zippy engine. But throttle lag and inability of the transmission/engine to hold on even the slightest slope make the car dangerous. If stopped on a slight slope the car will drift back - while in D - unless you are on the gas or brake. It's like driving a manual transmission. And throttle lags on takeoff. So if you're not very diligent you may find yourself drifting backward into whatever is behind. Never had an SUV (of many over the years) with this problem. Took it to dealer and they said this was not a defect - all Acadias are this way. Tranny is also easy to "panic" if you floor it, the thing panics to a low gear often beyond the power curve so you end up going nowhere.
WHole Damn Car broke Down at 125K miles!
Eli U. from NYC, 10/17/2017
2009 GMC Acadia SLE-1 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
This vehicle is NOT designed to go past 120,000 miles, whether or not you have any factory warranty. Dealership purposely gives you runaround to find ways to void your extended warranty, and does not stand behind the vehicle they make. 120K miles the "extended mile Special warranty" went out on defective timing chains, and wave plates that cause catastrophic engine and transmission failure. replacement of EITHER engine or tranny are more expensive than buying another Acadia. At 124K miles the Timing Chain, BOTH Catalytic converters as well as Transmission and PCM. GMC refuses to acknowledge any faulty and cheap parts. I have had this car for a year, and it spent all but 6 months at a mechanic shop for one thing or another. Vehicle would NOT complete Drive Cycle for over 2000 miles as PCM was sending wrong signals to every sensor, Fuel trim Learn was shut off by the Computer, Os bank 2 was set to remain open loop not matter what, random antitheft codes came up and went on their own. Clear electrical issues goin on when check engine light flickers and then changes to stabilitrac and then turns off and then comes back on but NO CODES PENDING OR STORED ARE FOUND. GM refused to take a look at the computer to ascertain why and kep giving me runaround about appointmant (saying NOTHING available for over 2 months), and when vehicle was brought to them at 120K to check timing chain and all the psycho lights and codes that went on and disappeared- Gm mechanic told me car is a piece of garbage, that i probably crashed it as steering angle sensor code was on at that moment and that they had no availability to do anything and to make different appointment. THEN, when i did that they said nothing to be fixed as there were no DTCs stored for those parts and the codes kept going on and off as though they didn't exist, they could do anything as there were not fault codes related to anything i requested to check (timing chain, wave plate and PCM, anti theft and steering angle sensor). Sent me packing saying vehicle will learn drive cycle and be fine and if there are codes to bring it back. All the while been at various mechanics who could not diagnose anything wrong with vehicle and kept hearing the same thing from everyone: until the monitors are all reset, we wont be able to see what is wrong. Keep driving it to see what comes up. so i did as GM technicians told me same thing over and over. At 125K miles: first code (that didn't vanish) pops up for timing chain failure and multiple cylinder misfire- GM said i have to pay for it myself as i am out of warranty and i should have brought it to them before 120K miles. Never mind that i did and they turned me away. As soon as that repair is in, my car WOULDN'T pass inspection due to computer issues as i had to re-complete drive cycle (not that it ever completed to begin with after those 4000 miles everyone told me to drive. Is it customary to build a vehicle that requires 4k miles to reset monitors and test for emissions? NOw Dealership says they cannot help and wont do it. but they'd be glad to replace my windshield and seat belt for free... disregarded again. two weeks later, (Of course) find out my Catalytic converters are shot now as the PCM kept O2 bank 2 sensors in CONSTANT OPEN LOOP and one cat was doing the work for both and exhaust manifold cracked (engine was fine checked during timing chain replaced). O2 sensors, Catalytic Converters and Exhaust manifold replaced (another $2k). less that 100 miles later car stalls, wont engage into drive and goes into limp mode (still trying to pass DAMN INSPECTION). crawled to the mechanic for two more lovely codes: P0700 and P0777 (basically the Transmission failure MIL, and Solenoid B is stuck in ON position.) MIL turns on and off by itself this entire time. But when mechanics goes to check to see if reverse gear will engage, the car drives perfect and shifts normally. Mechanics (several i took it too) say that Tranny will need to be replaced as Wave plate for 3,5, R gear is the likely culprit leaving debris that prevents solenoid from functioning but MIL turned off by itself and has not come back on. (something Else Gm told me to go F* myself about). Estimated cost: $2000+ when (not if) this part finishes going or the computer blows it to hell. Cheaper to set the car on fire as even after those repairs, the computer issues hasn't even been touched (computer reads catalytic temperatures at 915 degrees? and temperature scanner reads them at 350-400 when car running at normal temperature. and sending random signals to sensors and wont pend or store any DTC codes) my 67 Impala runs better than [non-permissible content removed] with minimal maintenance. This prissy car needs an oil change every 2000 miles because of GM manufacturing bull. Cant even trade this POS in. I have always been an avid GM/ Chevy lover, but this car is garbage and GM will not help you in any way. You are on your own with this nightmare. Will NEVER buy GM again
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EXCELLENT CHOICE IN CROSSOVERS
krishnameee, 11/01/2009
2009 GMC Acadia SLT-1 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I have been throughly stunned at the ride of this crossover. Pricey but worth the money. GM needs to look at some extras to keep the customers happy like seat memory standard on SLTs. Turning radius and fuel efficiency was very good. I topped at 27 MPG at 59 MPH freeway. I have driven about 400 miles so far and very satisfied
Great SUV
William Daly, 12/28/2009
2009 GMC Acadia SLT-2 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Traded in a loaded 2002 Trailblazer LTZ for the loaded Acadia SLT2. As much as I loved the LTZ, this one has it beat in every way (except the LTZ had the rain sensor wipers). Only 4 months old but the milage is better than the LTZ even with AWD. The headsup display is great as are the heated/cooled seats. Enough storage space with the rear seat folded down, but plenty more with the second row captain's seats folded down. Really soomth ride with plenty of power. The Nav system is superior to my old Garmin unit. Not crazy about the plastic chrome interior trim. Looks cheap. Could use an upgrade in this area. All in all more than satisfied.
Love My Acadia!
Kat, 04/30/2010
2009 GMC Acadia SLT-2 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I traded in a 2004 Saturn Vue AWD V6 for the 2009 Acadia SLT 2. I love driving it (and I do it a lot!) and my friends are very comfortable on trips we take to go to conferences. I've gotten better than advertised MPG (22/26) with mixed driving. The Bluetooth is great and the sound system is better than any other car I've ever had. I have XM Radio and I love listening to great music when I'm on the road. I use the On-Star turn by turn navigation and that has been exceptionally useful. The seats front and back are very comfortable and access is easy. I have had NO problems with the vehicle.
HUGE DISAPPOINTMENT
disappointed, 06/27/2019
2009 GMC Acadia SLT-2 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I worked my rear off to afford a good vehicle to haul my children in. I already overpaid at a used car lot. I paid 9 grand for a 2009 a year ago. within a few weeks I noticed small things which I came to terms with based on the fact it was used. however, a few months down the road I started having problems with the catalytic converters, now a timing chain and a possible whole new motor. It has been one year almost exactly. I had the oil changed regularly and I have not put more than 6,000 miles on it in that year. one big move across state where I did not pull a trailer and then the basic commute to and from work. so, now I have to take another loan out for 6 grand to fix the car I had hoped would last me years. the dvd player doesn't work anymore, the auto start doesn't work anymore, the back up camera beeps but doesn't turn on. these things just went out one day with no warning signs. I will NEVER buy an acadia again or any GMC product based on how much this vehicle has failed. to also bash the seller, I bought this vehicle in billings, mt and they knew exactly what they were doing when they sold it to me. they knew these problems would arise. why in the world cant a person just honestly sell someone a car? we carry our children around in the cars. we expect our money that we invest will keep our families safe. car makers and car dealers are slimy and crooked. shame. very disappointed
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Sleep on it a few weeks first!
kerry, 12/08/2008
2009 GMC Acadia SLT-1 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Looks great on the outside. The interior quality of the dash, seats, & doors, door handles, etc. was a letdown. Visibility out of rear window not great, you won't see a small car on your bumper. Sensors and backup monitor a must. Having to upgrade better quality leather seats, CD player, & install backup monitor due to visibility issues just two weeks after purchase.
Review of 2009 Acadia @ 75k
dgin, 05/04/2013
2009 GMC Acadia SLE-1 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
7 of 10 people found this review helpful
We're the 2nd owners of this car; we picked it up at around 63k. In the last 1.5 years, we've definitely had a few things go wrong with it that were out of the norm. 1) Ignition coils 3 & 3 went bad and had to be replaced along with corresponding spark plugs. 2) 2 of the 3 seat belt housings in the 2nd row seats broke. Seat belt mechanism still worked though. 3) Rough idle due some minor sludging; this was remedied with a good fuel injector cleaning and oil change. 4) Catalytic converter kicked back a low performance code and was subsequently replaced. Good thing we bought it from to include an extended warranty which covered it all. Sad, but we really like the car otherwise.
Good family vehicle
Scott, 09/27/2009
2009 GMC Acadia SLT-1 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
Traded in 2001 Yukon for 2009 Acadia. Similar passenger and storage space as Yukon. Occupies roughly same garage space. Acadia ride more comfortable. Similar turning radius. More visible plastic on interior, particularly dashboard and doors. Unlike Yukon, Acadia's 3rd row seats fold flat. Would recommend to others with children looking for family vehicle but interested in SUV rather than minivan.
Better Than The Rest
LJB, 03/09/2009
2009 GMC Acadia SLT-2 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
After test driving other vehicles in this class, including MDX, Highlander, Pilot, and Edge this vehicle had them beat for one reason or another. The kids; 4 and 9 sealed the deal. The size, safety features, design, and toys (must have toys) were the best. I came out of a 2005 Escalade that couldn't touch this and the Acadia has more space in and behind the third row. Loving this truck!
FX-35 to Acadia
McClenna, 08/20/2009
2009 GMC Acadia SLT-2 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
After driving an fx-35 for four years, it was time for more room, but didn't want to give up the fun ride! Gmc has a winner with this one. Great spacing. Love the seating arrangement, sound system and blue tooth. Much quieter than the fx and smoother. Gas mileage is still in question, but so far am loving this crossover!
MPG not as advertised
phil, 08/26/2009
2009 GMC Acadia SLE-1 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
The Acadia is fun to drive and comfortable on 3 long trips we have made. It has lots of room for about anything, but the mpg we are getting is not even close to the advertised mpg. Made a trip to Canada and pulled my small aluminum boat and got only 12.25 mpg on 2500 miles. my overall mpg is now averaging 15.50. I only get 17 on the interstate with normal 65-70 speed. GM customer service did not seem to care what mpg we got, so just pushed me off and said sorry.
2007 GMC Acadia
tjbo, 12/30/2010
2009 GMC Acadia SLT-2 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
.Very unreliable car. I have had for over 3 years now with the folliwng problems. Steering gear box needed to be replced. Purge soleniod (part of exhaust system) needed to be replaced, leak in monn roof, had to replace two struts at $50k miles, had to replace the transmission at 55k miles. Worst car I have ever owned. Response from GM has been poor at best. They could care less about customer satisfaction. Will never buy a GM prodict again
Best Car!
Mike M, 04/11/2009
2009 GMC Acadia SLT-2 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This is one of my favorite cars I have ever owned. Went from a Grand Caravan to this. With 3 kids the fact that they can watch a movie while I listen to the radio is awesome. The ride is terrific as well. Find the Navigation system is nice but has some funky routes every so often. Garmin hand held seems more accurate at times. I have the backup camera and don't know what I would do without it! gets you into spots nicely!
Comfortable, well-built SUV
Scott, 02/25/2010
2009 GMC Acadia SLT-2 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I bought this vehicle used (15000 miles) and have had it for about 3 months (2000 miles) and am very satisfied. Lots of features (some things I haven't even tried yet) and everything is well designed and executed. I got the Acadia to tow and it has the highest capacity in its class. The 3rd row seat is very roomy and with that seat folded, the cargo room is very large. The only disappointment is the fuel economy. I've always got better mileage than advertised from vehicles I've owned, until this one. Average MPG is 19 (80/20 highway/city driving). Other than that, I have no complaints.
Still no remorse!
SO Cal Man, 01/04/2010
2009 GMC Acadia SLT-2 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This car/truck is a very good vehicle for the money. I have not had any issues with features or functions everthing works as expected. My kids love the Acadia and I still gets double looks from people on the street. I looked at all the others Acura MDX, Mazda CX9, Lexus RX, Ford Flex and read all the reviews but kept coming back to the Acadia. The styling and features are very impressive.
DO NOT BUY
Chuck, 04/30/2018
2009 GMC Acadia SLE-1 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
You will need to replace your transmission. Mine was $4800. Tons of electrical problems that are impossible to diagnose and drain your battery. I have to disconnect my battery just so it doesn’t die ovenrnight. The timing chain will eventually destroy your engine, probably another $5000. Headlights burn out every year or less. Horrendous gas mileage, I get maybe 15-16 and that’s being generous. Absolute waste of money even though everyone compliments the looks of it because it really is beautiful and can hold a lot of cargo. I can’t express how much I am disappointed with this GMC ACADIA. Don’t be fooled by its looks! Trust me! Money PIT! Don’t do it! And if you have one allready, get rid of it ASAP.
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Don't make the mistake of buying a GMC Acadia!
C. Allen, 02/06/2018
2009 GMC Acadia SLT-2 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I purchased a GMC Acadia 3 years ago because I wanted a smaller SUV with captain seats in the 2nd row and an entertainment center. I bought a 2009 with 68,000 miles on it. I only made it a month before it was in the shop for repairs! Over the last 3 years, I have replaced 7 engine coils (the car only has 6!), 2 catalytic converters, struts, purge valve and much more! After spending $3,000 in the last month in repairs, I picked it up today from the dealership and didn't even make it a mile before the check engine light came on again and the car was acting crazy. Now, they tell me it's the torque converter and will be another $4,000. The car isn't even worth that much! Please don't make the mistake of purchasing a GMC Acadia for the convenience of the bucket seats and entertainment center (the DVD player also stopped working not long after I bought it!) I will never again own a GMC!
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Maintenance nightmare
Sid148 , 04/01/2021
2009 GMC Acadia SLT-2 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
It’s been in the shop about every 3 months for something. It started with Ignition coils , plugs and wires now timing chain and the transmission has never had power or response . The little things are the recalls The positives are size, comfortable and seems safe like a small tank with the all wheel drive and wide base
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Stay away from this car! Wish I would've known
Alli C., 01/28/2021
2009 GMC Acadia SLT-1 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
We've had our Acadia since 2013, bought it with only 30k miles, one owner, clean record. Within a month, things started going wrong: sunroof leaking, power steering went out, timing belt went bad, headlights burned out. Within 3 months of purchasing, the fuel injectors went out while driving on a road trip, alarms were going off telling us an engine fire could happen, it was horrifying. Then came the computer motherboard, spark plugs, coils, struts, and the continuous recalls that required us taking it in for those to be done. After spending $28k on the car, over the years we have probably paid another $20k in repairs. Think I'm done? Nope, last year the Cat Converter went out, engine mount was bad, front axel was busted, transmission needed to be fixed (again), coils had to be replaced again and our headlights only last about 6 months. We have kept it being that we paid so much for it and in repairs, we will get literally nothing for it on a trade because no one wants these things. We've been told by multiple mechanics that they see more 2009 Acadia's in their shops than any other vehicle and that GMC should NEVER have released these for sale. I was a loyal GM buyer but I will NEVER give them another dime as long as I live.
Poor Overall Vehicle
Joe, 06/01/2016
2009 GMC Acadia SLE-1 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Everything....My Vehicle has 129k for 7 years old. Based on our driving it should easily have 200k. That's how long we were out Vehicle. good thing for warranty...within the for 6 months at dealer, etc. list of items wrong. steering, fuel injectors, engine lights, sensors, and now timing chain.
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Great (but not perfect) vehicle
Scott, 06/04/2010
2009 GMC Acadia SLE-1 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
As another reviewer pointed out, the front seat headrest design isn't great. Fortunately, this is my wife's car. It replaced a Grand Caravan--AWD was a big selling feature, and did not disappoint last winter. Interior noise is surprisingly low. Gas mileage isn't great, but isn't that different from the Grand Caravan. If you're looking for a fuel miser, this definitely isn't the vehicle for you. The only other complaint is that the vehicle is so wide that many parking spaces are tight squeezes. This often leads to door dings.