2019 GMC Acadia

Above average

Owners filed 388 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the transmission. It has been recalled 2 times.

Not among the GMC Acadia years to avoid. Which GMC Acadia years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
40,000 milesMedian miles at failure

83 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 60,000–75,000 miles.

Most common 2019 GMC Acadia problems

127 of the 388 complaints (33%) are about the transmission.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Power Train · transmission117
100
Electrical System83
021
Unknown or Other78
000
Engine32
000
Steering12
000
Exterior Lighting · headlights10
000
Service Brakes · brakes8
100
Power Train › Automatic Transmission › Lever and Linkage › Floor Shift · transmission6
000
Suspension5
101
Engine and Engine Cooling · engine4
000

2019 GMC Acadia transmission problems

33% of all complaints

127 of the 388 complaints are about the transmission. This is what owners describe:

  • sets off warning lights on the dash25% · 32
  • jerks, lurches or bucks4% · 5
  • turns on the check engine light4% · 5
  • shifts hard, late or not at all3% · 4
  • stalls3% · 4

Share of the 127 transmission complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Typical mileage
52,280 mi
median of 40 reports
Peak year of filing
2025
36 transmission complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
1 · 0 · 0
in these complaints
Recalls on the transmission
“On XXX at 1:56pm, I took the vehicle to Jiffy Lube service center #810 for the "Quick Oil Change Service" which includes checking and filling the Tranmission/Axle fluid. Per the attached receipt the Transmission/Axle fluid was "OK", and the next service was recommended after 5,000 addtional miles from the then current mileage of 153,317.”
Owner complaint, filed Aug 18, 2026
“When I shift my 2019 GMC Acadia into park, the warning message reads shift to park and there is a ding warning that plays for several mins. This has been going on for over a year. I took it to the dealership and they said they could repair it for $1000 dollars but the solenoid was only guaranteed for 30 days.”
Owner complaint, filed Jun 1, 2026

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
2019: 9 complaints, 3 about the transmission'192020: 19 complaints, 3 about the transmission'202021: 23 complaints, 4 about the transmission'212022: 29 complaints, 13 about the transmission'222023: 67 complaints, 21 about the transmission'232024: 74 complaints, 32 about the transmission'242025: 103 complaints, 36 about the transmission'252026: 64 complaints, 15 about the transmission'26Recall 20V668000 (transmission)Recall 21V115000 (tires)
All complaintsAbout the transmissionRecall (red: the transmission)

Complaints about the 2019 Acadia peaked in 2025, with 103 filed that year. Owners had filed 4 complaints about the transmission before the first recall that covers it, 20V668000 in October 2020; 123 more have come in since. In 2026 owners filed 64 so far.

2 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Filed Feb 25, 202133,838 vehiclesGeneral Motors, LLC

Defect. General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Buick Enclave, Cadillac XT4, XT5, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe, Traverse, GMC Yukon, Yukon XL, 2018-2021 Chevrolet Express, GMC Savana, 2019-2020 Chevrolet Blazer, Silverado 1500, GMC Acadia, Sierra 1500, and certain Continental tires sold to the aftermarket for various model year 2018-2021 vehicles. The affected tires were cured for too long during production.

Risk. Over cured tires may develop a break in the sidewall resulting in sudden air loss or a belt edge separation which could lead to a tread/belt loss. Either condition can cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the tires, replacing them as necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 22, 2021. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Buick customer service at 1-866-608-8080, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N212329050.

Power Train › Automatic Transmission20V668000
Filed Oct 29, 2020194,105 vehiclesGeneral Motors LLC

Defect. General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Chevrolet Cruze and Buick LaCrosse, 2018-2020 Chevrolet Equinox, Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Terrain, 2018 Chevrolet Malibu, 2019-2020 Buick Encore, Buick Enclave, Cadillac XT4, Chevrolet Blazer and GMC Acadia, and 2020 Cadillac XT6 vehicles. The start/stop accumulator endcap may have missing bolts.

Risk. Missing bolts on the start-stop accumulator endcap could result in a transmission oil leak and may progress to a loss of propulsion, increasing the risk of a crash. A transmission fluid leak in the presence of an ignition source may increase the risk of fire.

Remedy. GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the start-stop transmission accumulator and replace it if any bolts are missing, free of charge. The recall began December 15, 2020. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Buick Customer service at 1-866-608-8080, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N202313440.

All 2 campaigns on file, newest first.

Technical service bulletins

825 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2019 Acadia. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

equipment 189engine 141electrical system 122transmission 56body and frame 33wheels 30tires 22fuel system 19
N252494770-01Service campaignJun 20, 2025unknown or other

Amendments to the Song-Beverly Act (SBA) California warranty law provides vehicle owners with an opportunity to submit a written notice to GM before filing a lawsuit seeking a vehicle repurchase. If such a notice is not provided to GM, then the vehicle owner is prevented from seeking civil penalties in litigation. Vehicle owners of the affected vehicles …

N252494770Service campaignJun 17, 2025unknown or other

Amendments to the Song-Beverly Act (SBA) California warranty law provides vehicle owners with an opportunity to submit a written notice to GM before filing a lawsuit seeking a vehicle repurchase. If such a notice is not provided to GM, then the vehicle owner is prevented from seeking civil penalties in litigation. Vehicle owners of the applicable vehicles …

General CommunicationService campaignAug 26, 2024electrical system

Vehicle Wide Programming (VWP) is a new process to update software on GM Vehicles. It provides the ability via a single selection within Techline Connect to first identify which modules need updating and then proceed to updating affected modules (with some exceptions). The updating of modules is completed in parallel instead of the technician needing to …

22-NA-244Warranty extensionMay 3, 2024electrical system

This service bulletin provides information about GM Accessories - Dealer-Installed, Repaired or Replaced During Warranty Coverage Period.

09-06-04-026ZService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJan 9, 2025transmission

This bulletin provides information on identifying Non-GM Engine Calibrations for Gasoline Engines using the Tech 2 or GDS 2.

08-07-30-035IService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsNov 27, 2024transmission

This service bulletin provides information on the harmful effects of ethylene glycol in transmission fluid.

24-NA-223Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsOct 10, 2024transmission

This service bulletin informs the technician of an alternate lift procedure that has been developed when the lift plate does not fit the top of the transmission case for 6T30, 6T35, 6T40, 6T45, and 6T50 Transmissions.

08-07-30-026IService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsSep 16, 2024transmission

This service bulletin provides information on some vehicles that may rock or move slightly forward or rearward while in Park at start up after cold soak. This condition may be accompanied by a clunk noise. This is a slight movement that is more often seen visually, rather than felt, when viewed from the outside and using the auto-start feature, if equipped.

24-NA-141Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJul 24, 2024transmission

GM is receiving damaged (cracked or broken) transmission cores returned to the reman facilities. The damage is being caused either in the removal process by the technician, or inadequate packaging or shipping. This bulletin advises the dealers to be more careful not to damage the transmissions during removal and to package the core properly for return.

99-04-20-002OService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJul 9, 2024transmission

This service bulletin provides information on Driveline Clunk Noise and what is acceptable and what is considered normal operation.

Showing the newest 6 of 56 bulletins about the transmission, and any warranty extensions or service campaigns.

Crash test ratings

NHTSA 5-star safety ratings
Version testedOverallFrontalSideRolloverRollover risk
2019 GMC Acadia SUV AWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★15.0%
2019 GMC Acadia SUV FWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★16.4%

New Car Assessment Program results for this model year. Ratings compare cars of similar size and weight only.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Electrical System
Filed Oct 22, 2026IL

When putting the vehicle in park to turn it off, the dash indicates that I need to put the vehicle in park. But it is in park and it will not let me shut off the vehicle.

SuspensionCrash1 injured
Filed Oct 8, 2026IL

My driver side front control arm, and stabilizer bar snapped on me while on the highway without warning causing me to crash. I'm blessed to be alive.

Electrical System
Filed Sep 19, 2026VA

While attempting to turn vehicle off, the message shift to park was given. Could not shut vehicle off! Has happened multiple times in the past, then disappears for awhile. Comes back again at will. Have seen multiple complaints on this issue falling back to a defective micro-switch within the shifter assym. Former GM tech here---

Engine
Filed Sep 18, 2026PA

I own a 2019 GMC Acadia equipped with the 3.6L V6 engine. VIN. See form above In 2025, the engine coolant thermostat failed on my vehicle and required replacement at my expense. I am submitting this complaint because I believe this may represent a recurring component problem affecting 2019 GMC Acadia vehicles and I would like NHTSA to determine whether the condition presents an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety. General Motors has published service information addressing thermostat-related conditions on GMC Acadia vehicles equipped with the 3.6L engine. GM has also issued special coverage for an engine coolant thermostat condition on certain GM vehicles. GM’s special coverage describes a thermostat that can open at a lower temperature than intended, resulting in a malfunction indicator/check-engine light and diagnostic trouble code, and in some cases causing the engine cooling fans to continue running after the vehicle is shut off. My 2019 Acadia uses the 3.6L engine and the thermostat assembly addressed in GM’s service information. Despite this, my 2019 model year is not included in the current extended thermostat coverage. There is also a second, independent occurrence involving the same model year. My father owns a separate 2019 GMC Acadia, and the thermostat on his vehicle also required replacement in 2026. These are two separate vehicles that experienced thermostat failures requiring replacement. I understand that a thermostat failure is not necessarily a safety

Fuel System, Gasoline
Filed Sep 15, 202664,382 milesOH

The contact owns a 2019 GMC Acadia. The contact stated that the fuel gauge displayed an inaccurate fuel level. The fuel sending unit was replaced twice; however, the failure persisted. The contact became aware of the recurring failure while refueling the vehicle and noticing that the vehicle consumed more fuel than the fuel gauge indicated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was determined that the fuel sending unit needed to be disassembled for further diagnostic testing. The manufacturer was notified of the failure by phone. The failure mileage was 64,382.

Steering
Filed Sep 14, 2026LA

I am submitting this complaint to request that NHTSA investigate a potential safety defect involving the engine coolant temperature monitoring system, thermostat/engine coolant temperature sensor system, and its relationship to reduced steering assist in 2019 GMC Acadia vehicles. My 2019 GMC Acadia, currently at approximately 91,500 miles, has experienced the following symptoms: • The engine temperature gauge remains flat or reads abnormally low/cold. • The cooling fans run continuously at extremely high speed, creating a loud "screaming" fan noise. • The vehicle displays the warning message "Steering Assist is Reduced — Drive with Care." • The vehicle has a history of diagnostic trouble code P0128, "Engine Coolant Temperature Below Thermostat Regulating Temperature." I am concerned that these symptoms are related and represent a potential safety defect rather than an isolated thermostat or cooling-system repair. GM has issued bulletin PIT5967, "Service Steering Message With P0128," which applies to GMC Acadia vehicles from model years 2017 through 2023. The bulletin states that when P0128 is present, the ECM may be reading coolant temperature incorrectly and that a "Service Steering Message" may be displayed to protect the steering gear in the event of an undetected overheating condition. GM instructs technicians to diagnose and repair P0128 first. GM bulletin 17-NA-158 also describes a relationship between P0128, an invalid coolant-temperature signal, and the "Steering Assi

Unknown or Other
Filed Sep 8, 2026WI

Vehicle continued to have Shift to park message when car was already in park. This is a known issue in some other GMC vehicles. Safety issue that the battery could drain or the car could roll unexpectedly. This message repeatedly displayed on the vehicle. The dealer confirmed the problem and performed the repair. Repair order number is XXX for $549.17 on XXX at Boucher Buick GMC of Waukesha [XXX].While there isn't a recall on file for this specific VIN number, I believe it should be included in the recall and I am requesting reimbursement. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Power Train
Filed Aug 18, 2026NJ

On XXX at 1:56pm, I took the vehicle to Jiffy Lube service center #810 for the "Quick Oil Change Service" which includes checking and filling the Tranmission/Axle fluid. Per the attached receipt the Transmission/Axle fluid was "OK", and the next service was recommended after 5,000 addtional miles from the then current mileage of 153,317. On the morning o XXX, the car began experiencing issues identical to vehicle recall NHTSA ID Number: 20V668000. The check engine light turned on and the vehicle could maintain proper propulsion. On XXX at 3:25pm EST, I took the vehicle to AutoZone store #01664, whose "FixFinder" computer diagnostic inicated code PO700 "Transmission Control Module Requested MIL Illumination". On XXX, I had the car towed to a private mechanic who inspected the Vehicle and indicated that the transmission had "no fluid" despite having the fluids verified by Jiffy Lube on XXX. The mechanic suggested there may be a GMC service issue that required GMC remediation to due faulty internals which resulted in the transmission fluid leakage and subsequent triggering of the transmission computer module and related propulsion failure. As of today XXX, the vehicle is experiencing the same condition as indicated in vehicle recall NHTSA ID Number: 20V668000, which is creating additonal risk of vehicular accident/crash and vehicle fire in the presence of the ignition source. The milage is now 155,520. I am requesting this vehicle be serviced as part of recall NHTSA ID Number: 2

Engine
Filed Aug 17, 202681,126 milesSC

The contact owns a 2019 GMC Acadia. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine seized, with several unknown warning lights illuminated. Additionally, the battery low and steering assist warning lights were illuminated. The contact's minor children were occupants in the vehicle during the failure. The tow truck assistant arrived. The tow truck driver assisted with restarting the vehicle. The contact was able to restart the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to Firestone; however, the failure was not duplicated. The contact stated that a portable diagnostic tester was attached, but no error codes were displayed. The failure reoccurred. The vehicle was taken back to Firestone, where it was diagnosed with a failed START/STOP module. The contact was informed about Technical Service Bulletin: 21-NA-139. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 81,126.

Electrical System
Filed Aug 12, 2026PA

See attached file

Unknown or Other
Filed Aug 3, 2026TX

Shifter micro-switch is not working and is available for inspection upon request. Vehicle is not shutting off as it is indicating shift to park. The vehicle unable to shut off can cause issues while parked in the garage still running and worried about causing a fire. Problem diagnosed by private individual but have plans on taking it to dealership. The shift to park indicator issue has been occurring for almost a year and has progressively gotten worse. I have noticed other vehicles with the same make/model/year have had similar issues with known defects that a recall was issued.

Engine
Filed Aug 3, 2026154,428 milesNJ

The contact owns a 2019 GMC Acadia. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the transmission failed to properly shift gears and the vehicle failed to exceed 40 MPH while driving. The contact stated that the transmission failed to shift above third gear. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who discovered that there was no transmission fluid inside the torque converter. The vehicle was scanned and displayed an issue with the transmission control module. The local dealer was contacted and confirmed that the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V668000 (Power Train). The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 154,429.

Engine
Filed Jul 30, 2026ME

I was at a red light, I went to drive as the light turned green and my car stopped and wouldn’t drive, I could go into neutral to get out of way but anything the car would stop. There is no codes or lights turned on my dash though.

Steering
Filed Jul 29, 2026ME

I am submitting this complaint to request that NHTSA investigate a potential safety defect involving the engine coolant temperature monitoring system, thermostat/engine coolant temperature sensor system, and its relationship to reduced steering assist in 2019 GMC Acadia vehicles. My 2019 GMC Acadia, currently at approximately 61,500 miles, has experienced the following symptoms: • The engine temperature gauge remains flat or reads abnormally low/cold. • The cooling fans run continuously at extremely high speed, creating a loud "screaming" fan noise. • The vehicle displays the warning message "Steering Assist is Reduced — Drive with Care." • The vehicle has a history of diagnostic trouble code P0128, "Engine Coolant Temperature Below Thermostat Regulating Temperature." I am concerned that these symptoms are related and represent a potential safety defect rather than an isolated thermostat or cooling-system repair. GM has issued bulletin PIT5967, "Service Steering Message With P0128," which applies to GMC Acadia vehicles from model years 2017 through 2023. The bulletin states that when P0128 is present, the ECM may be reading coolant temperature incorrectly and that a "Service Steering Message" may be displayed to protect the steering gear in the event of an undetected overheating condition. GM instructs technicians to diagnose and repair P0128 first. GM bulletin 17-NA-158 also describes a relationship between P0128, an invalid coolant-temperature signal, and the "Steering Assi

Unknown or Other
Filed Jul 23, 2026VA

WHEN I PUT THE CAR IN PARK, I GET AN ERROR MESSAGE THAT SAYS SHIFT TO PARK AND IT TAKES PUTTING IN PARK NUMEROUS TIMES TO GET IT TO CLEAR SO I CAN TRUN THE CAR OFF AND LOCK IT. I KNOW THERE HAVE BEEN SOME MODELS THAT HAVE BEEN RECALLED DUE TO THIS PROBLEM, HOWEVER MINE IS NOT INCLUDED IN THAT RECALL. I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW WHY IT IS NOT INCLUDED AND IF THERE IS ANY HELP AVAILABLE TO CORRECT THIS ISSUE.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jul 14, 2026FL

For the past 4 months after turning off the engine, my vehicle is failing to recognize that it is in Park. I am getting a message on my display stating “Shift to Park”. This is preventing my vehicle from shutting down.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jul 9, 2026IN

I purchased vehicle used 2 years ago last year. I noticed the air conditioner was not cooling. I summed it up too, and extremely hot summer.This summer I did the same thing.I took it in immediately. Catastrophic, I think I bought it like this. It fell apart, the air conditioning compressor fell apart.There is like shrapnel through everything, and they have to go through and clean everything out.It's gonna cost me over two grand. But it only be in 40000 miles on it. I understand it's a twenty nineteen, but owner said at forty thousand miles.This should never happen.

Steering
Filed Jul 9, 2026AR

Steering assist code pops up and then the temperature gauge goes down and the air stops working and the screen in the cars starts going all crazy. Shift to park code keeps coming up and keeps all electronics on in car

Electrical SystemFire
Filed Jul 8, 2026OH

Fire Started in Center Console

Service Brakes
Filed Jun 29, 2026AR

• Gearshift- It is, available for inspection upon request. • You are unable to turn off Vehicle, your trapped in vehicle. Until parking gear shifts into park and you’re able to shut off the vehicle. • Independent service center. • No • No

Engine
Filed Jun 27, 2026PA

Shortly after purchasing my 2019 GMC Acadia with approximately 52,000 miles, the vehicle displayed a "Steering Assist is Reduced. Drive with Care." warning message and illuminated the check engine light with diagnostic code P0128 00 (Engine Coolant Temperature Below Thermostat Regulating Temperature). I disconnected and reconnected the battery, after which both the warning message and check engine light disappeared. However, the engine coolant temperature gauge then began behaving erratically. On multiple cold starts, the gauge would immediately indicate that the engine was already at normal operating temperature even though the engine had been sitting long enough to be completely cold. This led to a diagnosis of a thermostat and/or engine coolant temperature sensor failure. After researching the issue, I found many other owners reporting the same thermostat and engine coolant temperature sensor failures. I believe this is a widespread defect that should be investigated because incorrect coolant temperature readings can prevent the driver from knowing the true engine temperature and may result in improper engine temperature regulation, overheating, and possible engine damage.

Electrical System
Filed Jun 27, 2026PA

Shortly after purchasing my 2019 GMC Acadia with 52,000 miles on it, my wife parked the vehicle in our driveway and shifted the transmission into Park. When she pressed the push button to shut the vehicle off, the instrument cluster displayed a "Shift to Park" message even though the shifter was already in the Park position. Because the vehicle did not recognize that it was in Park, it would not shut off completely. The radio remained on, and the doors could not be locked. The only way to get the vehicle to shut off was to repeatedly shift from Drive to Park until it finally recognized Park. This occurred multiple times. After researching the problem, I discovered that many other GM owners have experienced the same "Shift to Park" failure. I believe this is a widespread defect that should be investigated because it can prevent a vehicle from shutting off properly, leave electrical accessories powered on, drain the battery, and prevent the vehicle from being secured when parked.

Electrical System
Filed Jun 26, 2026ME

Problem 1: I got the car 2 years ago, and it keeps telling me to "Shift to Park" even though its in park. That's been happening for the whole time I've had it. It does throw a code for it on the scanner machine. I have to shift it back and forth sometimes 3 times and sometimes 17 times. It just keeps beeping over and over and won't shut off. I am having a mechanic look at it Tuesday but hoping it doesn't cost a lot. But no recalls on my car. Problem 2: For the last 4 months or so it keeps saying steering assist is reduced drive with car. It's being looked at Tuesday as well. I have 109K on my car, and got it at 86K.

Power Train
Filed Jun 11, 202656,757 milesVA

The contact owns a 2019 GMC Acadia. The contact stated that upon parking and attempting to turn off the vehicle, the message “Action Required. Shift to Park” was displayed while the gear shifter was in park(P). The vehicle failed to turn off. The contact moved the gear shifter back and forth until the vehicle registered it was in park (P). The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who replaced a wiring harness and switch. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 56,757.

Electrical System
Filed Jun 7, 2026KY

Thermostat in these are all bad and everyone keeps having problems with them. Also forward collision warning and steering stability warning come on. Thermostat needs to have recall. Everyone is having the same problems.

Power Train
Filed Jun 1, 2026TX

When I shift my 2019 GMC Acadia into park, the warning message reads shift to park and there is a ding warning that plays for several mins. This has been going on for over a year. I took it to the dealership and they said they could repair it for $1000 dollars but the solenoid was only guaranteed for 30 days. There is no possible way a dealership can expect a person to pay $1000 dollars a month to keep their family and transportation safe.

Power Train
Filed Jun 1, 2026KY

The contact owns a 2019 GMC Acadia. The contact stated while the vehicle was parked, the shift to parking warning light illuminated. In addition, the contact stated that the failure occurred while the vehicle was parked. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, however the failure was not duplicated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The contact referenced an unknown recall; however, the VIN was not associated with a recall related to the failure. The dealer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline and report the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

Power Train
Filed May 24, 2026MD

READ BELOW WE HAVE STATED THE SHIFT TO PARK ISSUE ON MOST GMC VEHICLES

Unknown or Other
Filed May 21, 2026LA

My car will not shut off when shifted into park. I get a shift into park message.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed May 15, 202648,500 milesCT

The contact owns a 2019 GMC Acadia. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, a “Steering Assist is Reduced ” warning message unexpectedly displayed. The contact also stated that the thermostat became inoperable. Additionally, the thermostat information was no longer displayed on the instrument panel. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the thermostat had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for further assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 48,500.

Unknown or Other
Filed May 7, 2026MI

I am getting the 'SHIFT TO PARK' error message when I put the vehicle in park. When I looked up the error this is what I got... but I don't see a recall for my vehicle. The "Shift to Park" message in GMC Acadias (2017–2019, primarily) is a common, known issue caused by a faulty microswitch in the shifter assembly that fails to recognize when the car is in Park. This defect prevents the engine from shutting off, drains the battery, and requires a replacement of the shifter switch or assembly.

Steering
Filed May 5, 2026MI

My check engine light is on there is a note that says steering assist is reduced. I took it to O’Reilly’s to get it scanned. The code that comes up is P0128 indicating that the coolant thermostat has a fault. There are other GMC‘s that have a recall for this, but apparently not mine.

Power Train
Filed May 1, 202691,355 milesTX

The contact owns a 2019 GMC Acadia. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to shift into park and failed to shut off. There was a shift to a park error message displayed. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed with a contact issue in the transmission box. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified. The failure mileage was approximately 91,355.

Power Train
Filed Apr 27, 202621,000 milesFL

The contact owns a 2019 GMC Acadia. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, it was unable to recognize that the gear shifter was in park and experienced a shift to park failure. The dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 21,000.

Electrical System
Filed Apr 24, 2026WI

This vehicle has an electrical deficiency when trying to park, The console will NOT recognize that the vehicle is in park, causing bell warnings, beeping, and an INABILITY to lock the vehicle, thus draining the battery. We cannot walk away from it, nor ever leave anything of value in it. This is a recurring problem, causing stress, and having to start, shut off, re-start, wiggling the shifter knob, MANY times and HOPE that the electrical system will recognize that the vehicle IS in Park. sometimes this can take 20 minutes, IF it works at all. If not, We have to leave someone IN the vehicle when this happens, in order to do anything! This is a KNOWN problem with this shifter, and there SHOULD be a recall on it!

Unknown or Other
Filed Apr 22, 2026IN

My 2019 GMC Acadia suffered a "major trans fluid leak" specifically from the transmission accumulator feed pipe. Because of this leak, the transmission lost its necessary hydraulic pressure, leading to "internal damage". This is why I experienced harsh shifts and a complete "missing 3rd gear". This exact part and failure mode are the center of NHTSA Recall 20V668. The recall warns that missing bolts on the accumulator can cause a fluid leak, progressing to a total loss of propulsion—which is exactly what has happened to my vehicle.

Unknown or Other
Filed Apr 21, 2026NC

2109 Acadia. The gear shift would not register as being in park when it actually was in park. This created an issue of the interior lights and radio not being turned off when the driver door was opened, posing the possibility of the battery being drained and the driver stranded. Upon searching, it was learned many Acadias have had this issue, including a friends'. This was reported to GMC Executive Resolution Team and that it cost us $341.38 to get it repaired. They refused reimbursement and have not issued a recall even though many Acadias are involved in this problem.

Power Train
Filed Apr 20, 2026AL

The contact owns a 2019 GMC Acadia. The contact stated that upon parking and attempting to turn off the vehicle, the message "Shift to Park" was displayed. The contact restarted the vehicle and was able to successfully park and turn off the vehicle after several attempts. Additionally, while driving at various speeds, the vehicle intermittently failed to shift as intended. Additionally, the A/C system was inoperable while driving. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was determined that the cooler and thermostat needed to be replaced. The parts were replaced; however, the vehicle was not serviced for the transmission failures. The contact stated that the vehicle was difficult to start, and the doors failed to close intermittently. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the battery was replaced. The contact stated that the transmission failure persisted, and there was an abnormal odor coming from underneath the hood. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a case was filed. The contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

Electrical System
Filed Apr 15, 2026TX

Ongoing problem with only solution is a recall notice. Power Steering Assist Reduced -Customer reports Power Steering Assist Reduced message displayed on DIC, A/C is inoperative, Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor inoperative. Recall needed to update Engine Control Module (ECM) with latest calibration.

Electrical System
Filed Apr 11, 2026NE

The warning steering assist reduced, drive with caution appears. Shift to park appears. Temperature gauge drops to zero. Fan runs on high. A/C & heater don’t not work when this happens. We certainly do not feel safe driving our Acadia like this. Can’t trust that it won’t start on fire.

Electrical System
Filed Apr 3, 2026NC

When shiftiing to park and turning the car off the message "Action Required Shift to Park". It is difficult to get the message to go away.

Unknown or Other
Filed Apr 1, 2026MN

Park to shift issue - the vehicle did not register that I was in park, jerked hard when trying to place in gear, did not register the PROPER gear (reverse, neutral, drive), would NOT unlock doors to let passengers out even if it were an emergency. Seems to be triggered on inclines but have also been having issues on flat ground. Other Acadia's apparently have a recall for this issue but my VIN does not register as recalled which is not acceptable. https://www.quillarrowlaw.com/blog/gmc-acadia-shift-to-park-recall-what-owners-need-to-know/ THEN trying to accelerate on road it acted as though in neutral, would only barely function in low gear. Again, gear shifting did not respond. The fab did not register to unlock the car (it has a new battery) or the trunk, or start the car just prior to the issue revealing itself.

Engine
Filed Apr 1, 2026LA

My 2019 GMC SLT seems to be having sensor problems. I keep getting a message that my driver assist is reduced and my A/C only blows out hot air. It’s done this to me randomly id say about 4-5 times. It will go off as I’m driving and than my temp gauge goes to zero. I did research and alot of other users have the same issue and say thermostat or thermostat sensor. If I disconnect my negative on battery and wait a few minutes it will work again.

Engine
Filed Mar 28, 2026KS

2019 GMC Acadia message: Action Required Steering Assist Is Reduced Drive with care Both power steering and AC affected, check engine light on, engine temperature gauge off

Power Train
Filed Mar 26, 2026NH

The "shift to park" continues to pop up and can take as long as 20 minutes to get it to go off. From what I have seen this is a super common issues for the 2019 models and why there isn't an active recall I am not sure. Getting pretty frustrating when I have read 100s of complaints about the same thing and GM isn't doing anything about it.

Power Train
Filed Mar 24, 2026MS

I see where GMC Acadia is have a recall on transmission and if it’s the description of my two GMC Acadia’s, but when I put my Vin number in it doesn’t have a recall

Power Train
Filed Mar 24, 2026MS

It has the ABS lights on and tire traction light on check engine light on and given signs of failed transmission Slow to takeoff shuttering of transmission

Engine
Filed Mar 23, 2026MI

Loss of steering assist code P0128 due to stuck thermostat.

Electrical System
Filed Mar 21, 2026MI

In November 2022, I started getting a dashboard "shift to park" on my 2019 Acadia after I had parked and shut the vehicle off. At the time I took it into service to have it looked at/repaired, they told me there would probably be a recall on this issue,as it seemed to be a frequent problem, and I would get a refund for the repair. That recall never happened, and now my car is once again displaying the same issue. The dealership will not cover the repair, and I will be responsible, as it is out of their 2 year warranty window. I can't just ignore this issue and keep driving, as with the "shift to park" display, there is a constant alarm that doesn't stop unless the park switch recognizes the car is in park, even when it is shut off. I feel this issue needs to be placed under a recall, and I should not have to pay AGAIN for it to be repaired.

Electrical System
Filed Mar 19, 2026WV

My Acadia keeps an error message of "Shift to Park" this has been happening on and off for about 8 months. Now it goes on every time I try to shut my car off. I have to stop and start it up to 20 times before it shuts off. I am concerned that I may be somewhere and won't be able to turn it off. I know there have been recalls for this and I need this repaired. It's obviously a flaw on GMC and honestly, I should not have to pay for it. At this point, the car is only used close by my home. I don't feel safe using it. Please help. Not only me but all drivers affected. Thank you

Complaints 1-50 of 388, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2008
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
202610200Routine
202569000Routine
202461000Routine
202350410Routine
202252310Routine
2021156200Routine
2020106600Routine
2019 — this page388220Above average
2018398210Above average
2017707420Above average
2016236420Above average
2015243430Above average
2014463620Above average
2013135380Routine
2012296520Above average
20112695100Above average
2010343481Fatalities reported
20093317140Above average
20088545130Above average
2007428570Above average

Compare every Acadia year →

2019 GMC Acadia: questions buyers ask

Is the 2019 GMC Acadia a good car?

It is not among the Acadia years to avoid. Owners filed 388 complaints, against about 283 for a typical Acadia year. The most common complaint is about the transmission (33%). In NHTSA crash tests it scored 5 stars overall.

What is the most common problem with the 2019 GMC Acadia?

The transmission: 127 of the 388 complaints (33%) are about it. Owners most often say it sets off warning lights on the dash (25%), jerks, lurches or bucks (4%) and turns on the check engine light (4%). The typical report comes at 52,280 miles.

How many recalls does the 2019 GMC Acadia have?

2 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Feb 25, 2021. The largest, 20V668000, covered 194,105 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

At what mileage do 2019 GMC Acadia problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 40,000 miles. For the transmission the midpoint is 52,280 miles.

Are there service bulletins for the 2019 GMC Acadia?

The manufacturer filed 825 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the engine (141), the electrical system (122) and the transmission (56). They include a service campaign, N252494770-01, filed Jun 20, 2025. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

Reading this record

Complaint volume is well above typical for a single model year.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Feb 25, 2021. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.