2021 GMC Canyon recalls, problems & safety ratings
NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2021 GMC Canyon and 12 owner complaints. The most-reported problem areas are steering (2), power train (2), unknown or other (2). It earned a 4-star overall NHTSA safety rating. EPA-rated fuel economy is 21–23 mpg combined, depending on configuration.
The 2021 ranks #3 of 13 Canyon model years for fewest complaints (2012–2026), with fewer complaints than the average year (84). It has 2 recalls vs. an average of 2.2 per model year.
Recalls 2
Every recall NHTSA lists for the 2021 GMC Canyon. Not every recall applies to every vehicle, so check your VIN. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer.
Equipment · other · labels
Problem: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 GMC Canyon vehicles. The load carrying capacity printed on the Tire and Loading Information placard is 22.5 kg (51 lbs.) more than intended. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
Risk: An incorrect label may lead to unintentionally overloading the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: GM will mail owners a new B-pillar label, free of charge. Owners may apply the label, or bring it to a dealer for installation. Owner notification letters were mailed on August 17, 2021. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N212340735.
Seat belts
Problem: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Chevrolet Bolt EV and 2021 GMC Canyon and Sierra 1500, 2500 and 3500, Yukon, Yukon XL, Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV and Chevrolet Blazer, Camaro, Colorado, Equinox, Silverado 1500, 2500 and 3500, Suburban and Tahoe vehicles. Incorrect bolts may have been used at one or more fastening locations to secure the seat belts to the vehicle. If an incorrect bolt was used, the seat belt may not be properly attached to the vehicle.
Risk: If a seat belt assembly is not properly attached to the vehicle, the seat belt may not properly restrain an occupant in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Fix: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the suspect bolts, free of charge. The recall began January 29, 2021. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8785, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N202322230.
Common problems
From complaints owners filed with NHTSA. Complaints aren't verified, but patterns across hundreds of owners point to known weak spots.
Most-reported problem areas
By the numbers
Recent owner reports
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Canyon. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the brakes became inoperable and the vehicle shut off. The contact repeatedly pumped the brake pedal to stop the vehicle. The contact stated that there was a large cloud of white smoke and immediately associated the failure with the vacuum pump. The contact over safely, the vehicl…
While driving a few days ago, power steering abruptly stopped working and a service power steering message appeared. It was very difficult to steer the vehicle back home. I've tried replacing the battery and resetting the steering sensor to no avail.
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Canyon. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the driver’s side low beam headlight failed to illuminate as intended. No warning light was illuminated. In addition, the contact stated that upon further inspection, an unknown electrical fuse was burned. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed; however, a cause…
Safety ratings
2021 GMC Canyon PU/CC 2WD
2021 GMC Canyon PU/EC 2WD
2021 GMC Canyon PU/CC 4WD
Fuel economy
EPA ratings for common configurations of the 2021 GMC Canyon.
Canyon 2WD
Auto 6-spd · 4 cyl · 2.5 L
Regular
Canyon 2WD
Auto 6-spd · 4 cyl · 2.8 L · Diesel · Turbo
Diesel
Canyon 4WD
Auto 6-spd · 4 cyl · 2.5 L
Regular
Canyon 4WD
Auto 6-spd · 4 cyl · 2.8 L · Diesel · Turbo
Diesel
Other model years
Questions
How many recalls does the 2021 GMC Canyon have?
NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2021 GMC Canyon, most recently for equipment · other · labels (07/01/2021). Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer. Enter your VIN to check whether a recall applies to your vehicle.
What are the most common problems with the 2021 GMC Canyon?
Based on 12 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported areas are steering (2), power train (2), unknown or other (2).
Is the 2021 GMC Canyon safe?
The 2021 GMC Canyon earned a 4-star overall rating in NHTSA's 5-star safety ratings.
Is the 2021 a good year for the GMC Canyon?
The 2021 ranks #3 of 13 Canyon model years for fewest complaints (2012–2026), with fewer complaints than the average year (84). It has 2 recalls vs. an average of 2.2 per model year.
What gas mileage does the 2021 GMC Canyon get?
EPA ratings for the 2021 GMC Canyon range from 21 to 23 mpg combined, depending on configuration.
Own a 2021 GMC Canyon in South Carolina?
Our mobile mechanics diagnose and fix the problems above at your home, office or fleet lot in Lexington, Columbia and the Midlands, with dealer-grade scan tools.
Related vehicles
Sources: NHTSA recalls, complaints and 5-Star Safety Ratings APIs; EPA fueleconomy.gov. Data retrieved November 2, 2026. NHTSA model names used: CANYON, Canyon.