2009 GMC Canyon Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Should You Buy the 2009 GMC Canyon?
The 2009 GMC Canyon is a moderately reliable mid-size pickup, a solid choice for buyers needing a no-frills work truck, but it's crucial to be aware of the persistent engine issues that can lead to significant repair bills. If you find one with a documented engine repair or a clean bill of health, it can be a durable vehicle, but neglect or an unaddressed cylinder head problem will drain your wallet.
Biggest Strengths
- Robust frame and powertrain components (excluding specific engine flaws)
- Simple, easy-to-diagnose mechanicals
- Excellent utility and payload capacity for its class
Top Risk Areas
The systems that break first on the 2009 GMC Canyon. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.
NHTSA Recalls
3 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
GM IS RECALLING 27,188 MY 2009 CADILLAC ESCALADE, ESCALADE HYBRID, ESCALADE ESV, AND ESCALADE EXT; CHEVROLET AVALANCHE, SUBURBAN, TAHOE, TAHOE HYBRID, AND COLORADO; AND GMC YUKON, YUKON HYBRID, YUKON XL, AND CANYON VEHICLES. THE FUEL SYSTEM CONTROL MODULES MAY HAVE A CONDITION IN WHICH AN ADHESIVE SEPARATION OF THE ROOM TEMPERATURE VULCANIZING (RTV) SEAL BETWEEN THE SEAL AND THE HOUSING MAY ALLOW WATER TO SEEP INTO THE MODULE.
CHILD SEAT
GM IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004-2011, CHEVROLET COLORADO, GMC CANYON, MODEL YEAR 2006, ISUZU I-280/I-350, AND MODEL YEAR 2007-2008, I-290/I-370, REGULAR CAB VEHICLES AND EXTENDED CAB VEHICLES WITHOUT A REAR SEAT AND EQUIPPED WITH A FRONT 60/40 SPLIT BENCH SEAT. THESE VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 225, "CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHORAGE SYSTEMS." THE TOP TETHER ANCHOR FOR THE FRONT CENTER SEAT IS NOT ACCESSIBLE AND THE OWNER MANUAL DOES NOT INCLUDE INSTRUCTIONS REGARDING HOW TO USE THE TOP TETHER.
What breaks on the 2009 GMC Canyon?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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GMC Canyon by Year
Compare reliability scores across nearby years of the GMC Canyon. Click any year for its full report.
If You're Considering This, Also Look At
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by reliability score.
Relevant Products for Your 2009 GMC Canyon
Parts and accessories matched to your 2009 GMC Canyon
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Frequently Asked Questions
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