2012 GMC Canyon Recalls, Problems & Safety Rating

2012 GMC Canyon recalls

Most common 2012 GMC Canyon problems

Problem areas named in the 23 complaints owners filed with NHTSA.

Problem area	Reports
Electrical System	9
Electronic Stability Control (Esc)	2
Service Brakes	2
Air Bags	2
Suspension	2
Steering	2
Latches/Locks/Linkages	1
Power Train	1
Exterior Lighting	1
Service Brakes, Hydraulic	1

What owners report

2025-09-20, Air Bags
Seatbelt light for the front driver continues to turn on even when buckled in and will ding to notify that it’s not buckled despite it buckled in. This is a safety issue as the airbag light also remains on because of it.

2024-05-07, Structure
The contact owns a 2012 GMC Canyon. The contact noticed that there was wiring appearing from the rear end of the vehicle. The contact stated that the rear sub frame was rusted and cracked. Additionally, the parking brake cable was hanging from the vehicle. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact deemed the vehicle unsafe to drive. The dealer was not contacted, and the vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 139,908. The VIN was not available.

2024-03-03, Electrical System
On all chevy / canyon models 05 thru 12 there is an issue called "passlock" which prevents the vehicle from starting, it will leave you stranded. The failure is the ignition housing with the passlock sensor, not the actual key / tumbler, the part has to be replaced. The problem / failure is so common that you can "google" 2005 thru 2012 chevy colorado gmc canyon passlock issue" and find the root and a how to fix / repair guides. I spent almost $600 at the GMC dealer, they found no error or trouble codes in either on board computer, I showed the service advisor the issue, online diagnosis and suggested the repair. This is so dam common it should be a defective part recall and all repairs and

2023-01-23, Electrical System
Within past year, 2022 to present vehicle will on average 4-5 times a month fail to start. Key in ignition, to accessory mode than fail to turn over. All indicator lamps on dash display. Door chime sounds. Nothing to indicate a problem. Had GMC dealership troubleshoot. They found no codes and vehicle would start fine for them (of course). New battery had been installed, starter was tested, fuel injectors cleaned. MY online research has found a similar problem with multiple year GMC vehicles beginning in 2009 thru 2014. Ignition lock cylinder issue due to pass lock sensor. Passlock sensor malfunctions thus requiring a 10 minute wait prior to restarting vehicle. A vehicle requiring 10 m

2022-08-05, Electrical System
The Passcode Anti-theft system randomly triggers when attempting to start the vehicle. When it triggers, the vehicle cannot be started for at least 10 minutes. I have had this system trigger multiple times at home, at the grocery store, and at a gas station. I am afraid that the device will eventually leave me stranded, so I am having the device replace for the cost of over $700.

2012 GMC Canyon questions

Does the 2012 GMC Canyon have any recalls?

Yes. NHTSA lists 2 safety recalls for the 2012 GMC Canyon: Latches/Locks/Linkages:Hood:Latch; Seat Belts:Front. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.

What are the most common problems with the 2012 GMC Canyon?

Based on 23 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are Electrical System (9), Electronic Stability Control (Esc) (2), Service Brakes (2).

How do I check if a recall on my 2012 GMC Canyon has been fixed?

Enter your 17-character VIN in our VIN recall check. It shows open recalls that have not been repaired on your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.