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2012 GMC Acadia Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

Rating: 4.25
Based on 100 Owner Reviews â–¶
Jovan | March 31, 2025
The 2012 GMC Acadia is a full-size crossover SUV that offers spacious seating for up to eight passengers. Introduced in 2007 as part of GM's Lambda platform, the Acadia provides car-like handling with SUV practicality. Key trims include SLE, SLT, and Denali. Pricing ranged from approximately $33,000 to $48,000 when new. Its popularity stems from its comfortable ride, ample cargo space, and available all-wheel drive, making it a versatile family vehicle.
The Good

The 2012 GMC Acadia offers a comfortable ride and spacious interior (appealing emotionally). Practically, it boasts decent performance from its V6 engine and available all-wheel drive. While reliability can be a concern (see weaknesses), it provides good value for families needing seating for up to eight.

The Bad

Known weaknesses of the 2012 GMC Acadia include potential issues with the timing chain, transmission, and air conditioning system. Watch for signs of these problems during inspection. High mileage examples might require significant maintenance. Overall reliability isn't the best in its class. The interior plastics can feel cheap.

2012 GMC Acadia: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options: 3.6L V6
  • Horsepower: 288 hp @ 6300 rpm
  • Fuel Economy:
    • FWD: 17 mpg city / 24 mpg highway
    • AWD: 16 mpg city / 23 mpg highway
  • 0-60 Times: Approximately 8.1 seconds
  • Towing Capacity: Up to 5,200 lbs (when properly equipped)
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • SLE:
      • Cloth upholstery
      • Tri-zone automatic climate control
      • Cruise control
      • CD player with satellite radio
      • Bluetooth connectivity
    • SLT: (adds to SLE)
      • Leather upholstery
      • Heated front seats
      • Power liftgate
      • Rear parking sensors
      • Remote vehicle start
    • Denali: (adds to SLT)
      • Unique exterior styling
      • Upgraded leather upholstery
      • Heated and cooled front seats
      • Navigation system
      • Bose sound system
      • Head-Up Display
  • Additional features available across trims (often as options):
    • Sunroof
    • Rear-seat entertainment system
    • All-wheel drive
    • Navigation system
    • Blind-spot monitoring
    • Rear cross-traffic alert

The 2012 GMC Acadia provides ample features that vary based on trim level and optional packages. It is a crossover SUV designed for both comfort and utility, making it a popular choice for families.

2012 GMC Acadia Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2012
Make GMC
Model Acadia
Trim -
Style -
Type Sport Utility Vehicle
Category Standard Sport Utility Vehicle
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City WENTZVILLE
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight 4656 pounds
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating 6411 pounds
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine LLT
Engine Size 3.6L
Engine Cylinders 6
Transmission 6-Speed Automatic
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds 6-Speed
Drivetrain Front-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) $35,310
Invoice Price $33,545
Delivery Charges $825

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What Problems Does the 2012 GMC Acadia Have?

Frequently reported problems for the 2012 GMC Acadia often center around the 3.6L V6 engine. Timing chain issues are common, potentially leading to costly repairs. Symptoms include a rattling noise upon startup or a check engine light. Transmission problems, such as rough shifting or slipping, have also been reported. Some owners have experienced issues with the air conditioning system, particularly the compressor. There have been recalls related to seat belt cables that may separate and side-impact airbags that may not deploy properly. Long-term reliability concerns involve the durability of the timing chain and transmission, especially in models with higher mileage or those that haven't received diligent maintenance. Power steering problems have been reported as well. Specific model years around 2012, including 2007-2010 Acadias, generally experienced these engine and transmission issues at higher rates compared to later model years after GM made improvements to those components.

How long will the 2012 GMC Acadia last?

The 2012 GMC Acadia can typically provide 150,000 to 200,000 miles or 10-13 years of service with proper maintenance. However, long-term durability hinges significantly on consistent oil changes (to mitigate timing chain issues) and transmission fluid services. Weaknesses over time include the aforementioned timing chain wear, potential transmission failure, and deterioration of suspension components. Neglecting maintenance drastically reduces its lifespan. Rust can also become a factor in northern climates. Good maintenance can keep it running reliably, while neglect can lead to expensive repairs.
Positive Owner Reviews
David Myers
Bought 2012 in 2021. I have put 18,000 miles on it. Had to do brakes, CV joint, and the thermostat. Otherwise, it runs very good.
Kevin
Definitely fits the needs of my children and me! Safe for all seasons. All wheel drive is huge for northern Minnesota! I Couldn’t be happier!
Hickory stick
Met my needs for my family. The vehicle is great but the fixing of problems was not. Personal in service didn't read computer as to what was wrong. Independent mechanic read computer and fixed it on first try.
Negative Owner Reviews
Dk Knygg
2012 Acadia- Very bad. Father of 5 Litl ones. Bought the Acadia for comfort for our family. It is roomy. Can’t keep it running. Transmission is very bad. Keeps running hot. Very nice exterior an interior. But no good to me if it doesn’t run. I can’t get to work to feed my children. Bought 2nd hand from a car dealer. Can’t just go out an buy another car. No $$$ in the till.
Former GM Guy
Good looking, pretty comfortable vehicle.......until it is no longer mobile. As a Denali owner, they have many comforts that are appealing but they all break in short time. This gets expensive very quickly! The engine has plenty of power......for a few miles. This has to be the worst engine platform ever created;. Think YUGO as a quality option.
Kristi
The basis of this review is simply the reliability - or complete lack of reliability, which is the case with us. We bought this used, we drove it for three months and it has been in the shop almost continuously since then with various, catastrophic ailments. The timing belts broke, which caused a bent rod and necessitated an engine replacement. Then the computer went out. Replaced that. Now it just stalls randomly. There's no rhyme or reason to the problems we're having. Avoid this vehicle at all costs.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2012 GMC Acadia comes with a decent array of built-in tech and safety features. Standard features include a CD player with satellite radio, Bluetooth connectivity, and tri-zone automatic climate control. Higher trims offer a touchscreen navigation system, a Bose premium sound system, and a rear-seat entertainment system with a DVD player. Driver-assistance features, which were often optional, include rear parking sensors, a rearview camera, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. Safety features include standard antilock brakes, stability control, and a full complement of airbags.

The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) gave the 2012 GMC Acadia an overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) rated the Acadia as "Good" in most crash tests. Optional features, particularly on higher trims, could significantly enhance the technology and entertainment experience. The Denali trim included features like a head-up display. While not the most advanced compared to newer vehicles, the 2012 Acadia offered a respectable set of features for its time, focused on family comfort and safety.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Quicksilver Metallic
Summit White
Carbon Black Metallic
Crystal Red Tintcoat
Sonoma Red Metallic
Atlantis Blue Metallic
Mocha Steel Metallic
Iridium Metallic
Interior Colors
Dark Cashmere
Ebony
Light Titanium

2012 GMC Acadia Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2012 GMC Acadia ranged from about $33,000 to $48,000 depending on the trim and options. Current used market prices typically range from $7,000 to $15,000, influenced by mileage, condition, and trim level. The Acadia has depreciated significantly, as expected for a vehicle of its age. Factors affecting resale value include its maintenance history, any accident damage, and the presence of desirable features like all-wheel drive or a navigation system. Higher mileage examples, especially those with known mechanical issues, command lower prices.

2012 GMC Acadia Cost of Ownership

The 2012 GMC Acadia is moderately costly to own. Insurance costs are average for its class. Fuel economy is subpar, especially in city driving. Maintenance can be expensive, particularly if timing chain or transmission issues arise. Repair costs can also be high due to the complexity of the engine and transmission. Long-term, it's not the most economical choice due to potential repair needs and fuel consumption. Budgeting for potential major repairs is advisable.

2012 GMC Acadia Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity 22 gallons
City Mileage 17 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage 24 miles/gallon

2012 GMC Acadia Safety Rating

NHTSA
Side Driver Rating
Frontal Passenger Rating
Rollover Rating
Side Rear Passenger Rating
Frontal Driver Rating
IIHS
Roof Strength Test Results Good
Rear Crash Protection/Head Restraint Ratings Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test Results Good
Side Impact Test Results Good

2012 GMC Acadia Recalls & Defects

Visibility:windshield Wiper/Washer:linkages
Recall date 2012-04-09
Recall no. 12v151000
Source NHTSA
Summary General Motors (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2011-2012 Chevrolet Traverse, Buick Enclave, and GMC Acadia Vehicles Currently Registered IN Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, NEW Hampshire, NEW Jersey, NEW York, North Dakota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming and THE District OF Columbia. Snow or ICE Buildup ON THE Windshield or ON THE Wiper MAY Restrict THE Movement OF THE Wiper Arm, Causing THE Wiper ARM TO Loosen and Cause THE Wiper TO Become Inoperative.
Consequence IF This Occurs, Driver Visibility Could BE Reduced, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Tighten THE Wiper ARM Nuts, Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON April 20, 2012.
Notes Gm?s Safety Recall Campaign Number IS 12036. Customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:side/Window
Recall date 2014-03-17
Recall no. 14v118000
Source NHTSA
Summary General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2008-2013 Buick Enclave and GMC Acadia and 2009-2013 Chevrolet Traverse and 2008-2010 Saturn Outlook Vehicles. IN THE Affected Vehicles, Increased Resistance IN THE Driver and Passenger Seat Mounted Side Impact AIR BAG (Siab) Wiring Harnesses MAY Result IN THE Siab and Seat Belt Pretensioners NOT Deploying IN THE Event OF A Crash.
Consequence Failure OF THE Side Impact AIR Bags and Seat Belt Pretensioners TO Deploy IN A Crash Increase THE Risk OF Injury TO THE Driver and Front Seat Occupant.
Remedy GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Affected Harness Connections With Soldered Connections, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON June 16, 2014. Buick Owners MAY Contact THE Owner Center AT 1-800-521-7300, Chevrolet Owners AT 1-866-694-6546, Saturn AT 1-800-553-6000, and GMC Owners AT 1-866-996-9463. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 14030. Note: Vehicles Repaired AS Part OF Customer Satisfaction Campaign 10085 and Special Coverage 10335 Have Already HAD THE Subject Condition Repaired and Therefore ARE NOT Included IN THE Safety Recall.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Seat Belts
Recall date 2014-05-20
Recall no. 14v266000
Source NHTSA
Summary General Motors IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2009-2014 Buick Enclave Vehicles Manufactured April 14, 2008, Through MAY 14, 2014, Chevrolet Traverse Vehicles Manufactured June 6, 2008, Through MAY 14, 2014, and GMC Acadia Vehicles Manufactured April 9, 2008, Through MAY 14, 2014, and 2009-2010 Saturn Outlook Vehicles Manufactured April 14, 2008, Through March 18, 2010. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE Flexible Steel Cable That Connects THE Seatbelt TO THE Front Outboard Seating Positions MAY Fatigue and Separate Over Time.
Consequence IF THE Steel Cable Becomes Fatigued and Separates, THE Seatbelt MAY NOT Properly Restrain THE Seat Occupant Increasing THE Risk OF AN Injury IN A Crash.
Remedy General Motors Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect And, IF Necessary, Repair and Replace THE LAP Pretensioner, Free OF Charge. Parts ARE NOT Currently Available. AN Interim Notice Will BE Mailed TO Owners IN July 2014. A Second Notice Will BE Mailed TO Owners Once Parts Become Available. THE Recall FOR THE 2009-2010 Model Years Began ON July 11, 2014. THE Interim Letter FOR THE 2011-2014 Model Years Were Distributed ON July 11, 2014. Owners MAY Contact General Motors AT 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), 1-800-521-7300 (Buick), 1-800-462-8782 (gmc), 1-800-553-6000 (saturn). General Motors Recall Number FOR This Campaign IS 14187.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Structure:body:hatchback/Liftgate
Recall date 2015-06-30
Recall no. 15v415000
Source NHTSA
Summary General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2008-2012 Buick Enclave Vehicles Manufactured January 3, 2007, TO February 29, 2012, 2009-2012 Chevrolet Traverse Vehicles Manufactured July 6, 2008, TO March 9, 2012, 2007-2012 GMC Acadia Vehicles Manufactured September 15, 2006, TO February 29, 2012, and 2007-2010 Saturn Outlook Vehicles Manufactured August 17, 2006, TO March 18, 2010. THE Affected Vehicles, Equipped With THE Power Liftgate Option, Have GAS Struts That Hold THE Power Liftgate UP When Open. These Struts MAY Prematurely Wear and THE Open Liftgate MAY Suddenly Fall.
Consequence IF THE Open Liftgate Unexpectedly Falls, IT MAY Strike A Person, Increasing Their Risk OF Injury.
Remedy GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Update THE Software FOR THE Power Liftgate Actuator Motor Control Unit SO That THE Motor Will Prevent THE Rapid Closing OF THE Lift Gate, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON November 15, 2016. Owners MAY Contact Buick Customer Service AT 1-800-521-7300, Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020, GMC Customer Service AT 1-800-462-8782, and Saturn Customer Service AT 1-800-553-6000. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 15240.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:critical Fasteners
Recall date 2021-04-08
Recall no. 21v246000
Source NHTSA
Summary General Motors, LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain 2010-2015, 2017 Buick Enclave, 2010-2019 Chevrolet Traverse, and 2011-2016 GMC Acadia Vehicles. THE Side Curtain AIR Bags MAY NOT BE Properly Attached.
Consequence Unsecured Side Curtain AIR Bags MAY NOT Perform AS Intended, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect And, IF Necessary, Realign or Replace THE Weld Nuts, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed ON MAY 24, 2021. Owners MAY Contact Buick Customer Service AT 1-800-521-7300, Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020, and GMC Customer Service AT 1-800-462-8782. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS N202321200.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.

2012 GMC Acadia Insurance

Insurance for a 2012 GMC Acadia is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sport Utility Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2012 GMC Acadia Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?

The 2012 GMC Acadia competes with vehicles like the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, and Chevrolet Traverse (its platform-mate). In terms of performance, it's comparable to the Explorer and Traverse, but the Highlander and Pilot offer slightly better fuel economy. Feature-wise, it holds its own, especially in higher trims. However, the Acadia's reliability is generally considered lower than the Toyota and Honda options. Price-wise, it's typically similar to its rivals on the used market.

Alternatives to consider include the Toyota Highlander, which offers superior reliability, and the Honda Pilot, known for its practicality and resale value. The Ford Explorer provides a more engaging driving experience. While the Acadia offers good space and comfort, its reliability concerns make the Highlander or Pilot potentially better choices for long-term ownership. The Chevrolet Traverse, being mechanically similar, suffers from the same reliability drawbacks but may be found at a slightly lower price.

Ranks #1523 SUV

1 2023 Toyota 4Runner (5.0★)
2 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid (5.0★)
3 2023 Lexus GX (0.0★)
4 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV (0.0★)
5 2024 Subaru Crosstrek (5.0★)
6 2024 BMW iX (0.0★)
7 2023 Ford Bronco Sport (3.0★)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB (0.0★)
9 2024 Chevrolet Trax (5.0★)
10 2023 Audi A4 allroad (0.0★)
11 2023 Hyundai Kona N (0.0★)
12 2023 Nissan ARIYA (5.0★)
1523 2012 GMC Acadia (5.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2012 GMC Acadia a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?

The 2012 GMC Acadia is ideal for families needing seating for up to eight and value interior space and comfort. Whether it's worth buying depends on the price and condition. It's best considered as a used vehicle, but a thorough inspection is crucial, paying close attention to the timing chain, transmission, and AC system. Lower mileage examples with documented maintenance history are preferable. The SLT trim offers a good balance of features. If reliability is a top priority, alternatives like the Toyota Highlander or Honda Pilot are better choices. Buying is conditional on finding a well-maintained example at a reasonable price.

2012 GMC Acadia Owner Reviews

4.25
Overall rating
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Daisy on August 23, 2023

A problematic car from the beginning

Was very disappointed in my purchase of my used 2012 gmc Arcadia. I love how much space the inside of the car has while keeping it as a smaller suv which makes it easier to drive. Air conditioner lines in this vehicle need to be rethoughtout so consumers don't experience problems from it. Transmission issues in these vehicles are very common but seem to be ignored or overlooked.

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David Myers on June 26, 2023

Good car.

Bought 2012 in 2021. I have put 18,000 miles on it. Had to do brakes, CV joint, and the thermostat. Otherwise, it runs very good.

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Dk Knygg on June 19, 2023

Would never buy a 2012 Acadia - too many problems.

2012 Acadia- Very bad. Father of 5 Litl ones. Bought the Acadia for comfort for our family. It is roomy. Can’t keep it running. Transmission is very bad. Keeps running hot. Very nice exterior an interior. But no good to me if it doesn’t run. I can’t get to work to feed my children. Bought 2nd hand from a car dealer. Can’t just go out an buy another car. No $$$ in the till.

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Disillusioned on June 12, 2023

Money Pit

We bought the car used, had lot's of issues right out the gate and we had to really push hard on the dealer to fix the safety issues it had (We live in WI and safety inspection and revealing to customer issues is mandatory for dealers here). Every month something new is braking, We have sunk more money into this thing than I ever did on much older cars. Now the transmission is starting to fail and we still owe money on this pig. Also has terrible gas mileage. I have been a loyal GM guy most of my life but this has me rethinking that.

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Former GM Guy on February 27, 2023

Nice until it isn't

Good looking, pretty comfortable vehicle.......until it is no longer mobile. As a Denali owner, they have many comforts that are appealing but they all break in short time. This gets expensive very quickly! The engine has plenty of power......for a few miles. This has to be the worst engine platform ever created;. Think YUGO as a quality option.

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Mom of 3 Nana of 4 on May 13, 2021

Don't waste your money

Loved this car until a year after I have had it everything is wrong with it cost more to fix it then it is worth. I have had to replace the alternator 5 times. It don't shift, oil leaks, traction control don't work, camera quit, among many other things. Not reliable especially while driving with kids and babies when the cars alternator just goes out in the cold freezing rain

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KL on February 25, 2021

xxx! Waste of Money!

I purchased a 2012 GMC Acadia about two years ago. It only had one owner before me, who properly maintained the vehicle, and I have properly maintained it as well since purchasing it. I am now at 120,000 miles and my timing chain needs to be replaced, cheapest quote is $3,000, and who even knows if that will fix all my issues. I bought American made thinking it would perform for a long time, but honestly, after this car (as much as I love it), the mechanical issues are WAY TOO MUCH and WAY TOO EXPENSIVE, I will NEVER buy a GMC product again. My mechanic called GM to talk to them about this timing chain issue since it seems to be an issue a lot of Acadia owners are facing around the same mileage, and they did not give two xxxxs about my issue. Poor company to deal with honestly. Guess from here on out it will be buy foreign, they obviously care about the worth of American's money more than American companies. Sad but true.

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BaldyA4 on February 1, 2021

Nice SUV for Moms that need a lot of cargo space

We like the Acadia. It has performed well with only a few items that needed repairing. Blower fan behind the glove box. A/C refrigerant leak. Transmission shift to D from R hesitation. Wish we had opted for the AWD but the FWD has been adequate. Good styling and comfortable. Just like a lot of newer car designs, too much plastic in the engine bay. I do all my own maintenance/repairs and this SUV is not too difficult work on.

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Famof6 on December 27, 2020

I was glad to get rid of it

We wanted an SUV with AWD and 3rd row seat and we thought this would be a great fit. It was absolutely not. We sank thousands of dollars in repairs to the wheels, transmission, shocks/struts, and air conditioning. Started having problems when we owned it 3 months. The alternator went out when we were on vacation and we were stuck in another city for hours to shell out several hundred dollars in repairs. Not reliable and wouldn't trust my family in this car. We just got rid of it this month and I've never been so happy to let a car go.

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Acadia on December 12, 2020

Happy with it

I love the size and the room I have. With 3 children space has been an issue. This vehicle fits all my needs and looks nice.

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Jovan

Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.