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2013 GMC Acadia Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

Rating: 4.44
Based on 52 Owner Reviews â–¶
Eugene S | March 31, 2025
The 2013 GMC Acadia is a full-size crossover SUV that debuted in 2007 as part of GM's Lambda platform. It offers three rows of seating, making it popular for families. Key trims include the SLE, SLT, and Denali. New pricing ranged approximately from $34,000 to $47,000. Its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and available all-wheel drive contributed to its popularity as a practical family vehicle.
The Good

The 2013 GMC Acadia offers a comfortable ride and spacious interior, appealing to practical buyers needing family transportation. Its V6 engine provides adequate performance. The Acadia's Denali trim offered a more luxurious feel, appealing to emotional buyers seeking a touch of sophistication in a practical SUV.

The Bad

The 2013 GMC Acadia has known issues with its timing chain, which can be expensive to repair. Some owners have reported transmission problems and issues with the air conditioning system. Premature water pump failure is also a concern. Regular maintenance is crucial to mitigate these potential problems.

2013 GMC Acadia: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options: 3.6L V6
  • Horsepower: 288 hp @ 6300 rpm
  • Fuel Economy:
    • City: 17 mpg (FWD), 16 mpg (AWD)
    • Highway: 24 mpg (FWD), 23 mpg (AWD)
  • 0-60 Times: Approximately 8.1 seconds
  • Towing Capacity: 5,200 lbs (when properly equipped)
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • SLE: Standard features include cloth upholstery, tri-zone automatic climate control, a rearview camera, and a 6.5-inch touchscreen display.
    • SLT-1: Adds leather upholstery, heated front seats, remote vehicle start, and a power liftgate.
    • SLT-2: Includes features like a navigation system, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.
    • Denali: The top-of-the-line trim, featuring premium leather upholstery, wood trim, a dual-panel sunroof, and adaptive suspension for a smoother ride. It also has unique exterior styling cues.
  • Transmission: 6-speed automatic

All trims come standard with features such as power windows and locks, keyless entry, and a basic audio system. Higher trims offer more advanced safety and technology features. All-wheel drive is available on all trims except for some base SLE models. The Acadia provides ample cargo space, especially with the second and third-row seats folded down.

2013 GMC Acadia Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2013
Make GMC
Model Acadia
Trim -
Style -
Type Sport Utility Vehicle
Category Standard Sport Utility Vehicle
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City ROANOKE
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight 4850 pounds
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating 6459 pounds
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine LGH - DURAMAX
Engine Size 3.6L
Engine Cylinders 6
Transmission 6-Speed Automatic
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds 6-Speed
Drivetrain All-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) $47,945
Invoice Price $45,548
Delivery Charges $895

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What Problems Does the 2013 GMC Acadia Have?

The 2013 GMC Acadia has a history of frequently reported problems, particularly concerning its timing chain. This issue can lead to significant engine damage if left unaddressed and is a common complaint among owners. Symptoms include a rattling noise upon startup or during acceleration. Transmission issues, such as rough shifting or slipping, have also been reported. Another recurring problem involves the air conditioning system, with owners experiencing issues like refrigerant leaks or compressor failures.

Recalls for the 2013 Acadia have included issues related to the side-impact airbags and seat belt pretensioners, which could increase the risk of injury in a crash. Long-term reliability concerns also extend to water pump failure, which can cause overheating and further engine damage. Power steering problems and issues with the electronic stability control system have also been noted.

While some of these issues are common across multiple model years of the Acadia, the 2013 model appears to be particularly affected by the timing chain and air conditioning problems. Routine maintenance, including regular oil changes and inspections, is crucial for mitigating these risks. Potential buyers should thoroughly inspect the vehicle's service history and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic.

How long will the 2013 GMC Acadia last?

With proper maintenance, a 2013 GMC Acadia can reasonably be expected to reach 150,000 to 200,000 miles or provide 10-15 years of service. However, its long-term durability is often affected by issues like timing chain wear, transmission problems, and air conditioning failures. Regular oil changes, timely fluid flushes, and addressing any unusual noises or symptoms promptly are essential for maximizing its lifespan. The Acadia's weaknesses tend to manifest over time, particularly after the 100,000-mile mark, if preventative maintenance is neglected.
Positive Owner Reviews
Brian
This vehicle is great, my wife and I couldn't be happier with keith Eaton and the folks at perkins motor plex in mayfield, ky. Made us feel welcome and right at home and easy to deal with. Anyone needing a vehicle should check them out!
Acadia man
My Acadia is absolutely amazing and has been one of the best purchases of my life (in regards to automobiles). It is reliable, dependent, big enough to fit 6 people in the car, and actually gets decent gas mileage - especially for an SUV. It is comfortable enough and I love my moon roof!
NatashaKS
This car exceeds my expectations! Smooth ride, plenty of room and wonderful features! I’ve owned a few SUVs, and the Acadia is by far my favorite choice!
Negative Owner Reviews
SteveNovak
Have owned my Acadia Denali for 1 1/2 years. Been in the shop for almost 6 weeks for warrantee work during that time. Today I took it to the shop for a defect in the rail system for the driver's seat. The seat moved while driving it. The dealer wouldn't provide a loaner car while repairs were made. I call GM and they authorized a free loaner that ended up costing me $140! This is my last GM car.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2013 GMC Acadia offers a range of tech and safety features. Standard on most trims is a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with radio and available Bluetooth connectivity. Higher trims feature an upgraded infotainment system with navigation and a rearview camera. Entertainment options include a rear-seat DVD entertainment system.

Driver-assistance features such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are available on upper trims. Safety features include standard antilock brakes, traction control, stability control, and a suite of airbags, including side curtain airbags for all three rows. Optional safety features include forward collision alert and lane departure warning.

Crash-test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) generally awarded the 2013 Acadia with a 5-star overall safety rating. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) also gave the Acadia good ratings in several crash tests. Available options included a heads-up display and a premium Bose sound system. The Acadia provides a decent array of features for its time, enhancing both safety and convenience.

What Colors Options are Available?

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

2013 GMC Acadia Prices and Market Value

The 2013 GMC Acadia had a new price range of approximately $34,000 to $47,000, depending on the trim and options. Current used market prices typically range from $8,000 to $15,000, varying based on mileage, condition, and trim level. The Acadia has experienced significant depreciation due to its age and reported reliability issues. Factors affecting resale value include maintenance history, accident-free status, and low mileage. Denali trims tend to hold their value slightly better than lower trims. Overall, the Acadia's resale value is negatively impacted by its age and potential repair costs.

2013 GMC Acadia Cost of Ownership

The 2013 GMC Acadia can be considered moderately costly to own in the long term. Insurance costs are average for its class. Fuel costs are reasonable, but not exceptional, given its fuel economy. Maintenance and repair costs can be higher than average due to potential issues like timing chain repairs, transmission problems, and air conditioning failures. These factors contribute to a less economical ownership experience compared to some competitors.

2013 GMC Acadia Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity 22 gallons
City Mileage 16 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage 23 miles/gallon

2013 GMC Acadia Safety Rating

IIHS
Roof Strength Test Results Good
Rear Crash Protection/Head Restraint Ratings Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test Results Good
Side Impact Test Results Good

2013 GMC Acadia Recalls & Defects

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.
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.

2013 GMC Acadia Warranty

Basic
Original warranty 36 months / 36000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired
Drivetrain
Original warranty 60 months / 100000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired
Roadside
Original warranty 60 months / 100000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired
Rust
Original warranty 72 months / 100000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired

2013 GMC Acadia Insurance

Insurance for a 2013 GMC Acadia is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sport Utility Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2013 GMC Acadia Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?

The 2013 GMC Acadia competes with rivals like the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, and Chevrolet Traverse. In terms of performance, the Acadia's V6 engine is comparable to its competitors. Feature-wise, it offers a similar range of amenities, though some rivals may have more advanced technology. However, the Acadia falls short in reliability compared to the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot, which are known for their longevity and fewer reported issues.

The Ford Explorer offers a sportier driving experience, while the Chevrolet Traverse, built on the same platform, provides similar space and features but may be slightly more affordable. Considering reliability and overall value, the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot are arguably better alternatives. They generally offer better long-term dependability and lower maintenance costs. The Explorer is a good option for those prioritizing driving dynamics.

While the Acadia offers a compelling package, potential buyers should carefully weigh its reliability concerns against its price and features. If reliability is a top priority, the Highlander or Pilot would be a wiser choice.

Ranks #1496 SUV

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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 (5.0★)
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★)
1496 2013 GMC Acadia (5.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2013 GMC Acadia a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?

The 2013 GMC Acadia is ideal for families needing a spacious three-row SUV with comfortable seating. Whether it's worth buying depends on individual priorities and budget. If purchased used, a thorough inspection is crucial, particularly checking for timing chain and transmission issues. Lower trims may offer better value due to the depreciation. The Denali trim provides a more luxurious experience, but its added cost may not be justified considering the potential reliability concerns. Overall, it's worth considering if acquired at a reasonable price and with a clean maintenance record, but buyers should be aware of potential repair costs.

2013 GMC Acadia Owner Reviews

4.44
Consumer Rating, Based on 52 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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Regretfull buyer on January 23, 2025

I have a 2013 GMC Acadia Denali and it is the worst

I have a 2013 GMC Acadia Denali and it is the worst vehicle I have ever owned. I have had over $10,000.00 of warranty work done and that includes a new transmission. The vehicle looks great and has a ton of options. Other than the motor and transmission it has been great. I have had nothing go wrong with the interior options. My issues have all been with the motor. Thank goodness for the extened warranty that I purchased. If you are looking to purchase this vehicle I would highly recommend and extended warranty, you're going to need it.

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Kendra on October 31, 2020

Love my new Acadia

I love my new 2013 GMC Acadia it’s exactly what I was looking for!!!!!!!!!!!!! It’s great for my family. It is the second GMC Acadia i have owned

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Brian on October 21, 2020

Thanks for the amazing vehicle and service!

This vehicle is great, my wife and I couldn't be happier with keith Eaton and the folks at perkins motor plex in mayfield, ky. Made us feel welcome and right at home and easy to deal with. Anyone needing a vehicle should check them out!

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Acadia man on August 26, 2020

Way better than a mini van !

My Acadia is absolutely amazing and has been one of the best purchases of my life (in regards to automobiles). It is reliable, dependent, big enough to fit 6 people in the car, and actually gets decent gas mileage - especially for an SUV. It is comfortable enough and I love my moon roof!

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Doug on January 20, 2020

Great Value, Roomy and Comfortable

This vehicle performed very well and met my needs. Very comfortable with nice styling and plenty of room. Perfect vehicle for the family vacation or a road trip with friends.

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NatashaKS on July 20, 2019

Favorite car so far!

This car exceeds my expectations! Smooth ride, plenty of room and wonderful features! I’ve owned a few SUVs, and the Acadia is by far my favorite choice!

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Pam on July 1, 2019

Great vehicle

First GMC Acadia I have ever owned. I love it. I would recommend buying this vehicle to my friends and family. The back up camera is a great feature.

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NC_Seller on May 31, 2019

Tons of room!

I love all the room and storage in this car. The back up camera and Bose sound system is fabulous. I’m ruined! I’ll never be able to own another car without leather interior or heated seats.

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adamsfamilyfour on May 8, 2019

Expensive to fix but tons of room for a family.

Excellent family vehicle! It has tons of room for kids and toys! We have taken this car on many long trips and this vehicle is sturdy and comfortable . Captains chairs in the second row make this a great car for a family as the kids can't touch each other and the third row is easy to access.

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Gabbycst on May 2, 2019

Runs great just a lot of cosmetic issues

I like the car. No problems except the check air bag light has been on for a couple weeks now. Wish I got better customer service when I bought it.

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Eugene S

Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.