The Good
The 2005 GMC Canyon offers a blend of practicality and capability. Its manageable size and available 4WD appeal to practical buyers. Performance is adequate for daily tasks, with the inline-5 providing reasonable power. It offers a comfortable ride compared to some rivals, and its design is generally considered ruggedly handsome. It represents good value for those seeking a smaller, more fuel-efficient pickup option. The truck's reliability, while not perfect, is generally acceptable for its age.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2005 GMC Canyon include potential issues with the four-wheel-drive system, particularly the actuator. Some owners have reported issues with the HVAC system and the Passlock security system. Rust can be a concern, especially in areas with road salt. The interior materials can feel cheap, and the inline-5 engine, while adequate, isn't particularly refined. Check for transmission issues during test drives.
2005 GMC Canyon: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
2.8L Inline-4: Standard engine
3.5L Inline-5: Optional, more powerful engine - Horsepower:
2.8L Inline-4: Approximately 175 hp
3.5L Inline-5: Approximately 220 hp - Fuel Economy (estimated):
2.8L Inline-4: 22 mpg city / 28 mpg highway (RWD)
3.5L Inline-5: 18 mpg city / 24 mpg highway (RWD) - 0-60 Times (estimated):
2.8L Inline-4: Around 9-10 seconds
3.5L Inline-5: Around 8 seconds - Towing Capacity (depending on configuration):
Ranges from approximately 4,000 lbs to 6,000 lbs. Crew cab models typically have lower towing capacity. - Trim Level Features:
Base: Included standard features like cloth upholstery, manual windows and locks, and a basic audio system.
SLE: Added features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, upgraded cloth upholstery, and an improved audio system.
SLT: Offered premium features like leather upholstery, alloy wheels, chrome exterior trim, and a premium audio system. Optional features included four-wheel drive, sunroof, and various convenience packages. All trims offered standard safety features such as antilock brakes and airbags. Additional features depended on options packages selected by the original buyer.
2005 GMC Canyon Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2005 |
| Make | GMC |
| Model | Canyon |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sport Utility Vehicle Cab; |
| Category | Medium Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | - |
Dimensions
| Doors | - |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3.4L V6 |
| Engine Size | 3.4L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Four-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2005 GMC Canyon Have?
How long will the 2005 GMC Canyon last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Crash-test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) generally showed acceptable performance. The Canyon received mixed ratings, with some tests showing good protection for occupants and others indicating potential vulnerabilities, particularly in side-impact collisions. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) also conducted crash tests, and results varied depending on the specific test. Optional features included things like cruise control, power windows and locks, and remote keyless entry. The Canyon lacked modern features like Bluetooth connectivity, navigation systems, and rearview cameras, which are common in newer vehicles. Given the age of the vehicle, buyers should prioritize a thorough inspection of the safety systems to ensure they are functioning correctly.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2005 GMC Canyon Prices and Market Value
2005 GMC Canyon Cost of Ownership
2005 GMC Canyon Fuel Efficiency
2005 GMC Canyon Safety Rating
NHTSA
2005 GMC Canyon Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2005 GMC Canyon Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle Cab;?
In terms of performance, the Canyon's inline-5 engine was adequate but not as powerful or refined as some of its rivals' V6 options. Feature-wise, the Canyon was generally on par with its competitors, offering similar levels of equipment depending on the trim level. Reliability is where the Canyon falls slightly behind the Tacoma, which is known for its exceptional longevity. A better alternative, if reliability is a top priority, would be a Toyota Tacoma. If budget is the biggest concern, a well-maintained Ford Ranger might be a comparable option, albeit with a slightly less refined driving experience. A Nissan Frontier from the same era could also be considered, offering a similar blend of price, features, and performance to the Canyon.
Ranks #436 Truck
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Tundra | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2022 Honda Ridgeline | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Ford E-Transit Chassis | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Cab Chassis | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD | (0.0★) |
| 6 | 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz | (5.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Nissan Frontier | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Ram 4500 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2022 Jeep Gladiator | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2012 Suzuki Equator | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2009 Mitsubishi Raider | (5.0★) |
| 436 | 2005 GMC Canyon | (4.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2005 GMC Canyon a Good Sport Utility Vehicle Cab;?
Jrock on March 29, 2024
Great truck184,000 and still runs like new! I bought this truck in 2008 with 30,000 miles on it. So far I replaced the rear end (towed alot) and alternator. They were the only two major things the rest has been just wear and tear.
Rene on January 1, 2023
2005 Colorado problemsI've owned a 2005 Colorado for 17 yrs, got it with 33k on it & now have 340k on it. It now has a antifreeze leak in cyl2 & 5. The airbag light has been on for the last 100k. The dash light dimmer has been a problem for the last 100k. I've replaced the rotors once & the front hubs 3 times. There's a short in the dash that happens whenever if feels like. I just thump the dash & that clears it up for a couple months, sometimes. The wiper control now fails me 50% of the time. The tail gate handle has fallen apart, the heater control module failed once. The drivers side power window won't work without some physical help going up & down. I replaced the rear drums & brakes at 200k. Replaced the front brakes 5 times now. I also replaced the water pump at 280k. I'm also on my 3rd set of tires & they look pretty good still. I certainly had my share of problems with this truck but I once owned a Ford f150 & found it to be the worst truck I ever own compared to my chevy. So would I ever buy another one? xxxx yes, in fact I just found a 2005 canyon crew with low kms & I'm looking forward to picking it up shortly into the new yr. Now you might ask why the xxxx would i want another one after going through all the troubles I've experienced. Well simply put I know what to expect with these trucks & how to fix them. It doesn't matter what brand you want to be loyal to its more about what your prepared to tolerate & deal with when problems arise. Really for the most part there all junk & they all have there own problems, you just have to decide which one you're willing to deal with.
Tucker on November 28, 2022
GMC canyon z71 off road2005 canyon bought new has 191,000 only problem hub bearing,heater relay 3 x,just replace fuel pump check engine light been on a lot for sensers
Texican73 on April 1, 2021
Owned Since NewI've had this little truck since I ordered it new in April 2005 / I5 engine / Z71 option, automatic transmission and now with 147K miles. It has never failed me. The only repairs have been 2 water pumps - they don't seem to last long term - maybe 70K miles tops. As for everything else? the truck has been flawless. MPG is 19-20, no matter if city or highway. I've had mine always garaged and detailed every year or two. Have had people today ask me if this is some experimental 2021 or 2022 model - the body is flawless, and as such, some people think it's a new model, and love the size and looks of it. Evidently, not many flawless 2004-2012 Canyon/Colorados running around and a testament of the design. Overall, if I could advise GM how to design a true world-class small pickup in 2020-2030? I'd say - take this general body design, put some nicer seats in, give it a diesel option, and you're good to go. I love this truck.
Penner on February 23, 2021
Basic reliabale vehicleI have around 200,000 miles on my truck. Very basic truck, not to econimic in fuel. The electric seat options quit working long ago. The electric lock is no good. But over all it's a nice reliable truck. The engine and drive train haven't given me any trouble at all.
Creepy D on August 4, 2019
Owned it for 11 yearsIll be honest alot of people xxxx on this truck but its taken me across canada, offroaded, moved people, carried gravel, and recycled metal with it. Aside from getting my aluminum heads switched for steel under warranty cause cylinders kept misfiring, ive had very few problems. I will agree the engine light came on and stayed on for years, ive cleaned throttle body 3 times because of it running sluggish. Flushed my rad only once. Only other issue is replacing front brakes what a chore. Poor design. Other than that it lasted 11 years until i blew head gasket and interior and exterior started falling apart.
Kt on October 16, 2018
Decent little truckDecent little truck. Never had any problems with it. Very spacious in the front. Just enough room in the back for passengers. Needed a truck decent on gas. But a truck that could also haul my quad when needed. Would recommend this truck. 🙂
kfab on June 8, 2018
333K and countingI bought this truck new and have primarily commuted with it. I also use it for light hauling and for trips to the mountains for summer and winter activities. The reliability of this truck has been outstanding. I passed 333,333 miles last week and it still runs strong. Everybody is amazed by how good it still looks. Don't buy it if you don't love it, you will be stuck with this truck for many years!
Michael Woodruff on January 11, 2018
Not a bad mid-size truckI have only owned this briefly having bought it with just 60,000 miles on the clock.. It is a bit squirrelly compared to the Equator RMZ4 (a rebadged Nissan Frontier) I owned previous to this, but that was a crew cab and this is a shorter wheel base. I have been able to drive a 4 hour round trip and found it comfortable enough (and I am 6'4") and have driven in heavy snow with confidence.. Driving back from Christmas at moms, it was white out conditions with the highway down to 1 lane in some places and I had the confidence to pass a couple true slow-pokes. It has reasonable power. Again, less than the previous truck, but value for money on this is a bit higher in my estimation as the equivalent Nissan or Toyota is buckets more expensive.
Howard67 on December 12, 2017
Great mid-size truckGreat truck runs and drives great. Sporty looking truck, handles real well street or off road. Interior is basic but comfortable. Love this truck
Drew B
Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma