Gmc Canyon problems
The Chevrolet Colorado (sharing mechanical commonality with the GMC Canyon), is a series of compact pickup trucks (mid-size since second generation) marketed by American automaker General Motors. They were introduced in 2004 to replace the Chevrolet S-10 and GMC S-15/Sonoma compact pickups. The Colorado is named after the U.S. state of Colorado, while the Canyon would be the deep chasm between cliffs.
First generation (2004)
The Chevrolet Colorado and its twin, the GMC Canyon were jointly designed by GM's North American operations, GM's Brazil operations, and Isuzu, which began selling its own version worldwide in 2002. In late 2005, Isuzu offered a version in North America called the Isuzu i-series. This North American model Isuzu shared North American powertrains, styling, and equipment with the Colorado/Canyon twins and differed from Isuzu's worldwide offering. All Chevrolet, GMC, and Isuzu versions worldwide are based on the GMT355, itself the basis for the GMT 345-based Hummer H3. Most vehicles for markets outside North America are manufactured at a GM plant in Rayong, Thailand. All North American-market vehicles were manufactured by Shreveport Operations.
The cooperation between GM and Isuzu to build a light-duty truck and offer it in North America returns to an original arrangement the two companies had in the 1970s with the Chevrolet LUV, a rebadged Isuzu Faster.
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Gmc Canyon model years
Common Gmc Canyon problems
Based on complaints from owners of GMC Canyon cars, common problems include:
- AC Blower Inop Due to Failed Resistor: Owners have reported issues with the AC blower due to a failed resistor. This can lead to a lack of proper ventilation and cooling inside the vehicle, especially in hot weather conditions.
- Worn Valve Seats May Cause Engine Misfire: Another common problem is worn valve seats causing engine misfires. This issue can result in poor engine performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential long-term damage to the engine if not addressed promptly.
- Check Engine Light Due to Gas Cap Issue: Owners have experienced instances where the check engine light illuminates due to a gas cap issue. A loose or faulty gas cap can trigger the check engine light, indicating a problem with the vehicle's emissions system.
- CD Player Inop: Some owners have reported problems with the CD player in their GMC Canyon. Issues with the CD player can range from CDs not playing properly to the unit not functioning at all, affecting the entertainment system in the vehicle.
- Exhaust System Problems: Complaints have been made regarding various exhaust system issues, including muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, and heat shield problems. These issues can lead to increased noise, reduced engine performance, and potential safety hazards if not addressed.
- Electrical System Concerns: Electrical problems such as battery issues, electrical loss while driving, and rare reports of fires have been highlighted by owners. Electrical system malfunctions can impact various components of the vehicle, affecting its overall performance and safety.
- Transmission Troubles: Transmission problems, including not shifting properly, have been a significant concern among GMC Canyon owners. Issues with the transmission can lead to difficulties in gear shifting, affecting the vehicle's drivability and overall performance.
These common problems reported by GMC Canyon owners highlight a range of issues that can impact the vehicle's performance, safety, and overall driving experience. Addressing these concerns promptly through proper maintenance and repairs is crucial to ensure the longevity and reliability of the GMC Canyon.
Is the GMC Canyon a reliable truck?
According to motorbiscuit.com, the GMC Canyon is the most reliable choice from the GMC brand. It boasts decent scores and excellent customer reports thanks to the low frequency of necessary repairs for the machine. It is tough and will last. Second and third place go to the GMC Terrain and the GMC Sierra 1500.
How long will a GMC Canyon engine last?
You will find that the GMC Canyon reaches around 200,000 miles with excellent care. Thus, high mileage for the vehicle is anywhere around or higher than 150,000 miles. Once it passes this point, it's far more likely that the vehicle will experience issues that are irreparable or more expensive than the Canyon itself.
Are there any recalls on a GMC Canyon?
Vehicles Recalled
GMC Canyon pickup trucks manufactured between Sep. 29, 2022, and Dec. 15, 2023. The problem: Improperly calibrated front camera module (FCM) software could cause the vehicle's AEB system to activate even if there isn't an obstacle present.
What is the most common problem with the Chevy Colorado?
Perhaps the most common issue found in the Chevy Colorado is the tendency for the engine to misfire (or backfire) — something that's been documented to impact models as old as 2004 and as new as 2016.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Gmc Canyon years
We have researched Gmc problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Gmc Canyon cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Gmc Canyon model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Gmc Canyon model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Gmc Canyon years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Gmc Canyon car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Gmc Canyon , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Steering problems
- Electrical system problems
- Power train problems
- Engine problems
- Unknown or other problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Gmc Canyon vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Canyon model years
A total of 35 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Canyon model years
There were a total of 19 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Canyon model years
There were a total of 29 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 1088 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Gmc Canyon . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Gmc Canyon vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Gmc Canyon 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-13
- VIN: 1GTG5EENXN1
- Components: STEERING,LANE DEPARTURE
- Summary: While driving out of a parking lot, my power steering stopped working and I had to regain control to manually steer the vehicle. After stopping and turning off the engine to check the serpentine belt, the power steering came back on, but the lane departure assist function was no longer working. It appears to be the same problem that some of the 2015 and other GMC Canyon models had. Took it to my GMC dealer for warranty evaluation.
Gmc Canyon 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-02
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-03
- VIN: 1GTG6CE37G1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 GMC Canyon. The contact stated while driving 65 MPH, the ABS, and service stabili-trak warning lights were illuminated. The steering wheel began to vibrate, and the brake pedal became firm. The contact was able to continue driving. The vehicle was not taken to a dealer. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 220,674.
Gmc Canyon 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-30
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-30
- VIN: 1GTG6DEN0K1
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2019 GMC Canyon. The contact stated that while driving at undisclosed speeds and making a right turn, the steering wheel seized. The contact continued to drive, and the steering wheel seized again. There were no warning lights illuminated. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 65,200.
Gmc Canyon 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-27
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-28
- VIN: 1GTH6MFE1B8
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Since I purchased this Canyon in 2019, I've had many occurrences (at least twice a week) of the truck not starting. Through my research on line, I've found other Canyon owners experiencing the same problem. Long story short, the ignition locks and the truck cannot be started unless I wait 10 minutes. This problem interferes with my daily life. I believe GMC should correct this problem.
Gmc Canyon 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-27
- VIN: 1GTH6CE39F1
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 GMC Canyon. The contact stated while driving 50 MPH, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. The contact stated that the power steering warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was diagnosed by the dealer, and it was determined that the rack and pinion needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 80,000.
Gmc Canyon 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-07
- VIN: 1GTG5DE38G1
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: I bought my 2016 GMC Canyon back in 2018 with 40k miles on it. After couple of months, I noticed that when traveling at approx 70MPH front wheels are shaking violently. I did wheel alignment and other wheel check but still there. Lately, power steering stabilitrak keep showing up on my panel. Since it can’t be resetted, Im literally driving like arm wrestling in the middle of the road specially during parking. After many years of wondering of what the wheel vibration is causing, electronic Rack and Pinion issue was the result of diagnostic conducted by Schumacher Chevrolet here in West Palm Beach, FL. They quoted me 3K for the repair.
Gmc Canyon 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-04
- VIN: 1GTH6CE35G1
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 GMC Canyon. The contact stated that while his wife was driving approximately 70 MPH, the power steering suddenly failed, and the steering wheel became difficult to turn in either direction. During the failure, the message "Power Steering Failure" was displayed. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The manufacturer and local dealer were notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was 51,867.
Gmc Canyon 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-27
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-02
- VIN: 1GTH6BE37F1
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: LOSS OF PWR STEERING ASSIST-- STABIL-TRAC INDICATOR LIGHTS UP ON DASH STEERING WHEEL EXTREMELY HARD TO TURN. CONFIRMED BY QUIRK CHEVROLET IN MANCHESTER,NH REPAIR COST $2800.
Gmc Canyon 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-30
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-30
- VIN: 1GTG6CE34G1
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Mileage 65080. I’m the 2nd owner. I bought this truck used and have only driven it 145 miles. Crossing an intersection and the power steering turned off. Happened again the same day leaving Walmart parking lot. Turning the engine off will reset the power steering. Message on the instrument panel says stabilitrak service power steering.
Gmc Canyon 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2019-01-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-28
- VIN: 1GTG6DE38G1
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 GMC Canyon. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 45 MPH, an error message for the “Stabili-track” failure was displayed on the instrument panel. Additionally, the contact stated that the failure had occurred several times before. The contact stated that several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the vehicle needed an alignment and steering rack replacement. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 48,000.
Gmc Canyon 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-24
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-24
- VIN: 1GTG6BE30F1
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: While driving, the power steering stops working. I was traveling at approx 55 mph with my daughter in the car and the power steering quit. Alert lights came on the dash. I managed to slow down and turn off the highway. I turned the truck off and when I turned it back on it was fine. Drove for another 10 minutes to get home and it went out again at a stop light. I found a place to pull over and turned it off and back on and it stopped doing it again. There is a recall for this issue on this vehicle but evidently mine was not on the recall or was fixed prior to me owning it. I have not checked with the dealership, but I’m assuming it will be a large bill to get it taken care of. Hopefully it does not go out at a bad time.
Gmc Canyon 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-23
- VIN: 1GTG5CE33G1
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: I was driving 70 MPH on the highway when I received a warning on my dash that stated "service power steering, drive with care" and a second warning that stated "service stabilitrak". I immediately felt the steering wheel lock up and lost all power steering. My safety as well as others was put in risk as I was unable to maneuver the vehicle especially at the high rate of speed. Prior to this incident there had been no warning or other issues that could have signaled a failure. The problem was duplicated at the dealership and a code was given.
Gmc Canyon 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-02
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-23
- VIN: 1GTG5BE33F1
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 GMC Canyon. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering made an abnormal squealing sound. The contact stated that the squealing sound was heard while making a turn. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic. The contact stated that three weeks prior to the failure the vehicle was serviced at the dealer under an unknown power steering recall. In addition, the contact stated that several days following the recall repair, the squealing sound started. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 175,000.
Gmc Canyon 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-12
- VIN: 1GTG6CEN7N1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Key gets stuck in ignition when attempting to turn off vehicle. This leaves people stranded with their vehicles in hot/cold weather, dangerous areas, etc... Many people have been bypassing this problem by removing steering column and disconnecting a wire that allows the key to be released. But disconnection of said wire allows the key to be removed and shut off at any time, including driving down the highway at 70mph, serious safety hazard for driver and those on the road. Dealer has confirmed this issue and currently working on repairing my vehicle but it is a widespread issue with certain GM vehicles to include the canyon, colorado, camaro, and equinox.
Gmc Canyon 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-07
- VIN: 1GTG6CE3XG1
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Electric power steering stops working and the power steering assist warning light is illuminated. Once the truck is restarted the problem goes away but will come back at some point while driving. This has happened multiple times at multiple speeds, the first time it happened I was going over 70 MPH. With no power steering it is nearly impossible to turn the steering wheel since I only have one hand available to use on the steering wheel. Had I not had a passenger with me to help turn the wheel I would have crashed. I took the truck to the dealer and they told me it was the same problem that the 2015's had had on a recall but my truck was a early 2016 so I was not part of the recall. The dealer was happy to fix it at a cost of $2916.27 My truck only has 27135 miles, but is to old for warranty coverage.
Latest 5 recalls Gmc Canyon
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 47 recalls for different components of the Gmc Canyon.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Gmc Canyon 2023
- Report Received Date: 2024-09-19
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: SEAT BELTS:CRITICAL FASTENERS
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Chevrolet Colorado and 2023 GMC Canyon vehicles. The left or right front seat may have a seat belt buckle attachment bolt that was not tightened properly.
- Consequence: A loose seat belt may not properly restrain an occupant in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will tighten the left and right front seat belt buckle attachment bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed November 4, 2024. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N242453720.
- Model: Gmc Canyon 2023
- Report Received Date: 2024-03-28
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: WHEELS:LUGS/NUTS/BOLTS/STUDS
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2023 Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon vehicles. The front wheel hub bolts may have been over-tightened and damaged during installation.
- Consequence: Damaged bolts may loosen or break, which can result in a loss of vehicle control and increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the left and right front wheel hub bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 10, 2024. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N232431480.
- Model: Gmc Canyon 2023
- Report Received Date: 2024-02-22
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ADAS:DRIVER MONITORING:CAMERA/SENSOR
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2023 Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon vehicles. The front camera module (FCM) system may falsely detect an obstacle, causing the automatic emergency braking (AEB) to engage unexpectedly.
- Consequence: Unexpected automatic emergency braking can cause the vehicle to abruptly stop or slow down, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will update the front camera module (FCM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 5, 2024. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is A232424660.
- Model: Gmc Canyon 2022
- Report Received Date: 2022-05-26
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: SEATS:CRITICAL FASTENERS
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2022 GMC Canyon and Chevrolet Colorado vehicles equipped with a manual passenger seat. The front passenger seat may have a hook attachment that was not properly welded, allowing it to separate from the inboard track of the seat frame.
- Consequence: An improperly welded seat frame may not properly restrain the seat occupant, increasing the risk of injury in a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the front passenger seat and replace the cushion frame, if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 6, 2022. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N222368320.
- Model: Gmc Canyon 2021
- Report Received Date: 2021-07-01
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 GMC Canyon vehicles. The load carrying capacity printed on the Tire and Loading Information placard is 22.5 kg (51 lbs.) more than intended. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
- Consequence: An incorrect label may lead to unintentionally overloading the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: GM will mail owners a new B-pillar label, free of charge. Owners may apply the label, or bring it to a dealer for installation. Owner notification letters were mailed on August 17, 2021. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N212340735.
Latest negative Gmc Canyon car reviews
Latest positive Gmc Canyon car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2010
I was looking for a small American truck to haul small loads and I found one that's not too bad. It's really good on the highway and doesn't make much noise. The seats could be better, but they're okay. The CD player has an old style to it, but it still works. One weird thing is that there's a cassette tape case holder on the armrest, which seems like a waste of space since no one uses cassettes anymore. It's easy to drive and my wife likes driving it. However, it would be nice to have a storage place on the dash for change or other important items. I haven't taken it off-road yet, but I'm looking forward to it!
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Vehicle year: 2016
Congratulations on your new puppy! It's great to hear that you've been enjoying your 2.8l diesel truck so far. The extended warranty may not be necessary, but it's always better to be safe than sorry. It's interesting to know that the 2.8l diesel is not new in Asia. The truck's torque is impressive and it handles hills with ease. The gas mileage is also a plus, which is a big factor for many people. As for the trim level, it's good to know that the SLT is a great choice. Thank you for sharing your experience with us!
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Vehicle year: 2011
I was looking for a small American truck to haul small loads and I found one that's not too bad. It's really good on the highway and doesn't make much noise. The seats could be better, but they're okay. The CD player has an old style to it, but it still works. One weird thing is that there's a cassette tape case holder on the armrest, which seems like a waste of space since no one uses cassettes anymore. It's easy to drive and my wife likes driving it. However, it would be nice to have a storage place on the dash for change or other important items. I haven't taken it off-road yet, but I'm looking forward to it!
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Vehicle year: 2008
I've had this truck for almost 2 months now and I must say, it's been a great replacement for my 1995 Chevy p/u that had just under 370K miles on it. I was extremely pleased with the price I paid (just over 18K after rebates & GM card bonus for a base model w/ tow package) and the buying experience at the dealership was fantastic. The truck itself is definitely the best buy out there for the money. In my opinion, the 4 cyl is just as powerful as the 5 cyl (I test drove both) and the gas mileage is great (I've been averaging 22-23mpg in mixed city-highway driving). Plus, the 4cyl was much quieter than the 5 cyl. The interior is very nice and well-laid out, with plenty of room for five people. It rides like a dream. Great job GM!
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Vehicle year: 2023
Quite comfortable, powerful, and a joy to drive! I bought the AT-4 and I must say, it's not a full-sized pickup, but you will be VERY happy with your purchase. It's the best thing I have driven in forever!
Are you having problems with your Gmc Canyon?
Moriah Ruecker 2025-07-10
Vehicle year: 2016
Firstly, I would like to bring to Edmunds' attention that the model with a Diesel engine is not listed. Despite this, I must say that I love the vehicle. However, I was disappointed when the protruding portion of the rear wheel area was blasted by gravel on the first gravel road I went on. It would have been helpful if the vehicle had mud flaps on the front. Perhaps it would be beneficial for dealers to recommend or even install mud flaps. I kindly suggest that GMC considers this oversight. Thank you.
Maxine Block 2025-07-08
Vehicle year: 2004
Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with my new truck. I recently upgraded from a Dakota to a Canyon and while it's not exactly the same, I do like the engine/trans combination and the 4 doors are great. The only thing is that the Canyon is a bit smaller and sounds a bit more tinny. Also, I was a bit disappointed that the bucket seats were replaced with a 60/40 split and there was no reduction in price. One thing to note is that the right side (passenger side) doesn't have key entry on the door handle, which can be a bit unsafe if you transport children. If for some reason the driver's door is damaged or obstructed, there's no way to enter the truck without breaking the glass. Overall, I'm still happy with my purchase and excited to take it on some adventures!
Brady Murazik 2025-07-07
Vehicle year: 2016
The truck has a nice ride and the SLT interior is rather impressive. However, it does consume a lot of fuel, with less than 14 mpg in city driving with the 3.6 V6. The transmission can be a bit of a challenge, as it tends to hunt for gears and can sometimes be in the wrong gear for the situation. For example, when I turned left into my neighborhood, the speedometer read 18 mph, but when I pressed the gas pedal to accelerate, nothing happened. I had to downshift it to get it to respond. I have found that driving it like a manual with the manual shift helps to have power when I need it. Unfortunately, it has started a new
Justen Beier 2025-07-02
Vehicle year: 2019
I have owned several GMC vehicles, including the Yukon, Acadia, and Sierra, with over half of them being the Denali trim. I have grown accustomed to the features that these models offer, such as dual-zone air conditioning, cross-traffic warning, and rear-seat entertainment. However, I recently received my 2019 Canyon Denali and was surprised to find that it lacks all of these features. I believe that GMC should at least provide these options, but unfortunately, they do not. Needless to say, I am disappointed with this vehicle.
Abdiel Harvey 2025-06-22
Vehicle year: 2023
Firstly, I must say that GM has done an excellent job with the styling of the 2023 Canyon. However, the professional grade truck falls short of its name. One major issue, which seems to be a common complaint, is the thin roof panel. Unfortunately, mine was dented by the air blower at a drive-through car wash. This is not a problem with the car wash itself, but rather the thin sheet metal used for the roof panel. Other brand vehicles have been taken through the same car wash with no issues. Therefore, I would advise potential buyers/owners to be aware of the air blowers. Additionally, there are other issues such as cheap interior materials that squeak (door handle) and look unappealing, as well as a gas filler pop release that does not work most of the time. The engine can also be rough at start-up. I also experienced a dead battery at 7000 miles due to a software update issue. Based on my experience and other customer reviews, I cannot recommend this truck.