2006 GMC Canyon from North America

Summary:

Inexpensive tough truck

Faults:

2 oxygen sensors.

Wiper motor.

1 ignition coil pack.

2 broken spark plugs.

General Comments:

I bought this truck as a second vehicle for winter use.

It starts easily in -30C. I purchased high quality winter tires, and it has good stability and traction, even in deep snow.

The heater works very well and keeps the interior warm, and the windows clear of ice and fog in a few minutes after morning start-up.

Brakes are very good, and so is the suspension; it handles rough roads with ease.

The engine gets good fuel economy, yet is surprisingly powerful. I recommend iridium spark plugs, as the high compression of these engines can crack regular plugs. I know this because it happened to me.

I also recommend synthetic motor oil; it greatly reduces cold start-up engine noise.

I am amazed at how free of squeaks and rattles this truck is, and how strong the drivetrain is.

I look forward to driving this high quality GMC truck every day.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 27th January, 2013

14th May 2015, 21:50

Original reviewer here:

Just thought I would update my review. My Canyon is at 246,000 KM now and the only parts replacement in the last 2 years is a battery and $2 block heater plug end.

There are no signs of deterioration in the drivetrain or suspension, and the engine doesn't leak or burn oil. I've taken this truck off-road, done lots of hauling, and it's handled all tasks easily. This truck is starting to remind me of my previous GMC that went over 500,000 KM with just basic maintenance.

2006 GMC Canyon 2.8L from North America

Summary:

It's a solid, cheap little truck, and you get what you pay for

Faults:

Head was replaced at 99,900 miles, under additional manufacturer's warranty.

Transmission went out at 131,000 miles.

Problem with ignition switch that triggers the Passlock anti theft system. Prevents starting the engine for 10 minutes.

Brake light issues. Brake light switch replaced under warranty. Bulbs seem to lose contact over time, and have to be "reseated"

General Comments:

Nice looking, stylish truck, and in spite of the problems, I like it quite a bit. Interior is very functional, and everything works like it's supposed to.

It has enough power, can haul small things while still being cheap to operate. It gets 23-26 mpg, which is as good as you can get in a pickup with an automatic transmission.

The big ticket problems like cylinder head and transmission are killers.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 16th September, 2011

17th Dec 2011, 14:04

My 2006 GMC Canyon 4 cylinder, has been the worst vehicle I have ever owned. Over the years, the engine light has come on 60 or more times. Took it to the dealer, and they changed a part once, $400+ labor/material. The part cost $30.

I would never buy a GMC product again. Never got any help from dealer. Can't keep tires on it, and it breaks down about twice a month.

2006 GMC Canyon SLE 3.5L from North America

Summary:

Recall in order to correct wear on tires

Faults:

Excessive wear on the front tires that started at 12,000 miles.

After 5 sets of tires and multiple alignments made to the frontend, no parts worn, just weak front end.

It was suggested per the auto mechanics that worked on my Canyon, that a recall should be issued and is definitely warranted.

Engine problems, with the service engine light on: after examination, it was concluded that it was multiple sensor problems.

Rough idling, with rattling noises in engine, and at times with complete loss of power to the engine with no warning.

General Comments:

Nice body style.

Comfortable interior.

Impressed with the sound system.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 6th February, 2011

2006 GMC Canyon SLT 3.5 from North America

Summary:

Z-71 (off road) I5

Faults:

Nothing.

General Comments:

I've own an 06 SLT Canyon with the I5 engine since day one.

I've drained all the fluids and used Amsoil products. I have had no trouble.

I have some aftermarket parts and ordered the truck with 4:10 gears in the front and rear axles.

I get 26mpg and am running 18" rims. It looks great and runs great.

I read all these remarks, and it seams like the dealers are screwing people. All cars break down if you allow the dealer to tell you that's the way it is, then you're getting ripped off.

GMC makes great products.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 13th January, 2009