MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index

NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED

2021 GMC Canyon

Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.

2Recalls
10Complaints
0Investigations
ABOUT THE GMC CANYON

The GMC Canyon is a mid-size pickup truck aimed at buyers who want capability and everyday usability without stepping up to a full-size rig. Positioned between compact and heavy-duty segments, it competes in one of the most competitive corners of the American market, attracting contractors, outdoor enthusiasts, and dual-purpose commuters who need a truck that earns its keep on weekdays and weekends alike.

VERDICT

The 2021 GMC Canyon earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 78 out of 100, an average result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. It has 2 recalls on record, reflected in the score.

WHO IT IS FOR
  • urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
WHAT REVIEWERS SAY

Reviewers generally regard the Canyon as a well-rounded mid-size truck with strong everyday usability and a refined driving character relative to its competition. Most praise its interior quality and powertrain options while noting that ride comfort and some technology execution are areas where opinions vary. It is broadly seen as a competitive choice in its segment rather than a class leader.

NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover
Rollover risk 21.9%

Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 15157

Index breakdown

Crash protection57/70
Avoidance tech6/10
Defect record14.75/20
Forward collision warning: OptionalLane departure warning: OptionalStability control: Standard

NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record

EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS21V497000

Risk: 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.

Reported 2021-07-01

SEAT BELTS20V811000

Risk: If a seat belt assembly is not properly attached to the vehicle, the seat belt may not properly restrain an occupant in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the suspect bolts, free of charge. The recall began January 29, 2021. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8785, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N202322230.

Reported 2020-12-23

NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints

10 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.

2reported crash
1reported fire
5reported injuries
0reported deaths
Most-reported systemsPower Train 2Unknown Or Other 2Air Bags 2Exterior Lighting 1Back Over Prevention 1Steering 1

Other Canyon years

Rivals in Sedan (2021)

Last verified 2026-07-02. Sources: NHTSA SafetyRatings (VehicleId 15157), recallsByVehicle, complaintsByVehicle for GMC Canyon 2021. Class rank 77 of 94 in Sedan 2021. Methodology · Disclosure