2023 GMC Acadia Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2023 GMC Acadia: Common Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2023 GMC Acadia has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2023 GMC Acadia has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial steps to diagnose the check engine light on a 2023 GMC Acadia?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2023 GMC Acadia, the first step is to visually inspect for any obvious issues, such as ensuring the gas cap is securely tightened and in good condition, as a loose or damaged cap can often trigger the light. Next, utilizing a diagnostic scanner is crucial; connect it to the OBD-II port to retrieve any error codes that may indicate the underlying problem. Once you have the codes, take the time to research their meanings, either through the vehicle's manual or reputable online resources, to gain insight into the specific issues at hand. Assess the severity of the problems indicated by the codes and any accompanying symptoms, prioritizing immediate concerns that may require urgent attention. If the situation remains unclear or if the issues seem complex, don’t hesitate to consult a professional mechanic for further assistance. This systematic approach not only helps in identifying the cause of the check engine light but also empowers you to take informed steps towards resolving the issue effectively.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2023 GMC Acadia?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2023 GMC Acadia, it can be a source of concern for any driver. One of the most frequent culprits is a loose gas cap, which can easily be checked and tightened. Another common issue is a faulty oxygen sensor, which not only affects fuel efficiency but can also lead to more significant engine problems if left unaddressed. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter can trigger the light, often indicating a need for replacement or repair. A malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can disrupt engine performance, while worn-out spark plugs may cause misfires, both of which are essential to inspect. Ignition coil failures can also lead to performance issues, and issues with the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system, such as a clogged valve, can further complicate matters. Addressing these issues promptly is crucial to maintaining the vehicle's performance and preventing further damage, making it advisable for DIY enthusiasts to familiarize themselves with these common problems and consider a thorough inspection if the check engine light illuminates.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2023 GMC Acadia?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2023 GMC Acadia, it is crucial to understand the urgency of the situation. This warning light is not merely a nuisance; it serves as a vital indicator of potential issues within your vehicle's engine or emissions system. Ignoring this signal can lead to minor problems escalating into significant malfunctions, which may result in costly repairs and decreased vehicle performance. Moreover, some underlying issues could compromise your safety or violate emissions regulations, making it imperative to take action. By promptly diagnosing and addressing the cause of the check engine light, you can prevent further damage and ensure your vehicle operates efficiently. For DIY enthusiasts, this means utilizing diagnostic tools to read error codes and conducting necessary repairs, ultimately safeguarding your vehicle's longevity and reliability.

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