[Stinger_GT]

I'm not a SUV type of guy but I need one for hauling stuff and taking the dog around. I work at a dealership and this one came around as I was looking for one. Likely one of the cleanest Acadia's I've seen. Miles are a bit up there at 142k but it runs, drives, and handles great. Went through the shop and received new tires, brakes, inspection and so on. Got it for a good price so I pulled the trigger.

I've owned a lot of cars but I've been away from GM for awhile. I've done some research on what to look for but, for the most part, I've heard the 3.6 is pretty bullet proof providing maintenance was performed, which is was. I've heard the timing chain tends to pop on these as well as HVAC gremlins. The a/c blows cold and everything works on the car. Hoping to keep it for awhile and keep miles off the fun car (Audi S5). I just sold a Jetta TDI and is was great on MPGs but a bit small for my liking.

Any tips for preventative maintenance or what to look out for? I'm pretty handy, just don't have a lot of time on my hands. I'll be doing a top engine/de-carb clean, adding some fuel system treatment, and changing out the air filter. Anything else you guys can think of?

TIA/PFA

 

[kingsfr]

Don't go too much time/miles between oil changes. they are kind of sensitive about that. Also, they are susceptible to carbon buildup because of the direct injection engines. The carbon buildup will eventually cause misfiring, sometimes hard to notice. This will cause the catalytic converters to go bad. Unfortunately, the transmissions are not very reliable for many, not all. I don't know if there is anything to do about it except try to do drain and fills regularly. Other than that, these are great cars. Good luck.

 

[Stinger_GT]

Don't go too much time/miles between oil changes. they are kind of sensitive about that. Also, they are susceptible to carbon buildup because of the direct injection engines. The carbon buildup will eventually cause misfiring, sometimes hard to notice. This will cause the catalytic converters to go bad. Unfortunately, the transmissions are not very reliable for many, not all. I don't know if there is anything to do about it except try to do drain and fills regularly. Other than that, these are great cars. Good luck.

Seems to be the consensus regarding the timing chain/oil issues. I will likely do a drain and fill soon as it starts warming up. Looks easier than changing oil. Thanks

 

[divotdug]

Did it come with any service history? I would try to get a GMVIS report on it. I once owned an '11. I had issues with the steering rack and PS pump.

If it still has the original timing chains I would really be concerned about oil change intervals on the vehicle.

 

[Stinger_GT]

Did it come with any service history? I would try to get a GMVIS report on it. I once owned an '11. I had issues with the steering rack and PS pump.

If it still has the original timing chains I would really be concerned about oil change intervals on the vehicle.

Yes, quite a bit. Regular oil changes were done and some service done at GMC dealerships. Not sure about the original timing chain but I could have it done for about $1500. Not sure how preventative that is or just throwing money at a time bomb. I don't think, kow, that it is or I wouldn't have bought it. It seems to be in great shape, exterior and interior are impressive considering the miles and age.

 

[jimc2766]

Yes, quite a bit. Regular oil changes were done and some service done at GMC dealerships. Not sure about the original timing chain but I could have it done for about $1500. Not sure how preventative that is or just throwing money at a time bomb. I don't think, kow, that it is or I wouldn't have bought it. It seems to be in great shape, exterior and interior are impressive considering the miles and age.

Oh a whim I bought a 2012 Acadia Denali AWD for $3900. It was rough., Had 176K miles on it. Amazingly, after sorting through a lot of problems, it has turned out to be a great SUV. Runs absolutely perfect, but had a lot of little nagging problems the previous owner ignored. Fortunately, they were mostly items I could get from Amazon, like hood and hatch struts, etc. It was mainly just trim, and had to replace the sides on each seat. That plastic is poorly designed and the wear and tear of getting in and out broke both of them. But everything works, except the rear TV. Bought a nice Kenwood for it because I have had GM turn by turn before and it is crap. Now I can load my Google and Spotify and it's like having a newer version. Found a set of used Continentals for $300. Had brakes and rotors done. Changed the oil in the motor and tranny, and presto, it runs like a new vehicle. A joy to drive. When I ran the VIN, I found out it was over $50K new. I was shocked. Now the only small issue are the folding mirrors, one works the other quit. Always something. Hope you enjoy yours.

 

[jimc2766]

I'm not a SUV type of guy but I need one for hauling stuff and taking the dog around. I work at a dealership and this one came around as I was looking for one. Likely one of the cleanest Acadia's I've seen. Miles are a bit up there at 142k but it runs, drives, and handles great. Went through the shop and received new tires, brakes, inspection and so on. Got it for a good price so I pulled the trigger.

I've owned a lot of cars but I've been away from GM for awhile. I've done some research on what to look for but, for the most part, I've heard the 3.6 is pretty bullet proof providing maintenance was performed, which is was. I've heard the timing chain tends to pop on these as well as HVAC gremlins. The a/c blows cold and everything works on the car. Hoping to keep it for awhile and keep miles off the fun car (Audi S5). I just sold a Jetta TDI and is was great on MPGs but a bit small for my liking.

Any tips for preventative maintenance or what to look out for? I'm pretty handy, just don't have a lot of time on my hands. I'll be doing a top engine/de-carb clean, adding some fuel system treatment, and changing out the air filter. Anything else you guys can think of?

TIA/PFA
View attachment 12649

Cabin air filter. Mine was filthy. You can get a cargo net off Amazon for around $20. I use Lucas FI cleaner in all my cars and never had a problem with any of them. I only use either Valvoline or Pennzoil and Wix filters. Valvoline synthetic on the tranny fluid. Easy change and it has a dipstick amazingly. Yours looks very clean. Someone took good care I assume.

 

[Stinger_GT]

Oh a whim I bought a 2012 Acadia Denali AWD for $3900. It was rough., Had 176K miles on it. Amazingly, after sorting through a lot of problems, it has turned out to be a great SUV. Runs absolutely perfect, but had a lot of little nagging problems the previous owner ignored. Fortunately, they were mostly items I could get from Amazon, like hood and hatch struts, etc. It was mainly just trim, and had to replace the sides on each seat. That plastic is poorly designed and the wear and tear of getting in and out broke both of them. But everything works, except the rear TV. Bought a nice Kenwood for it because I have had GM turn by turn before and it is crap. Now I can load my Google and Spotify and it's like having a newer version. Found a set of used Continentals for $300. Had brakes and rotors done. Changed the oil in the motor and tranny, and presto, it runs like a new vehicle. A joy to drive. When I ran the VIN, I found out it was over $50K new. I was shocked. Now the only small issue are the folding mirrors, one works the other quit. Always something. Hope you enjoy yours.

I enjoy driving mine. Never had a SUV besides driving the wife’s cars and they suck. I figured I’d buy it and see how I liked it since it was a good price. I do the same, small item replacements as time progresses. I ordered a PCV valve, k&n filter, did a top engine clean, sea foam in the tank. I’ll likely do another top engine clean as it can only help. I doubt it’s been done. They only worrisome issue is the timing chain. I verified the previous owner did not have it changed or serviced. 3k oil intervals it is. If I can get 50k miles out of it, I’ll be happy. It’s old and don’t want to pour too much into it. Enjoy yours, try and hit 200k.

Cabin air filter. Mine was filthy. You can get a cargo net off Amazon for around $20. I use Lucas FI cleaner in all my cars and never had a problem with any of them. I only use either Valvoline or Pennzoil and Wix filters. Valvoline synthetic on the tranny fluid. Easy change and it has a dipstick amazingly. Yours looks very clean. Someone took good care I assume.

Yes they did. I haven’t seen one this clean before. A couple buttons on the hvac are worn but I got the stickers to lay over them, looks better. Is the cabin air filter easily accessible?

 

[jimc2766]

I enjoy driving mine. Never had a SUV besides driving the wife’s cars and they suck. I figured I’d buy it and see how I liked it since it was a good price. I do the same, small item replacements as time progresses. I ordered a PCV valve, k&n filter, did a top engine clean, sea foam in the tank. I’ll likely do another top engine clean as it can only help. I doubt it’s been done. They only worrisome issue is the timing chain. I verified the previous owner did not have it changed or serviced. 3k oil intervals it is. If I can get 50k miles out of it, I’ll be happy. It’s old and don’t want to pour too much into it. Enjoy yours, try and hit 200k.

Yes they did. I haven’t seen one this clean before. A couple buttons on the hvac are worn but I got the stickers to lay over them, looks better. Is the cabin air filter easily accessible?

Yeah, right through the glove box IIRC. Not a K&N fan. The oil you use on them can mess up the 02 sensors. I would stay away from that boy racer stuff. Oh, and I did have to buy new Cats for mine. That was almost $900, but could be why it runs so great....lol. I got Walkers. And I had an 05 Monte Carlo SS Supercharged before this, but **** I love this thing. My wife has a 2018 Equinox, but she steals mine when she needs the extra seats. Hers is amazing. Thing gets 33 mpg highway. Ecotec with a small turbo. She loves it.

 

[Stinger_GT]

Yeah, right through the glove box IIRC. Not a K&N fan. The oil you use on them can mess up the 02 sensors. I would stay away from that boy racer stuff. Oh, and I did have to buy new Cats for mine. That was almost $900, but could be why it runs so great....lol. I got Walkers. And I had an 05 Monte Carlo SS Supercharged before this, but **** I love this thing. My wife has a 2018 Equinox, but she steals mine when she needs the extra seats. Hers is amazing. Thing gets 33 mpg highway. Ecotec with a small turbo. She loves it.

It's a shame they got rid of the 2.0T in the Equinox. My dad's wife has one and they haven't had any issues in the roughly 25k miles that's on it. I've used K&N filters in my last 15 cars probably. Funny you mention the oil part of it, I hate oiled filters and I wipe as much as I can off before I install it. Never had any issues and a little bump in MPGs doesn't hurt. I had a 2002 Monte SS but wasn't supercharged. It was decent. My S5 is fun to drive but I hate getting it out in bad weather. Only seen snow once when my Jetta TDI wouldn't turn over. I was pissed....lol

 

[jimc2766]

It's a shame they got rid of the 2.0T in the Equinox. My dad's wife has one and they haven't had any issues in the roughly 25k miles that's on it. I've used K&N filters in my last 15 cars probably. Funny you mention the oil part of it, I hate oiled filters and I wipe as much as I can off before I install it. Never had any issues and a little bump in MPGs doesn't hurt. I had a 2002 Monte SS but wasn't supercharged. It was decent. My S5 is fun to drive but I hate getting it out in bad weather. Only seen snow once when my Jetta TDI wouldn't turn over. I was pissed....lol View attachment 12657

Ecotec's were originally in SAABs. I did an advertising tour for GM and got to learn all about them. They will run for a long time. Not to be a know it all, but you are defeating the purpose of the K&N by not using oil to keep dirt out. You would be better off with just a good air filter. I raced NHRA for years. At the most you are gaining 1-2 HP. The computer is going to adjust for the increased air flow and just add more fuel. For what you pay for one, hardly worth the effort.

Nice car. I always have a "beater" that is decent, but I don't fret taking it out in the rain, etc. I keep my nice stuff for the weekend. I have an 06 MC LTZ that has 197K miles but runs perfect and handles great. Few scars and stuff, but overall a great car. Much more agile than my 05 MC. Being on the Impala platform, everything is much cheaper for it.

 

[Stinger_GT]

Ecotec's were originally in SAABs. I did an advertising tour for GM and got to learn all about them. They will run for a long time. Not to be a know it all, but you are defeating the purpose of the K&N by not using oil to keep dirt out. You would be better off with just a good air filter. I raced NHRA for years. At the most you are gaining 1-2 HP. The computer is going to adjust for the increased air flow and just add more fuel. For what you pay for one, hardly worth the effort.

Nice car. I always have a "beater" that is decent, but I don't fret taking it out in the rain, etc. I keep my nice stuff for the weekend. I have an 06 MC LTZ that has 197K miles but runs perfect and handles great. Few scars and stuff, but overall a great car. Much more agile than my 05 MC. Being on the Impala platform, everything is much cheaper for it. View attachment 12669

I’ve used K&N for awhile, never had issues. If anything, it’s a bump in MPGs which is noticeable on this car. First tank was 18.3 mpg. Expecting a bit more. After I drain and fill the trans a few times, should increase a bit. I’m changing out the PCV valve today/tomorrow and that should help as well. My commute is 80/20 highway. Should be higher than 18 especially being front wheel drive.

Talking about Impalas, I had a 1994 Super Sport that I told when I was young. Terrible mistake but I’ll have another one by the time I die. Great car.

 

[jimc2766]

I’ve used K&N for awhile, never had issues. If anything, it’s a bump in MPGs which is noticeable on this car. First tank was 18.3 mpg. Expecting a bit more. After I drain and fill the trans a few times, should increase a bit. I’m changing out the PCV valve today/tomorrow and that should help as well. My commute is 80/20 highway. Should be higher than 18 especially being front wheel drive.

Talking about Impalas, I had a 1994 Super Sport that I told when I was young. Terrible mistake but I’ll have another one by the time I die. Great car.

Tranny fluid is going up. I just looked on Amazon and Valvoline synthetic is sky high now. Used to catch it for around $6.50. But found a very good deal on GM Dexron VI Synthetic for $39 a gallon, and an additional quart for $7. They claim this is far better then their old Dexron, so going to give it a try. It was $4800 to change out the tranny in my wife's Malibu with that darn 6 speed so trying to baby this one.
You commute in an SUV? We keep ours for weekends and such. Doesn't do very well on mileage, but it has the V92 towing package.

Now my wife's Equinox is a road warrior. Ecotec with that small turbo, she gets 33 mpg. Amazing. 2018. Has 60K miles and not a whisper of any problems. She loves it.

 

[Stinger_GT]

You commute in an SUV? We keep ours for weekends and such. Doesn't do very well on mileage, but it has the V92 towing package.

Yeah, figured I'd give it a go. Fuel prices are going down so it's tolerable. I was all over the place regarding what I wanted. It's more practical and need something to tow a small trailer. If I lived closer to work, I'd DD my S5 but I like driving it when I want and keeping it out of inclement weather. I'm hoping at some point I can get over 20mpg with my driving (80/20 hwy/city). It shouldn't be hard after some preventative maintenance. Fist tank was 18.4mpg. I know I can do better. Warmer weather helps so we'll see how the next few months go.

 

[jimc2766]

Yeah, figured I'd give it a go. Fuel prices are going down so it's tolerable. I was all over the place regarding what I wanted. It's more practical and need something to tow a small trailer. If I lived closer to work, I'd DD my S5 but I like driving it when I want and keeping it out of inclement weather. I'm hoping at some point I can get over 20mpg with my driving (80/20 hwy/city). It shouldn't be hard after some preventative maintenance. Fist tank was 18.4mpg. I know I can do better. Warmer weather helps so we'll see how the next few months go.

Yesterday I had to run get a 27 footer with two slideouts. I guess it weighed around 5400. It's going to be parked at a campground for someone to live in. I managed to get it over 200 miles but drove 55 mph. It was a strain at times because of the hills down here. But we made it, even without a brake controller. Stopped pretty well actually. I was very impressed. This is without an equalizer hitch too.

 

[Stinger_GT]

Yesterday I had to run get a 27 footer with two slideouts. I guess it weighed around 5400. It's going to be parked at a campground for someone to live in. I managed to get it over 200 miles but drove 55 mph. It was a strain at times because of the hills down here. But we made it, even without a brake controller. Stopped pretty well actually. I was very impressed. This is without an equalizer hitch too.

You're brave lol my trailer won't be over 1500 lbs. Glad you got it to where you needed it.