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P2138 on GMC ACADIA

Severity
High
NHTSA Reports
4
Most Affected
2012, 2017, 2020

What P2138 Means on Your GMC ACADIA

Real GMC ACADIA Owner Reports (Source: NHTSA Complaints Database)

"Vehicle producing code P2138 then goes into limp mode stating to service stability, traction control off and engine reduced power. Replaced Throttle Body and Acceleration Pedal Position Sensor and error was still present."

— 2012 GMC ACADIA owner • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER • Filed 05/09/2025

"I’m just reporting several known issues. First, with code P2138, which I got today at Oreilly after my car started throwing warnings."

— 2017 GMC ACADIA owner • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM • Filed 05/03/2025

"The ACADIA 2020 while in slow motion approaching my private condominium parking spot, accelerated autonomously and then slammed into the cement wall. Airbags deployed, no warning of collision, seriously damaged both car and cement wall. No bodily injuries."

— 2020 GMC ACADIA owner • AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL • Filed 06/01/2021 āš ļø Crash reported

"The contact owns a 2021 GMC Acadia. The contact stated while driving 50 MPH, the vehicle suddenly decelerated to 35 MPH. The vehicle stalled, and the "Steering Assistance Reduced" message was displayed. The vehicle was restarted."

— 2021 GMC ACADIA owner • STEERING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL • Filed 07/28/2024

Data from NHTSA Vehicle Complaints Database. All reports are filed by vehicle owners directly with the U.S. Department of Transportation.

Common Causes of P2138 on GMC ACADIA

25%
25%
25%
25%

Percentages based on NHTSA complaint component analysis for this vehicle.

Complaint Trend by Year

2012
1
2017
1
2020
1
2021
1

What To Do Next

  1. 1
    Check for recalls on YOUR VIN

    Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. Free repairs if your vehicle is covered.

  2. 2
    Get a proper diagnosis

    A code alone doesn't tell you the exact failed part. A diagnostic at a shop ($50-$150) pinpoints the root cause before you spend money on parts.

  3. 3
    Compare repair quotes

    Get 2-3 quotes. Dealer vs independent shop prices often differ 30-50% for the same repair.

P2138 on Other Vehicles

Data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (U.S. Department of Transportation) and the SAE J2012 OBD-II standard. Code definitions follow the SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6 standard. Owner reports are filed directly with NHTSA by vehicle owners. This information is provided for educational purposes only and should not replace professional automotive diagnosis. Always consult a qualified mechanic for vehicle repair decisions.

Last updated: March 2026