8.0
pretty bad- Typical Repair Cost:
- $1,000
- Average Mileage:
- 72,500 miles
- Total Complaints:
- 3 complaints
Most common solutions:
- not sure (3 reports)
click to see larger images
I noticed that I had a running light out. Simple fix, change the bulb. That is when I discovered that the bulb was melted at the base where it fits into the vehicle's plug. The plug is intact, with melted plastic from the bulb on it. The biggest concern for me is the obvious overheating issue. The bulb not only melted, but also melted the headlight housing where the plug is designed to fit. This burned up the retaining tangs for the running light plug, so I have no way to make the replacement bulb stay in place. I am dealing with the left side, but I see evidence of overheating on the right as well. I don't know yet if I can get parts, or if I will have to replace the headlight unit. BIG $$$$! This is something the factory should address because there is an obvious fire risk as evidenced by the excessive melting of the headlight housing. There is also the obvious smell of burnt plastic. It appears to me that the bulb that GMC uses, being made of plastic begins to melt when the elements heat up. I am looking to see if I can get a replacement bulb made of "glass." (hint to bulb manufacturer) If, in the meantime my vehicles catches fire, I will be "contacting" GMC, and Sylvania.
- hellfighter, Pinon Hills, CA, US
Went to replace a running light out on the front passenger's side head at the dealer where it was purchased. Was told the whole unit had to be replaced - not just the bulb - as it overheated, melted and needed to be replaced. The failure mileage at 65K. Seems like a major electrical problem if a simple bulb cannot be replaced without the whole unit being damaged. Would like the replacement unit covered.
- Jc Z., Alexandria, VA, US
As I have seen on this site apparently this is a faulty manufacturing issue since it continue to occur on these vehicles especially for this particular year.
I brought my 2011 Acadia Denali in a few weeks ago to have a running light bulb replced because it was flickering. No problem. THEN the other same light on the other side went out completely. When I brought it to the dealership was informed that the bulb housing had melted and the entire assembly needed to be replaced AND it was starting to hapen on the other side where the bulb had just been replaced.
These housing assemblies cost $900 - $1000 a piece not including labor which involves taking off the front bumber - labor intensive.
Although I have extended warranty on my vehicle it would not cover the problem as headlights/bulb replacement is a wear and tear issue. OBVIOUSLY this is not an issue due to use.
I agree with all the other posts on this subject - A RECALL IS DEFINATELY WARRANTED.
This appears to me to be an electical issue that could cause fire that would endanger the driver/passengers.
- a349431, Chelmsford, MA, US