Market Position:
The 2006 GMC Canyon is a compact pickup truck, positioned as a versatile and capable option for light-duty hauling and everyday use, competing with models like the Ford Ranger, Toyota Tacoma, and Nissan Frontier.
Competitive Analysis:
The Canyon offered a balance of maneuverability, fuel efficiency (especially with smaller engines), and utility. It aimed to attract buyers seeking a more manageable pickup than full-size trucks while still providing significant payload and towing capabilities for its class.
Key Features:
Available in various configurations including regular cab, extended cab, and crew cab. Offered with different bed lengths and drivetrains (RWD and 4WD). Known for its robust chassis and functional interior.
Sections Covered:
Seats and Restraint Systems, Features and Controls, Instrument Panel, Climate Controls, Warning Lights/Gages/Indicators, Driver Information Center (DIC), Audio Systems, Driving Your Vehicle, Towing, Service and Appearance Care, Fuel, Under Hood Checks, Rear Axle, Four-Wheel Drive, Front Axle, Bulb Replacement, Wiper Blade Replacement, Tires, Appearance Care, Vehicle Identification, Electrical System, Capacities and Specifications, Maintenance Schedule, Customer Assistance and Information, Reporting Safety Defects.
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 200-250 pages (based on typical manual length for this era and content)
Manual Type:
Owner's Manual
Safety Systems:
Front airbags, side-impact airbags (if equipped), seat belts (3-point, pretensioners), child seat anchors (LATCH), child seat installation procedures, airbag system operation and limitations, restraint system checks.
Interior Controls:
Front and rear seat adjustments, door and lock operation, power windows, theft-deterrent system, mirrors (manual/power), OnStar® system operation, storage compartments, instrument panel layout, climate control functions (HVAC), warning lights, gauges, indicators, Driver Information Center (DIC) functionality, audio system controls.
Drivetrain And Chassis:
Four-wheel drive system operation, rear axle information, front axle information, tire specifications, tire pressure monitoring system (if equipped).
Electrical And Lighting:
Electrical system overview, bulb replacement procedures for interior and exterior lighting.
Driving Operations:
Starting and operating the vehicle, driving considerations, towing procedures and recommendations.
Maintenance And Care:
Fluid checks (engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid, transmission fluid), fuel requirements, under-hood component checks, appearance care (cleaning and protection), windshield wiper blade replacement.
Vehicle Identification:
Location and interpretation of vehicle identification number (VIN) and other identification markings.
Technical Depth:
Designed for the owner, covering operation, basic maintenance, and safety. Does not include detailed diagnostic procedures or component-level repair instructions typically found in a service manual.
Engine Options:
2.8L (2770cc) Atlas LLM I4, 3.5L (3473cc) Vortec 3500 L52 I5.
2.8L I4 Horsepower:
175 hp @ 5600 rpm (estimated)
2.8L I4 Torque:
185 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (estimated)
3.5L I5 Horsepower:
220 hp @ 5600 rpm
3.5L I5 Torque:
225 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Induction:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI).
Recommended Fuel:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane minimum recommended by GM for optimal performance and economy)
Wheelbase:
Varies by cab and bed configuration (e.g., 111.9 inches for regular cab, 126.1 inches for extended/crew cab)
Bed Lengths:
Short bed (approx. 61 inches), Long bed (approx. 73 inches)
Curb Weight:
Varies significantly by configuration (e.g., ~3600 - 4500 lbs)
Max Payload:
Up to ~1,200 lbs (depending on configuration)
Max Towing Capacity:
Up to ~5,600 lbs (with appropriate engine, axle ratio, and towing package)
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
4-star driver, 5-star passenger (for models with side airbags)
IIHS Crash Test Results:
Generally rated 'Good' or 'Acceptable' in frontal offset tests, with variations based on specific equipment and testing protocols.
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), available traction control, available StabiliTrak (electronic stability control).
Passive Safety Features:
Driver and front passenger airbags, available front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, front and rear 3-point safety belts, front seat belt pretensioners, LATCH child seat anchors.
Infotainment System:
Standard AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional upgraded audio systems with more speakers, auxiliary inputs (early models may not have standard aux jacks).
Driver Assistance Features:
ABS, Traction Control, optional StabiliTrak. No advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control or lane keeping assist were standard or commonly available.
Connectivity Features:
OnStar® system with Turn-by-Turn Navigation (subscription-based). Early Bluetooth integration might be limited or optional.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first) with synthetic oil, or 5,000 miles/6 months with conventional oil. Consult manual for exact recommendation.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles.
Engine Coolant Replacement:
Initial change at 150,000 miles, then every 75,000 miles thereafter (using Dex-Cool® coolant).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 synthetic blend or full synthetic recommended.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 5 quarts (4.7 liters) for the 3.5L I5, 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) for the 2.8L I4 (check manual for exact capacity).
Transmission Fluid Type Auto:
Dexron VI Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF).
Transmission Fluid Capacity Auto:
Approximately 5-6 quarts for a fluid change (check manual for exact capacity).
Coolant Type:
GM Super Coolant (Dex-Cool®) - Orange.
Common Issues:
Front suspension wear (ball joints, control arm bushings), catalytic converter failure, fuel pump issues, occasional transmission problems, interior trim rattles, exhaust manifold cracks (especially on the 3.5L I5).
Common Maintenance Tasks:
Regularly checking and topping off all fluid levels, inspecting suspension components, ensuring proper tire inflation.
Brand Heritage:
GMC (General Motors Truck Company) has a long history of producing trucks and commercial vehicles, known for their durability and capability. The Canyon nameplate replaced the Sonoma pickup.
Model Evolution:
The 2006 model year represents a continuation of the first generation of the GMC Canyon (GMT355 platform), which debuted for the 2004 model year. It was developed in partnership with Isuzu (as the Isuzu D-Max/i-Series).
Production Location:
Shreveport, Louisiana, USA (GM's Shreveport Assembly Plant).
Production Years First Gen:
2004-2012
