The GMC Acadia is a midsize SUV known for its versatility, comfort, and spacious interior.
Like most SUVs, it uses beeps, chimes and alerts to get the driver’s attention.
If your Acadia keeps beeping and you’re unsure why, this article is here to help…
Table of Contents
1. Remote Alerts
Left in Vehicle Alert
The Remote Left in Vehicle Alert feature is designed to sound an alert when the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter is inadvertently left inside the vehicle.
When the vehicle is turned off and an RKE transmitter remains in the vehicle, the horn will emit three beeps after all doors are closed.
Remote No Longer Left in Vehicle Alert
f the vehicle is on with a door open and then all doors are closed, the vehicle will check for RKE transmitters inside.
If an RKE transmitter is not detected, the Driver Information Center (DIC) will display NO REMOTE DETECTED and the horn will chirp three times.
This occurs only once each time the vehicle is driven.
How To Toggle These Alerts
The process for enabling or disabling these alerts may vary slightly depending on your Acadia model year. To access the Vehicle Personalization menu and adjust these settings, follow these steps:
- Touch the Settings icon located on the Home Page of the infotainment display.
- Select “Vehicle” to reveal a list of available options.
- Choose the desired feature setting by touching it.
- Use the “On” or “Off” options to toggle the alert feature.
- Return to the top level of the Settings menu by touching “X.”
Please note that adjusting the “Remote Left in Vehicle Alert” setting also affects the “Remote No Longer In Vehicle Alert.”
Related: GMC Acadia Alarm Going Off? (11 Causes & Solutions)
2. Items on Passenger Seat
Objects placed on the passenger seat, such as a laptop or even a hat, have been known to trigger the chime in some cases. The weight and movement of these items can sometimes be interpreted as if a passenger isn’t wearing their seatbelt, leading to the chime.
If you need to have an item on the passenger seat, you can simply buckle the seat belt.
“Do you have anything on your passenger seat? laptop? this causes my chime to beep.” – AcadiaForum.com
“If the stuff in the front seat was heavy enough, it could set off the ‘fasten seat’ belt chime.” – AcadiaForum.com
3. Blinker Left On
Leaving the turn signal (blinker) on for an extended period, typically more than 3/4 of a mile, can result in a chime.
This serves as a safety reminder to prompt the driver to turn off the blinker after completing a turn or lane change.
4. Parking Brake Engaged
If the parking brake is accidentally left engaged while you drive, it can trigger a chime as a safety reminder.
This chime is designed to alert you to disengage the parking brake before continuing to drive.
5. Navigation System (if equipped)
In some cases, the navigation system in GMC Acadia vehicles can emit a faint chime for various reasons. This chime might occur periodically during navigation system operation.
You can adjust the chimes volume in the navigation settings.
6. Faulty latches or Sticking Door Mechanisms
If your vehicle’s door latch is sticking, it can lead to a false indication that a door is open when it’s not.
Consider thoroughly cleaning all door mechanisms and applying WD-40 as a lubricant. Additionally, ensure that all door locks operate smoothly, both when opening and closing.
7. 12V Battery Issues
A weak 12V battery can lead to electrical glitches and unwarranted beeps. To check the battery’s health, you can use a voltmeter to measure the voltage across its terminals.
If the voltage registers below 11 volts, it’s likely causing the beeping, indicating the need for a replacement.
8. Tire Pressure and Fluid Levels
It’s always worth checking your tire pressure and fluid levels are all correct, such as:
- Engine oil
- Coolant
- Power steering fluid
- Brake fluid
- Windshield washer
9. Weak Fob battery
A weak key fob battery in an Acadia can trigger mysterious beeping sounds because the key fob communicates with the vehicle’s electronic systems, and a low battery may result in intermittent or unexpected signals being sent, leading to the beeps.
Replacing the key fob battery can often resolve this issue.
10. Aftermarket Devices
In a lot of cases, mysterious beeps are caused by aftermarket electronics that won’t show any warnings on the dash or DIC.
Common sources of beeping noises include:
- Aftermarket alarms
- Bluetooth adapters
- Radar detectors
- Dashcams
- GPS tracking devices
- Insurance tracking devices
The beeps from these devices are often not as loud as the factory beeps and chimes.
They’re also more difficult to track down if they’re hidden somewhere behind the dashboard.
If you’ve already checked all throughout the vehicle and disconnected every device, an experienced mechanic should be able to investigate the problem further and diagnose any strange wiring problems.
11. It’s Not Your Acadia Beeping
Unidentified beeping sounds audible in your car may not necessarily originate from your Acadia.
For instance, they could emanate from a wristwatch with a depleted battery that has fallen out of view, a low battery in a carbon monoxide monitor or smoke detector located in your garage, or another battery-operated electronic device.
One owner on AcadiaForum.com who was unsure where a beeping noise was coming from had this to say:
“This is worth a chuckle. It was the E-Z Pass beeping”
Related: 11 Most Common GMC Acadia Problems (Explained)
Additional Steps to Consider
Disconnect the Battery
Glitches in modern vehicles, which rely heavily on electronics, can cause mysterious beeps. Disconnecting the 12-volt battery’s negative (black) terminal for 10 to 20 minutes resets the vehicle’s systems.
Consult a Mechanic or Dealership
For unresolved issues after basic troubleshooting, seek an experienced mechanic or a local Chevrolet dealership. They possess the necessary tools and experience. If under warranty, prioritize the dealership and inquire about free initial diagnostics. Auto parts stores may offer free scans and advice.
Check for Recalls or TSBs
Use Chevy’s recall page with your car’s VIN to check for recalls. Google searches for Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) can reveal less serious issues causing beeps.
Use a Diagnostic Scanner
An OBD2 scanner, easily connected to the car’s OBD port, helps identify the issue. OBD apps allow smartphone connections for a convenient diagnosis. Research the codes online or consult vehicle-specific forums for advice.
