GMC Canyon Beeping Problems? (13 Common Causes)

The GMC Canyon is a versatile mid-size truck.

Like most vehicles, it comes equipped with various beeps and chimes designed to alert the driver.

If your Canyon keeps beeping, this article aims to provide assistance.

1. Objects On the Passenger Seat

Items positioned on the passenger seat, whether it’s a laptop or even a hat, have occasionally activated the chime system. The weight and shifting of these objects may be misinterpreted as a passenger not fastening their seatbelt, thereby triggering the chime.

If you find it necessary to place an item on the passenger seat, a straightforward solution is to secure it with the seat belt.

Malfunctioning Seat Sensor

In some instances, the passenger seat sensor could be defective, resulting in the occurrence of a beep even when the passenger seat is unoccupied.

A temporary workaround for this issue involves inserting the seatbelt, while the more lasting remedy entails replacing the faulty sensor.

2. Remote Alerts

Remote Left in Vehicle Alert

The Remote Left in Vehicle Alert feature is designed to sound an alert when the key fob is inadvertently left inside the vehicle.

When the vehicle is turned off and a fob remains in the vehicle, the horn will emit three beeps after all doors are closed.

Remote No Longer Left in Vehicle Alert

If the vehicle is on with a door open and then all doors are closed, the vehicle will check for key fobs inside.

If a key fob 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

  1. Touch the Settings icon located on the Home Page of the infotainment display.
  2. Select “Vehicle” to reveal a list of available options.
  3. Choose ‘Remote Lock’ or ‘Remote Unlock’
  4. Use the “On” or “Off” options to toggle the alert feature.

Note that adjusting the “Remote Left in Vehicle Alert” setting also affects the “Remote No Longer In Vehicle Alert.”

3. Troubles with Door Latches

When door latches malfunction or become stuck, they can lead to the vehicle incorrectly registering a door as open.

This problem can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating all door mechanisms, ensuring both proper functionality and accurate signaling.

Its important to check also that all doors are closed properly.

4. Problems with Door and Hood Sensors

When a door sensor or hood latch sensor malfunctions, it can lead to audible beeping within the vehicle. These sensors play a crucial role in the car’s safety and security systems.

Should these sensors fail and erroneously signal that a door or the hood is ajar, the vehicle’s system responds by emitting beeping sounds. This alert aims to prompt swift action from the driver, ensuring both safety and security are maintained.

5. Key Fob Battery Depletion

When the key fob battery is running low, it can result in unexplained beeping as erratic signals are transmitted to the vehicle’s electronic system. These signals are interpreted as commands or alerts by the system.

To resolve this issue, the most common solution is to replace the key fob battery. It is essential to choose a high-quality battery, clean the interior of the fob, and ensure the battery is inserted correctly to prevent further beeping.

Related: 11 Most Common GMC Canyon Problems (Explained)

6. Blinker Left ON

Leaving the turn signal (blinker) engaged for an extended duration, typically exceeding 3/4 of a mile, can trigger a chime.

This chime serves as a safety reminder, prompting the driver to deactivate the turn signal after completing a turn or lane change.

7. Weak 12V Battery

A weak 12V battery can lead to a variety of issues.

To eliminate this as a potential problem, consider conducting a battery health check.

Many auto stores, such as AutoZone, offer this service for free.

Additionally, ensure that the battery connections are secure and free from dirt and grime.

8. Aftermarket Devices

Frequently, enigmatic beeping sounds originate from aftermarket electronic devices that do not activate alerts on the dashboard or Driver Information Center (DIC).

Common origins of these beeping noises encompass:

  1. Aftermarket alarm systems
  2. Bluetooth adapters
  3. Radar detectors
  4. Dashcams, especially when encountering bumps
  5. GPS tracking devices
  6. Insurance company tracking devices

9. Malfunctioning Ignition Switch

A prevalent problem that leads to ongoing beeping in vehicles, even after removing the key, is a defective ignition switch. This issue often occurs when the internal button responsible for detecting the key’s presence becomes stuck, incorrectly suggesting that the key remains in the ignition.

10. Teen Driver Speed Limit Notifications

The truck’s Driver Information Center (DIC) incorporates a functionality for configuring alerts related to exceeding predefined speed limits, typically within the “teen driver” settings. Modifying or deactivating these alerts may necessitate entering a PIN. Nevertheless, these alerts are visually displayed on the DIC.

11. External Sources of Beeping

Occasionally, the source of beeping may not originate from the truck itself, but rather from other devices within or near the vehicle, such as a wristwatch, battery-operated electronic gadgets, or alarms in your garage, signaling low battery or generating alerts.

12. On-Star Test Beep

Intermittent beeping may stem from the On-Star system conducting routine tests, which some drivers occasionally notice.

These beeps represent a harmless signal from the On-Star service, confirming its proper operation. Typically, no action is necessary unless these beeps coincide with dashboard alerts.

13. Back Seat Reminder Alert

The faint sound under the dashboard may be attributed to the “check the back seat” reminder, designed to prevent unintentionally leaving passengers behind.

This alert is accompanied by a message displayed on the Driver Information Center (DIC).

You can enable or disable this feature through the DIC settings.

Related: 16 Best & Worst GMC Canyon Years (With Pictures)

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.

Check All Fluid Levels

It’s worthwhile to verify the levels of various fluids, as discrepancies can trigger alerts:

  • Engine Oil
  • Coolant
  • Brake Fluid
  • Transmission Fluid
  • Power Steering Fluid
  • Windshield Washer Fluid

Consult a Mechanic or Dealership

For unresolved issues after basic troubleshooting, seek an experienced mechanic or a local GMC 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 GMC’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, may help identify the issue. OBD apps allow smartphone connections for a convenient diagnosis. Research the codes online or consult vehicle-specific forums for advice.

Check the DIC (Driver Information Center)

When the beeping occurs can you see any lights come on at the same time on the DIC display? This can give a big clue as to what’s causing the beeping.

Related: GMC Canyon Alarm Going Off? (13 Main Causes)

Resources

GMC Canyon Owners Manual 2023

Author:

  • Ian Sawyer

    Growing up with a father who was a mechanic I had an appreciation for cars and motorcycles from an early age. I shared my first bike with my brother that had little more than a 40cc engine but it opened up a world of excitement for me, I was hooked. As I grew older I progressed onto bigger bikes and...