Gmc Terrain problems
The GMC Terrain is a crossover SUV by American manufacturer General Motors under its GMC marque. Sharing its platform with the Chevrolet Equinox, the first-generation Terrain was built on GM's Theta platform, while the second-generation model is currently built on the Delta platform. The Terrain is the smallest GMC vehicle, slotted below the Acadia. It also indirectly replaced the Pontiac Torrent which was typically sold via the same dealerships prior to General Motors dropping the Pontiac brand.
First generation (2010)
The 2010 Terrain debuted in April 2009 at the New York International Auto Show, introduced as a replacement for the Pontiac Torrent, which ended production after GM shut down the Pontiac brand in 2010. Although the preceding Pontiac Torrent had the same Theta platform, the Torrent was a rebadged version of the original Chevrolet Equinox from 2005 to 2009, while GM decided to differ the look of the Chevrolet Equinox with its 2010 Terrain and still use the Theta platform. Early 2010 models had the GM Mark of Excellence logo applied on the sides of the vehicle.
The Terrain initially came in SLE and SLT trims. For the 2013 model year, a Denali trim was added, featuring additional chrome trim and slightly improved interior quality, the 3.6-liter SIDI V6 that is shared with the 2012 Cadillac SRX, and firmer front struts. The Denali also offers cross-traffic detection, blind-spot warning, and a power passenger seat as options. A low-end SL trim was added for 2015.
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Gmc Terrain model years
Common Gmc Terrain problems
The GMC Terrain, a mid-size crossover SUV, has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from its owners. These issues range from engine troubles, transmission failure, excessive oil consumption, faulty airbags, and HVAC system woes.
One of the most prominent issues reported is engine troubles, with the 2011 GMC Terrain having the most overall complaints, particularly for excessive oil consumption.
Transmission failure is another significant problem, which can be as expensive as engine failures to deal with and twice as annoying. Transmission issues can prevent you from going anywhere you need to in your day. Some of the transmission failure issues included general transmission failure, lack of proper reset after fix, and powertrain failure.
Excessive oil consumption is a common problem in the GMC Terrain models. Instead of burning through oil regularly, this vehicle consumes it extensively. You can find your vehicle burning out fast if you’re not careful. There are specific model years, such as the 2010 and 2011 options, that face excessive oil consumption, which can lead to more significant issues if not addressed promptly.
Faulty airbags are also a concern in some GMC Terrain models. For instance, several owners of the 2017 GMC Terrain complained about airbags that tend to malfunction. The airbags failed to deploy in the event of a collision or crash, which is obviously a massive safety risk. You can’t afford to ignore this issue since there were reports of injuries because the airbags didn’t activate due to an actual accident.
HVAC system woes are another common problem in several Terrain model years. Some owners shared stories about their heater blowing cold air instead, which can be unbearable under extreme conditions. GMC had to release numerous service bulletins to address the issue of malfunctioning heating and cooling systems. Other symptoms of a faulty Terrain HVAC system include water leaks coming from the climate system, strange odors, and reduced heating/cooling performance.
These common problems in the GMC Terrain models can lead to significant expenses and safety risks. Therefore, it is crucial to be aware of these issues and consider them when purchasing or maintaining a GMC Terrain.
Is the GMC Terrain a reliable vehicle?
The 2024 GMC Terrain has a predicted reliability score of 88 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.
Are there any known issues with GMC Terrain?
GMC Terrains can last up to 300,000 miles with proper maintenance. Some of the top GMC Terrain problems include malfunctioning air bags, engine issues, and a faulty transmission.
What was the worst year for GMC Terrain?
Q: What are the GMC Terrain years to avoid? A: The GMC Terrain years to avoid are 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2015. These model years have been reported to have various issues that make them less reliable and potentially costly to maintain.
What are the cons of the GMC Terrain?
The GMC Terrain has a comfortable interior and easy-to-use technology features. But a weak base engine, unresponsive transmission and bouncy ride, along with a high price, hinder the Terrain from standing out in the small SUV class.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Gmc Terrain years
We have researched Gmc problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Gmc Terrain cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Gmc Terrain model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Gmc Terrain model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Gmc Terrain years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Gmc Terrain car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Gmc Terrain , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Engine problems
- Visibility/wiper problems
- Power train problems
- Electrical system problems
- Unknown or other problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Gmc Terrain vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Terrain model years
A total of 109 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Terrain model years
There were a total of 24 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Terrain model years
There were a total of 134 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 2608 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Gmc Terrain . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Gmc Terrain vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Gmc Terrain 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: 3GKALMEV1KL
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
- Summary: I was riding on the freeway when my brakes failed. i was not able to press down on my brakes with zero warning. I had to swerve to miss cars and pull on the shoulder of the freeway and my car still would not slow down. I finally got from 65 to 35 and pressed on my emergency brakes. I stopped the vehicle then my engine light came on and I got my car towed to the car shop where my car would not stop and suffered internal damage to my engine from the brakes and vacuum pump
Gmc Terrain 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-31
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: 2GKALMEK4E6
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Oil consumption issue caused timing chain to go causing catastrophic damage to the engine resulting in over 3000$ in repairs the oil light does not come on nor does it have a low oil pressure warning
Gmc Terrain 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: 2GKALSEKXE6
- Components: STEERING,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2014 GMC Terrain. The contact stated while at a complete stop at a red light, the doors were making locking and unlocking sounds. The contact stated upon depressing the accelerator pedal to resume driving, the vehicle failed to exceed 25 MPH. The messages "Service Stabili-trak" and "Service Power Steering" were displayed, and the check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact was able to drive to the residence. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was being diagnosed. The vehicle was not yet diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 159,500.
Gmc Terrain 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-21
- VIN: 3GKALPEV4LL
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Slowed down from coming off of the highway to turn into the gas station and couldn't slow down. The brakes FAILED. Was trying to pump them and was able to come to a forecful stop, nearly colliding with the car in front of me and then again at the gas pump. Car had a failed vacuum pump at 65,000 miles. If this happened during normal rush our, my kids and I would have been sandwiched between two cars. Fatal flaw that clearly GMC already knows about. The Terrain should be included in the recall.
Gmc Terrain 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-16
- VIN: 3GKALMEVXNL
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Fuel indicator is reporting empty when car is full, and car is switching gears or shutting off by itself in the middle of driving.
Gmc Terrain 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-09
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-16
- VIN: 3GKALMEV0NL
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: My check engine light came on and I got it hooked up to get the code of P0171 - Upon checking it was different things like O2 sensor the Mass Airflow sensor, fuel pump issue etc. I have been having issues with slight hesitation during acceleration, some jerking when slowing down (not hitting the brakes). Now the check engine light was on for one day the next day it was off. I did some research and found an article that stated that GM is issuing a safety recall for 2021 and 2022 GMC terrain due to a problem with the fuel pump module failing, not enough fuel to the engine and creating stalling risk. This was from January of 2023. It also said GM notified the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration of the upcoming recall on Jan 19th 2023 and was still pending as of Feb 2023. Also stated that GM has not yet conducted actual repairs to correct the issue. My truck, I bought it brand new on Jan 20th 2022, only 23,450 miles on it. The problem literally came out of no where a week ago. The hesitation, not being able to accelerate is very dangerous when I'm on the road, I could not get the check engine light checked out professionally because the next day it was off and I was informed that they could not do a proper diagnostic if there is no light on. Obviously there is an issue with the fuel system and I really want this checked out and possibly replaced. Not to mention my gas is also going very fast now.
Gmc Terrain 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-11
- VIN: 3GKALMEV0NL
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: My GMC Terrain 2022 has stopped working 3 times for the same issue. All those times the car was tow to the dealership to get repairs. Every time that happened was the same problem, I turn on the car and immediately shuts down. It didn’t show a warning light.
Gmc Terrain 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-10
- VIN: 3GKALXEV7NL
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Fuel pump power control module failure. Part number 13554821. On [XXX], my trip home from South Carolina to Alabama was interrupted when I stopped to get something to eat. The car would not start and I had to call AAA to tow me to Superior GMC dealership in Anniston, Al. They knew what was wrong as soon as I told them it would not start. They already replaced three fuel pump control modules that day on the same model as mine. The service department said it was a persistent problem in GMC automobile's. I am [XXX] who had confidence enough in your automobile to take a trip by myself. I could have gotten stranded far away from home. I believe that this should be a recall because this is an ongoing issue with this model. I am sure that GMC is aware of this problem. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Gmc Terrain 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-09
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-09
- VIN: 3GKALMEV9JL
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 GMC Terrain. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was restarted; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the vacuum pump had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the vacuum pump had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 121,000.
Gmc Terrain 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-09
- VIN: 3GKALTEV5KL
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact called on behalf of her husband who owns a 2019 GMC Terrain. The contact stated that while her husband was driving approximately 50 MPH, the brakes seized, and contact veered off into a lot to park the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where the vehicle was diagnosed. The contact was informed that the brake vacuum pump and the timing chain needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 72,000.
Gmc Terrain 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-07
- VIN: 3GKALTEV1KL
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Turbo Charge Engine
Gmc Terrain 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-04
- VIN: 2GKALUEK4D6
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Excessive oil consumption before first oil change due, bought vehicle used less then month before service due. Vehicle has 102,102 miles oil dipstick showed no oil on dipstick. Bought oil and filled to recommended level 2 days before 1st oil change. Made dealership aware and scheduled a appointment for oil consumption issue.
Gmc Terrain 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-04
- VIN: 3GKALTEV5JL
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
- Summary: While driving the vehicle the vacuum pump failed and caused the camshaft to seize and physically break which caused the break peddle to become hard and breaking the vehicle was limited and almost nonexistent, which caused an extremely dangerous situation on the highway.
Gmc Terrain 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-03
- VIN: 2GKFLVE3XH6
- Components: POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: We have had 4 transmissions since we bought the vehicle. It slows down to almost a stop after it hits 30 mph and makes weird noises all throughout the vehicle. The back right tire sticks to the pavement and jerks when i start to drive. The key ignition has been fixed several times and still sometimes won't turn with the key or come out. Yes Warranty told the repaid service company to fix whatever, and they did but it still after 2 more transmission hasn't fixed the issues. Engine light and not sure what else.
Gmc Terrain 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-02
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-02
- VIN: 2GKFLUEK5H6
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: I was driving back home when I suddenly heard a loud pop and my car seat belt immediately tightened up. I saw smoke inside the car and the screen in my dashboard said "airbag service" There was no air bag physical deployed in the car so I believe it happened internally. Now my driver seatbelt will not retract and the front passenger seatbelt will not come out.
Latest 5 recalls Gmc Terrain
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 40 recalls for different components of the Gmc Terrain.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Gmc Terrain 2022
- Report Received Date: 2023-05-11
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: CHILD SEAT:VEHICLE LATCH ANCHOR
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain vehicles. The four rear-seat lower child seat LATCH anchorage bars may have excessive powder coating, which could prevent a child seat from being installed with the anchorage bars. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 225, "Child Restraint Anchorage Systems."
- Consequence: The inability to install a child seat with the LATCH anchorage bars could result in an unsecured child seat, increasing the risk of injury in a crash.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to install child seats using the vehicle's rear seat belts until the remedy is complete. Dealers will inspect the latch anchorage bars, and remove and replace the finish, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 2, 2023. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N232403240.
- Model: Gmc Terrain 2021
- Report Received Date: 2023-05-11
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: CHILD SEAT:VEHICLE LATCH ANCHOR
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain vehicles. The four rear-seat lower child seat LATCH anchorage bars may have excessive powder coating, which could prevent a child seat from being installed with the anchorage bars. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 225, "Child Restraint Anchorage Systems."
- Consequence: The inability to install a child seat with the LATCH anchorage bars could result in an unsecured child seat, increasing the risk of injury in a crash.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to install child seats using the vehicle's rear seat belts until the remedy is complete. Dealers will inspect the latch anchorage bars, and remove and replace the finish, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 2, 2023. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N232403240.
- Model: Gmc Terrain 2020
- Report Received Date: 2023-05-11
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: CHILD SEAT:VEHICLE LATCH ANCHOR
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain vehicles. The four rear-seat lower child seat LATCH anchorage bars may have excessive powder coating, which could prevent a child seat from being installed with the anchorage bars. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 225, "Child Restraint Anchorage Systems."
- Consequence: The inability to install a child seat with the LATCH anchorage bars could result in an unsecured child seat, increasing the risk of injury in a crash.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to install child seats using the vehicle's rear seat belts until the remedy is complete. Dealers will inspect the latch anchorage bars, and remove and replace the finish, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 2, 2023. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N232403240.
- Model: Gmc Terrain 2023
- Report Received Date: 2023-05-11
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: CHILD SEAT:VEHICLE LATCH ANCHOR
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain vehicles. The four rear-seat lower child seat LATCH anchorage bars may have excessive powder coating, which could prevent a child seat from being installed with the anchorage bars. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 225, "Child Restraint Anchorage Systems."
- Consequence: The inability to install a child seat with the LATCH anchorage bars could result in an unsecured child seat, increasing the risk of injury in a crash.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to install child seats using the vehicle's rear seat belts until the remedy is complete. Dealers will inspect the latch anchorage bars, and remove and replace the finish, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 2, 2023. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N232403240.
- Model: Gmc Terrain 2022
- Report Received Date: 2023-01-19
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP:CONTROL/DRIVE MODULE
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Chevrolet Equinox and 2022 GMC Terrain vehicles. The fuel pump module may not consistently provide sufficient fuel to the engine, resulting in an engine stall.
- Consequence: An engine stall increases the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the fuel pump module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 5, 2023. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N222372310.
Latest negative Gmc Terrain car reviews
Latest positive Gmc Terrain car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2021
Hello! As a fellow Terrain owner (AWD SLT 2.0), I was a bit confused by the review from Edmunds. Personally, I find my Terrain to be the perfect combination of sport and luxury, while also being great on gas as a daily driver. I think the 1.5 engine is designed for fuel economy, not drag racing, so it's a bit unfair to judge the vehicle based solely on that. If you're looking for a bit more power, I highly recommend upgrading to the 2.0 engine - it won't disappoint!
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Vehicle year: 2017
When visiting the dealership for the first time, it is recommended that you do not purchase the vehicle or any add-ons. It is important to do your homework on the value of add-ons and research the experiences of other buyers with these add-ons, such as LUXCARE, 3 for 1, extended mechanical warranty, dealer service contract, etc. Before making a purchase, determine the value of your trade-in and the MSRP for the vehicle you are interested in. We suggest visiting Edmunds before going to the dealership. It may also be helpful to bring a younger friend with you who hears well, thinks quickly, and is not easily pushed or intimidated.
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Vehicle year: 2010
We bought ours in 2011 with only 11k miles on the clock. Since then, we've only had to change the alternator, as well as the oil, filter, brake pads, and wiper blades. Now, with a little over 140k miles on the clock, we still absolutely love it!
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Vehicle year: 2022
I'm so glad you picked up this car for your father! It has some wonderful safety features and is very fuel efficient. I also love that the 1.5 liter engine can accelerate in gear from 1300 rpm without needing to upshift.
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Vehicle year: 2023
So glad to hear that you're loving your new GMC! It sounds like it's both stylish and functional. Thanks for sharing your positive experience with us!
Are you having problems with your Gmc Terrain?
Erich Graham 2025-05-24
Vehicle year: 2012
We purchased this car with the expectation of achieving high MPG, but unfortunately, it falls short of the rating by 30%. Additionally, it consumes an excessive amount of oil, at a rate of 1 quart per 1,000 miles. Despite our attempts to address these issues with GM, our complaints have gone unanswered. It is disappointing that they were aware of these problems but chose not to acknowledge or address them. We are currently experiencing multiple issues with the car, including the need to replace several parts. However, we remain confident in our ability to find a solution to these problems.
Gerhard Bailey 2025-05-24
Vehicle year: 2011
In the three years that I have owned my car, I have unfortunately had to replace several parts including the air bag wiring, manifold, catalytic converter, thermostat, and water pump. Additionally, the backup camera has not been functioning properly since the oil consumption issue was fixed. I was also unaware that the navigation was supposed to work with OnStar until I read some comments. Unfortunately, the poor resale value of the car makes it difficult to trade in. Despite having spent over $6,000 on repairs, the dealer suggested that it may be time to consider trading in the car. The only reason the oil consumption issue was resolved was because my husband had to complain to GMC since the dealer was not listening. I hope this information helps you in some way.
Waldo Mueller 2025-05-23
Vehicle year: 2011
The car experienced a timing belt issue and another problem, which were both repaired under warranty. Although the warranty has expired, the check engine light has come on and requires attention within 7 days. Additionally, the heating system is not functioning as expected and the fuel efficiency is lower than advertised. These issues are concerning, and I recommend addressing them promptly to ensure the vehicle is operating at its best.
Ubaldo Mraz 2025-05-21
Vehicle year: 2011
I leased this vehicle with the expectation of getting 26/32 mpg city/highway, but unfortunately, it has not met those expectations. In town, I have been getting 14-16 mpg and on the highway, it has not gone over 21 mpg. I contacted GMC and they set up a service check at the dealer, but unfortunately, the issue was not resolved. I would caution against purchasing this vehicle as it lacks power and the mileage is not up to par. It is important to note that GMC may try to shift the blame for the poor mileage onto the driver. I would recommend exploring other American-made vehicles.
Jevon Hirthe 2025-05-18
Vehicle year: 2019
I brought the vehicle to the dealership on the 6th day with 340 total miles after it overheated and became non-operational. The dealership has notified me that the radiator was cracked. Despite this setback, I remain confident that the vehicle will perform well in the future. It is worth noting that when accelerating, the engine produces a whining sound.