Gmc Terrain problems

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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.

photo of Gmc Terrain car production

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Gmc Terrain model years

gmc terrain 2023 photo
Terrain 2023
Gmc

0

2

27

2.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
gmc terrain 2022 photo
Terrain 2022
Gmc

33

4

23

3.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
gmc terrain 2021 photo
Terrain 2021
Gmc

17

2

40

2.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
gmc terrain 2020 photo
Terrain 2020
Gmc

83

2

25

2.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
gmc terrain 2019 photo
Terrain 2019
Gmc

112

3

33

2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
gmc terrain 2018 photo
Terrain 2018
Gmc

166

5

33

2.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
gmc terrain 2017 photo
Terrain 2017
Gmc

99

1

30

1.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
gmc terrain 2016 photo
Terrain 2016
Gmc

123

2

36

2.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
gmc terrain 2015 photo
Terrain 2015
Gmc

295

3

29

2.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
gmc terrain 2014 photo
Terrain 2014
Gmc

287

2

21

2.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
gmc terrain 2013 photo
Terrain 2013
Gmc

355

3

30

2.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
gmc terrain 2012 photo
Terrain 2012
Gmc

357

4

31

1.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
gmc terrain 2011 photo
Terrain 2011
Gmc

392

4

34

2.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
gmc terrain 2010 photo
Terrain 2010
Gmc

289

3

38

1.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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.

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

  1. Travis Ritchie 2025-05-08

    Vehicle year: 2012

    I have owned two four cylinders. Unfortunately, I had some issues with both of them. The first one, a 2010 model with 30,000 miles, had its engine replaced due to excessive oil consumption. The second one, a 2012 model with 32,000 miles, required an engine rebuild. I was told that GM no longer replaces these engines. However, I am now driving a V6 which has passed the 40,000 mile mark with no problems. I hope it continues to run smoothly as long as I keep gas in the tank. I have learned my lesson and will avoid buying another four cylinder from GM.

  2. Wilford Crooks 2025-05-04

    Vehicle year: 2011

    I purchased this vehicle used from its original owner in 2013 with only 3,000 miles on it. Despite the car driving well, I had a few issues with it. The transmission stalled and the engine light turned on while I was on the expressway by a toll exit, which was quite scary. However, after some repairs and apologies from GMC, the issue was resolved. Unfortunately, the engine started burning too much oil and despite my complaints, the advisors at GMC initially denied any problem with the engine. It took a while, but eventually, they fixed the issue. However, a month ago, the transmission failed and stalled on me at an intersection, which was a terrifying experience. The advisor at GMC was not very helpful initially, but later apologized and offered me a loaner car. Although I understand that cars can break down, it was frustrating to have the same issue happen again after it was supposedly fixed. Despite all of this, I am happy to have moved on from this nightmare and purchased a new Honda HR-V, which has great ratings and feels very safe to drive. I would recommend considering other options besides GMC for your next vehicle purchase.

  3. Derick Donnelly 2025-05-01

    Vehicle year: 2016

    The stabilitrak keeps stalling my car, and despite three costly visits to GMC certified mechanics, the problem remains unresolved. As a consumer who relies on my car, I'm not sure what to do next.

  4. Isac Bernhard 2025-05-01

    Vehicle year: 2020

    Although this SUV may look like it's built for off-roading, it's important to note that it's not designed for that purpose. The underside of the vehicle, including the plastic gas tank, is unprotected. During our drive, we encountered a road that my Honda Civic had previously traveled, but unfortunately, a scrape caused a bearing holding the drive shift to break, rendering the all-wheel drive unusable. Additionally, we had a minor slide into a snow bank earlier, resulting in $5k worth of damage to the grill, bumper, and fog lights. While this vehicle may not have the best structural integrity, it is comfortable, quick, and fun to drive. However, it's important to note that it's not the most fuel-efficient option for highway travel. After driving it for 27k miles, I must admit that I'm a bit underwhelmed.

  5. Jeramie Botsford 2025-04-29

    Vehicle year: 2013

    I purchased this vehicle as a used car for my youngest daughter so that she could have a reliable mode of transportation for her and her three children. Unfortunately, we encountered some issues with the car shortly after she started driving it. Despite this, my daughter was able to handle the situation well, as she is somewhat mechanically inclined and knew how to check the oil and ask questions of mechanics. While I was initially disappointed to hear about the issues with the car, I learned some valuable lessons from this experience, such as the importance of doing thorough research before purchasing a vehicle. Although we have had to invest a significant amount of money into repairing the car, we are hopeful that it will soon pass inspection and be drivable once again. Despite the challenges we have faced, I remain optimistic and grateful for the lessons learned from this experience.

Latest positive Gmc Terrain car reviews

  1. Justice Price 2025-05-12

    Vehicle year: 2023

    I'm so glad to hear that you're enjoying your new Terrain! It's great to see such positive feedback so soon after your purchase.

  2. Estevan Morissette 2025-05-11

    Vehicle year: 2023

    I really like the body style and the clean interior design. Most of the controls are easy to use, but I do have one complaint about the push button shift. It feels a bit awkward to use and you need to look at it to shift. Maybe they could consider going back to the stick shift?

  3. Abdullah Becker 2025-05-09

    Vehicle year: 2015

    After our GMC Envoy XL had major problems, we chose this vehicle based on cost. However, we are very happy with our choice. Although we wanted an Acadia, the $10K+ price difference was too much. The Terrain is a comfortable and pretty spacious 'compact' SUV that rides great and is easy to drive. It has way more room in the back seat than the Envoy did and I know it has better front passenger area than the Envoy. We were able to fit 5 of us (kids 16, 8 & 3) but it was a little tight (my 8 yr old couldn't use his booster seat with 3 in the back seat). The car is easy and comfortable to drive, even when loaded down, and it's mostly quiet. Although there is a lot of tire noise (not sure if it's the car or the tires though) which can get really loud on the highway. The cargo area is a little small considering this isn't really a small vehicle, but the back seat can be adjusted to make more space (but not by much without sacrificing all the leg room). We recently took a 2500+ mile trip with all of us. Even loaded with all 5 of us and all the luggage (including a roof cargo box) the ride and handling were very good. We were surprised the back end didn't lower much once everything/everyone was loaded up either. We noticed the weight when driving, but it didn't make it much harder to drive and we quickly got used to it. Even after 12+ hours in the car we didn't feel really stiff or sore and we survived with 3 in the back seat. This is where we wished we got the 6 cyl motor though. The 4 cyl is good 90% of the time for us, so it probably is the better overall choice. It really struggled at higher speeds (70 MP+) with all of us and the luggage; although understandably so considering it was probably about 1000 lbs of people & gear. We only got about 23 MPG for the trip so we were a bit disappointed (we expected about 25 MPG with the cargo box). It downshifts on almost any kind of hill trying to maintain speed. The constant shifting gets annoying.Especially when it kicks down a couple of gears, this SUV feels like two different vehicles when it comes to mileage (even without the cargo box). If you stay between 60-65 MPH, it easily gets 28-30 MPG. Once you start going 70 or more, it drops off to low to mid 20's, probably because of the squared-off styling. Overall, I really like this SUV, and my wife and I enjoy driving it. It's comfortable, rides and handles well, and gets good mileage (especially compared to averaging about 15 MPG with our Envoy). We have over 28K miles in the year we've had it and never had a problem and no rattles, random noises, etc. The stereo is very good, and there are plenty of storage places, cup holders, and charging ports. The center console is quite large, which can make it a little hard to find things with too much stuff in it. I think the headlights and fog lights work great; good brightness and distance so you don't have to use high beams all the time. However, there are a few things that could be improved. The seat material with the holes can be a little itchy and collects crumbs/dirt. The cargo area is a little small, and my 8 yr old says the center seat in the back is too hard. The transmission downshifts a lot because it always tries to get to the highest gear, making it difficult to accelerate a little bit without it downshifting (and sometimes it goes down 2 gears). Also, the engine is my biggest problem. Nonetheless, this SUV has great safety ratings, and I would recommend it to anyone looking for a comfortable and reliable ride.Accelerating quickly can be a bit of a challenge with this vehicle. It tends to downshift multiple gears, resulting in a lot of engine noise but very little forward motion. While it's generally fine for regular driving, lane changes or passing other vehicles require some planning. If you're looking for more horsepower without sacrificing gas mileage, GMC could benefit from developing an engine that falls between the current two options. Perhaps the turbo 4 (2 liter) that GM uses in many of their other cars, or even the diesel from the Canyon, would be ideal (although this is unlikely to happen). I recently switched to driving a 2003 Highlander as my daily driver, and while it doesn't quite match up to the Terrain in terms of ride, handling, and noise, the V6 engine makes highway driving much easier and I still get about 22 mpg.

  4. Deangelo Lueilwitz 2025-05-07

    Vehicle year: 2023

    I've owned various SUVs in the past, but this little truck is truly great! The ride quality is excellent and it's surprisingly quiet. I was worried it might be sluggish, but it's actually pretty quick, especially off the line. On road trips, I get high 30s for mileage, which is fantastic. While it's not a jeep and I learned the hard way that it's not ideal for off-roading, it does handle deep sand on the beach very well and doesn't get stuck. It just doesn't have a lot of ground clearance. I really appreciate the 4x4 capability for better performance on the road. The technology is much better than my previous BMW, which I just traded in. I especially love the 360 cameras. Overall, I don't have any complaints. It's a fabulous little truck!

  5. Royal Veum 2025-05-06

    Vehicle year: 2023

    I'm so glad to hear that you love your 2023 Terrain! The sun roof sounds like a great feature and it's wonderful to hear that there's so much room. It sounds like you have the best car!

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