2013 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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Common 2013 Gmc Terrain problems
The 2013 GMC Terrain has been reported to have several common problems, primarily related to the engine. One of the most prevalent issues is excessive oil consumption, which can lead to low oil pressure and engine stalling or making knocking sounds.
Another issue is the airbags, which account for approximately 15% of the NHTSA's complaints. Drivers have reported airbags failing to deploy during accidents, even though the dash suggests airbag deployment. In some cases, a gunpowder-like scent is noticed after the accident, indicating that the airbags triggered but did not deploy. Additionally, some drivers have reported the "service airbag" message constantly appearing on their dashboard.
Blown engine seals and broken transfer cases are also common problems in the 2013 GMC Terrain. A blown main seal on the engine is the most widespread complaint, typically occurring around 100,000 miles. Replacing a cracked rear main seal can cost between $650 and $850.
The 2013 GMC Terrain has three recalls, with the most serious one being for the key, which can be removed while the vehicle is not in park, allowing the SUV to roll away. GMC will replace the key cylinder to fix the problem. The other recalls are for the windshield wipers and headlights, which are less serious.
In summary, the 2013 GMC Terrain has several common problems, primarily related to the engine, including excessive oil consumption, low oil pressure, airbag failure, blown engine seals, and broken transfer cases. While the Terrain has a decent 4.2-star (out of five) rating from consumers, repairs are expensive and can cost around $5,470.
Are 2013 GMC Terrains good cars?
How Reliable Is the 2013 GMC Terrain? The 2013 GMC Terrain has a reliability rating of 4.5 out of five from J.D. Power.
Does the 2013 GMC Terrain have transmission problems?
If you don't routinely and repeatedly change your fluids at least every 30,000 miles or so, you may find that your 2013 GMC Terrain transmission will instantly slip.
What is the common problem with the GMC Terrain?
Including the terrain SUV from 2018 to 2019.. The issue is an inadequate coating on the rear brake caliper Pistons.
How many miles does a 2013 GMC Terrain last?
How Long Do GMC Terrains Last? The average lifespan for passenger vehicles is around 200,000 miles. The GMC Terrain life expectancy is above the average at around 300,000 miles. If you drive an average of 15,000 miles per year, you could be driving the same vehicle for 20 years with no major problems.
Are 2013 GMC Terrains good cars?
How Reliable Is the 2013 GMC Terrain? The 2013 GMC Terrain has a reliability rating of 4.5 out of five from J.D. Power.
What is the common problem of 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.
Does the 2013 GMC Terrain have transmission problems?
If you don't routinely and repeatedly change your fluids at least every 30,000 miles or so, you may find that your 2013 GMC Terrain transmission will instantly slip.
What is the engine problem on the 2013 GMC Terrain?
Experts suggest the GMC Terrain can last up to 300,000 miles or on average between 200,000-220,000 miles. However, 151 NHTSA complaints exist for the 2013 GMC Terrain's engine that include engine failure at 67,800 miles, stalling, and excessive oil consumption below 100,000 miles.
2013 Gmc Terrain car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Gmc Terrain problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine problems
- Visibility/wiper problems
- Power train problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2013 Gmc Terrain vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2013 Gmc Terrain
The NHTSA has received 355 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2013 Gmc Terrain. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2013 Gmc Terrain vehicles.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- 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.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-08
- VIN: 2GKALYEK9D6
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2013 GMC Terrain. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V137000 (Exterior Lighting) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. Several local dealers were contacted; however, the parts for the recall repair were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-03
- VIN: 2GKALSEK4D6
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: I hit a pot hole and a stabilitrack error popped up. Also reduced engine power I was miles from home and could have easily caused a major accident on the road.
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-08-07
- VIN: 2GKALSEK6D6
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: Excessive oil consumption, and had to change out timing belt at 50,000 miles
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-25
- VIN: 2GKFLVEK9D6
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: The engine locked up due to oil leaking into it. This is a known issue with GM on these model cars but instead of issuing a recall they issued a special warranty that expired leaving consumers with these vehicles to be responsible for this repair which cost over $8,000.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-10
- VIN: 2GKFLTEK6D6
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2013 GMC Terrain. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to start up with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The contact stated that there was compression failure in each cylinder, causing the timing belt to jump timing, and the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacture was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 153,514.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-17
- VIN: 2GKALMEKXD6
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: 2013 GMC Terrain with 109000 miles. Check engine light came on. Drove to local independent repair shop to have codes checked and to have oil changed. Oil was due to be changed at 109000 miles. Repair shop showed oil was down over 3 quarts even though they found no leaks. All engine codes had been set by low oil. They changed oil and filter (twice) and performed complete oil system cleaning and ran diagnostics. They asked my to watch oil consumption and bring it back in 500 miles. The next day, the check engine symbol came back on so I took vehicle back to repair shop. Error codes now all pointed to timing chain problem. It would be $1500 to $2000 to replace timing chain. Vehicle not repaired since I recently had suspension work and also replaced exhaust system.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-06
- VIN: 2GKFLVE38D6
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: When refueling, and having the fill nozzle locked on for auto shutoff, the fuel overflows and drains out of the fuel fill cavity and drips on the right rear tire. This usually results in gasoline smell in the car. This happens on most fuel nozzles. I should have reported it years ago.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-08-01
- VIN: 2GKALMEK4D6
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2013 GMC Terrain. The contact stated that the engine was making an abnormal knocking sound. While driving, at various speeds, the vehicle was jerking. The lights were dim. The contact had to add additional oil every 7 days. There were no warning lights illuminated. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 55,000.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-01
- VIN: 2GKFLVEK1D6
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Diagnosis - rear floor boards and trunk well full of water. Diagnose and report - Founds traces of water running down rear pillars, starting just under the taillights. Remove rear taillights and found access hole tape failed, allowing water to enter vehicle.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-05
- VIN: 2GKFLTEK4D6
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2013 GMC Terrain. The contact stated while driving 55 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power and stalled. The vehicle was not able to be restarted. The vehicle was towed to an impound lot and then to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the engine needed to be replaced due to a lack of engine oil. The vehicle was not prepared. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 39,106.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-27
- VIN: 2GKFLVE36D6
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: When driving in the rain going through puddles power steering will intermittently stop working.
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-01
- VIN: 2GKFLVEK9D6
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: When driving vehicle loses power, upon pushing accelerator there is no acceleration and vehicle keeps losing speed. This happens at any given time.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-13
- VIN: 2GKFLXE33D6
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Transmission failed for no Reason
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-13
- VIN: 2GKFLREK0D6
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: See attached document from complainant
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-25
- VIN: 2GKALMEK0D6
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Catalytic Converter - Available for inspection Safety Risk - Toxic Exhaust gasses and engine failure Problem was diagnosed by independent service center. Vehicle has not been inspected by manufacturer, police, insurance rep...only mechanic that made decision from a diagnostic test Warning Signs: O2 sensors replaced, excessive oil consumption, leaks, fuel pump replaced, check engine light keeps appearing even after cleared, poor acceleration Started seeing signs in 2019 I can provide additional receipts for past repairs once located. The receipt attached from HCS Auto performed a diagnostic on 9/25/23 and again today on 10/2/23. Please contact them to confirm that vehicle will need catalytic convertor.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-22
- VIN: 2GKFLTEK9D6
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2013 GMC Terrain. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal sound coming from underneath the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed there was extreme rust to the subframe and that the subframe needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 141,388.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-01
- VIN: 2GKFLUE32D6
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: When I put car in park it tools Bach about half a foot before it actually stops this happens everytime it's put into park
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-12-17
- VIN: 2GKALYEK3D6
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: My PCV failed the winter of 2021. It blew the rear main. My Terrain has been parked since then.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-01
- VIN: 2GKALMEK3D6
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2013 GMC Terrain. The contact stated that the vehicle was consuming 1 to 3 quarts of oil for every few miles. The contact stated that the cross member was covered in oil. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the timing chain had jumped and there was no compression in the engine. The contact was informed that the rod bearings were damaged. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 143,000.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-08
- VIN: 2GKALMEKXD6
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2013 GMC Terrain. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V137000 (Exterior Lighting) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
AIR BAGS,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-13
- VIN: 2GKALSEK0D6
- Components: AIR BAGS,ENGINE
- Summary: My airbag indicator lit up and I was not involved in any accident or even a fender bender. After this the engine indicator lit up as well, I had to replace the battery, change spark plugs at the local Firestone. Now I have a problem with the theft indicator and the vehicle does not turn on. Several problems have come up since the airbag indicator lit up.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-05
- VIN: 2GKALUEK0D6
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Massive oil consumption
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-30
- VIN: 2GKALUEK7D6
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Bought my 2013 GMC Terrain SLT in 2017 from Carvana. I did not know there had been low oil issues or catalytic convertor issues that GM had put out a letter to get replaced in 2020. I always had to put oil in it. It just burnt right out. I also replaced 3 catalytic convertors. Fast forward to now 2023, I'm driving and my engine starts knocking loud. It has oil in it at this point. It finally died half way home 52 miles out. I had it towed home and then to a dealer. I find out from them that there was metal intermix with the oil and that this had a warranty for this issue. But... now my vehicle is 10 years old and over 120,000 miles. Now I can't get the warranty because it expired. that's crap! This should be a recall by now considering this has happened to numerous people with this year make and model. I can't spend $9,698.00 on a new engine.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-01
- VIN: 2GKFLVEK6D6
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: This vehicle is burning/losing oil. It is full, it will have a greasy substance on the dipstick and oil cap. Then after 1k-12k miles the oil is almost empty. I have had almost 5k in repairs at McLaughlin and they state nothing is wrong, yet I keep having the same issue. I went to key Auto mall and oil looked fine and now it is almost empty again. No oil all over the engine or on the ground. I don't want the engine to blow or have excessive oil changes. What is the remedy to fix this?
2013 Gmc Terrain recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2013 Gmc Terrain.
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2010-2017 GMC Terrain vehicles. A reflection caused by the headlight housings may illuminate areas above the vehicle and outside of the driver's view with excessively bright light. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
- Consequence: The bright reflection may cause a glare for other drivers, reducing their visibility and increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will install headlamp appliques, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 8, 2022. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N222363740.
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:MOTOR
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2013 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the ball joints in the windshield wiper module may corrode and wear over time, possibly resulting in one or both of the windshield wipers becoming inoperative.
- Consequence: Inoperative windshield wipers may reduce the driver's visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, dealers will repair the AIP-hole, inspect and, if necessary, replace the front wiper module, free of charge. The recall began on April 13, 2017. 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 25302.
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Buick Verano and 2016 Chevrolet Malibu as the electronic park lock lever may allow the ignition key to be removed without the transmission being in PARK. Also, certain 2013 Buick Encore, 2011 Buick Regal, 2013-2014 Buick Verano, 2011-2016 Chevrolet Cruze, 2010-2013 Chevrolet Equinox 2013-2015 Chevrolet Malibu, and 2011-2013 GMC Terrain vehicles may have been serviced with similar defective replacement electronic park lock levers. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 114, "Theft Protection and Rollaway Prevention."
- Consequence: If the key is removed without the transmission in PARK, the vehicle may rollaway as occupants are exiting, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and if necessary replace the key cylinder lock housing, free of charge. The recall began on October 14, 2016. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, Buick 1-800-521-7300, and GMC 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is 50490 and 50491.
Negative 2013 Gmc Terrain car reviews
Positive 2013 Gmc Terrain car reviews
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I researched several SUVs before deciding to lease the 2013 Terrain AWD Denali in October 2013, and I absolutely love it! The V-6 provides a quiet and smooth ride. I especially love the red accent lighting and red stitching on the seats and dash. The back seat also has lots of legroom, which is great because many of my friends are tall. The backup camera could use a little work, as it gets dirty easily and the depth perception is off. However, the longer I have this SUV, the more I love it! :)
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The car handles really well. Although, sometimes initiating the Bluetooth can be a little difficult.
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Hi there! I'm glad to hear that you've had a great experience with your 2013 GMC Terrain Denali since 2015. It's great to know that the minor problems you encountered were easily repaired. The gas struts for the rear hatch were replaced by the dealer under the extended warranty, and you were able to swap out the rear light assembly with an OEM replacement. It sounds like you're taking great care of your car and plan to keep it for many more years. Thanks for sharing your positive experience!
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We lease our cars, and you made a great choice when you decided to go for the Terrain in 2010. I know you were concerned about the 4 cyl engine, but it's been just fine, and it gets you anywhere you want. The interior is really roomy, and the back seat makes it easy for guests to get in and out.
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I had a 2010 Terrain which I loved, and since it was a leased car, I had to turn it in this year. After several test drives of other cars, I decided to lease a new 2013 Terrain. I really love the exterior styling!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2013 Gmc Terrain problems:
2013 GMC Terrain Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...
Sep 9, 2022 ... The most common problems found on the 2013 GMC Terrain include blown engine seals, a broken transfer case, and Bluetooth system issues. Overall, ...
What is the real risk of oil/engine problems with a 2.4L 2013 slt2 ...
Aug 20, 2021 ... I bought a 2014 gmc terrain denali in perfect condition back in February for a little over $13k. Like you, I didn't think the excessive oil ...
2013 GMC Terrain Problems Include Excessive Oil Consumption ...
Apr 18, 2022 ... Many 2010-2013 GMC Terrain vehicles equipped with a 2.4L engine suffer from a faulty positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) valve, especially ...
Common problems and reccomendations | GMC Terrain, Equinox ...
Sep 23, 2013 ... Forums tend to bring out those who have issues moreso than those who do not. It's a fact. 2013 I4 Equinox.
2013 GMC Terrain Reliability - Consumer Reports
Owner Reported Trouble Spots · In-car Electronics · Brakes · Engine Major · Exhaust · Electrical Accessories · Steering And Suspension · Climate System · Engine ...
Other years of Gmc Terrain
Are you having problems with your 2013 Gmc Terrain?
Chet Streich 2025-02-17
I recently experienced an issue with my Terrain, which unfortunately resulted in engine damage. Despite having had an oil change just a month prior, the vehicle ran out of oil, causing the engine to make a concerning noise and the engine light to come on. While this was a frustrating experience, I am confident that GM will take responsibility for any issues with their vehicles, as evidenced by the recent class action lawsuit against them. Although I have had similar issues with other GM cars in the past, I still believe in the quality of their vehicles and look forward to a resolution to this current situation. I would advise caution when considering the Captiva, Equinox, or Traverse models, as they have been known to have similar issues.
Brando Funk 2024-10-27
I experienced significant issues with my truck, including the catalytic converter and various sensors malfunctioning over the course of two years. Despite multiple repairs, the truck continued to cut off while I was driving, and GMC was unable to identify the root cause. However, I am confident in my decision to move on from this truck and explore other options.
Chester Stokes 2024-09-21
I have been experiencing some issues with my 2013 GMC Terrain, as it has been consuming oil at a rapid rate. Additionally, it has recently started shutting off while I am driving. Despite these challenges, I remain confident in my ability to address these issues and restore my vehicle to its optimal condition.
Larue Bechtelar 2024-08-29
Although my 2013 GMC terrain has reached 110K, it has unfortunately experienced several issues. The timing chain broke at 65k, which caused damage to the engine and required a replacement. Additionally, the alternator failed twice at 55k and 75k, which also required replacement. The exhaust caused some vibration, but this was resolved by using steel wire. Recently, the transfer case cracked and required replacement, which I am currently in the process of addressing. Furthermore, the tire air sensors have all stopped working. The car also experiences some initial sluggishness and a strange noise during the first 5 minutes of driving, but this quickly resolves. Despite these challenges, I have kept up with all services and maintenance, drawing on my experience as an army mechanic. GM, I believe there is room for improvement in the quality of this car, and I hope you will take this feedback into consideration.
Axel Cormier 2024-07-03
My daughter bought this car used and was initially impressed with the interior and ride. However, after two weeks of ownership, she noticed that it was using a lot of oil. I didn't believe her at first, but then she started having other issues with the check engine light and multiple codes being thrown. Unfortunately, she couldn't pass inspection and had to spend around $900 on a new catalytic converter and oxygen sensor. Two months later, she failed emissions during her vehicle inspection and had to replace the catalytic converter again. After researching online, I found out that there was a pending lawsuit regarding the oil consumption problems of the 2.4 liter engine. Although there was a GMC recall, her used Terrain had several thousand miles over the 120,000 mile limit the lawsuit covered. As a result, I had to pay $8500 to have GMC tear out and rebuild the engine to keep her on the road. The total cost of this used GMC Terrain ended up being around $30,000. It was definitely wrong for the new car dealer to sell a used car with known oil consumption problems. However, that's a topic for another review.