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GMC Terrain
SUV · Gas · 20 versions · owner report
Ranked #18 of 26 compact SUVs on owner data, price and fuel economy
Every generation
Power
Combined, EPA 2027
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is sharply divided and heavily dependent on model year and powertrain.
8 problems reported (3 very frequent, 2 recurrent, 3 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentSevere engine problems
Includes rapid oil consumption (burning a full reservoir within 50 miles), cylinder misfires, piston damage, and complete engine failure requiring replacement, often under 100,000 miles. Linked to the 2.4L engine (2010-2017) and 1.5L turbo engine in later models.
- Very frequentTransmission issues
Includes stalling, failure to shift into 2nd or 3rd gear, violent jerking, and complete failure limiting speed to 20 mph (32 km/h). Reported across model years including 2016, 2020, and 2024.
- Very frequentElectrical system failures
Includes vehicles dying completely while stopped, losing all power, battery saver mode errors, and problematic auto-start/stop systems. Difficulty diagnosing root cause (alternator, starter, battery).
+ 5 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentCheck Engine Light / Emission System Faults
Recurrent codes including P0411 (secondary air injection), P0011 (camshaft timing), P305DF, and P305E. Often leads to expensive repairs like EGR cooler, exhaust manifold, and solenoid replacements.
- RecurrentInfotainment & Camera Problems
Buggy CarPlay connectivity, infotainment screen failures, and backup cameras that stop working.
- IsolatedDiesel-specific failures
For the diesel variant, reports of failed EGR coolers, catalytic converters burning through, and long parts wait times.
- IsolatedActive Air Grill Malfunction
On 2025 models, dysfunctional active air grill causes constant check engine light and disables remote start, with dealerships reportedly stating no fix is available.
- IsolatedCooling System Failures
Cooling fan motor failure leading to overheating, with repair costs cited near $1,735.
The version owners recommend
Insufficient owner data available to identify a consensus "best version." Feedback is primarily organized around problematic years and powertrains rather than recommended trims. The Denali trim is mentioned but also associated with buggy infotainment and camera systems.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Honda CR-V, Honda Pilot, Ford Edge, Mazda CX-5 and Toyota RAV4.
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Overall sentiment
Sentiment is sharply divided and heavily dependent on model year and powertrain. Owners of newer models (2022+) report positive experiences with basic maintenance and no major issues up to 70,000 miles, describing the vehicle as comfortable and feature-rich. However, there is a very strong and recurrent narrative of significant mechanical and electrical failures across multiple generations, particularly in models from the 2010-2017 era and specific problematic powertrains in newer vehicles. These failures include catastrophic engine issues, persistent transmission problems, and debilitating electrical gremlins, often occurring at relatively low mileage and resulting in high repair costs, repeated shop visits, and stranded vehicles. The consensus indicates that while some units are trouble-free, the model carries a high risk of severe reliability issues that dramatically impact owner satisfaction and cost of ownership.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a value-oriented compact SUV with more features than mainstream competitors but with significant reliability trade-offs. Frequently compared unfavorably to Honda and Toyota products (CR-V, RAV4, Pilot) for long-term reliability and resale value. Compared to the mechanically similar Chevrolet Equinox, the Terrain is seen as offering more upscale styling and features. In comparisons with the Ford Edge, the Edge is noted for better driving dynamics and power, while the Terrain may offer more features. Premium competitors (Lexus NX, Audi Q5) are acknowledged as offering superior refinement, AWD systems, and reliability at a higher cost. The model is often described as a risky choice compared to segment leaders due to pervasive powertrain and electrical concerns.
Recommended configurations
Insufficient positive owner data to form configuration recommendations. Isolated advice suggests avoiding the 2.4L engine found in 2010-2017 models due to oil consumption and timing chain issues. An extended warranty is strongly implied as necessary due to widespread reliability concerns.
General recommendations
Not recommended for buyers prioritizing long-term reliability or low cost of ownership. Potentially suitable only for buyers who secure a comprehensive, long-term warranty and plan for significant depreciation. A thorough pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is considered essential, with particular focus on engine oil consumption, transmission behavior, and electrical system function. Owners strongly advise budgeting for unexpected major repairs. For those considering used models, the 2010-2017 generation with the 2.4L engine should be avoided entirely. Newer models (2022+) may present a lower risk but still carry noted concerns for transmission and electrical issues. Consider more reliable competitors from Honda, Toyota, or Mazda within a similar budget.
Remarks
The reliability critique is generation-spanning but particularly acute for the 2010-2017 models equipped with the 2.4L engine, which is explicitly called out for oil burning and timing chain problems. Issues with the 1.5L turbo engine and transmissions appear to persist in the newer generation (2022+). Owner discussions frequently involve vehicles with multiple, repeated failures that mechanics struggle to diagnose permanently, leading to significant owner frustration and financial loss. The diesel variant, while less commonly discussed, appears to have severe, stranded-vehicle-level failures. Positive reports exist but are overshadowed by the volume and severity of negative experiences. Analysis based on approximately 35 substantive owner discussions and mentions.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearNo year grades F. Best year: 2021Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score.
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 33 | 1 | unknown or other |
| 2025 | 13 | 0 | power train |
| 2024 | 49 | 1 | power train |
| 2023 | 39 | 2 | fuel/propulsion system |
| 2022 | 88 | 2 | fuel/propulsion system |
| 2021 | 35 | 2 | engine |
| 2020 | 196 | 2 | service brakes |
| 2019 | 185 | 3 | service brakes |
| 2018 | 220 | 5 | service brakes |
| 2017 | 133 | 1 | engine |
| 2016 | 152 | 2 | engine |
| 2015 | 315 | 3 | visibility/wiper |
| 2014 | 301 | 2 | engine |
| 2013 | 369 | 3 | engine |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices40 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2026 · equipment:other:owners/service/other manualcampaign 26V114000
General Motors has decided that certain 2027 Chevrolet Bolt EV, 2025-2026 Cadillac OPTIQ, Chevrolet Colorado, Equinox EV, GMC Canyon, 2026 Buick Enclave, Envision, Cadillac CT5, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Escalade IQ, Escalade IQL, LYRIQ, VISTIQ, Chevrolet Blazer EV, Corvette Convertible, Corvette Coupe, Corvette Convertible E-Ray, Equinox, Silverado 1500, 2500, 3500, Silverado EV, Suburban 1500, Tahoe, Traverse, GMC Acadia, Hummer EV Pickup, Hummer EV SUV, Sierra 1500, 2500, 3500, Sierra EV, Terrain, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles. The radio may not have been set to the correct status to download the electronic owner's manual during production. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, “Occupant Protection.”
2024 · structure:body:doorcampaign 23V869000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2024 Chevrolet Blazer, Blazer EV, Equinox, and GMC Terrain vehicles. The door strikers may fracture, resulting in the door opening unexpectedly.
2023 · air bags:sensor:occupant classification:front passengercampaign 22V929000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2023 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain vehicles equipped with ventilated front passenger seats. The Occupant Classification System may not properly disable the front passenger air bag when there is a small child or child restraint detected in the seat.
2023 · child seat:vehicle latch anchorcampaign 23V339000
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."
2022 · seatscampaign 22V724000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Chevrolet Equinox and 2022 GMC Terrain vehicles. The driver's seat may have a stripped or loose bolt at the seat frame height-adjust pivot.
2022 · child seat:vehicle latch anchorcampaign 23V339000
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."
2021 · tirescampaign 21V612000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain vehicles equipped with certain Hankook tires. The tires may have been manufactured with an insufficient amount of curative agent, which could cause tread separation.
2021 · child seat:vehicle latch anchorcampaign 23V339000
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."
2020 · power train:automatic transmissioncampaign 20V668000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Chevrolet Cruze and Buick LaCrosse, 2018-2020 Chevrolet Equinox, Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Terrain, 2018 Chevrolet Malibu, 2019-2020 Buick Encore, Buick Enclave, Cadillac XT4, Chevrolet Blazer and GMC Acadia, and 2020 Cadillac XT6 vehicles. The start/stop accumulator endcap may have missing bolts.
2020 · child seat:vehicle latch anchorcampaign 23V339000
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."
2019 · service brakes, hydraulic:foundation components:disc:calipercampaign 18V576000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Chevrolet Equinox, Impala, Cruze, Volt and Bolt EV vehicles, GMC Terrain vehicles, Buick Lacrosse and Regal vehicles, Cadillac XTS and XTS Professional vehicles and 2018 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles. The rear brake caliper pistons may have an insufficient coating causing gas pockets to form, potentially reducing rear brake performance.
2019 · power train:automatic transmissioncampaign 20V668000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Chevrolet Cruze and Buick LaCrosse, 2018-2020 Chevrolet Equinox, Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Terrain, 2018 Chevrolet Malibu, 2019-2020 Buick Encore, Buick Enclave, Cadillac XT4, Chevrolet Blazer and GMC Acadia, and 2020 Cadillac XT6 vehicles. The start/stop accumulator endcap may have missing bolts.
2019 · seatscampaign 19V184000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain vehicles. The rear-right seat may have insufficient welds on the head-restraint bracket.
2018 · air bags: air bag/restraint control modulecampaign 18V340000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018 GMC Terrain vehicles. The sensing diagnostic module (SDM) that senses a crash and deploys the necessary air bags may not power down correctly when the vehicle is shut off, causing it to be inoperative when the vehicle is restarted.
2018 · service brakes, hydraulic:foundation components:disc:calipercampaign 18V576000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Chevrolet Equinox, Impala, Cruze, Volt and Bolt EV vehicles, GMC Terrain vehicles, Buick Lacrosse and Regal vehicles, Cadillac XTS and XTS Professional vehicles and 2018 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles. The rear brake caliper pistons may have an insufficient coating causing gas pockets to form, potentially reducing rear brake performance.
25 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
1.5L Turbo
1.5L 4-cylinder · 177 hp · FWD · automatic (CVT)
Built 2024–2026