GMC Terrain Years to Avoid – When it comes to buying a used car, it’s important to do your research to avoid purchasing a vehicle that may end up causing you more headaches than it’s worth. The GMC Terrain is a popular compact SUV that has been on the market since 2010.
While this vehicle has received high marks for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and fuel efficiency, there are certain model years that should be avoided due to common problems.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the GMC Terrain years to avoid, common problems that owners have experienced, and the best model years to consider.
GMC Terrain Years to Avoid
If you’re in the market for a used GMC Terrain, there are certain years that should be avoided due to common problems. Let’s take a closer look at each of these model years:
2010 GMC Terrain
The 2010 GMC Terrain was the first year this vehicle was introduced, and it had a number of issues that were later addressed in subsequent model years.
One of the most common problems with the 2010 Terrain was engine trouble, particularly with the 4-cylinder engine.
Owners reported issues with the engine stalling, as well as a loud knocking noise.
The 2010 Terrain had issues with the transmission, including difficulty shifting and a failure to engage properly.
2011 GMC Terrain
The 2011 GMC Terrain had many of the same issues as the 2010 model year, particularly with the 4-cylinder engine. In addition to engine trouble, owners also reported problems with the transmission, including slipping gears and difficulty shifting.
Some owners also experienced issues with the HVAC system, particularly with the air conditioning failing to work properly.
2012 GMC Terrain
The 2012 GMC Terrain had some of the same problems as the previous two model years, including issues with the 4-cylinder engine and transmission.
Some owners reported problems with the vehicle’s power steering system, including a loud whining noise and difficulty steering.
2013 GMC Terrain
The 2013 GMC Terrain had a few new issues that were not present in previous model years. One of the most common problems was excessive oil consumption, which could lead to engine damage if not addressed promptly.
Some owners reported issues with the vehicle’s airbag system, which could fail to deploy in the event of an accident.
2014 GMC Terrain
The 2014 GMC Terrain had many of the same issues as the 2013 model year, including excessive oil consumption and problems with the airbag system. Some owners reported issues with the vehicle’s backup camera, which could fail to work properly.
2015 GMC Terrain
The 2015 GMC Terrain had a few new issues that were not present in previous model years. One of the most common problems was with the vehicle’s power steering system, which could fail unexpectedly while driving.
Some owners reported issues with the transmission, including difficulty shifting and a failure to engage properly.
Common GMC Terrain Problems
In addition to the issues specific to each model year, there are a number of common problems that owners of the GMC Terrain have reported. Let’s take a closer look at some of these issues:
Engine Troubles
Many owners of the GMC Terrain have reported issues with the engine, particularly with the 4-cylinder engine. Common problems include stalling, knocking noises, and loss of power.
In some cases, the engine may need to be replaced to fix the issue.
Transmission Failure
Transmission problems are also common with the GMC Terrain. Owners have reported issues with slipping gears, difficulty shifting, and a failure to engage properly.
In some cases, the transmission may need to be replaced to fix the issue.
Excessive Oil Consumption
Some GMC Terrain owners have reported excessive oil consumption, which can lead to engine damage if not addressed promptly. This issue has been reported in several model years, including the 2013 and 2014 models.
If you notice that your Terrain is burning through oil quickly, it’s important to address the issue promptly to avoid further damage to your engine.
Faulty Airbags
Several model years of the GMC Terrain have had issues with the airbag system. In some cases, the airbags may fail to deploy in the event of an accident, which can lead to serious injuries or fatalities.
If you own a GMC Terrain, it’s important to stay up-to-date on any recalls related to the airbag system to ensure your safety.
Faulty HVAC Systems
The HVAC system in the GMC Terrain is another common source of problems. Some owners have reported issues with the air conditioning failing to work properly, while others have experienced issues with the heater not producing enough heat.
If you’re experiencing problems with your HVAC system, it’s important to have it checked out by a qualified mechanic to diagnose and address the issue.
Best Years for GMC Terrain
While there are several model years of the GMC Terrain that should be avoided due to common problems, there are also several years that have received high marks for reliability and performance.
Let’s take a closer look at the best years for the GMC Terrain:
2016 GMC Terrain
The 2016 GMC Terrain received high marks from owners and experts alike for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and fuel efficiency.
This model year had fewer reported problems than previous years, making it a solid choice for a used vehicle.
2017 GMC Terrain
The 2017 GMC Terrain was completely redesigned from previous model years, with a sleeker exterior and improved interior features.
This model year also received high marks for its fuel efficiency and handling, making it a great choice for those looking for a reliable and stylish compact SUV.
2018 GMC Terrain
The 2018 GMC Terrain continued the trend of reliability and performance, with a comfortable ride and improved interior features. This model year offered several advanced safety features, including a rearview camera and lane departure warning.
2019 GMC Terrain
The 2019 GMC Terrain received high marks for its smooth ride and spacious interior, as well as its advanced safety features.
This model year also had a number of engine options available, allowing buyers to choose the powertrain that best fits their needs.
2020 GMC Terrain
The 2020 GMC Terrain continued to impress buyers and experts with its comfortable ride and advanced safety features. This model year had improved fuel efficiency compared to previous years, making it a great choice for those looking to save on gas.
2021 GMC Terrain
The 2021 GMC Terrain is the latest model year available, and it continues to receive high marks for its reliability and performance.
This model year offers several advanced safety features, including automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning, as well as a spacious interior and comfortable ride.
2022 GMC Terrain
The 2022 GMC Terrain has just been released and boasts many of the same features as the 2021 model year.
While it’s too early to tell how this model year will perform in the long term, it’s expected to be a reliable and safe choice for those in the market for a new compact SUV.
What is the biggest problem with a GMC Terrain?
The biggest problem with the GMC Terrain is engine trouble, particularly with the 4-cylinder engine. This issue has been reported in several model years, including the 2010, 2011, and 2012 models.
Is the GMC Terrain a reliable vehicle?
While the GMC Terrain has had some issues with certain model years, overall it is considered to be a reliable vehicle. The newer model years, in particular, have received high marks for their reliability and safety features.
Are GMC Terrains expensive to repair?
The cost of repairs for a GMC Terrain can vary depending on the issue and the model year. Some common repairs for the Terrain, such as engine trouble or transmission failure, can be expensive. It’s important to keep up with regular maintenance and address any issues promptly to avoid more costly repairs down the line.
What is a GMC Terrain comparable to?
The GMC Terrain is a compact SUV that is comparable to other vehicles in its class, such as the Chevrolet Equinox, Honda CR-V, and Toyota RAV4.
Are GMC Terrains good on gas?
The fuel efficiency of the GMC Terrain can vary depending on the engine and model year. In general, the Terrain is considered to be fairly fuel-efficient for a compact SUV. Some newer model years, such as 2020 and 2021, have received high marks for their improved fuel efficiency.
Conclusion
While the GMC Terrain has had some issues with certain model years, there are still many reliable and safe options available for buyers.
It’s important to do your research and stay up-to-date on any recalls or issues related to the vehicle you’re considering.
If you’re in the market for a compact SUV, the GMC Terrain can be a solid choice, particularly with some of the newer model years that have received high marks for their reliability and safety features.
Just be sure to steer clear of some of the problematic model years, such as the 2010-2015 GMC Terrains, to avoid potential issues down the line.