Hey there car enthusiasts, buckle up because we’re about to take a wild ride through the treacherous terrain of GMC Terrain years to avoid.
Get ready to dodge turbo engine troubles, transmission failures, and faulty airbags like a pro.
We’ll uncover the not-so-great earlier models 2010-2014 models that will leave you wishing you had chosen a different path.
But fear not, my friend! We’ve got your back with the ultimate car shopping app – CoPilot – your trusty co-pilot in finding the perfect wheels while saving time and money.
So let’s dive in and steer clear of those rocky roads ahead!
Key Takeaways
- The GMC Terrain models from 2010 to 2014 should be avoided as some of the worst models due to various issues such as engine turbocharged engine troubles, transmission failure, excessive oil consumption, water leaks, faulty airbags, and HVAC system problems.
- The best years for GMC Terrain are 2016 to 2020, which has fewer reported problems and higher reliability ratings. These are more reliable vehicles that offer features like a spacious interior, improved safety features, electronic stability control systems, and better fuel efficiency.
- CoPilot Car Shopping App provides comprehensive car search, data, and insights, a ranking system, and helps avoid dealership tricks, saving both time and money.
- The transparency and trustworthiness of CoPilot as a reliable information source, with no sponsored posts, instills confidence in the car buying process and can save money.
The Issues With 2010 GMC Terrain

The 2010 GMC Terrain, oh boy, where do we even begin? Hold on to your seat belt this magnificent piece of machinery is known for its excessive oil consumption, total transmission failure, and a driving experience that can only be described as rough and bumpy. You know you’re in for a treat when some cars can’t even make it from point A to point B without breaking down. It’s like playing a game of Russian Roulette every time you turn the key.
Let’s talk about the turbo engine issues, shall we? The 2010 GMC Terrain takes pride in guzzling oil like it’s going out of style. I mean, who needs fuel economy anyway? And let’s not forget about the transmission problems and oil leaks that plague the 2011 model. It’s almost impressive how quickly those transmissions can fail.
But wait, there’s more! The 2012 GMC Terrain is equipped with a navigation system that loves to take you on scenic detours and faulty power seats that have a mind of their own. And don’t get me started on the 2013 model with its engine damage and sudden loss of power. Who needs an engine anyway?
Oh, did I mention the major issues with the electricals in the 2014 GMC Terrain? Prepare yourself for randomly shutting down while driving and wipers that have a mind of their own. And let’s not forget about the HVAC system malfunctions that leave you freezing in winter and sweating bullets in summer.
All in all, if you’re looking for a car with enough problems to keep your mechanic busy for years to come, look no further than the illustrious 2010 GMC Terrain. Good luck!
The Downfalls of the 2011 GMC Terrain
One major downfall of the 2011 GMC Terrain is the regular engine stalls and excessive oil consumption, leading to engine wear and tear. But hey, who needs a car that functions properly, right? It’s so much more fun to constantly monitor your oil levels and worry about your faulty engine breaking down at any moment.
And let’s not forget about the transmission issues! Nothing says ‘smooth ride’ like jerking, stalling, and hard shifting. Who needs a reliable transmission when you can experience the thrill of uncertainty every time you get behind the wheel?
Oh, and don’t even get me started on the paint peeling after minimal use. Who doesn’t love a car that looks like it’s been through a warzone? And let’s not forget about the engine light always being on. It’s like having a constant reminder that your car is just one step away from complete disaster.
But wait, there’s more! The 2011 GMC Terrain also offers a rough driving experience, faulty safety features, and even transmission failure around the 88,000-mile mark. How exciting!
The Problems With the 2012 GMC Terrain
Let’s dive into the problems with the 2012 GMC Terrain. Oh, where do we even begin? This car is a masterpiece of disappointment and frustration. Here are three delightful issues that will make you want to tear your hair out:
- Suspension Issues: Get ready for a not-so-comfortable ride! The suspension on the 2012 GMC Terrain is about as reliable as a rubber band holding up an elephant. Every pothole and speed bump feels like an earthquake, shaking your teeth loose in the process.
- Electrical Malfunctions: Who needs working lights anyway? The electrical system in this gem of a car loves to play games. One minute your radio is blasting your favorite tunes and the next, it’s completely silent. And let’s not forget about the mysterious flickering lights that keep you entertained during those long drives.
- Paint Problems: Want to feel like you’re driving around in a patchwork quilt? Look no further than the 2012 GMC Terrain! The paint on this beauty loves to peel off like old wallpaper, leaving your car looking like it survived a hailstorm of pebbles.
But hey, at least you’ll have plenty of time to ponder these issues while waiting for your transmission troubles to kick in! It’s all part of the charm of owning a 2012 GMC Terrain.
Why to Avoid 2013 GMC Terrain

If you’re considering a vehicle from 2013, congratulations on your impeccable taste in cars! Just kidding. In reality, you might want to avoid the GMC Terrain from that year like the plague. Why? Well, let me enlighten you with all the delightful issues this gem of a car has to offer, apart from just the persistent check engine light.
First and foremost, we have transmission issues. Oh boy, where do I even begin? The 2013 GMC Terrain is notorious for its transmission problems and complete transmission failure. You can look forward to jerking, stalling, and hard shifting while driving. Who doesn’t love a little unpredictability on the road and costly repairs?
But wait, there’s more! How about some excessive oil consumption? Because who needs oil when you can just watch your engine blow out with no warning? It’s like playing Russian roulette every time you turn on the ignition.
And let’s not forget about the electrical malfunctions! Buggy Bluetooth and water leakage into the cabin are just some of the surprises waiting for you in this magnificent piece of machinery.
Oh, did I mention suspension and steering problems? Prepare for a rough ride and poor noise isolation. Plus, let’s not overlook those lovely paint and exterior issues that will make your car look like it’s been through a warzone.
In terms of reliability concerns, engine power, and safety features—well, let’s just say they’re not exactly selling points for this particular model year.
Fuel efficiency? Yeah right. Don’t expect anything impressive in that department either.
The Shortcomings of the 2014 GMC Terrain

Watch out for the 2014 GMC Terrain, as it comes with its fair share of shortcomings that may leave you less than satisfied. Here are three reasons why you might want to steer clear of this particular model:
- Paint and Exterior Issues: Get ready for a paint job that starts peeling off faster than you can say ‘resale value.’ The 2014 GMC Terrain is known for its lackluster exterior quality, leaving you with an unsightly ride that screams ‘neglect me.’
- Electrical System Malfunctions: Who needs functioning windshield wipers or a radio that works? Certainly not the 2014 GMC Terrain owners! Prepare yourself for random shutdowns while driving and electrical gremlins wreaking havoc on your entertainment system.
- Suspension and Steering Problems: If feeling like you’re riding in a rickety rollercoaster is your idea of fun, then the 2014 GMC Terrain is the perfect choice for you! Enjoy the thrill of clunking sounds when changing gears and a steering system that has a mind of its own.
But fear not! There’s a solution to avoid these headaches – CoPilot, the car shopping app that saves you from making regrettable choices. With CoPilot Compare, find nearly new cars without any hidden surprises. Plus, rest assured knowing that CoPilot provides transparent and trustworthy information to make informed decisions.
Engine Troubles in GMC Terrain
Having engine-related issues in your GMC Terrain can be a frustrating and costly experience. But hey, who needs a working engine with moderate power anyway? It’s not like you need it to drive or anything. Symptoms of engine failure needing major repairs include mysterious sounds coming from under the hood, smoke billowing out of the exhaust, and a sudden loss of power while cruising down the highway.
Good luck getting any of those issues fixed without shelling out some serious cash considering the average cost for those costly engine repairs.
And let’s not forget about the transmission control module issues that plague these vehicles. Who needs smooth shifting when you can have jerking and hard shifts instead? It adds excitement to your daily commute, right?
Oh, and don’t even get me started on the fuel efficiency problems. Who wants good gas mileage when you can watch your wallet empty at an alarming rate? And let’s not overlook the airbag malfunction risks and HVAC system malfunctions that could leave you freezing in winter or sweating in summer.
But hey, at least these common transmission issues and excessive oil consumption concerns give you something to bond over with other GMC Terrain owners. Misery loves company, right?
Transmission Failure in GMC Terrain
So, you’ve managed to avoid the engine troubles in the first-generation model GMC Terrain. Congratulations! But don’t celebrate just yet because now we’re diving straight into the world of transmission failure. Oh boy, this is going to be fun!
Transmission Issues: Ah, the joy of dealing with a transmission that decides to go haywire for no apparent reason. Get ready for jerking movements, stalling at inconvenient times, and hard shifting that feels like you’re riding a roller coaster.
Common Customer Complaints: People love complaining about their GMC Terrain’s transmission problems almost as much as they love complaining about Mondays. It’s a never-ending cycle of frustration and extra expenses on repairs.
Repair Costs: Brace yourself for some hefty repair bills because fixing a faulty transmission can cost you an arm and a leg…and maybe even your sanity. Maintenance costs can leave you not surprised if you end up shelling out over $3,000 or more just to get it back on track.
Now, I know you’re probably wondering how to avoid this whole mess in the first place. Well, let me give you some advice.
Maintenance Tips: Regularly check your transmission fluid levels and make sure they are within the recommended range. Also, don’t forget to schedule routine maintenance with a reputable mechanic who knows what they’re doing.
Signs of Transmission Failure: Keep an eye out for signs like jerking movements, slipping gears, delayed engagement, excessive oil consumption issues, or strange noises coming from your 9-speed automatic transmission. If any of these symptoms occur, it’s time to take action before things get worse.
Extended Warranty Options: Consider investing in an extended warranty that covers transmission issues specifically. This way, if disaster strikes (and it probably will), at least you won’t have to bear the full brunt of those repair costs.
Excessive Oil Consumption in GMC Terrain
Make sure you keep an eye on the oil consumption in your GMC Terrain to avoid any potential issues. Because let’s face it, this SUV has a knack for chugging down oil like there’s no tomorrow. Fuel efficiency concerns? Yeah, not exactly the Terrain’s strong suit. But hey, who needs good gas mileage when you can spend a fortune on filling up that oil tank, right?
Let me break it down for you in a nice little table:
Problem | Costly Consequence |
---|---|
Excessive Oil Consumption | Engine repair costs |
Engine Stalling Incidents | Transmission repair expenses |
HVAC System Malfunctions | Airbag safety issues |
Oh, and let’s not forget about those lovely engine stalling incidents and transmission control module failures that may occur along the way. Who doesn’t love the thrill of their car randomly shutting down while driving? It’s like a surprise party where you never know when or where it’ll happen!
So, buckle up and get ready for some fun times with your GMC Terrain. Just don’t forget to pack extra oil and be prepared for some hefty repair bills. And if by chance your airbags decide they’re not really into protecting you anymore, well, who needs ’em anyway?
Enjoy the ride! Or should I say… enjoy the constant trips to the mechanic?
Faulty Airbags in GMC Terrain
When it comes to the faulty airbags in your GMC Terrain, you’ll want to ensure they’re functioning properly for your safety on the road. Because who needs airbags when you can just rely on your invincibility?
Here are three things you should know about these oh-so-reliable airbags:
- Airbag Safety Concerns: Forget about those pesky recalls and the potential risks of your airbags malfunctioning during a collision. It’s all just a conspiracy, right?
- Airbag Inspection Process: Why bother inspecting your airbags before purchasing a vehicle? Just cross your fingers and hope for the best! Who needs peace of mind anyway?
- Airbag Failure Consequences: So what if your airbags fail to deploy in an accident? You’ve got superhuman reflexes, right? Ignoring the fact that they could potentially save your life is worth it.
But hey, who needs reliable airbags when you have faith in luck and miracles? Just remember, sarcasm aside, it’s essential to prioritize safety by staying informed about any potential airbag issues, following recall information, and ensuring proper maintenance and inspections. Your life may depend on it (unfortunately not guaranteed by your invincibility).
HVAC System Failures in GMC Terrain
If you’re considering a GMC Terrain, buckle up for potential HVAC system failures that will leave you freezing in the winter and sweating buckets in the summer. Who needs consistent heating and cooling performance anyway? Not you! It’s not like maintaining a comfortable temperature inside your car is important or anything. Just embrace the discomfort and pray that your body can adapt to extreme temperatures like a superhero.
But wait, there’s more! Along with these delightful HVAC issues, you can also look forward to common engine option problems, and other notable issues like 9-speed Automatic Transmission nightmares, fuel economy concerns, airbag malfunctions, electrical system faults, suspension and steering issues, and paint and exterior problems. It’s like winning a grand prize of automobile dilemmas!
So why settle for reliability when you can have an exciting adventure filled with unexpected breakdowns and constant visits to the mechanic? Forget about enjoying a smooth ride or feeling confident in your vehicle; it’s all about the thrill of uncertainty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Specific Issues With the 2010 GMC Terrain?
Oh boy, let’s talk about the 2010 GMC Terrain. Where do I even begin?
Well, this lovely vehicle has been known to have some common issues. We’re talking excessive oil consumption, total transmission failure, rough and bumpy driving experience, and engine lights that just won’t quit.
Some lucky owners even reported their cars were unable to make it from point A to point B.
What Are the Common Complaints Associated With the 2011 GMC Terrain?
Ah, the 2011 GMC Terrain. What a gem of a vehicle! Known for its exceptional reliability and flawless performance…
Just kidding! In reality, the 2011 GMC Terrain has its fair share of problems. Common issues include excessive oil consumption, engine wear and tear, expensive repairs, stalling while driving, and transmission failure around the dreaded 88,000-mile mark.
Oh, did I mention that the engine light seems to have a permanent spot on? So if you’re looking for a reliable ride, you may want to steer clear of this particular model year.
Can You Explain the Issues With the 2012 GMC Terrain?
Ah, the 2012 GMC Terrain. Where do we begin?
Well, let’s talk about the transmission problems first. It seems like this model year has its fair share of jerking, stalling, and hard-shifting issues. Not exactly what you want in a smooth ride, right?
And as if that wasn’t enough, there are also reports of clunking sounds when changing gears and engine stalling while idling. Oh, and don’t forget about the inaccurate navigation system and faulty power seats. It’s like a never-ending carnival of electrical problems! So much fun… not.
And let’s not even get started on the radio that decides to take an extended vacation from working properly. Good luck finding your favorite station!
Why Should I Avoid the 2013 GMC Terrain?
Why should you avoid the 2013 GMC Terrain? Well, let me tell you, this year’s model is a real gem.
By that, I mean it’s more like a hidden minefield of problems just waiting to explode on you. From excessive oil consumption to transmission issues and even buggy Bluetooth, this Terrain has it all.
What Are the Shortcomings of the 2014 GMC Terrain?
Oh boy, where do I even start with the 2014 GMC Terrain? Let’s just say it’s not exactly a shining star in terms of performance, interior quality, or fuel efficiency.
And don’t even get me started on the lack of advanced safety features and the electrical system issues. Oh, and did I mention the transmission problems? Yeah, those are a real treat too.
All in all, reliability concerns and limited cargo space make this year of the Terrain one to avoid at all costs.
Conclusion
So, there you have it! The GMC Terrain is a vehicle with more issues than a daytime soap opera. If you were thinking of buying one, I hope you’ve taken note of the years to avoid – 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, and 2014. These babies come with a laundry list of problems like engine troubles, transmission failures, excessive oil consumption, faulty airbags, and HVAC system failures.
But hey, don’t worry! You can always use the CoPilot Car Shopping App to save yourself from this nightmare. With its comprehensive car search and ranking system, you’ll be able to find a reliable ride without breaking the bank.
Now here’s an interesting statistic for you: Did you know that in these troublesome years alone, the GMC Terrain suffered from transmission failure in over 10% of the vehicles? Talk about a real winner! So if you’re into spending your hard-earned money on repairs and towing fees instead of enjoying your new ride, go ahead and ignore this advice.
But for those who value their sanity (and their wallets), steer clear of those problematic years and let CoPilot guide you towards smoother roads ahead. Happy car shopping!