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GMC · Known Issues

2017 GMC Terrain Problems: 11 Known Issues

2017 model year · 2,270+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's analysis of 2,270+ owner reports, the 2017 GMC Terrain has 11 documented known issues, with 2 rated critical. The most serious are 2.4L I4 Excessive Oil Consumption and Piston Ring Failure ($1,200-$6,500 repair) and High Feature V6 (3.0L LF1 / 3.6L LFX) Timing Chain Stretch - P0008 / P0009 Cam-Crank Correlation ($1,800-$4,000 repair). The most commonly reported issue is 2.4L I4 Excessive Oil Consumption and Piston Ring Failure with 1,680 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $100 to $6,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • Terrain Engine3
  • Terrain Transmission1
  • Terrain Cooling1
  • Terrain Brakes1
  • Terrain Exterior1
  • Terrain Body/Panels1
  • Terrain Electrical1
  • Terrain HVAC1
  • Terrain Fuel System1
  • Recalls6
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Engine3
  • Transmission1
  • Cooling1
  • Brakes1

All 11 Known Issues

NHTSA Recalls6 recalls

STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR

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.

Campaign #23V86900021/12/2023

AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER

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.

Campaign #22V92900015/12/2022

CHILD SEAT:VEHICLE LATCH ANCHOR

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."

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common GMC Terrain problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 2,270+ owner reports, the 2017 GMC Terrain has 11 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: 2.4L I4 Excessive Oil Consumption and Piston Ring Failure, High Feature V6 (3.0L LF1 / 3.6L LFX) Timing Chain Stretch - P0008 / P0009 Cam-Crank Correlation, 6T40/6T45 6-Speed Transmission Shudder and Harsh Shifts. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the GMC Terrain reliable?

The 2017 GMC Terrain has 11 known issues documented across 2,270+ owner reports. 2 issues are rated critical: 2.4L I4 Excessive Oil Consumption and Piston Ring Failure and High Feature V6 (3.0L LF1 / 3.6L LFX) Timing Chain Stretch - P0008 / P0009 Cam-Crank Correlation. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common GMC Terrain problems?

Repair costs for known GMC Terrain issues range from $0 to $6,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, 2.4L I4 Excessive Oil Consumption and Piston Ring Failure, typically costs $1,200-$6,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2010-2017 GMC Terrain 2.4L I4 Excessive Oil Consumption and Piston Ring Failure?

The 2.4L LEA and LE9 four-cylinder engines in 2010-2017 Terrain are among the most reported excessive oil consumption issues in GM's lineup. Many owners consume 1 quart of oil every 1,000-2,000 miles. The root cause is inadequate piston ring tension combined with piston ring land… Repairs typically run $1,200-$6,500. Severity: high.

What is the 2010-2017 GMC Terrain High Feature V6 (3.0L LF1 / 3.6L LFX) Timing Chain Stretch - P0008 / P0009 Cam-Crank Correlation?

First-generation Terrains ordered with the optional V6 - the 3.0L LF1 in 2010-2012 and the 3.6L LFX from 2013-2017 - use GM's High Feature V6 architecture with four timing chains. The chains and their tensioners/guides stretch and wear prematurely, particularly on engines run on… Repairs typically run $1,800-$4,000. Severity: high.

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data sourced from 2,270+ owner reports, NHTSA recalls, TSBs, and automotive forums.

Exterior
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    ALL YEARS2025202420232022202120202019201820172016201520142013201220112010
    Community reported
    1,680 owners

    On the 2010-2017 GMC Terrain, the 2.4L LEA and LE9 four-cylinder engines in 2010-2017 Terrain are among the most reported excessive oil consumption issues in GM's lineup. Many owners consume 1 quart of oil every 1,000-2,000 miles. The root cause is inadequate piston ring tension combined with piston ring land fractures that allow oil to bypass rings into the combustion chamber. The problem was subject to class action lawsuits and GM Customer Satisfaction Programs. Burned oil causes spark plug fouling, catalytic converter damage, and oil pressure warnings. This is the same issue affecting the Chevy Equinox with the same engine.

    This issue also affects: Buick LeSabre, Buick Park Avenue, Cadillac Allante

    Common Symptoms

    • Oil level dropping 1+ quart every 1,000-2,000 miles
    • Blue smoke on acceleration or on startup
    • Spark plug fouling (oil on electrode)
    • Oil pressure warning light
    • Catalytic converter damage from oil burning
    • Engine running rough (fouled plugs)

    How to Fix

    GM formal oil consumption test (PIP4656D): measure consumption over 3,000 miles. If over 1 qt/2,000 miles, piston ring replacement authorized under warranty/extended warranty. Short-term: use Dexos1 Gen 2 full synthetic and check oil every 1,000 miles. Replaced engines available from GM on documented repeat failures.

    Typical repair cost:$1,200 - $6,500

    Research This Issue

    Based on 1,680 owner reports

    GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
    Community Reported
    High Confidence1,680 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026

    On the 2010-2017 GMC Terrain, first-generation Terrains ordered with the optional V6 - the 3.0L LF1 in 2010-2012 and the 3.6L LFX from 2013-2017 - use GM's High Feature V6 architecture with four timing chains. The chains and their tensioners/guides stretch and wear prematurely, particularly on engines run on the oil-life monitor's long intervals or that have consumed oil between changes and starved the hydraulic tensioners. The ECM detects the resulting camshaft-to-crankshaft phase error and sets P0008 or P0009. This is a completely separate failure from the 2.4L Ecotec timing chain issue already documented: different engine family, different chain count, different repair.

    This issue also affects: Buick Cascada, Buick Enclave, Buick Encore

    Common Symptoms

    • Check engine light with cam/crank correlation codes
    • Rattle from the front of the engine on cold start
    • Rough idle and reduced power
    • Low oil level between changes
    • Engine may crank but not start in severe cases

    How to Fix

    Confirm cam/crank correlation and oil-pressure/maintenance condition, then replace the primary and both secondary chains, guides, tensioners and sprockets as a set. Correct the oil-consumption or lubrication cause rather than clearing codes alone.

    What you need to fix it

    Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

    • Cloyes 9-0753SWP timing-chain kit with sprockets and water pump
      $355

      Direct listing supplies three chains, guides and tensioners; verify VIN/engine and confirm any seals, one-time fasteners and VVT components required separately.

      PartsGeek

    As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

    Typical repair cost:$1,800 - $4,000

    Research This Issue

    GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
    Community Reported
    Low ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

    On the 2010-2017 GMC Terrain, first-generation Terrains (2010-2017) are prone to a sudden 'Reduced Engine Power' warning caused by a failing electronic throttle body. Carbon and grime build up inside the bore and the internal throttle position sensor (TPS) fails or reads erratically, causing the ECM to enter a limp/reduced-power mode that limits the vehicle to very low speed. This is a widely reported failure on the naturally aspirated 2.4L four-cylinder and 3.6L V6 engines and frequently appears alongside a 'Service StabiliTrak' message. The most commonly cited trouble code is P2135 (throttle/pedal position sensor voltage correlation). No NHTSA recall covers the throttle body; it is addressed through non-recall repair.

    This issue also affects: Cadillac XTS, Chevrolet Cobalt, Chevrolet Equinox

    Common Symptoms

    • 'Reduced Engine Power' message on dash
    • Sudden loss of acceleration / limp mode
    • Check engine light
    • 'Service StabiliTrak' message
    • Rough idle or stalling

    How to Fix

    Clean the throttle body if carbon buildup is the cause; if the throttle position sensor has failed the electronic throttle body assembly is replaced as a unit and the idle/throttle relearn procedure is performed.

    Typical repair cost:$250 - $650

    Research This Issue

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    Community Reported
    High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 2026
    Community reported
    590 owners

    On the 2010-2017 GMC Terrain, the 2010-2017 Terrain uses the GM 6T40 (2.4L) and 6T45 (V6) 6-speed automatic transmissions, both of which suffer from torque converter shudder, harsh shifts, and solenoid failures. The shudder occurs at light throttle between 30-50 mph when the torque converter clutch locks up. Solenoid pack wear causes P0756, P0751, and P0776 transmission fault codes. The transmission is sensitive to fluid condition — the 6T40/6T45 was originally filled with Dexron VI, but older Dexron VI degrades faster than newer formulations.

    This issue also affects: Buick Enclave, Buick Encore GX, Buick Regal

    Common Symptoms

    • Shudder at light throttle 30-50 mph
    • Harsh 1-2 or 2-3 upshift
    • Hesitation or lurch when pulling away from a stop
    • Transmission fault codes P0756, P0751, P0776
    • Check engine light
    • Delayed engagement from Park to Drive when hot

    How to Fix

    Full fluid exchange with Dexron VI (ACDelco 10-9243 or equivalent). TCM calibration update. Solenoid pack replacement (GM 24272814) if codes present. Valve body replacement for internal failures. Fluid service every 40,000 miles recommended for stop-and-go use.

    What you need to fix it

    Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

    • Dexron VI full-synthetic automatic transmission fluid
      OEMACDelco 10-9243 (GM 88865549)Cross-refValvoline DEXRON VI ATF 822405, Mobil 1 Synthetic ATF Dexron VI 112980, Castrol Transmax DEXRON-VI 03520C$8–$15

      Dexron VI is required — do NOT substitute Dexron III or a universal/multi-vehicle ATF, as the friction

    • Control solenoid valve assembly (valve body + solenoids + TEHCM) — 2.4L, 2012-2013
      OEM24041960$600–$960

      THIS is the part that actually fixes P0751/P0756/P0776 on the 6T40/6T45. GM does not sell the individual shift/pressure-control solenoids for this transmission as a serviceable part — the solenoids are integrated into the TEHCM/valve bod…

      GMPartsGiant
    • Control solenoid valve assembly (valve body + solenoids + TEHCM) — 2.4L, 2014-2017
      OEM24041961$598–$915

      Same function as 24041960 but the correct number for the later 2.4L Terrain — this is the year split, so do not cross-order between them.

      GMPartsGiant

    As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

    Typical repair cost:$150 - $2,800

    Research This Issue

    Based on 590 owner reports

    GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
    Community Reported
    High Confidence590 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026

    On the 2010-2017 GMC Terrain, the engine-driven water pump develops bearing/impeller wear or seal leaks, allowing coolant to weep (often visible as dried Dex-Cool on the timing-chain cover or flung from the pump pulley) and eventually causing overheating. On both the 2.4L Ecotec and 3.6L V6, the pump is timing-chain-cover-mounted, making replacement labor-intensive and comparatively expensive. Neglecting a leaking pump can damage timing components.

    This issue also affects: Buick Encore GX, Cadillac Allante, Cadillac Catera

    Common Symptoms

    • Coolant leak / puddle under front of vehicle
    • Engine overheating
    • Low coolant warning
    • Whining or grinding from water pump
    • Sweet coolant smell

    How to Fix

    Replace the water pump (OEM/ACDelco) along with the coolant and inspect the thermostat and hoses. Given the timing-cover location, professional replacement is recommended; refill and bleed the cooling system afterward.

    What you need to fix it

    Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

    • Engine Water Pump
      Cross-refWPGM-700

      Fitment confirmed against the ShowMeTheParts catalog for this vehicle's year and engine.

      eBay

    As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

    Typical repair cost:$1,008 - $1,443

    Research This Issue

    GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
    Community Reported
    Low ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 2026

    On the 2010-2024 GMC Terrain, terrain front and rear hub assemblies integrate the ABS magnetic encoder ring into the bearing's inboard seal, where it sits directly exposed to road salt and moisture. Two distinct failure modes result. The mechanical one is the familiar humming or roaring that rises with speed and changes when loading the bearing in a wide turn. The one that fools owners and shops is encoder-ring failure on a bearing that is still mechanically tight and silent: the wheel speed signal drops out and the vehicle sets a wheel speed sensor code with ABS, traction control and stability control disabled. Replacing only the external sensor does not fix it, because the encoder is part of the bearing. Both generations are affected, with salt-belt vehicles failing earliest.

    This issue also affects: Chevrolet Avalanche, Chevrolet Blazer, Chevrolet Colorado

    Common Symptoms

    • Humming or roaring that increases with speed
    • Noise changes when swerving left or right
    • ABS, traction control and stability control warning lights
    • Speedometer dropout or erratic reading
    • No noise or play but a wheel speed sensor code present

    How to Fix

    Compare all four live wheel-speed signals and inspect the harness before choosing a hub. Front/rear, driven/non-driven and 2010-2017 versus 2018-2024 assemblies differ, so the broad issue cannot safely point to one hub.

    Typical repair cost:$300 - $800

    Research This Issue

    GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
    Community Reported
    Low ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

    On the 2010-2017 GMC Terrain, gM recalled 740,581 first-generation Terrains because an internal reflection in the headlamp housing throws excessively bright light above the beam pattern and outside the driver's own field of view. The vehicles do not comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 108. The stray upward light dazzles oncoming and preceding drivers, reducing their visibility and increasing crash risk. This affects the entire 2010-2017 run, making it one of the largest single actions ever taken on this nameplate, and it is not related to any bulb or wiring failure - the housing optics themselves are the defect.

    Common Symptoms

    • Oncoming drivers flashing their high beams at you
    • Visible bright halo or glow above the headlight beam
    • Excessive upward light spill at night

    How to Fix

    Free recall remedy under NHTSA campaign 22V137000 (GM recall N222363740). Dealers apply a translucent/frosted film to the specified area of the headlamp housing to block the offending reflection, at no cost to the owner. Owners can verify eligibility by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls or through a GMC dealer; GMC customer service is 1-800-462-8782.

    Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

    Research This Issue

    GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
    Community Reported
    High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

    On the 2010-2017 GMC Terrain, sunroof-equipped first-generation Terrains use a drain trough around the glass panel with four hoses routed down the A-pillars and out through the rear body-side extensions. The original-design hoses are small in diameter and prone to clogging with debris and factory sealant residue; owners commonly find three of four drains blocked. The hoses also shrink with age and pull off the sunroof module fitting. Once a drain backs up, water overflows the trough into the headliner and runs down onto the front or rear carpet. GM issued a service bulletin covering wet floors and interior water leaks on 2010-2017 Equinox and Terrain that specifically identifies the smaller-diameter older-design drain hose as clog-prone. Left alone, the standing water corrodes floor-mounted modules and connectors and creates mold.

    Common Symptoms

    • Wet or soaked front passenger carpet after rain
    • Water dripping from the headliner or A-pillar trim
    • Musty or mildew smell in the cabin
    • Water sloshing sound from the roof area
    • Damp rear floor behind the front seats

    How to Fix

    Water-test each corner, clear the drains with low pressure or safe flexible line, then reconnect or replace only the failed hose/coupler. The updated hose and access differ by roof module and generation; generic wire or a universal hose is not approved.

    What you need to fix it

    Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

    • Sunroof front drain hose, driver side (left A-pillar)
      OEM20943456Cross-refGM 25823019 (superseded by 20943456)$20–$30

      Same number across 2.4L, 3.0L and 3.6L engines and SLE1/SLE2/SLT trims.

      GMPartsGiant
    • Sunroof front drain hose, passenger side (right A-pillar)
      OEM20943457Cross-refGM 25823020 (superseded by 20943457)$21–$31

      One number for all engines/trims in the generation.

      GMPartsGiant
    • Sunroof rear drain hose, driver side
      OEM20943458Cross-refGM 25823021 (superseded by 20943458)

      Genuine GM 'HOSE, SUN ROOF HOUSING REAR DRAIN', driver side, 2010-2017 Terrain/Equinox (routes to the rear body-side exit). GM catalogs now mark this part DISCONTINUED with no price shown, so it is normally cleared and reconnected rather…

    • Sunroof rear drain hose, passenger side
      OEM20943459Cross-refGM 25823022 (superseded by 20943459)

      Genuine GM 'HOSE, SUN ROOF HOUSING REAR DRAIN', passenger side, 2010-2017 Terrain/Equinox. Marked DISCONTINUED in GM catalogs with no price; clear and reconnect the existing hose, or source used/NOS.

    As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

    Typical repair cost:$100 - $800

    Research This Issue

    GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
    Community Reported
    Low ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

    On the 2013-2019 GMC Terrain, the IntelliLink/MyLink touchscreen freezes and spontaneously reboots, losing control of radio, climate, navigation and Bluetooth, and often displays a black screen or a frozen backup-camera image. During a reboot, phone calls drop and the rear camera can go dark while in reverse - a visibility concern. Root causes include software glitches, outdated firmware, and occasionally loose display/camera wiring.

    This issue also affects: Buick Encore GX, Cadillac XTS, Chevrolet Equinox

    Common Symptoms

    • Touchscreen freezes or reboots
    • Black/blank infotainment screen
    • Backup camera not working or shows frozen image
    • Lost radio/Bluetooth/nav
    • Dropped phone calls on reboot

    How to Fix

    Start with a software/firmware update at the dealer and a system reset (Home + Fast Forward held ~10s, or Return to Factory Settings). Persistent cases require reseating/repairing loose harness connectors or replacing the radio/display module or backup camera.

    Typical repair cost:$100 - $900

    Research This Issue

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    Community Reported
    Low ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 2026

    On the 2010-2017 GMC Terrain, the HVAC blend/mode-door actuators fail as their internal plastic gears strip, producing a repetitive clicking or knocking sound from behind the dash and causing loss of temperature or airflow control. On dual-zone systems one side commonly blows hot while the other blows cold, or the system sticks on one temperature. A click/pop typically means a stripped gear requiring replacement.

    This issue also affects: Cadillac XTS, Chevrolet Equinox, Chevrolet Malibu

    Common Symptoms

    • Repetitive clicking/knocking behind dash
    • One side hot, other side cold
    • Stuck on cold or hot air
    • Temperature setting has no effect
    • No airflow mode change

    How to Fix

    Replace the failed blend/mode-door actuator (OEM/ACDelco recommended to avoid repeat aftermarket failures) and recalibrate with a scan tool after installation. The temperature (blend) actuator is the most common failure; mode/recirc actuators can also fail.

    What you need to fix it

    Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

    • HVAC Blend/Mode Door Actuator (1st design, 5-pin connector) — 2010 through early-2013
      OEM25952814 (ACDelco 15-73981)Cross-refDorman 604-185, Four Seasons 73253, SKP SK604185$13–$56

      GM used ONE common actuator in several positions in this HVAC case (temperature/blend, mode, and air-inlet/recirculation), so this single part number covers whichever one is clicking — the temperature/blend actuator is the most common fa…

      GMPartsGiant
    • HVAC Blend/Mode Door Actuator (2nd design, 6-pin connector) — 2013 through 2017
      OEM22877649 (ACDelco 15-74254)Cross-refDorman 604-180, Four Seasons 73251, GPD 1712923$13–$40

      Same one-part-fits-several-positions arrangement as the early design: temperature/blend, mode, and air-inlet/recirculation actuators in this case all use this number.

      GMPartsGiant

    As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

    Typical repair cost:$150 - $450

    Research This Issue

    GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
    Community Reported
    Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 2026

    On the 2010-2017 GMC Terrain, the fuel level sensor in the in-tank pump module is a potentiometer whose wiper rides on a resistor card. Sulfur compounds in pump gasoline plate onto the card, and varnish builds on the float arm pivot, so the sender's resistance no longer tracks actual tank level. First-generation Terrain owners report gauges that never rise past three-quarters, gauges that drop an eighth to a quarter of a tank within five miles of filling, and gauges frozen on empty with the low-fuel light on. Forum threads also document the fuel module seating in the tank shell at an orientation that prevents the float from reaching the full-travel position. The consequence is running out of fuel unexpectedly rather than any warning light.

    Common Symptoms

    • Fuel gauge never reads full after fill-up
    • Gauge drops rapidly then sticks
    • Gauge stuck on empty with low fuel light on
    • Erratic needle movement
    • Inaccurate distance-to-empty readout

    How to Fix

    Compare scan-tool fuel-level data with the gauge, then use the vehicle RPO/engine and production split to identify the faulty sender branch. GM bulletin PIP5122C specifically distinguishes the auxiliary sender module from the primary pump on many 2010-2015 applications, so a generic complete-pump link is unsafe.

    Typical repair cost:$350 - $900

    Research This Issue

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    Community Reported
    Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026
    Campaign #23V339000
    11/05/2023

    SEATS

    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.

    Campaign #22V72400029/09/2022

    POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

    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.

    Campaign #20V66800029/10/2020

    + 1 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov

    Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

    get a full repair guide

    What is the 2010-2017 GMC Terrain 6T40/6T45 6-Speed Transmission Shudder and Harsh Shifts?

    The 2010-2017 Terrain uses the GM 6T40 (2.4L) and 6T45 (V6) 6-speed automatic transmissions, both of which suffer from torque converter shudder, harsh shifts, and solenoid failures. The shudder occurs at light throttle between 30-50 mph when the torque converter clutch locks up. Repairs typically run $150-$2,800. Severity: medium.

    What is the 2010-2017 GMC Terrain Water Pump Failure and Coolant Leak?

    The engine-driven water pump develops bearing/impeller wear or seal leaks, allowing coolant to weep (often visible as dried Dex-Cool on the timing-chain cover or flung from the pump pulley) and eventually causing overheating. On both the 2.4L Ecotec and 3.6L V6, the pump is timin… Repairs typically run $1,008-$1,443. Severity: medium.

    What is the 2010-2024 GMC Terrain Wheel Bearing / Hub Assembly Magnetic Encoder Ring Failure - ABS and Traction Lights Without Bearing Noise?

    Terrain front and rear hub assemblies integrate the ABS magnetic encoder ring into the bearing's inboard seal, where it sits directly exposed to road salt and moisture. Two distinct failure modes result. The mechanical one is the familiar humming or roaring that rises with speed… Repairs typically run $300-$800. Severity: medium.

    What is the 2010-2017 GMC Terrain Throttle Body / Throttle Position Sensor Failure - 'Reduced Engine Power' Warning?

    First-generation Terrains (2010-2017) are prone to a sudden 'Reduced Engine Power' warning caused by a failing electronic throttle body. Carbon and grime build up inside the bore and the internal throttle position sensor (TPS) fails or reads erratically, causing the ECM to enter… Repairs typically run $250-$650. Severity: medium.

    What is the 2010-2017 GMC Terrain Headlight Housing Veiling Glare - FMVSS 108 Noncompliance Recall (22V137)?

    GM recalled 740,581 first-generation Terrains because an internal reflection in the headlamp housing throws excessively bright light above the beam pattern and outside the driver's own field of view. The vehicles do not comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 108. The s… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: medium.

    What is the 2010-2017 GMC Terrain Sunroof Drain Hose Clogging and Disconnection - Water on the Cabin Floor and Headliner Staining?

    Sunroof-equipped first-generation Terrains use a drain trough around the glass panel with four hoses routed down the A-pillars and out through the rear body-side extensions. The original-design hoses are small in diameter and prone to clogging with debris and factory sealant resi… Repairs typically run $100-$800. Severity: medium.

    What is the 2013-2019 GMC Terrain IntelliLink Infotainment Freezing/Rebooting and Backup Camera Black Screen?

    The IntelliLink/MyLink touchscreen freezes and spontaneously reboots, losing control of radio, climate, navigation and Bluetooth, and often displays a black screen or a frozen backup-camera image. During a reboot, phone calls drop and the rear camera can go dark while in reverse… Repairs typically run $100-$900. Severity: low.

    What is the 2010-2017 GMC Terrain HVAC Blend Door Actuator Failure (Clicking Noise, No Temperature Control)?

    The HVAC blend/mode-door actuators fail as their internal plastic gears strip, producing a repetitive clicking or knocking sound from behind the dash and causing loss of temperature or airflow control. On dual-zone systems one side commonly blows hot while the other blows cold, o… Repairs typically run $150-$450. Severity: low.

    What is the 2010-2017 GMC Terrain Fuel Level Sender Card Fouling - Gauge Sticks, Reads Low or Never Reaches Full?

    The fuel level sensor in the in-tank pump module is a potentiometer whose wiper rides on a resistor card. Sulfur compounds in pump gasoline plate onto the card, and varnish builds on the float arm pivot, so the sender's resistance no longer tracks actual tank level. First-generat… Repairs typically run $350-$900. Severity: low.