Last updated: 2026-04-20

RELIABILITY SCORE: 74/100 (GOOD)

2021 GMC Terrain Reliability Report

Name: 2021 GMC Terrain
Brand: GMC

The 2021 GMC Terrain scores 74/100 ("Good"). With 2 recalls and 28 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.

Full Breakdown Compare Models

Recalls

Complaints

Complaint Rate

5.9per 10,000 sold

Est. Repair Cost

$558

Annual Fuel Cost

$2,200–$2,300

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity71/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs70/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact80/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity83/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Consider

Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.

Top Issues to Watch

POWER TRAIN (6)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (5)
SERVICE BRAKES (3)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Post-Redesign (Year 4)

2021 is year 4 of the Second generation (2018).

Redesigned for the 2018 model year.
Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
A refresh arrives in 2022.
2nd generation Terrain (US).

What this means for buyers

Well into the generation cycle — most design and manufacturing issues should be resolved by now.

2018: Second generation (2018) Launch

Generation start — new platform.

2021: This Model Year

2021 is year 4 of the Second generation (2018).

2022: Mid-Cycle Refresh

Updated features and styling tweaks.

Should You Buy the 2021 GMC Terrain?

At 74/100, the 2021 GMC Terrain lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2021 is year 4 of the Second generation (2018).

Owners log 28 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.

Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to power train (6). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.

Compared to the 2022 GMC Terrain, which scored 2 points lower. See also the 2020 GMC Terrain for an earlier comparison.

Pros

+Acceptable reliability score
+Infrequent unscheduled repairs
+Low recall count
+Below-average complaint rate for SUV

Cons

−POWER TRAIN: Transmission (6 complaints)
−ELECTRICAL SYSTEM issues reported (5 complaints)

Compare 2021 GMC Terrain With

2021 Chevrolet Equinox

Reliability: 74/100

Good

2021 Toyota RAV4

Reliability: 73/100

Good

2021 Honda CR-V

Reliability: 77/100

Good

2021 Hyundai Tucson

Reliability: 78/100

Good

2021 KIA Sportage

Reliability: 76/100

Good

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK

2 manufacturer recalls issued

Other

HIGH RISK

POWER TRAIN (6)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (5)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

recalls on record

The 2021 GMC Terrain carries 2 recalls — a low count. Authorized dealers repair any open recall free of charge, regardless of warranty status.

NHTSA.gov →

Complaint Breakdown

5.9

per 10,000 sold

Segment avg: 17.5

LowAvgHigh

Low

Safety Incidents

Crashes

Fires

Injuries

Deaths

★★★★★

NHTSA 5/5 Stars

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

2021 GMC Terrain Recall Details

2 recalls have been issued for the 2021 GMC Terrain. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

23V3390002023-05-11

CHILD SEAT

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."

Consequence

The inability to install a child seat with the LATCH anchorage bars could result in an unsecured child seat, increasing the risk of injury in a crash.

Remedy

Owners are advised to install child seats using the vehicle's rear seat belts until the remedy is complete. Dealers will inspect the latch anchorage bars, and remove and replace the finish, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 2, 2023. 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 N232403240.

21V6120002021-08-05

TIRES

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.

Consequence

Tread separation can result in a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will inspect the tire DOT numbers, and replace any affected tires, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on August 31, 2021. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782; and Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N212343560.

VIN History Report

Buying a used 2021 GMC Terrain? Check its history first

Every 2021 GMC Terrain has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.

Accidents
Open Recalls
Title History
Odometer Rollback

2021 GMC Terrain NHTSA Safety Ratings

Overall Safety Rating

Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Driver: 5/5Passenger: 5/5

Rollover risk: 18.5%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Advanced Belt Feature (Standard)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Not Available)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Curtain (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Torso/Pelvis (Driver, Front Passenger)Knee (Not Available)Additional Air Bags (Not Available)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)LATCH Locations (Rear Seat)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver)

View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

GMC TerrainRepair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

3.5

Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.

Est. Annual Maintenance

$558

vs $521 avg for compact SUVs

vs $652 avg for all vehicles

Repair Frequency

0.3

unscheduled repair visits per year

Severe Repair Probability

17%

chance of a major repair

Annual Cost Comparison

Terrain

$558

Category Avg

$521

All Vehicles

$652

Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.

MPG & Annual Running Costs

Gas

26–27 MPG

Running cost: $2,750–$2,850/yr

Fuel + repair

25 city / 28–30 hwy MPG

Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2021 EPA label cycle.

Gas trims

Trim	Drive	Trans.	City	Hwy	Comb	Fuel Cost
Terrain FWD 1.5L 4-cyl	Front-Wheel Drive	Automatic 9-spd	25	30	27	$2,200
Terrain AWD 1.5L 4-cyl	All-Wheel Drive	Automatic 9-spd	25	28	26	$2,300

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2021 GMC Terrain.

Check for transmission shudder during acceleration between 35-60 mph
Inspect for water leaks in spare tire compartment and passenger floors
Test brakes for responsiveness, especially on inclines
Verify infotainment system stability and screen functionality
Ensure fuel pump and control module operate correctly
Inspect for any signs of axle or suspension issues

2021 GMC Terrain Common Problems by Component

28 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

POWER TRAIN (6)ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (5)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (3)SERVICE BRAKES (3)ENGINE (2)SUSPENSION (2)FUEL SYSTEM (2)CHILD SEAT (1)Other (4)

POWER TRAIN

6 complaints

Owners of the 2021 GMC Terrain frequently report power train issues, particularly involving the transmission. Common symptoms include the vehicle erroneously shifting to neutral while driving, causing deceleration, and significant shaking or vibration during acceleration, especially between 35-60 mph. Some vehicles also experience a failure to respond to the accelerator pedal, and in one case, the vehicle reversed instead of moving forward when shifted into drive. These issues are reported at mileages as low as 6,000 miles and up to 78,843 miles. While there are no reports of crashes or fires, the described symptoms could potentially lead to loss of vehicle control. Multiple owners note that GM is aware of these problems but has not provided a solution.

6 complaints total

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

5 complaints

Owners of the 2021 GMC Terrain frequently report issues related to the vehicle's electrical system, with multiple complaints describing unexpected and abrupt stops while driving. Symptoms include the vehicle coming to a halt with the parking brake engaging and all dashboard lights illuminating, despite the fuel tank not being low. These incidents often occur at lower speeds, such as in 30 mph zones, but owners express concern about potential risks at higher speeds. Additional complaints mention the radio and information screens going black intermittently and the vehicle operating without a key fob present, which could lead to being stranded if the car is turned off. These issues are reported in vehicles with mileages ranging from 13,000 to 23,900, with some owners experiencing problems shortly after purchase. Safety implications include potential loss of control and the risk of accidents if the vehicle stops unexpectedly.

5 complaints total

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

3 complaints

Owners of the 2021 GMC Terrain frequently report water leaks leading to mold and mildew odors, particularly affecting the spare tire compartment and passenger floors, despite attempts to clear drain lines. Another common issue involves vibrations during acceleration, attributed to drive shaft problems, with some owners referencing a related recall. Additionally, a persistent rattle in the B-pillar or roof area is noted, with multiple repair attempts involving adhesive applications, although more invasive fixes are mentioned online. These complaints do not specify mileage ranges or timelines, and no direct safety implications like crashes or loss of control are reported. Potential buyers should be aware of these recurring issues, which may involve costly repairs and affect vehicle integrity.

3 complaints total

SERVICE BRAKES (3 complaints)

SERVICE BRAKES

3 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2021 GMC Terrain report issues with the service brakes, including sudden acceleration after brake release and brake failure on steep inclines. In two cases, these issues resulted in crashes, with one owner describing a non-responsive brake pedal while descending a hilly road and another reporting aggressive acceleration leading to a collision. One complaint mentions a recurring noise from the right rear brake when the vehicle is first moved after being idle, persisting since purchase in July 2021. Mileage is not consistently reported, but one incident occurred shortly after vehicle acquisition. Safety implications are significant, with two crashes and one injury reported, highlighting potential risks for used car buyers.

3 complaints total2 crashes2 injuries

ENGINE (2 complaints)

ENGINE

2 complaints

Owners report that the 2021 GMC Terrain experiences issues with the engine entering a "reduced engine power" mode, often accompanied by a check engine light. Complaints frequently mention that the vehicle struggles to accelerate, with RPMs rising unusually high, and describe occurrences of the vehicle entering limp mode while driving at highway speeds. One owner notes a turbocharger under-boost code and an oil leak associated with the turbocharger, which they were advised needed replacement. These incidents are flagged as safety concerns due to the sudden loss of power in traffic, posing a risk of accidents. The issues appear to arise without prior symptoms, and there are mentions of similar experiences by other owners on forums.

2 complaints total

SUSPENSION (2 complaints)

SUSPENSION

2 complaints

Owners of the 2021 GMC Terrain report issues related to the suspension, particularly at higher mileages around 45,000 to 64,500 miles. Common symptoms include severe shaking or wobbling during acceleration, specifically between 40-55 mph, which persists even after tire inspections and balancing. One owner mentions axle replacement and a transmission fluid leak, while another describes unrelated issues with backup assist features and windshield wiper fluid operation in cold weather. There are no reports of crashes or loss of control associated with these complaints, but potential buyers should be aware of the recurring shaking and related axle concerns at these mileages.

2 complaints total

FUEL SYSTEM (2 complaints)

FUEL SYSTEM

2 complaints

Owners of the 2021 GMC Terrain report issues related to the vehicle's fuel system, specifically involving the fuel pump and fuel pump control module. Complaints frequently mention the vehicle stalling unexpectedly, both while driving at low speeds and when stopped, with no prior warning lights in some cases. Additionally, there are reports of the vehicle failing to start and battery drainage, often followed by an illuminated check engine light. These issues are noted at mileages around 25,000 and 86,000. While no crashes or fires are reported, the stalling incidents suggest potential safety implications, particularly during driving.

2 complaints total

CHILD SEAT (1 complaints)

CHILD SEAT

1 complaint

2023-05-11

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Terrain. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V339000 (Child Seat); 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 dealer was contacted and informed the contact that the vehicle would not be inspected or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.

STEERING (1 complaints)

STEERING

1 complaint

2023-12-20

The car has revved high rpm's since purchase, with multiple attempts to get it resolved . Since then, the steering wheel has jerked out of my hand's multiple times, unexpecting, causing the car to jerk while being stopped. The car has also not budged in the middle of traffic while being in drive and the pedal down to the floor until at least a 10 second delay and when doing so the screen that includes the radio, etc panel has completely blacked out and started twitching

AIR BAGS (1 complaints)

AIR BAGS

1 complaintSafety-related

2024-01-29Crash reported1 injury

I was in a in a 70 miles an hour highway accident and was hit in front driver side door, went up embankment and hit a tree then rolled backwards onto the highway. No airbags deployed.

When Do 2021 GMC Terrain Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

6,000–78,843 milesTransmission shudder

13,000–23,900 milesElectrical system failures

45,000–64,500 milesSuspension shaking

Best & Worst GMC Terrain Years

Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.

Best GMC Terrain Years to Buy

Based on reliability index score

The best GMC Terrain year is 2025 with a reliability score of 78/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2024 (77/100) and 2023 (75/100).

Top Pick

Good

GMC Terrain Years to Avoid

The worst GMC Terrain year is 2018 with a score of 66/100, primarily due to service brakes (48) issues.

Good

2018

5Recalls

201Complaints

See full GMC Terrain years-to-avoid analysis

GMC Terrain Reliability Score Trend

GMC Terrain reliability has improved in recent years, with newer models scoring an average of 76/100 compared to 69/100 for older years.

Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.

GMC Terrain reliability scores by year
Year	Score	Rating
2018	66/100	Good
2019	68/100	Good
2020	68/100	Good
2021	74/100	Good
2022	72/100	Good
2023	75/100	Good
2024	77/100	Good
2025	78/100	Good

GMC Terrain Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
Year	Score	vs Prior Year	Rating	Recalls	Complaints
2026	77/100 (predicted)	—	Predicted	0	0
2025	78/100	+1	Good	0	8
2024	77/100	+2	Good	1	29
2023	75/100	+3	Good	2	21
2022	72/100	-2	Good	4	65
2021(selected)	74/100	+6	Good	2	28
2020	68/100	0	Good	2	160
2019	68/100	+2	Good	3	163
2018	66/100	—	Good	5	201

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2021 GMC Terrain reliable?

The 2021 GMC Terrain has a "Good" reliability rating with a score of 74/100. It is reasonably reliable with 2 recalls and 28 owner complaints, though some issues have been reported.

What are the most common problems with the 2021 GMC Terrain?

The most commonly reported problems with the 2021 GMC Terrain include: POWER TRAIN (6 complaints), ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (5 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (3 complaints), SERVICE BRAKES (3 complaints), ENGINE (2 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.

How many recalls does the 2021 GMC Terrain have?

The 2021 GMC Terrain has 2 recalls on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.

Is the 2021 GMC Terrain expensive to maintain?

The 2021 GMC Terrain has estimated annual repair costs of $558/year, which is $37 more than the compact SUVs average of $521. With a reliability score of 74/100, some repairs may be needed, but overall ownership costs are manageable.

Don’t buy a 2021 GMC Terrain without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

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Look Up a VIN →

How We Calculate Reliability Scores

Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.

Key Ranking Factors

Complaint Severity

NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

Recall Impact

Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.

Issue Diversity

Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.

Scores are grouped into four tiers:

80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution

Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.

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