Last updated: 2026-04-20
2023 GMC Terrain Reliability Report
The 2023 GMC Terrain scores 75/100 ("Good"). With 2 recalls and 21 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
2
Complaints
21
Complaint Rate
2.9per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$558
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,300
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues to Watch
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (5)
- FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (3)
- ENGINE (2)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2023 is 1 year after the 2022 refresh refresh.
- Year 6 in the Second generation (2018) (2018–2024).
- Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
- 2nd generation Terrain (US).
What this means for buyers
Post-refresh years tend to be among the most refined — updates have been applied and early kinks worked out.
2018: Second generation (2018) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2022: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
2023: This Model Year
2023 is 1 year after the 2022 refresh refresh.
Should You Buy the 2023 GMC Terrain?
At 75/100, the 2023 GMC Terrain lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2023 is 1 year after the 2022 refresh refresh.
Owners log 21 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 electrical system (5). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.
Compared to the 2024 GMC Terrain, which scored 2 points higher. See also the 2022 GMC Terrain for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +Infrequent unscheduled repairs
- +Low recall count
- +Below-average complaint rate for SUV
Cons
- −ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: Infotainment screen, which may go completely black or flash brightly (5 complaints)
- −FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM: Several issues with the fuel/propulsion system of the 2023 GMC Terrain (3 complaints)
Compare 2023 GMC Terrain With
2023 Chevrolet Equinox
Reliability: 76/100
2023 Toyota RAV4
Reliability: 80/100
2023 Honda CR-V
Reliability: 72/100
2023 Hyundai Tucson
Reliability: 75/100
2023 KIA Sportage
Reliability: 67/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 2 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (5)
- FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (3)
Recall Overview
2
recalls on record
The 2023 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
2.9
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 12.1
Safety Incidents
2
Crashes
1
Fires
1
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2023 GMC Terrain Recall Details
2 recalls have been issued for the 2023 GMC Terrain. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
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.
AIR BAGS
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.
Consequence
In the event of a crash, a front passenger air bag that deploys with a child or infant in the front passenger seat can increase their risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the passenger presence system, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 24, 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 N222388911.
Buying a used 2023 GMC Terrain? Check its history first
Every 2023 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
2023 GMC Terrain NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 18.5%
Safety Technologies
GMC TerrainRepair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
3.5Maintenance rating: 3.5 out of 5Based 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
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 MPG
Running cost: $2,850/yr
Fuel + repair
24 city / 28–29 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 2023 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Terrain AWD 1.5L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic 9-spd | 24 | 28 | 26 | $2,300 |
| Terrain FWD 1.5L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic 9-spd | 24 | 29 | 26 | $2,300 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2023 GMC Terrain.
Inspect fuel pump for leaks or failures
Test infotainment system for black screen or flashing issues
Check for engine stalling or reduced power warnings
Verify door stability at highway speeds
Ensure all safety sensors and alerts are functional
Confirm no engine oil leaks or rear main seal issues
2023 GMC Terrain Common Problems by Component
21 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
5 complaintsOwners of the 2023 GMC Terrain frequently report issues with the electrical system, particularly involving the infotainment screen, which may go completely black or flash brightly. Additionally, multiple owners describe instances where the vehicle unexpectedly shuts off or displays a "Reduced Engine Power" message, often accompanied by a lack of acceleration. These incidents are reported at varying mileages, with some occurring in vehicles with as few as 12,564 miles and others around 48,256 miles. Safety implications are noted, as some owners experience these failures in traffic, causing potential hazards. These patterns suggest potential reliability concerns for buyers considering a used 2023 GMC Terrain.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
3 complaintsOwners report several issues with the fuel/propulsion system of the 2023 GMC Terrain. Complaints frequently mention fuel pump failures, which lead to symptoms such as fuel spraying in the engine compartment, engine shutdowns, and significant loss of power. These issues have been noted at various mileages, with one report specifically citing a failure at 42,000 miles. Safety implications include the potential for the vehicle to shut down in traffic, requiring towing, and the risk of fire due to fuel leakage. This information is crucial for potential buyers considering a used GMC Terrain, as it highlights recurring issues that may affect reliability and safety.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
2 complaintsOwners of the 2023 GMC Terrain report issues primarily involving engine and structural concerns. One complaint describes a complete engine failure at approximately 100,600 miles, including reduced engine power and a transmission module failure, limiting the vehicle's speed to 20 mph. Another owner reports a persistent rattling and shaking of the driver-side door at speeds over 65 mph, which they describe as concerning and unresolved despite service attempts. These issues highlight potential safety implications, particularly the engine failure affecting vehicle speed and the door's instability at highway speeds. Buyers should be aware of these reported problems, especially when considering vehicles with higher mileage or those used frequently on highways.
ENGINE (2 complaints)
ENGINE
2 complaintsOwners report issues with the 2023 GMC Terrain's engine, specifically involving the high-pressure fuel pump and rear main seal. Complaints frequently mention the vehicle unexpectedly entering limp mode, stalling, and hesitating to restart, which has occurred multiple times for some owners. Another owner describes a rear main seal leak that has left their vehicle at the dealership for an extended period without resolution, with the possibility of needing a new engine. These issues can occur at various mileage points, and the stalling and hesitating to start while driving may pose safety risks, particularly if they occur in traffic. Potential buyers should be aware of these reported problems and their implications for vehicle reliability and safety.
FUEL SYSTEM (2 complaints)
FUEL SYSTEM
2 complaintsOwners of the 2023 GMC Terrain report issues related to the fuel system that include stalling and loss of motive power. Symptoms frequently mentioned are the vehicle stalling at low speeds, shaking, and shifting into neutral unexpectedly, often accompanied by the illumination of the check engine light. One complaint notes a fuel module failure at approximately 12,825 miles, while another describes a possible fuel injector failure around 35,600 miles, with parts on backorder. These issues can lead to safety concerns, such as loss of control due to unexpected stalling or shifting, particularly at low speeds or while on trips. Potential buyers should be aware of these fuel system issues and the associated repair challenges when considering purchasing a used 2023 GMC Terrain.
LANE DEPARTURE (2 complaints)
LANE DEPARTURE
2 complaintsOwners of the 2023 GMC Terrain report issues related to lane departure and blind spot systems. One complaint describes a failure of the vehicle's sensors to detect obstacles at low speeds, resulting in a collision with an object, though no warning signals were activated. Another owner highlights the absence of the side blind zone alert feature due to a semiconductor shortage, which creates challenges in monitoring blind spots, especially in high-speed, dense traffic conditions. This absence is noted as particularly problematic given the vehicle's significant blind spots. Both complaints point to potential safety implications, such as increased risk of collisions due to lack of adequate warning systems. These issues are reported at low mileage and shortly after vehicle purchase, indicating early-stage concerns with these features.
STEERING (1 complaints)
STEERING
1 complaintSafety-relatedMy son was making a left onto a freeway on ramp after traffic cleared and the steering wheel completely locked up resulting in him going over the curb and rolling completely over in a steep ditch. This occurred at a low speed (no more than 25mph), confirmed by the Life369 app. My son's description was that it felt like the wheels were against a wall and the wheel wouldn't turn even though he was using both hands in an attempt to turn. My son said there was no warning lights or any other indication that he noticed, other than the complete locking up of the steering. The resulting rollover into the ditch has totaled the vehicle so it was not inspected by any collision shop. I attempted to check the steering in the tow yard but the vehicle had no power.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (1 complaints)
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
1 complaintThe contact owns a 2023 GMC Terrain. The contact stated while driving 15 MPH, the message "Engine Power Reduced” was displayed on the instrument panel. The contact stated that the vehicle the lost motive power in the middle of the roadway. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the high-pressure fuel pump, causing fuel to leak into the oil, resulting in damages to the catalytic converter and Oxygen sensor. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 41,000.
POWER TRAIN (1 complaints)
POWER TRAIN
1 complaintMy vehicle continues to slip and jerk out of gear , brought in to a local Chevy dealership , they test drive the vehicle and Acknowledge the issue. They updated transmission software and give it back to me to drive for 1000 miles or 30 days and see if the problem continues. Problem gets worse slipping and jerking more and more , made appointment dealership cancels my appointment saying they have no transmission tech come back next month for an appointment . Same thing no transmission tech available go somewhere else
VISIBILITY (1 complaints)
VISIBILITY
1 complaintThe contact owns a 2023 GMC Terrain. The contact stated that while driving 70-71 MPH, the vehicle suddenly decelerated. There was a red flashing light illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle then accelerated. Additionally, while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle decelerated, and the message that the sensor was dirty was displayed. The contact stated that the windshield was clean and clear but utilized the windshield wipers, and the warning light disappeared. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and referred the contact to the local dealer for a diagnostic test. The failure mileage was approximately 6,912.
When Do 2023 GMC Terrain Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
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 scoreThe 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).
2025
2024
2023
(Current Model)
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.
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.
| 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
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2023 GMC Terrain reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2023 GMC Terrain?
How many recalls does the 2023 GMC Terrain have?
Is the 2023 GMC Terrain expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2023 GMC Terrain without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
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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.
Get notified when new recalls or reliability data is added for the GMC Terrain.
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