Last updated: 2026-04-20

2024 GMC Terrain Reliability Report
The 2024 GMC Terrain scores 77/100 ("Good"). With 1 recall and 29 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
1
Complaints
29
Complaint Rate
3.5per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$558
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,300–$2,400
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
- POWER TRAIN (13)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (3)
- FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (2)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2024 is the last model year of the Second generation (2018).
- Final-year models are typically the most refined version of a generation.
- 2 years after the last refresh (2022).
- 2nd generation Terrain (US).
What this means for buyers
Final-year models are usually the most polished version of a generation, but resale value may dip as buyers anticipate the next redesign.
2018: Second generation (2018) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2022: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
2024: This Model Year
2024 is the last model year of the Second generation (2018).
Should You Buy the 2024 GMC Terrain?
At 77/100, the 2024 GMC Terrain lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2024 is the last model year of the Second generation (2018).
Owners log 29 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 (13). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.
Compared to the 2025 GMC Terrain, which scored 1 points higher. See also the 2023 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: Significant transmission issues with the 2024 GMC Terrain, including complete... (13 complaints)
- −UNKNOWN OR OTHER: Rear camera and infotainment system (4 complaints)
Compare 2024 GMC Terrain With

2024 Chevrolet Equinox
Reliability: 76/100

2024 Toyota RAV4
Reliability: 80/100

2024 Honda CR-V
Reliability: 77/100

2024 Hyundai Tucson
Reliability: 77/100

2024 KIA Sportage
Reliability: 78/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 1 manufacturer recall issued
Other
HIGH RISK- POWER TRAIN (13)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (4)
Recall Overview
1
recall on record
The 2024 GMC Terrain carries 1 recall — a low count. Authorized dealers repair any open recall free of charge, regardless of warranty status.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
3.5
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 7.7
Safety Incidents
0
Crashes
0
Fires
0
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2024 GMC Terrain Recall Details
1 recall has been issued for the 2024 GMC Terrain. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
STRUCTURE
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.
Consequence
A door opening while the vehicle is being driven can increasing the risk of injury or a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace all four door strikers and attaching bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 24, 2024. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 and GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N232429911.
Buying a used 2024 GMC Terrain? Check its history first
Every 2024 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
2024 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
25–26 MPG
Running cost: $2,850–$2,950/yr
Fuel + repair
23–24 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 2024 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 | 24 | 29 | 26 | $2,300 |
| Terrain AWD 1.5L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic 9-spd | 23 | 28 | 25 | $2,400 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2024 GMC Terrain.
Inspect transmission for erratic shifting or slipping
Check for any transmission fluid leaks
Test fuel system for proper operation and check for any stalling issues
Verify infotainment system functions correctly, especially when switching gears
Check for water intrusion in the cabin, particularly on the driver's side floor
Ensure all electronic warning systems and sensors are functioning properly
2024 GMC Terrain Common Problems by Component
29 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
POWER TRAIN
13 complaintsOwners report significant transmission issues with the 2024 GMC Terrain, including complete transmission failure and erratic shifting. Complaints frequently mention loss of power while driving, with vehicles unexpectedly switching to park or neutral, sometimes resulting in sudden stops. These issues typically occur at low mileages, often below 20,000 miles, and have led to vehicles being towed for extensive repairs. Safety implications are evident as multiple owners describe situations where the vehicle's loss of control could have led to accidents, particularly during highway driving or in traffic. Buyers should be aware of these recurring transmission problems when considering a used 2024 GMC Terrain.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
4 complaintsOwners report several issues with the 2024 GMC Terrain, particularly related to the rear camera and infotainment system. Complaints frequently mention the rear camera displaying incorrectly, such as showing the top of the license plate, and persisting display issues when switching from reverse to drive. Multiple owners describe the infotainment system malfunctioning, with symptoms including the rear camera remaining active, sound volume controls failing, and non-functional steering wheel controls. Additionally, one owner notes the physical difficulty in lifting the hood due to the absence of assist springs or shocks, which could pose a safety concern if the hood falls. No specific mileage ranges are mentioned, but these issues appear to occur soon after purchase.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
3 complaintsOwners of the 2024 GMC Terrain frequently report issues related to the electrical system, particularly involving water intrusion and electronic malfunctions. Symptoms described include fog emanating from air vents, water accumulation on the driver's side floor, and subsequent failures of speakers and signal lights, with one owner linking these issues to a clogged drain line. Another common complaint involves persistent error messages related to the blind spot assist feature, with the issue occurring intermittently since purchase. Additionally, a severe incident is reported where the vehicle in PARK displayed a brake system failure message, leading to compromised braking performance and increased stopping distances. These problems are noted at low mileages, such as 3,757 miles, and may pose safety risks, especially in the case of brake system warnings.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (2 complaints)
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
2 complaintsOwners report issues with the fuel system on the 2024 GMC Terrain, with problems occurring at various mileages, including 25,423 and 42,000 miles. Complaints frequently mention a complete failure of the fuel pump or fuel module, leading to the vehicle stalling. One owner describes a scenario where the car quit while driving, resulting in a loss of control and the vehicle stopping across two lanes of a highway, posing a significant safety risk. These issues may require intervention such as towing and part replacement, which prospective buyers should consider when assessing this vehicle.
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (1 complaints)
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
1 complaintMy wife and I took our new vehicle on a 7k mile road trip this summer. Two times while on the freeway around 70 MPH, the sensors went wild. The cars auto break came on and red lights and collision warnings went off in the seat and the HUD. The vehicle slowed down to about 35 immediately! Then everything turned off and we sped back went down the road like nothing happened. Luckily there was no behind us or in front of us for a good distance. The thing is during both of the there was a car in the lane next to us at our 1 or 2 o'clock position. Perhaps the sensors. Mistakingly thought we were about to hit that car. Can these seniors be adjusted?
AIR BAGS (1 complaints)
AIR BAGS
1 complaintThe contact owns a 2024 GMC Terrain. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the "Service Vehicle Soon" message was displayed, and the air bag warning light was intermittently illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the dealer was unable to duplicate the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 10,000.
SERVICE BRAKES (1 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaintThe contact owns a 2024 GMC Terrain. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle was hesitating while accelerating. The contact stated that the vehicle was stalling, and the brake pedal was spongy. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer on several occasions, but the failure was not duplicated. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the failure persisted. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was 10.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (1 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaintDriving on slightly uphill 55 mph highway, vehicle started jumping & losing engine power. Engine light came on, I made it to the top as it was slowing down. Pulled off to the side. Put it in park for a minute. Message showing on dash read - acceleration power reduced. Drove it on home (engine light stayed on) parked it & had it towed to dealership the next morning. Got a call from dealership the same afternoon saying the vehicle was ready to be picked up. Picked up later in evening from dealership. They left keys & paper in car for pick up. We still tend the paper left it in the box showing we picked it up. The vehicle drove good back home. Drove it the next day, As I was pulling out from a stop sign, it started jumping again for a few seconds. Got home & had my husband to drive it, as we were coming up a small hill, it started jumping & losing power again engine light was blinking at this point. Dash board read engine power reduced. My husband kept on the accelerater & when we got on top of the hill engine light went off & we drove it back to the dealership & left it to be checked again. They kept the vehicle for 7 days & said they were not able to find concern. We picked it up again. Drove it back home without any incident. It has been parked since we got it home.
ENGINE (1 complaints)
ENGINE
1 complaintThe contact owns a 2024 GMC Terrain. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed and merging onto the highway, the vehicle experienced a loss of automotive power. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where the vehicle was diagnosed. The contact was informed that an undisclosed faulty sensor was the cause of the failure. The contact was informed that the sensor needed to be replaced. The contact stated that the vehicle had remained at the dealer for two weeks unrepaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 22,000.
STEERING (1 complaints)
STEERING
1 complaintWhile driving, the dash warning "service power steering" light up and my steering wheel locked making me unable to steer or manuever the car to safety. I was stuck in the middle of the road. I turned it off and on and was able to make it to a parking lot where the same safety messages illuminated four more times. I tried reversing and the same steering lock occurred again making me unable to drive the vehicle.
When Do 2024 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
(Current Model)
2023
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 2024 GMC Terrain reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2024 GMC Terrain?
How many recalls does the 2024 GMC Terrain have?
Is the 2024 GMC Terrain expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2024 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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