Last updated: 2026-10-10

GMC Terrain

GMC Terrain Years to Avoid

9 scored model years (2018–2026) · model average 73/100

The GMC Terrain years to avoid are 2018, 2020 based on reliability scores, NHTSA recalls, and owner complaints. The worst year is 2018 with a reliability score of 66/100. The best GMC Terrain year to buy is 2024 77/100.

Verdict

The 2018, 2020 GMC Terrain score significantly below the model average of 73/100. The weakest year is 2018 with a score of 66/100 due to service brakes (48) issues. The best year to buy instead is 2024 77/100. Newer model years (2025–2026) score higher partly because they've had less time to accumulate owner complaints.

See years to avoid ↓See best year ↓See all years ranked ↓

GMC Terrain Years to Avoid

These model years score significantly below the GMC Terrain average of 73/100.

#YearScoreRatingRecallsComplaintsTop Issue
1201866/100Good5201Service Brakes (48)
2202068/100Good2160Service Brakes (39)

Why These Years Should Be Avoided

66
GoodReliability score: 66 out of 100, rated Good

2018 GMC Terrain

Weakest of the nine scored Terrain years, with five recalls and brake vacuum pump failures that can wreck the engine.

5 recalls201 complaintsEst. repair:

Top issues: Service Brakes (48), Power Train (38), Electrical System (29), Unknown Or Other (22), Engine (16), Air Bags (11)

View full 2018reliability report →
68
GoodReliability score: 68 out of 100, rated Good

2020 GMC Terrain

Brake assist failures dominate complaints, and this year sits among the weaker of nine Terrain years even though its overall standing is good.

2 recalls160 complaintsEst. repair:

Top issues: Service Brakes (39), Power Train (23), Unknown Or Other (20), Electrical System (19), Engine (13), Vehicle Speed Control (8)

View full 2020reliability report →

What Are Common GMC Terrain Problems?

SERVICE BRAKES

146 complaints

Most reported in 2018, 2020, 2019

2018: The brake pedal suddenly turns rock hard and stopping distances stretch out, often at highway speed or on an exit ramp.

POWER TRAIN

135 complaints

Most reported in 2019, 2018, 2020

2019: The 9-speed transmission slips, misses third gear, sticks in first, or won't engage any gear and strands the car.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

92 complaints

Most reported in 2018, 2019, 2020

2018: Infotainment screens go black, reboot, switch stations on their own, or scramble icons and saved settings.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

69 complaints

Most reported in 2018, 2020, 2019

2018: Panoramic sunroof glass shatters with a loud bang while driving, in one case at 2,040 miles.

ENGINE

55 complaints

Most reported in 2019, 2018, 2020

2019: Catastrophic engine failure is the worst pattern.

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

29 complaints

Most reported in 2022, 2020, 2018

2022: The engine shuts off without warning, sometimes at 45 to 55 mph, and will not restart.

Best GMC Terrain Year to Buy Instead

77
GoodReliability score: 77 out of 100, rated Good

2024 GMC Terrain

Rated good and above average among 2024 SUVs, with early transmission failures as the main concern and one recall in the Structure area.

Score: 77/100 (Good)1 recalls29 complaints
View full 2024reliability report →
VIN History Report

Found a Safe Year? Check the Specific Car

Even the 2024 GMC Terrain has 1 recall on file. A VIN check confirms the recall work on the exact car and shows its accident, title, and service history.

No VIN? Just hit “Check VIN” to look one up.

  • Accidents
  • Open Recalls
  • Title History
  • Odometer Rollback

All GMC Terrain Years by Generation

Frequently Asked Questions

What GMC Terrain years should you avoid?
Based on our data, you should avoid the following GMC Terrain years: 2018 (score: 66/100), 2020 (score: 68/100). These model years score significantly below the GMC Terrain average of 73/100.
What is the best year for the GMC Terrain?
The best year for the GMC Terrain is 2024, with a reliability score of 77/100 ("Good"). It has 1 recalls and 29 owner complaints. Newer model years (2025–2026) score higher partly because they've had less time to accumulate owner complaints.
How many recalls does the GMC Terrain have?
Across all years in our database, the GMC Terrain has a total of 19 recalls. Recall counts vary by year — check individual model year reports for details.
Is a used GMC Terrain worth buying?
Yes, especially the 2024 model year, which scores 77/100. Stick to years at or above the model average of 73/100 for the best ownership experience.
What are common GMC Terrain problems?
The most common GMC Terrain problems are service brakes (146 complaints), power train (135 complaints), electrical system (92 complaints). These issues are reported across multiple model years based on NHTSA owner complaint data.
Is the GMC Terrain reliable long-term?
The GMC Terrain has an average reliability score of 73/100 across all model years in our database, rated "good". Overall, it is a reliable vehicle, though some model years perform better than others.
Which GMC Terrain generation is most reliable?
The most reliable GMC Terrain generation is the Third generation (2025) with an average score of 78/100. Compare generations in our all-years-by-generation section above.
How much does it cost to maintain a GMC Terrain?
The estimated annual maintenance cost for the GMC Terrain is $558 based on independent repair cost databases. This may vary depending on the model year and driving conditions.
Is the 2024 GMC Terrain a good used buy?
Yes, the 2024 GMC Terrain is our top-recommended model year with a reliability score of 77/100 ("Good"). It has 1 recalls and 29 owner complaints, making it a solid used buy.

How we score every GMC Terrain model year

Scores weight complaint severity at 35%, repair costs at 30%, recall impact at 20%, and the spread of complaints across systems at 15%, with complaint counts adjusted for US sales. Read the full methodology.

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