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2014 GMC Terrain Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Daniel Wilson
2014 GMC Terrain Report

Overall Score

6.5/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The primary concern for the 2014 GMC Terrain is its engine, with widespread reports of oil consumption leading to potential timing chain and internal damage.
  • Visibility/wiper systems are another weak point, with numerous complaints and recalls related to wiper failure and headlight glare.
  • While safety ratings are generally good (4-star overall), the mechanical and visibility concerns present significant ownership risks.
  • The 3.6L V6 engine requires diligent oil level monitoring to mitigate potential failures.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2014 GMC Terrain

The 2014 GMC Terrain offers a practical package for used car shoppers, but its below-average reliability verdict demands careful consideration. The 3.6L V6 engine, while providing adequate power, is a focal point for owner complaints, particularly concerning oil consumption and potential timing chain wear. Visibility issues, notably with the windshield wiper system, are also a recurring concern, exacerbated by recalls affecting wiper modules and headlight glare. Despite a solid overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars, these mechanical and system weaknesses significantly impact its long-term ownership prospects. Fuel economy is respectable for its class, achieving a combined 19 MPG.

Critical Failure Risk

The 3.6L V6 engine is prone to excessive oil consumption, which can lead to low oil levels, timing chain issues, and internal engine damage if not addressed. This is a significant concern impacting engine longevity.

Early detection can help you avoid a $2,000-$6,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls2
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

384
Engine122
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
19
MPG
City
17
MPG
Highway
24
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.0/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious shoppers prioritizing initial purchase price over long-term reliability.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers seeking a dependable, trouble-free vehicle for daily commuting or long road trips.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2014 GMC Terrain Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2014 GMC Terrain.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Transmission
Automatic 6-spd
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
19

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Most Common Issues

1. ENGINE

Most reported

Usage: 122 reports

2. Visibility

Usage: 74 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Wiper Blades and Washers

Est. shop cost: $80 - $150

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
2 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2014 GMC Terrain reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2014 GMC Terrain is 8.0/10. Reliability score is 8.0/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 384.

How practical is the 2014 GMC Terrain for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 19 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2014 GMC Terrain?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2014 GMC Terrain is 6.5/10. Overall score is 6.5/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.2/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2014 GMC Terrain?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Wiper Blades and Washers at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Engine (Oil Consumption Related) (typical at 90,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $2,000 • Max: $6,000+).

What engine is in the 2014 GMC Terrain?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.6.

What transmission does the 2014 GMC Terrain use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2014 GMC Terrain, transmission is Automatic 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2014 GMC Terrain?▾

EPA combined estimate is 19 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2014 GMC Terrain?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2014 GMC Terrain?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2014 GMC Terrain, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2014 GMC Terrain use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2014 GMC Terrain, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 6-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2014 GMC Terrain?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

What are the most common engine problems on the 2014 GMC Terrain?▾

Top complaint category: engine (122 reports, 31.8% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2014 GMC Terrain?▾

This model year has 2 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2014 GMC Terrain?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2014 Honda CR-V and 2014 Toyota RAV4.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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