2016 GMC Terrain Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The primary concern for used 2016 GMC Terrain models is the windshield wiper system, which has a high frequency of reported failures.
- Engine issues, including oil consumption and performance degradation, are the second most common complaint, warranting careful inspection.
- While the NHTSA awarded it a 4-star overall safety rating, the high volume of complaints and specific system failures detract from its overall ownership experience.
- The 3.6L V6 engine delivers strong performance but contributes to high fuel costs with a combined EPA rating of 18 MPG.
2016 GMC Terrain
Critical Failure Risk
The windshield wiper system is a frequent source of complaints, with failures reported across various mileages. This can lead to a complete loss of visibility, especially in adverse weather.
Early detection can help you avoid a $1,000-$3,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
Watch-outs include high fuel consumption.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Buyers prioritizing a comfortable ride and available all-wheel drive over long-term reliability.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Anyone seeking a trouble-free ownership experience or a vehicle with a strong reliability record.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2016 GMC Terrain Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2016 GMC Terrain.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Transmission
- Automatic 6-spd
- Drivetrain
- All-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 18
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Most Common Issues
1. Visibility
Most reportedUsage: 44 reports
2. ENGINE
Usage: 39 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Wiper Blades
Est. shop cost: $80 - $150
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FAQ
Is the 2016 GMC Terrain reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 GMC Terrain is 8.6/10. Reliability score is 8.6/10. NHTSA recalls: 3. Owner complaints: 170.
How practical is the 2016 GMC Terrain for daily use?
Practicality score is 6.1/10. Watch-outs include high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 18 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 895 litres.
What is the overall score for the 2016 GMC Terrain?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 GMC Terrain is 7.0/10. Overall score is 7.0/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.8/10. Practicality 6.1/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2016 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 at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Wiper System (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $700).
What engine is in the 2016 GMC Terrain?
Engine specs list 6 • 3.6.
What transmission does the 2016 GMC Terrain use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 GMC Terrain, transmission is Automatic 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2016 GMC Terrain?
EPA combined estimate is 18 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2016 GMC Terrain?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
How many people fit in a 2016 GMC Terrain?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 GMC Terrain, seating capacity is 5.
What body style is the 2016 GMC Terrain?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 GMC Terrain, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2016 GMC Terrain use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 GMC Terrain, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 6-spd.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2016 GMC Terrain?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
What are the most common visibility/wiper problems on the 2016 GMC Terrain?
Top complaint category: visibility/wiper (44 reports, 25.9% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2016 GMC Terrain?
This model year has 3 official safety campaigns listed.
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2016 GMC Terrain?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2016 Honda CR-V and 2016 Toyota RAV4.