2018 GMC Terrain Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The service brake system is the most frequent complaint area, with owners reporting stiffness, failure to stop, and 'service brake assist' warnings, often linked to vacuum pump issues. This is a critical safety concern.
- Engine and powertrain issues, including stalling, jerking, and loss of power, are also prevalent. These can occur unexpectedly and pose a significant drivability risk.
- The 2018 Terrain received excellent NHTSA safety ratings, including 5 stars for frontal and side crashes, and a 4-star rollover rating.
- While there are 5 recalls, including critical ones for the driveshaft and rear brake calipers, the sheer volume of complaints points to broader quality concerns beyond specific recall campaigns.
2018 GMC Terrain
The 2018 GMC Terrain offers a comfortable ride and a 5-star overall safety rating, making it an attractive option on paper. However, a closer look reveals a concerning pattern of owner complaints and recalls. Significant issues have been reported with the service brakes, engine, and powertrain, suggesting potential design or quality control weaknesses. With 302 complaints and 5 recalls, this model year warrants careful consideration and thorough inspection before purchase. Its 23 MPG combined is respectable for the class.
Critical Failure Risk
Frequent complaints involve stiff brake pedals, failure to stop effectively, and 'Service Brake Assist' warnings. This is often linked to the brake vacuum pump and its related components, which can fail prematurely. Some reports suggest engine damage can occur if the vacuum pump failure is prolonged.
Early detection can help you avoid a $1,000-$3,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Buyers prioritizing safety ratings over long-term mechanical dependability.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Owners seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2018 GMC Terrain Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2018 GMC Terrain.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Premium
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Transmission
- Automatic
- Drivetrain
- All-Wheel Drive
- EPA Combined MPG
- 23
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See the full 2018 GMC Terrain buyer report before you decide
Most Common Issues
1. Braking System
Most reportedUsage: 60 reports
2. ENGINE
Usage: 47 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brake System
Est. shop cost: $100 - $200
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FAQ
Is the 2018 GMC Terrain reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2018 GMC Terrain is 7.1/10. Reliability score is 7.1/10. NHTSA recalls: 5. Owner complaints: 302.
How practical is the 2018 GMC Terrain for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 23 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed.
What is the overall score for the 2018 GMC Terrain?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2018 GMC Terrain is 7.2/10. Overall score is 7.2/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.9/10. Practicality 5.0/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2018 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 Brake System at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $800. Repair prediction highlight: Brake Vacuum Pump (typical at 45,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1,000).
What is the MSRP range for the 2018 GMC Terrain?
Base MSRP is $27,900.
What engine is in the 2018 GMC Terrain?
Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.
What transmission does the 2018 GMC Terrain use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 GMC Terrain, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.
Does the 2018 Terrain require Premium gas?
Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2018 GMC Terrain?
EPA combined estimate is 23 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2018 GMC Terrain?
6 standard and 6 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2018 GMC Terrain?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 GMC Terrain, seating capacity is 5.
What drivetrain does the 2018 GMC Terrain use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 GMC Terrain, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2018 GMC Terrain?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
What are the most common service brakes problems on the 2018 GMC Terrain?
Top complaint category: service brakes (60 reports, 19.9% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2018 GMC Terrain?
This model year has 5 official safety campaigns listed.
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2018 GMC Terrain?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2018 Honda CR-V and 2018 Toyota RAV4.