2019 GMC Terrain Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Significant safety concerns exist with the service brakes, including reports of sudden failure.
- The engine and powertrain are frequent complaint areas, with issues like transmission slippage and engine shutdown reported.
- Many critical failures have occurred at very low mileage, indicating potential manufacturing defects rather than just wear and tear.
- The 2019 Terrain achieved top marks in NHTSA crash tests, earning 5-star ratings for overall, frontal, and side impacts.
2019 GMC Terrain
The 2019 GMC Terrain presents a mixed bag for used car shoppers. While it boasts a perfect 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating, its reliability is a significant concern. The vehicle faces a high volume of complaints, particularly related to its engine, service brakes, and powertrain. These issues, including reports of brake vacuum pump failures and unexpected engine shutdowns, have occurred at low mileage, suggesting potential design or manufacturing defects. With 3 recalls and 267 TSBs, thorough inspection is paramount.
Critical Failure Risk
Failures of the brake vacuum pump are a significant concern, often leading to a hard brake pedal and reduced braking effectiveness. This issue can also lead to catastrophic engine damage if debris enters the engine through the vacuum line.
Early detection can help you avoid a $1,500-$4,000 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 strong crash test scores over long-term reliability.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Drivers who depend on their vehicle for critical daily commutes without tolerance for potential downtime.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2019 GMC Terrain Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2019 GMC Terrain.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Premium
- Transmission
- Automatic 9-spd
- Drivetrain
- All-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 23
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Most Common Issues
1. ENGINE
Most reportedUsage: 54 reports
2. Braking System
Usage: 52 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brake System
Est. shop cost: $75 - $120
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FAQ
Is the 2019 GMC Terrain reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2019 GMC Terrain is 7.6/10. Reliability score is 7.6/10. NHTSA recalls: 3. Owner complaints: 259.
How practical is the 2019 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.
What is the overall score for the 2019 GMC Terrain?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2019 GMC Terrain is 7.3/10. Overall score is 7.3/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.7/10. Practicality 5.0/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2019 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 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Brake Vacuum Pump (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1,200).
What engine is in the 2019 GMC Terrain?
Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.
What transmission does the 2019 GMC Terrain use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 GMC Terrain, transmission is Automatic 9-spd. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.
Does the 2019 Terrain require Premium gas?
Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2019 GMC Terrain?
EPA combined estimate is 23 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2019 GMC Terrain?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
What body style is the 2019 GMC Terrain?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 GMC Terrain, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2019 GMC Terrain use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 GMC Terrain, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 9-spd.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2019 GMC Terrain?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
What are the most common engine problems on the 2019 GMC Terrain?
Top complaint category: engine (54 reports, 20.8% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2019 GMC Terrain?
This model year has 3 official safety campaigns listed.
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2019 GMC Terrain?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2019 Honda CR-V and 2019 Toyota RAV4.