2020 GMC Terrain Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The service brakes are the most frequent complaint area, with owners reporting issues like complete brake loss and stiff pedals, often linked to vacuum pump failures.
- Engine problems are also prevalent, with some reports indicating failures that necessitate costly rebuilds.
- Electrical system malfunctions, affecting instrument panels and infotainment, are another common owner frustration.
- Despite a strong safety score, the 2020 Terrain's reliability verdict is 'Below Average' due to critical mechanical and electrical concerns.
2020 GMC Terrain
Critical Failure Risk
Numerous reports of complete brake loss and stiff brake pedals are linked to failures in the brake vacuum pump. This is a critical safety concern that can occur early in the vehicle's life.
Early detection can help you avoid a $1,000-$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 safety ratings and a comfortable ride.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Budget-conscious buyers who cannot afford unexpected major repairs.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2020 GMC Terrain Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2020 GMC Terrain.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Premium
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Transmission
- Automatic
- Drivetrain
- All-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 23
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See the full 2020 GMC Terrain buyer report before you decide
Most Common Issues
1. Braking System
Most reportedUsage: 48 reports
2. ENGINE
Usage: 44 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 2020 GMC Terrain reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2020 GMC Terrain is 7.7/10. Reliability score is 7.7/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 242.
How practical is the 2020 GMC Terrain for daily use?
Practicality score is 4.2/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 23 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.
What is the overall score for the 2020 GMC Terrain?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2020 GMC Terrain is 7.3/10. Overall score is 7.3/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.4/10. Practicality 4.2/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2020 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: $300 - $600. Repair prediction highlight: Brake Vacuum Pump (typical at 45,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1500).
What engine is in the 2020 GMC Terrain?
Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.
What transmission does the 2020 GMC Terrain use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 GMC Terrain, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.
Does the 2020 Terrain require Premium gas?
Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2020 GMC Terrain?
EPA combined estimate is 23 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2020 GMC Terrain?
11 standard and 4 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2020 GMC Terrain?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 GMC Terrain, seating capacity is 5.
What body style is the 2020 GMC Terrain?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 GMC Terrain, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2020 GMC Terrain use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 GMC Terrain, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2020 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 2020 GMC Terrain?
Top complaint category: service brakes (48 reports, 19.8% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2020 GMC Terrain?
This model year has 2 official safety campaigns listed.
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2020 GMC Terrain?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2020 Honda CR-V and 2020 Toyota RAV4.