2024 GMC Terrain Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The powertrain is the dominant concern, with numerous reports of transmission failures and power loss at low mileage.
- Electrical system and engine issues are also frequently cited, often coinciding with powertrain problems.
- The Terrain boasts a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating, including 5 stars for frontal and side crashes.
- Fuel economy is respectable, rated at 25 MPG combined for the AWD model.
2024 GMC Terrain
The 2024 GMC Terrain offers a practical, all-wheel-drive platform with a strong emphasis on safety, earning a 5-star overall NHTSA rating. Its 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission delivers an EPA-estimated 25 MPG combined. However, used shoppers should be aware of significant reliability concerns, particularly regarding the powertrain. A substantial number of complaints point to transmission failures and other drivetrain issues occurring well below 5,000 miles. While the Terrain provides a comfortable ride and decent fuel economy for its class, these powertrain vulnerabilities represent a considerable ownership risk.
Critical Failure Risk
High incidence of critical powertrain failures, including transmission failure, sudden loss of power, and engine issues, often reported at very low mileage. These can lead to complete loss of motive power.
Early detection can help you avoid a $2,000-$6,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Drivers prioritizing safety ratings and a comfortable ride over long-term powertrain dependability.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Drivers seeking a vehicle with a proven, robust reliability record.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2024 GMC Terrain Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2024 GMC Terrain.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Transmission
- Automatic 9-spd
- Drivetrain
- All-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 25
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Most Common Issues
1. Powertrain
Most reportedUsage: 11 reports
2. Electrical System
Usage: 5 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 2024 GMC Terrain reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2024 GMC Terrain is 8.6/10. Reliability score is 8.6/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 42.
How practical is the 2024 GMC Terrain for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.0/10. EPA combined economy is 25 MPG.
What is the overall score for the 2024 GMC Terrain?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2024 GMC Terrain is 7.8/10. Overall score is 7.8/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.1/10. Practicality 5.0/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2024 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: Transmission (typical at 3,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $2,500 • Max: $5,000).
What engine is in the 2024 GMC Terrain?
Engine specs list 4 • 1.5.
What transmission does the 2024 GMC Terrain use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2024 GMC Terrain, transmission is Automatic 9-spd. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2024 GMC Terrain?
EPA combined estimate is 25 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2024 GMC Terrain?
14 standard and 3 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
What body style is the 2024 GMC Terrain?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2024 GMC Terrain, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2024 GMC Terrain use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2024 GMC Terrain, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 9-spd.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2024 GMC Terrain?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
What are the most common power train problems on the 2024 GMC Terrain?
Top complaint category: power train (11 reports, 26.2% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2024 GMC Terrain?
This model year has 1 official safety campaigns listed.
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2024 GMC Terrain?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2024 Honda CR-V and 2024 Toyota RAV4.