2017 GMC Terrain Problems & Complaints
Real owner complaints and problems reported to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). View common issues by component.
VIN Decoder
121
Complaints Reported
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Complaints by Component
ENGINE
48 complaints
This car burns 1 quart of 5w-30 synthetic blend oil every 200 miles! The pcv valve has been cleaned numerous times and this does not affect the burning oil issue and yes this can be inspected upon request. Safety put at risk you ask, this is a ticking timebomb ready to ruin the engine due to burning oil, leaves me stranded in my rural town for fear of mechanical breakdown, need to carry two 5 quart containers of oil, and dipstick needs to be checked every 100 miles. I have scheduled appt with GMC dealer in Chadron NE for mid January 2026. There are no warning lamps or messages that appear and this problem has been going on since August 2025, bought the car February 2025 from Chevy dealer in above mentioned town. KBB has a trade in value for this car at 1500 and private sale at 1900 for a 2017 Terrain SLT! Unbelievable!!!!!!
Dec 29, 2025
For a year we have had to check to the oil weekly and add oil due to the vehicle burning oil so quickly. The past month we have had to check it daily and add oil. We do regular routine oil changes and have had to get them before the next one is due. Recently when driving the “oil pressure low stop engine” light has been coming on almost daily. The oil change company has reported to us that it is due to the 2.4 Eco tech motor. You can smell the oil burning through the vents inside the car.
Dec 20, 2025
I was driving back from out of state and all the sudden the engine just got loud. So I pulled over and check oil levels. Except there is no access to the transmission oil. The only way to check this is to remove the front driverside tire, take a bolt out and see if any oil drips out. This is insane that there is no dip stick. I am taking it to a mechanic on Monday but to not have quick access to this is wild.
Aug 26, 2025
GM recently recalled over 500,000 car engines. The warning signs to look out for was a “knocking” sound coming from the engine. I had recently experienced the same issues that the recalled car engines were experiencing. I went to get it checked out and my mechanic said there were chunks of metal in the engine. The GM engine recall should include 2017 GMC TERRAINS SLT. If I had not got it looked at, it would have caused an accident that would have been unpreventable due to the warning signs of only the knocking sound. No other lights had came on in the car. Please consider putting this make and model in the engine recall! If someone reaches out to me, I have the name of my mechanic that can verify the engine issue of my GMC.
May 02, 2025
March 1, 2025, I was driving from Charlotte, NC east bound on highway 40 towards Wilmington and all of a sudden my car just stopped while I was in the left lane. I was able to cruise over to the right shoulder and park my car in front of a sign that read exit 298 a few feet ahead. From there I was on the highway about two hours trying to get a tow truck to tow my 2017 GMC Terrain to the nearest GMC dealership which so happened to be 10 miles away. Which the tow never came. My step father drove about 100 miles west to pick me and my daughters up. All night I was on the phone with one tow truck company after another and every one kept saying they couldn’t find my car. In the morning I called another tow and he was able to find my car in the same location I left it. It was a Sunday so I had to wait until Monday to follow up with GMC Thompson. They advised I needed engine work. I was told I needed, timing chains, compression, gear bolts. However my car had just been repaired in November 2024, because my car wouldn’t start up after work. GMC in Charlotte Liberty GMC they replaced the gasket, chains, pipes, pistons, bolts, screws, seals, valves, bearings, actuators, tensioners, manifold, I mean the engine was rebuilt basically. It Thompson GMC about month to repair the vehicle because they were waiting for parts. The last week Lisa my representative was able to get me a loner car. I’ve been driving the car for about almost 3 weeks and I’m still very Leary of it. Terrible experience and I don’t see any recalls for my year make and model but I believe I’m probably not the only one with this year make and model that has gone through this. There’s two dates so I’m not sure which date to put.
Apr 30, 2025
+ 43 more complaints for this component
POWER TRAIN
10 complaints
My car lost oil while I was driving. I also lost power. I had my car over to a garage and the mechanic diagnosed it was a ruptured rear main seal caused by a frozen PCV system. GM knows about the problem but has not recalled it. It is very expensive to repair. And because the manufacturer knows about it but never told the consumer, is fraudulent.
Jan 27, 2025
My vehicle only has 78,000 miles on it and the timing chain needs to be replaced?! This is no longer under warranty because it’s been over 5 years but this should last a life time. Now I have a car that doesn’t start or run that I have to make payments on and no one wants to do the work on my car! I looked online and a bunch of people are having the same issue with the same exact car at similar mileage and the same issue! GMC needs to do a recall on this issue, many people are losing money and it’s a financial crisis.
Nov 09, 2024
The contact owns a 2017 GMC Terrain. The contact stated that while her daughter was driving at an undisclosed speed, she observed white smoke coming from the vehicle, and the vehicle lost motive power. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who determined that the vehicle was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was taken to another independent mechanic, who confirmed the diagnosis. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but did not assist. The failure mileage was 125,000.
Dec 19, 2023
I have to replace my rear drive shaft.
Dec 06, 2023
I was on the interstate, heading out of town. I heard a loud noise from under the car. The car started slowing down and would not accelerate. This could have been very dangerous if I had been in the middle of 5:00 traffic. I took the next exit in front of me and pulled into a gas station. Looked under car and seen no obvious damage. Got back in and the car and put it back into drive. It would barely pull and then quick pulling all together within a few feet. The D/drive light started flashing. No warnings at all before this happened. I was 200 miles away and had to have it towed back home. Put it in the GMC shop and was told it needed a transmission.
May 17, 2023
+ 5 more complaints for this component
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
7 complaints
I looked up my recall on my vehicle about my headlights being recall. Never received any information there was a recall.
May 25, 2025
The contact owns a 2017 GMC Terrain. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to the local dealer to be serviced under NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V137000 (Exterior Lighting). After the recall repair was performed, the contact discovered that while driving at night, the low-beam headlights illumination was extremely low, creating a visibility hazard for the driver. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer who indicated that no failure was found, and that the headlights operated as intended. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 54,000.
Jan 24, 2023
Driver's side taillight & reverse light fills with water. This unsealed light issue has caused electrical wire corrosion.
Nov 06, 2022
The contact owns a 2017 GMC Terrain. The contact received notification NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V137000 (Exterior Lighting) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The local dealer was notified of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was notified of the issue and informed the contact that a second notice would be coming soon. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Oct 06, 2022
The contact owns a 2017 GMC Terrain. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V137000 (Exterior Lighting) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Aug 29, 2022
+ 2 more complaints for this component
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
7 complaints
In September of 2022 my gmc automatically shut off right in the middle of traffic on a Friday night. No warring, no lights to indicate that something was wrong with my vehicle. I took it to a mechanic shop and they said nothing was wrong and they did a diagnostic test on the car and no codes popped up. A week later my engine light came on. And my car died again. Thankfully, I had an extended warranty on my car and took to another mechanic shop. It turns out the timing changes on my car needed to be replaced. Fast forward to today Jan 22,2024. I smelled burning oil every time I would drive the vehicle. The rear main seal and PCV was leaking in between my engine and transmission. I lost 5 quarts of oil between Wednesday and Sunday. My oil light never came in. Thankfully, my engine didn’t lock up. It is currently in the shop getting repaired. My car is still under an extended warranty.
Feb 07, 2024
OnStar - I've had OnStar for several years and paid the bill annually by check. The company never sent a renewal bill this year. I contacted them via phone on 1-23-2021, 2-8-2021, 2-22-2021 and 3-9-2021. I used phone numbers 1-866-891-1233, 1-866-579-0028, and the OnStar button to talk to representatives. I also wrote letters to OnStar dated March 9 and March 27, 2021 without results. I had a confirmation # CN4175174. I never received a bill and now the safety device is cut off in my car.
Jun 08, 2021
VEHICLE WAS PARKED WITH THE MOTOR RUNNING. REACHED OVER FROM THE PASSENGER SEAT AND TURNED THE MOTOR OFF. VEHICLE BEGAN TO ROLL BACKWARDS. WAS ABLE TO TURN VEHICLE BUT UNFORTUNATELY BACKED INTO THE DOOR OF A PARKED TRUCK TURNING THE IGNITION OFF SHOULDN'T START THE VEHICLE TO MOVE.
Mar 17, 2018
I WAS DRIVING AND INSIDE ALARM CAME ON SOUNDED LIKE A FIRE ALARM. HOWEVER NO LIGHTS IN THE CAR CAME ON INDICATION SOMETHING WAS WRONG, TIRE PRESSURE WAS GOOD, EVERYTHING AS FAR AS MY EYES COULD SEE IT WAS FINE EXCEPT THAT AN ALARM KEPT GOING OFF COMING THRU THE SPEAKERS. I PULLED OVER GOT OUT LOOKED AROUND THE VEHICLE. NOTHING! MADE SURE ALL DOORS WHERE LOCKED AND EVERYTHING GOOD ALARM STILL GOING OFF. NOT THE CAR THEFT ALARM AN INTERNAL ALARM THRU THE SPEAKERS OF THE CAR. PLEASE HELP AS I AM SCARED TO DRIVE MY VEHICLE BECAUSE MAYBE IT WAS TRYING TO TELL ME SOMETHING IS WRONG. IT EVENTUALLY WENT OFF AND I PULLED OFF VEHICLE DROVE FINE.
Jan 23, 2018
I'VE HAD MY TERRAIN FOR 3 MONTHS. CAR HAD 3400 MILES AT THE TIME OF THE ISSUE. BACKED OUT OF MY DRIVEWAY, PUT THE CAR IN DRIVE AND IT WOULDN'T GO. THE CAR WOULD REV UP BUT WOULDN'T MOVE FORWARD. HAD TO PUT THE CAR IN NEUTRAL AND PUSH OUT OF THE MIDDLE OF THE STREET. CAR WAS STRANDED IN THE STREET FOR THREE DAYS DUE TO THE DEALERSHIP SERVICE DEPARTMENT BEING CLOSED. EACH DAY I TRIED TO PUT THE CAR IN DRIVE AND IT STILL WOULDN'T GO WHEN PUT IN DRIVE OR MANUAL ONLY REVERSE. CAR WAS TOWED TO THE DEALERSHIP AND SAT FOR ANOTHER DAY BEFORE THE DEALERSHIP COULD GET TO IT. DEALERSHIP CALLED AND THE CAR WOULD DRIVE WITH NO ISSUE. ASKED IF SOMETHING COULD HAVE SHIFTED WHEN THE CAR WAS TOWED SO THEY KEPT THE CAR ONE MORE DAY TO RUN SOME DIAGNOSTIC TESTS WHICH STILL RESULTED IN NOTHING BEING FOUND.
Dec 22, 2017
+ 2 more complaints for this component
AIR BAGS
5 complaints
The contact owns a 2017 GMC Terrain. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the passenger’s side air bag warning light illuminated, and an audible sound was heard. The contact stated that the failure occurred whether or not a passenger was seated in the seat. The contact stated that the driver’s side air bag warning was also activated while the driver was seated in the seat. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where the failure was diagnosed as a defective air bag sensor. The contact was informed that the sensor needed to be replaced. The contact stated that the dealer informed her that the failure was not covered under the warranty. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Apr 27, 2022
Driver side head curtain airbags failed to properly deploy during rollover accident Not my vehicle, this is vehicle accident I responded to, Captain Fire Dept
Dec 23, 2021
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 GMC TERRAIN. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE COMING TO A COMPLETE STOP THE VEHICLE WAS UNEXPECTEDLY REAR ENDED WHICH FORCED THE VEHICLE TO SLIDE FORWARD UNTO THE HIGHWAY, THE IMPACT CAUSED THE AIR BAGS TO NOT PROPERLY DEPLOY WITH THE SERVICE AIRBAGS LIGHT ILLUMINATING. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED BACK INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION, A POLICE REPORT WAS TAKEN. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT SHOP WHERE THE VEHICLE DAMAGE WAS BEING REPAIRED. THE DEALER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE, HOWEVER ADVISED THE CONTACT TO CALL THE MANUFACTURER. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 53,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
Apr 21, 2020
I WAS DRIVING 9PM ON A CITY ST RD, COMING UP ON A MILE LIGHT THAT WAS RED. THE ROADS WERE DRY ON A 5 LANE RD. THERE WAS 1 CAR AHEAD OF MY CAR WITH THEIR BRAKE LIGHTS ON . ALTHOUGH NOT NOTED ON POLICE REPORT THE CAR WAS STOPPED APPROX 5 TO 7 CAR LENGTHS PRIOR TO THE RED LIGHT. I HAD BEGAN TO SLOW DOWN BUT DID NOT REALIZE THE DRIVER AHEAD WAS NOT SLOWING DOWN BUT STOPPED. I SWERVED TO THE RIGHT AND AS NOTED IN PICS BELOW THE DRIVERS SIDE OF CAR HIT THE OTHER DRIVERS PASSENGER BACK CORNER. I ENDED UP IN A PARKING LOT ON THAT CORNER. OTHER THEN THE MEDICAL TERM COOP TO COOP THAT ALSO AIDED IN MY HEAD INJURY, I ALSO HIT MY HEAD 2 TIMES AT MY HAIRLINE ON THE STEERING WHEEL AND THEN MY LEFT CHEEK. I WAS DIAGNOSED AND SUSTAINED A SEVERE CONCUSSION/ BRAIN TRAUMA. I WENT TO THE EMERGENCY ROOM TWICE FOR CARE OF WORSENING SYMPTOMS AND WAS INCAPACITATED AND OUT OF WORK FOR ABOUT 6 WKS. WHICH WAS STILL TO FAST TO RETURN, BUT I COULD NOT AFFORD BEING ON DISABILITY. FOLLOWING THE ACCIDENT THE CAR WAS TAKEN TO THE CITY TOW YARD, AND WAS ASSESSED WITHIN A WEEK BY THE INS ADJUSTER AS TOTAL LOSS. FROM THERE IT WAS TAKEN TO A JUNK SALVAGE BUSINESS. DUE TO MY INCAPACITATION I HAD NO MEANS TO LOOK INTO CONCERNS RELATED TO WHY THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. I AM A NURSE PRACTITIONER THAT NOW HAS SHORT TERM MEMORY LOSS, MIGRAINES, AND ATTENTION DEFICIT DUE TO THE BRAIN INJURY. I HAVE NO WAY OF FINDING OUT IF THE AIRBAG SENSORS WERE DEFECTIVE OR NOT BECAUSE, ALTHOUGH I'M ATTEMPTING TO TRACK THE CAR IT'S BEEN DIFFICULT, AND UNSURE OF MY RIGHTS TO THE CAR IF I CAN TRACK IT DOWN. THE BIGGER SURPRISE WAS THAT I RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE ON MY 2018 GMC TERRAIN JUST TODAY, BUT HAVE NO ANSWERS ON THE 2017. PLEASE HELP IN ANYWAY WITH WHAT I SHOULD DO. SINCERELY *TR *JS
Jun 17, 2018
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 GMC TERRAIN. WHILE DRIVING 32 MPH, THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE STRUCK A PARKED VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED INJURIES TO THE HEAD AND MOUTH, AND SUSTAINED A MILD CONCUSSION. MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS REQUIRED. IT WAS NOT DETERMINED WHETHER OR NOT THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT MADE AWARE OF THE CRASH. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 2,850.
Mar 05, 2018
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
4 complaints
Hole for timing chain guide bolt damaged by failed guide bolt
Jan 30, 2025
Broken rear main seal broke which causes oil leak. Almost all GM vehicles around my year have the same issue resulting in blow engine. $2000 to repair and GM told me they know of this being an issue but won’t do anything to resolve.
Feb 15, 2024
In certain makes of General Motor vehicles there is a defect with the PCV system in which the system can freeze in cold temperatures which in turns causes excessive crankcase pressure in the engine, and can lead to a dangerous loss of motor power due to this defect. The dangers of this defect can be catastrophic to myself and others on the roadway as the loss of motor power can happen suddenly and can happen while the vehicle is being driven. General Motors has released many service bulletins regarding this specific defect. The most recent service bulletin that was issued was GM January 2019 Bulletin PIP5093C, so they are aware of this dangerous problem in these vehicles. For my vehicle I have had a certified GMC dealership diagnosis the problem, and submit their findings to General Motors. There were not any warning lamps, messages, lights, or symptoms signaling that there was a problem prior to the occurrence on January 15th, 2024.
Jan 25, 2024
The rear main seal broke. Causing oil to leave the reservoir and empty the engine. This was due to a frozen pvc from cold temperatures. My vehicles engine light came on and I pulled over immediately noticing there was no oil. but there was never an indication of low oil. My vehicle is ervex with gmc every 5k miles for oil. Only 74,000 miles on a 2017 terrain. This is a manufacturers faulty equipment.
Jan 24, 2022
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
3 complaints
Today is [XXX]. 3 days ago my infotainment system my plug-in lighter charger all of them that's in the vehicle and my rear windshield wiper and my blinkers all went out at the same time. I had a licensed mechanic that has the fuse Checker tool, checked every fuse that he can see under the hood and on the inside of the vehicle and all the fuses lit up. I then went to O'Reilly's Auto Parts here in Highland Park Michigan bought the Savannah long life two pack bulbs for the rear blinkers and they still did not work they would not come on the brake lights would not come on nothing comes on. I then told a gentleman named Frank at that O'Reilly's about the issue about how all those components went out at the same time and he said there was currently a recall about those issues on my year making model of my GMC Terrain which is a 2017 I cannot locate that recall. The only recall I can locate is the one that describes the high beam on the headlights and that is it. So I don't know where that recall is he's talking about I don't know anything about fixing cars I just need some answers. I'm hoping someone will be able to locate the recall that he's talking about so I can have my vehicle looked at and get the issue resolved. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Mar 07, 2025
The contact owns a 2017 GMC Terrain. The contact stated that on two separate occasions, the ignition key became stuck inside the ignition switch. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer who was unable to duplicate the failure. The cause of the failure was not determined. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 110,000.
Oct 06, 2022
WHEN I STARTED MY VEHICLE THE RADIO DID NOT POWER ON. THE REVERSE CAMERA IS NOT WORKING NOR THE BLUETOOTH OR ANY OTHER FUNCTION WITH THE RADIO.
Aug 27, 2019
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
3 complaints
It's a known problem with gmc with a lawsuit for the PVC pipes clogging and blowing the main rear oil seal causing the vehicle to quit running
Jan 22, 2024
Engine shut off while doing 70 mph on interstate. There was no warning signs or nothing.
Oct 09, 2023
Due to cold weather the PCV froze which caused pressure to build up in the vehicle’s crankcase which caused the rear main engine seal to pop out. Results in losing all engine oil without and warning driving down the highway. I was lucky enough to get off the highway but currently without a vehicle due to possible engine damage
Apr 17, 2023
STRUCTURE
3 complaints
The latch for the rear hatch/door does not release every time. There have been instances when itmes have been in the cargo area and when the button is pressed, it will not release the latch. This causes someone to have to crawl over the back seat to retrieve the items from the cargo area. This also is causing my son to have to store items, that would normally be in the crgo area, on his back seat. I owned a 2015 terrain and had this same issue. The latch was replaced but still did not operate correctly.
Dec 28, 2023
The contact owns a 2017 GMC Terrain. The contact stated that whenever it would rainwater would leak into the vehicle underneath the dashboard on the passenger side of the vehicle causing water to leak onto the occupant's feet and onto the carpet. The contact had taken the vehicle to the dealer who resealed the area. The failure now occurs on the driver's side of the vehicle. The contact stated their appointment for the driver's side had not occurred as of yet. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The approximate failure mileage was 48,000.
Aug 11, 2021
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 GMC TERRAIN. THE CONTACT STATED THE DRIVER'S SIDE INSIDE DOOR HANDLE WAS FRACTURED. THE CONTACT WAS CONCERNED ABOUT CUTTING HER HAND ON THE DOOR HANDLE. THE CONTACT CALLED PENSKE CADILLAC OF SOUTH BAY (18600 HAWTHORNE BLVD, TORRANCE, CA 90504, (310) 697-1800) HOWEVER, THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED HOWEVER, NO FURTHER ASSISTANCE WAS PROVIDED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 39,000.
Sep 25, 2020
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
2 complaints
We have been keeping up with all maintenance and oil changes. We have only driven the car for less than a year. At time of oil change; the oil has been low, resulting in OVER oil consumption; Requiring an extra quart of oil to be added between oil changes. When we purchased the vehicle, there was an strong exhaust smell; The shop that we bought the vehicle stated there were no issues and we have taken it to them multiple times an hour away from our home. The car completely shut off while my minor son and I were driving. Placing both of our lives at risk! It would never start back up. Now the car has seized and requires an engine replacement. It is sitting at a local garage while we wait for the dealership to help us, to no avail.
Sep 20, 2025
2017 gmc Terrain. vin -[XXX] on 12-26-2023 milage - 80694 Catastrophic failure involving PCV Valve and blown seal that destroyed the motor. So ...why or even how are we discussing rear main Seal. This is COMPLETELY UNACCEPTA,BLE. I have 2 kids starting to drive the repair estimate is $8.000 to $10.000 INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Jan 03, 2023
EQUIPMENT
2 complaints
Roughly every 8 months Sirius XM "radio" runs an automatically triggered free subscription period that includes "weather alerts". These alerts BLOCK part of the car's normal navigational (map) system, requiring UNNECESSARY MOVEMENTS to dismiss the prompts so one can see map details. These movements RISK DRIVING MISTAKES. The weather alerts are unhelpful and unwanted: trivial events that don't affect me. And they keep repeating the same alert multiple times per day. I once called Sirius tech support to have them shut that feature off, but they claimed they couldn't, and to just wait out the promotion period. Sirius XM comes with the car and I can't remove it. I suspect the prompts are a marketing gimmick to trick people into sampling their music channels when they fiddle in the Sirius menus trying to turn off the alerts. Others on social media have reported similar problems in different car models. (PS: I bought the car used in 2019.)
May 24, 2024
GMC TERRAIN. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO ISSUES WITH THE RADIO. *LD THE CONSUMER STATED THE DASH DISPLAY NO LONGER OPERATES. THE SCREEN DISPLAY IS BLACK. DUE TO THE FAILURE THE BACKUP CAMERA, HANDS FREE PHONE, ON STAR, AND THE RADIO ARE INOPERABLE. *JS
May 29, 2019
SEAT BELTS
2 complaints
While in park and driving, the passenger seat belt locks and will not unlock. You must unfasten belt and refasten it. It does this multiple times during a trip. This has occurred since 2020.
Feb 22, 2024
The front passenger seat belt locks on passenger and will not release unless it is completely unbuckled. It keeps doing this for no reason. This was brought to dealer’s attention one to two years ago and they said I would have to pay cost of repair since warranty was off even though I purchased an extended warranty with this vehicle. The service department claims to have taken it apart and cleaned it but could not find problem. The problem is bad since passenger has to unbuckle belt multiple times during a trip.
Jan 10, 2023
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
2 complaints
The contact owns a 2017 GMC Terrain. The contact stated while driving approximately 65 MPH, the vehicle started losing motive power. The contact was able to pull to the side of the road, and the vehicle stalled. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle failed to restart after several attempts. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the contact stated that the vehicle was experiencing an abnormal oil consumption after the engine replacement. The contact stated that there was no evidence of an oil leak. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000.
Jan 04, 2024
The contact's wife owns a 2017 GMC Terrain. The contact stated while his wife was driving 40 MPH, the vehicle started to stall, and shuddered inadvertently. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact met his wife at the scene and noticed that oil was leaking from underneath the front end of the vehicle onto the ground. The contact refilled the engine oil and his wife was able to drive the vehicle to their residence; however, oil continued to leak while she was driving. The contact refilled the engine oil and the vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the rear main seal was fractured and had failed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that there were no recalls associated with the failure; however, the manufacturer offered to cover 13-percent of the repair cost. The failure mileage was approximately 94,000.
Mar 07, 2022
POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
2 complaints
1. The car started making a noise then started surging and jerking. I'm not a mechanic, so I don't know what happened but it will not crank now. Yes, someone can come inspect the vehicle, by appointment only. 2. I was afraid that the car was going to blow up or the brakes would not hold. 3. No, the problem has not been reproduced or inspected. 4. No, the vehicle or component has not been inspected. 5. NO, there were no warning lights to let me know there was a problem.
Sep 13, 2023
The rear main seal is out, which is causing an oil leak. The intake manifold failed because the pvc system has a clog which has caused too much pressure to build up and caused the rear main seal to blow out. (PVC pipe is freezing over in cold temperatures which causes the failure of the main seal to blow out subsequently leading to additional major issues and parts failure. This issue has occurred in an overwhelming amount of vehicles.)
Jan 05, 2023
AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
2 complaints
PURCHASED GMC 2017 TERRAIN 1 MONTH AGO TODAY. THE FIRST WEEK I HAD IT THE ENGINE KEPT STALLING WHILE IDLING. I TOOK IT TO THE DEALERSHIP FOR THEM TO FIX. I GOT IT BACK AND IT SEEMED TO RUN HARD. 3 DAYS LATER I FOUND THAT NOT ONE BUT BOTH KEY FOBS WOULD NOT WORK. THE BATTERY IS BRAND NEW. WHEN I SPOKE TO SERVICE MAN AT DEALERSHIP, HE STATED THAT ONE FOB WAS FAULTY AND THEY WOULD ORDER A NEW ONE. I HAVEN'T HEARD BACK FROM THEM...TODAY I GOT INTO A FRONT END COLLISION WHERE THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY CAUSING ME INJURY. ONLY AFTER THE FACT DID THE ALARM SOUND AND DASH MESSAGE CAME ON STATING SERVICE AIRBAG. THE FOUR WAY LIGHTS WOULD NOT STAY ON AND THE INTERIOR LIGHTS WOULD NOT TURN OFF. AND THERE WAS A SMELL OF SOMETHING BURNING.. NO RETURN CALL FROM GMC.
Feb 24, 2021
I WAS MAKING A LEFT TURN DURING A GREEN LIGHT MY CAR WAS IN MOTION. A WHITE VAN WAS SPEEDING TOWARDS ME FROM THE DRIVERS SIDE GOING STRAIGHT AT ME AT HIGH SPEED WITH A RED LIGHT. THEY HIT THE FRONT DRIVERS END OF MY CAR WHICH MADE MY CAR SPIN OUT. THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE WHOLE FRONT END OF MY CAR WAS RUINED.
Apr 07, 2020
STEERING,ENGINE
1 complaint
The power steering assembly failed and caught on fire. This then caused the engine to malfunction and no longer work. This happened while driving on the interstate at a speed of approximately 80mph. No prior check engine lights were visible
Nov 10, 2025
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
Throttle position system all of a sudden went bad. My 2017 Terrain started shaking. I was holding up traffic. The sun couldn't go over 5mph. I've read online where this is happening alot in 2010'2017 GMC Terrains.
Jun 19, 2025
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
1st time - rear main seal blew out & engine lost all of its oil causing rocker arm to break & chains to slip-vehicle sputtered & DIED while driving down busy street & would not restart - my safety & safety of others driving behind me were at risk for causing a rear end accident and/or pile up crash - no warning lights or sounds alerted me - dealership told us General Motors is aware this is/has been a problem with 2017 Terrain vehicles especially those driven in Midwest states due to colder temperatures - the intake manifold vent hole is not large enough to let air out, so it plugs up & causes pressure to blow out rear seal, which causes oil to leak out and engine dies. When replaced with a remanufactured engine intake manifold vent hole was not drilled out causing it to happen again 2nd time - when leaving parking spot at work noticed oil puddles underneath my vehicle, I checked my oil, it showed full, I was concerned, drove to nearby last place I got my oil change. They informed me that all the oil had leaked out and showed me the bottom of my vehicle oil covered the front to the back of my vehicle. They also said that I was extremely lucky to get to shop before engine blew and stopped dead. AGAIN my safety and safety of others behind me could have been a rear end accident and/or car pileup crash - again no warning lights or sounds alerted me - shop personal told me General Motors is aware this is/has been a problem with 2017 Terrain vehicles especially those driven in Midwest states due to colder temperatures - even though the repairs where done by a certified dealership the first time they replaced with a remanufactured engine but failed to drill out the intake manifold vent hole bigger so this would not happen again BUT IT DID. General Motors cannot just sell vehicles it has to stand behind what they sell which in my case they have not. Due to GM lack of concern, recalls, reimbursements, lives have been and continue to be at risk
Apr 27, 2025
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
1 complaint
We have had 4 transmissions since we bought the vehicle. It slows down to almost a stop after it hits 30 mph and makes weird noises all throughout the vehicle. The back right tire sticks to the pavement and jerks when i start to drive. The key ignition has been fixed several times and still sometimes won't turn with the key or come out. Yes Warranty told the repaid service company to fix whatever, and they did but it still after 2 more transmission hasn't fixed the issues. Engine light and not sure what else.
Oct 03, 2024
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
1 complaint
I was driving back home when I suddenly heard a loud pop and my car seat belt immediately tightened up. I saw smoke inside the car and the screen in my dashboard said "airbag service" There was no air bag physical deployed in the car so I believe it happened internally. Now my driver seatbelt will not retract and the front passenger seatbelt will not come out.
Oct 02, 2024
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
Rear main oil seal is faulty. It caused the vehicle to leak oil to the point where it was dry. This is a known issue with these vehicles and could have caused catastrophic damage to the engine. Additionally, this can cause the vehicle to stop running and/or catch fire.
Feb 29, 2024
AIR BAGS,ENGINE
1 complaint
The air bags will show that they are shut off while we are driving down the road with my wife sitting in the seat and they will also does it if we are just sitting in the drive way. Also they had a recall in the older models of this car for the pvc valve getting clogged and building pressure and causing the lower seal to bust and that happed to my car but they never gave a low oil light when it happed. All that happed was my wife was driving and the lower engine power came on while she was driving in traffic causing her to freak out and feel unsafe with my kids in the car as well. I contacted them about and they said there is no recall for the car at all about it. They clearly still had the same issues in my car because the pvc valve was clogged and then now I’m loosing all of the oil from my motor. When I went to out oil in it after work I had to add 4.5 quarts of oil to it and it only holds 5 quarts. It still never had a low oil light when I went to start it to get it to level ground so I could check it. Clearly this is a safety issue and I don’t want it to happen to someone while they are on the Interstate during heavy traffic and potentially cause an accident.
Feb 05, 2024
STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
1 complaint
On Friday, January 19, 2024, I was driving home from school at night in my 2017 GMC Terrain when suddenly my car was chugging and quit. my steering and brakes froze. Other cars were passing me and it was snowing. I was scared someone was going to hit me. I was able to start it up again and to get it to a Walmart parking lot just down the road, but before, it would chug and quit again. My steering was hard. There was no warning light or service light on dashboard telling me something was wrong. I called my sister to come get me. The car would start, but would keep quitting. I called a tow truck and had it towed to the condo. The next day, I went out to start it and it would start and oil light came on. It smelled. I turned it off. I called another tow truck and had it towed to a Mechanic at a shop. He informed me on Monday that the engine was no good due to lack of oil. Even though he said there was 15% left on the gauge. He said these cars have had problems of using excessive oil and he has had to replace and fix them. He also said others had same issue and no warning light as well. I have to replace my engine. He said the cost would be between $5000-$6000. I can't afford that going to school. I'm afraid that if someone else has this problem they could get hurt. I am going to contact General Motors about this, but I'm sure they won't help. Any Suggestions?
Jan 26, 2024
POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
We have had many GM vehicles my husband worked at GM retired now. Our complaint is we have a GMC Denali 2017 only 79000 miles on it. All upto date changes regularly all. Other like Transmission oil changed all upkeep to date. Transmission needs rebuilt. We are in our 80’s And don’t beat up our cars. Replace or rebuild transmission 3500 to 4500 bucks. That is a lot of money for us. No longer covered. It shudders when you drive at any speed and feels so unsafe. Took it to GM garage and they couldn’t find anything wrong. No warning lights came on and we paid over 150 to have it checked out so with the shuddering getting worse and not feeling safe to drive we took it to a Transmission shop and he took it out and said the Shuddering was caused by something in the transmission. I have seen on google where GM is having a lot of problems in this area. We just need help with the repairs. Thank you. A retired GM worker Lordstown, Ohio [XXX]. Retired 1999 [XXX] INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Jun 30, 2023
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
1 complaint
timing chain issues resulting in a loss of power of the vehicle while driving. The vehicle stalls out and shuts off. Or it will go into power saving mode and slow down to only 20mph. It did this to me one a MAJOR HIGHWAY and I almost was in an accident. Way to many issues with gmc owners and the timing chain on their vehicles
Dec 26, 2022
VISIBILITY
1 complaint
On5/3/2022 we were driving on I65 around Shepherdsville KY. It was pouring down rain and our windshield wipers stopped working and stuck in the up position. We had a semi on each side of us. This made it even more difficult to see due to the rain coming off of their tires and spraying onto our window. We had to slow down to a dangerous low speed on the interstate due to the difficulty seeing. We made it to the shoulder after almost being hit by a semi We had to sit there until the rain stopped. This was extremely dangerous in itself being that it was on an interstate with high speed limits. We had no choice but to stop in the town of Shephardsville and get a hotel room. We are still trying to make our way back home at this time to IN. This has not been expected by anyone at this time. There were no warnings of any kind.
May 04, 2022
POWER TRAIN,WHEELS,ENGINE
1 complaint
MY CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON ALONG WITH A A MESSAGE THAT STATES 'REDUCED ENGINE POWER' AND A MESSAGE READING 'SERVICE STABILITREK WHEN I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AT 70 MPH. THIS CREATED SUDDENLY JERKING AND SLOW ACCELERATION SO THAT I HAD TO PULL OFF THE ROAD. I FOUND A FORUM AT [XXX] THAT REVEALS THAT THIS HAS BEEN AN ISSUE WITH GMC MODES AT LEAST AS LONG AS 2011. THE DURATION FOR WHICH THIS HAS BEEN A PROBLEM WITH GMC MODELS, AND THE FACT THAT STABILITREK IS AN INTEGRAL SAFETY FEATURE OF THE VEHICLE IN AVOIDING ACCIDENTS SEEMS TO MERIT A RECALL. PARTS OF THIS DOCUMENT HAVE BEEN REDACTED TO PROTECT PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Jan 29, 2021
SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
I AM THE OWNER OF A 2017 GMC TERRAIN. YESTERDAY, I WAS INVOLVED IN A CAR ACCIDENT IN THIS VEHICLE. SOME PERSON PULLED OUT IN FRONT OF ME AND I SLAMMED ON MY BRAKES TO AVOID A CAR ACCIDENT. HIS VEHICLE CONTINUED THROUGH AN INTERSECTION IN WHICH HE DID NOT HAVE THE RIGHT AWAY CAUSING ME TO HIT THE FRONT END OF HIS TRUCK. AS THE DRIVER STATES HE DID NOT SEE ME, I CAN CONFIRM I SLAMMED ON MY BRAKES, WHICH ACTED AS THEY COULDN'T STOP. IT FELT AS THE BRAKES WERE NONEXISTENT. THIS WAS AN EXTREMELY TERRIFYING MOMENT, AS I WAS GOING 45MPH (PER THE SPEED LIMIT). AS I HAD READ EARLIER, THE 2018 TERRAINS ALSO SEEM TO HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM.
Oct 03, 2020
POWER TRAIN,VISIBILITY/WIPER
1 complaint
I HAD MY 2017 GMC TERRAIN DENALI FOR TWO YEARS AND HAVE ALREADY EXPERIENCED TWO SERIOUS ISSUES. ISSUE #1-I NOTICED A BURNING SMELL, GRINDING NOISE, AND HESITATION WHEN DRIVING. I BROUGHT IT TO THE DEALERSHIP WHERE I BOUGHT IT AND WAS TOLD THAT THERE WAS A FACTORY DEFECT WHICH CAUSED SOMETHING INSIDE MY TRANSFER TO BORE A HOLE THROUGH IT. DEALER COULD NOT GET THE PART FOR 2 WEEKS. IT WAS COVERED UNDER MY WARRANTY. A MONTH LATER WHILE GETTING AN OIL CHANGE AT A DIFFERENT AUTO SHOP, I WAS ASKED IF I RECENTLY HAD WORK DONE ONLY TRANSMISSION BECAUSE THE ENTIRE THING WAS LOOSE AND MOVING, AND THE CAR DID NOT DRIVE RIGHT. I WAS TOLD IT WAS NOT SAFE TO DRIVE. I BROUGHT IT BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP AND WAS TOLD THAT THEY COULDN'T FIND ANYTHING. THEY TIGHTENED THE BOLTS ON THE TRANSFER CASE AND CHARGED ME A $60 DIAGNOSTIC FEE (FOR THEIR ERROR). ISSUE #2-AT 63,000 MILES MY WIPERS STOPPED WORKING WHILE I WAS DRIVING AT ABOUT 30MPH ON A BUSY STREET IN THE POURING RAIN (VERY SCARY). I BROUGHT IT TO THE DEALERSHIP AND WAS TOLD I NEEDED A NEW WIPER TRANSMISSION AND WOULD COST $318 BECAUSE MY CAR WAS NOT PART OF THE RECALL. I EXPRESSED CONCERN THAT MY 2YO. CAR HAS NOW HAD TWO SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUES AND WAS TOLD 'CARS HAVE SO MANY MOVING PARTS AND PIECES THAT IT'S A WONDER MORE THINGS WEREN'T WRONG WITH IT'. I DO NOT FEEL SAFE DRIVING THIS CAR AND THE SERVICE MANAGER WAS CONDESCENDING AND COULDN'T CARE LESS. GMC NEEDS TO DO SOMETHING BEFORE SOMEBODY GETS SERIOUSLY HURT OR WORSE.
Nov 01, 2019
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
1 complaint
I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD AT 55 MPH WHEN A DEER RAN OUT AND HIT THE PASSENGER SIDE OF MY VEHICLE. IT BOUNCED AND ROLLED OFF THE DRIVERS SIDE. I PULLED THE VEHICLE OFF TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. ALL OF THE ELECTRIC COMPONENTS IN THE VEHICLE WERE ON. THE INTERIOR LIGHTS WERE ON, THE HAZARD LIGHTS WERE FLASHING AND THE CONSOLE WAS LOCKED UP. I PUSHED THE BUTTONS, BUT NOTHING HAPPENED. THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY THERE WAS A MESSAGE ON THE SCREEN THAT SAY SERVICE AIRBAG (BUT THEY HADN'T DEPLOYED). I COULD SMELL SOMETHING BURNING, THE VEHICLE WAS SMOKING AND I COULD HEAR SOMETHING POPPING, I GOT OUT TO ASSESS THE DAMAGE AND MY VEHICLE WAS ON FIRE. THE VEHICLE ENDED UP BEING A TOTAL LOSS.. THIS IS HAPPENED IN GA AND THE STATE PATROL DID THE POLICE REPORT.
Aug 11, 2019
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,STRUCTURE
1 complaint
WHILE CHECKING THE REAR VIEW MIRROR A 1998 CHEVY TRUCK CAME TP A SUDDEN STOP ON THE HIGHWAY, AND I COULD NOT MISS THE TRUCK THE DRIVER CLAIMED HE THOUGHT HE HAD MISSED HIS TURN, WHEN MY SUV COLLIDED WITH THE TRUCK. THE POWDER CAME OUT BUT THE AIRBAGS NEVER DID COME OUT,AND THE PASSENGER SEATBELT LOCKED.
Aug 05, 2019
VISIBILITY/WIPER
1 complaint
THE VEHICLE'S CLIMATE CONTROL SYSTEM DOES NOT FUNCTION PROPERLY. THE AIR IS NOT PROPERLY DISTRIBUTED OUT OF THE AVAILABLE VENTS. AT TIMES, AIR IS ONLY DISTRIBUTED THROUGH THE FLOORBOARD VENTS. OTHER TIMES IT WILL ONLY BE DISTRIBUTED VIA THE DEFROSTER VENTS. RECENTLY, THE CAR WINDOWS BECAME COMPLETELY FOGGED UP WHILE DRIVING ON THE INTERSTATE AT NIGHT. I ATTEMPTED TO USE THE DEFROSTER, BUT ALL AIR WAS DISTRIBUTED TO THE FLOORBOARD, WHICH HAD NO IMPACT ON THE WINDSHIELD. I HAD ZERO VISIBILITY AND HAD TO PULL OFF ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. UP UNTIL THIS INCIDENT, THE PROBLEM HAD BEEN RESTRICTED TO A LACK OF COMFORT, BUT IT HAS NOW BECOME A SAFETY RISK. GMC HAS BEEN PREVIOUSLY MADE AWARE OF THE PROBLEM AND I WAS INFORMED GMC ENGINEERS WERE AWARE OF THE PROBLEM BUT DID NOT HAVE A WAY TO FIX IT.
Jan 17, 2019
AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE
1 complaint
TRAVELING ON STATE HIGHWAY 136 BETWEEN 50 AND 55MPH. THE LISTED VEHICLE STRUCK A DEER CAUSING SIGNIFICANT FRONT END DAMAGE. IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING THERE WAS A VERY STRONG ODOR SIMILAR TO GUN POWDER. THE AIRBAG LIGHT ILLUMINATED AND ON STAR CAME ON LINE IN THE CAR DUE TO CRASH SENSOR NOTIFICATION. HOWEVER, THERE WAS NO AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT.THE ENTIRE FRONT END OF THE CAR SUSTAINED DAMAGE AS WELL AS THE RADIATOR. THE DRIVERS SIDE FRONT QUARTER PANEL ALSO BUCKLED. IT IS UNKNOWN AT THIS TIME OF FURTHER DAMAGE. THE VEHICLE SUSTAINED ENOUGH DAMAGE TO WHERE IT REQUIRED IT TO BE TOWED TO A DEALERSHIP BODY SHOP FOR FURTHER EVALUATION. BASED ON THE FRONT END AND QUARTER PANEL DAMAGE, THERE SHOULD HAVE BEEN AN AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT. THE LISTED VEHICLE IS THE ONLY VEHICLE INVOLVED WITH THE COLLISION. THE GEORGIA STATE PATROL INVESTIGATED AND COMPLETED A CRASH REPORT.
Jan 02, 2019
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
BLIND SIDE ALERT ACTIVATES WHEN IT IS RAINING AND THERE ARE NO CARS NEARBY. THIS ONLY OCCURS WHEN RAINING. NO CODES ARE THROWN SO DEALER SERVICE WON'T TROUBLESHOOT. THIS CAN ONLY BE REPRODUCED ON A HIGHWAY OR PARKWAY, WHEN IT IS RAINING AND NO OTHER CARS ARE NEARBY. CANNOT BE REPRODUCED ON REGULAR STREETS WITH OTHER CARS AROUND. I'VE HAD MY CAR IN TO THE DEALER SERVICE 3 TIMES, ALL WITH THE SAME RESULTS. NO CODES IN THE COMPUTER AND CANNOT REPRODUCE. THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT ONLY TESTS ON THE LOCAL STREETS. THERE ARE OTHER CARS AROUND, SO HOW CAN THIS BE AN ACCURATE TEST???
Jun 21, 2017
Frequently Asked Questions
How many problems does the 2017 GMC Terrain have?
The 2017 GMC Terrain currently has 121 owner-reported complaints according to NHTSA database. These complaints are organized by component to help identify common issues.
What are the most common problems with 2017 GMC Terrain?
The most common problems reported for the 2017 GMC Terrain are organized by component above. Each component section shows owner-reported issues, crash reports, and fire incidents to help identify patterns and problem areas.
Where does this 2017 GMC Terrain problem data come from?
All problem and complaint data for the 2017 GMC Terrain comes directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database. These are real complaints submitted by actual vehicle owners.
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