3 Reasons NOT to BUY a GMC Terrain SLE (Issues buyers should know before they BUY !) 

We have a 2011 GMC Terrain 2.4L SLE. 2nd owners. Got from dealership. Had 39,000 miles. I read up on it online & watched videos. I check the oil after each trip the next day. Keep the oil changed. Have to add little oil. Replaced the intake solenoid. Replaced the tires once. Replaced some exhaust pipe & resonator. Removed & cleaned the air fuel intake. Replaced the battery twice. Haven't changed the spark plugs yet. Now has 118,000 miles.

I’ve had a 2011 terrain v6 for two years now, the only issue I’ve had it’s the rust on the doors and I replaced the power steering pump, aside from that it’s a great daily for me, I’ve beaten it up day in and day out and it’s still going with no hiccups.

There can be 1.3k comments and youll never get all to say "This Car is GREAT!" point is do what's best for you..... There's always going to be negative people in the world

Is 2024 and I have the GMC TERRAIN 2016 with 101K miles. This is a hard amazing machine. I never had the need to take it into a mechanic, just change the oil, change the front light and even the wheels are in great shape. 8 YEARS guys!! And my car looks like new, that’s crazy and a unique experience for me with the cars.

I have a 2016 gmc terrain slt v6. I live in iowa, winters can be pretty crazy. I made it 30 miles home on a closed highway with cars stalled in the middle of the highway. I'm just about at 100k miles. It's been pretty fun to work on. I do all my oil changes, just changed my rotors and pads, and put some $1000 tires on. I've never taken it to a mechanic, because I have access to any tool I need, and I don't trust mechanics. I use A-1 auto for all of my upkeep. It's been very fun, and I still love my car after 3 years. Only downside for me is the hvac system. You either get hot, or cold. No in between. Appreciate your video. But so far, this has been a comfortable, safe, reliable car for me in my unpredictable atmosphere.

Buys a used GMC complains for over 15 mins… let me save you the time…

ive had a 2010 gmc terrain for a year. its amazing!!

so my windshield wiper wont work.. so i sold the 2010 GMC terrain..and bought another GMC terrain 2013 this time no headlight on driver side so i sold the car again.

The wiper issue just happened to me over the weekend.. was driving in the rain and the wipers got stuck in the same spot you mentioned and my car burns oil a lot. It’s really annoying

I *had* a 2010 Terrain. I loved that truck because it fit me so well. Me & my lady travelled extensively & the intimacy of the truck was very nice. I enjoyed the satellite radio & all the extras like heated leather seats & Bluetooth. My biggest angst was how on a 6-cylinder, you (Joe schmoo) could reach 3- of the cylinders (but)3-were buried & you pretty much had to be a mechanic to change 3-of the 6 -plugs. The battery was weird but I adapted. Not necessarily the greatest gas mileage but I loved my truck nevertheless. Never had the Chevy Shake. But the tranny shifting became problematic as well as the battery, starter, alternator & ac went out. I got the battery, starter & alternator replaced (figured) I'd wait til warmer weather to fix the AC cause the car was as costing me an arm & leg. Car ran for 2-days. Was told I should've change the modules when changing the starter & alternator. Got frustrated, sold the car & still have mixed feelings. When I hit the lottery🤣 I'mma buy a fleet of White 2017- terrains *last year of the old style* and drive them til I die. Might even send one or 2 to Foos or Kounts Kustom to rebuild from the ground up. Sans the plastic inside, I really love the GMC Terrain.

Are the door size of terrain 2012 and 2016 are same or there is a difference in size and style.I need to replace the door in my 2016 terrain and getting a 2012 door cheaper.please suggest

The problems with the 2.4 four cylinder are well documented, and have been for years. Always good to do your research before buying any high mileage car.

I bout a 2017 GMC Terrain SLE. Mine obviously was a complete LEMON. In under a year I had to change all 4 tires, then the water pump went bad and had to replaced. Then I noticed the oil level was decreasing much faster than normal. Months later the car sounded like a boat as I was driving……. It turned out to be the muffler, which had to be replace, then, in the same week, the PCV caused the rear engine seal to blow. And that became a $3200 job. Initially I loved my Terrain, but I am overjoyed to be rid of that junk!!!!!!!!!

Glad I saw this vid!! I bought my 2015 Terrain in November of 2014... so had it going on 9 years now through harsh weather of Mn... I better hurry and sell it while I can!

Hi Kurt, thanks for the tips. Did you have any engine or transmission issues?

I've purchased a 2012 GMC Terrain and it's just fine. I've had maintenance issues but I had just got them fixed. Northern Ca to Southern Ca many times. Terrain is an awesome vehicle.

You are correct, the bottoms of each doors easily corroded and catches dirts like sands, muds , etc. Thanks for sharing.

Yes, worn wheel bearings can create the shake you are describing. This happened on my 1999 Ford Explorer too. After changing out out wheel bearings the noise and shake disappeared.

I bought a 2014 GMC Terrain sle AWD and it’s been parking for over a year and winter time is we only get access to it, in a remote community we have to get it from a winter road just to go get it near by small city town. I tried boosting it three times and wouldn’t start because snow was all over inside the engine area and had to sweep off the snow off. But thinking of going back out with a new battery. For a three hour in a half ride to city town. Hope it will work for changing the battery.

I have a 2012 sle terrain bought with 205678 about 3 months ago and I’m the second owner and I changed all the censors and changed the oil. I have no engine light on and now I’m at 209896 and it’s still pulling strong like it’s now even my front wheels get rubber if I floor it from a stand still. This truck is still running strong 💪🏾

I purchased new a 2011 GMC Terrain SLT AWD. It has 111,000 miles on it. No “Chevy” shake up to 80mph. Never took it past 80 so can’t say what will happen above that mark. The battery is easy to jump or to help jump someone else. Access to the battery is much simpler than you’ve hinted. Anyway, my 2011 runs great. Just keep up with the maintenance schedule and it will serve you well.

I bought a 2016 gmc terrain and she’s a tank! I got it at 70k miles a year 1/2 ago and it’s at 130k miles with NO issues beside my ex crashing it lol but I drove it from NY to Montana then NY to FL and back then I put my motorcycle on the back and drove it from NY to Utah back up to Montana and back to Utah and then back to NY and have had no issues at all

Thanks for the info. Was going to grab this for the ol' lady.

My tip............ don’t do 70mph in a monsoon..... ever hear if hydroplaning?

I've had a 2013 Theta 4 Cyl Terrain for almost 8 years. Trouble free, no issues whatsoever.

I own a 2013 GMC Terrain SLE, 58000 km, new from the dealer and does not use any oil at least yet, still on the original spark plugs and wiper blades. Engine oil is changed earlier than when it says to and the only issue I have had was I replaced the rear hatch lift cyls... that's about it. I even have a small utility trailer I pull with it and this vehicle has been good to me.

I have a 2011 gmc my truck won't start but it clicks but won't start would should I do I was told a lot of gmc have problems starting

Wiper blade problem you could use Rain X in case this happens to you. It wouldn't fix the wipers but it would allow rain water to stream upward out of you view for clear viewing. I actually can drive over 60mph with my wiper blades off with rain X applied.

I recently bought a 2012 terrain from a dealer it had 35,000 miles for it I paid just over 14,000. I feel pretty lucky

I bought a 2016 terrain in 2019 and I have put 49K on it and it had 23k when I bought it, I had to change battery one time and it's a pain due to one bolt hiding under plastic flashing, change the oil every 5-7k, change engine air filter and cab every so often, did a spark plug swap and now engine runs smoother strangely old plugs looked fine must of been changed before by a dope had AC Delco.

2014 Terrain SLT-2 AWD purchased for $14k, 1 owner prior had 58,000 miles at purchase and 98k currently. I've changed oil and filters every 3,500 to 5,500 miles, rotated tires regularly to maintain peak MPG(avg. 24-31). K&N oil and air filters, transmission flushed a couple times a year at dealership to help with shifting irregularities. Replaced Lower control arms and upgraded struts, shocks, & lower bushings to reduce front sway. Will be installing carbon pads, 1-click calipers w/slotted rotors after this winter. I've considered a performance chip because it's supposed to help with more consistent shifting but an extra 5hp wouldn't hurt either @ elevation. Overall it's a good little SUV that handles snow and rain surprisingly well. Slightly Underpowered 3.6L V6 with limited performance upgrades. Not impressed with inconsistent shifting under power. 2nd to 3rd can be rough at higher rpms. Haven't experienced any wiper issues yet and the headlight recall is a scam GM can keep their piece of tape.

As a mechanic I approve this message. You are the best type of customer

we got a 2012 sle v6 and i have had to do so much work to it, one weird thing i noticed is how the car lets moisture in, we live in a cold climate and i get frost on the inside of the vehicle

Omg I wish I had found this video right before buying my 16 terrain…I fell out when you did the ace Ventura because my wipers stopped working completely and stuck right in the middle of a snowstorm while driving on chicago expressway…I had to literally drive 10 miles an hour because I couldn’t see..and yes I’ve heard the clicking noise but only have 67K and I have felt the Chevy shake too😂😂😂

Your description of the roof is hilarious.

I have a 2013 GMC Terrain SlE I do hear the clicking noice and I had to replace the front main seal and the valve cover gasket has well I’d go ahead and just replace both those

I have a 2014 Terrain, it is high on mileage , it sucks oil and must top up every 1000km. However, it is very stable, noise free smooth ride ….. .This is first time I started using GMC before that I was using Toyota and now I am a GM fan.

Well I just purchased a 2012 GMC Terrain with the V6. After reading these comments I'm feeling pretty damn nervous about it Karma LOL is the oil consumption problem also with the V6? Or just a 4-cylinder? If you look up how many miles to expect out of one of these vehicles it says that they're really good and can last up to 300,000 Miles I hope i didnt just make a big mistake

the jump point for the ground is fine its just bolted to something that is connected to the frame its perfectly fine place for a negative cable. you can hook jumpers to the positive side of the batter and negative or a spot on the frame that isnt painted its just to make a ground

I am going to buy the 2010GMC TERRAIN SLT FW...108000 miles. I did notice something by the airbags...the dealer told me they are going to fix it. After see these video...nop no ...I changed my mind. They will charge 7500 . Am afraid now. I will check other options. Thanks God I see you video. Thank you very much.

I think the 2010 was a good year for this vehicle. I’ve heard so many compliments on the 2010. I’m buying a 2010 terrain for $5400 has 117k miles.

As a Terrain owner I would also suggest you check the spare tire well(?) in the cargo area. Water will leak in from behind the tail lights and pool in there.

You don’t mention yours burning oil. Does it? From what I’ve learned this seems to be the number 1 issue with this model and can lead to a host of expensive repairs if you don’t stay on top of it (piston system damage, timing chain damage, PCV system failure and all kinds of “sludge” related problems) The advice given was change to oil every 3k and check the level weekly.

I bought a 2016 gmc terrain back in 2020 as sort of an emergency buy. Boy I'll tell you I've had nothing but problems with this vehicle! unfortunately i'll be stuck with it for a while yet because i am still upside down on the loan

i got a 2011 gmc terrain sle and i love it , never had chevy shake and i am a chevy gal , i did have to replace the transmission however i got it used from ill. i have almost 160,000 miles and no problems. if you look hard enough i am sure you can find fault with any car seeing as you went as far as to push on the roof of a car..hmmm...i am a woman and don't complain near enough

I modded my spark plugs and put a custom air intake on it only down fall is loud engine noise when pulling up hill but my fuel economy is better 416 miles before I fill up again. Gonna mod the tail pipe next

Extremely helpful video. I was considering an older Terrain. Will have to think a little harder on whether this is a wise move. Thank you!

You were right 140K miles on any wheel bearing is too much. Easy to change though.

You see them everywhere on the road all the time tho. I pass ones with the same color as ours on a daily basis

Looked at one today thought about buying it, I didn't expect to see your dome as the reviewer, haha.

Would like to learn why the wipers stopped, and what was done to remedy.

Thinking to buy a GMC terrain 2013 model with 130k miles on it. Trying to find reviews on it but none. Plz help me is it a good car or not

Every car has its problems. They don’t build them like they use to.

i have a 2011 gmc terrain and had no problems like the shaking

14+mins ? Really ? This guy sure likes the sound of his own voice . Should have been 3 mins . tops .

I have a 2017 Terrain and have changed the battery, if you think that is bad try changing the battery on my 2013 Chrysler 200, you start by pulling the left front tire.

I'm in Canada. I have a 2015 terrain, SLE with the 3.6L v6, bought in 2016, with 14K km. It was great, for 6 years, then it started to go to crap. It started with both power steering lines, then one of the ball joints. Currently, I got an "AWD system off", message, then a "Service AWD system" message. It's at 130K km. I don't know if I should put more money into it, or get something else. The problem is I can't afford new, and with used, they're all high KM, or old. And it's rusting.

We got a 2013 GMC Terrain and thus far the only “issue” we’ve come across is an oil consumption issue. Now let me explain, I guess these vehicles have a known oil consumption issue where the vehicle burns more oil than it should. Now I take mine to the dealership on time, every time for oil changes and every time I take it in for oil change I get the tires rotated. I have never had an issue with the oil. I will say this, due to this oil consumption issue GMC has seen fit to extend warranties for certain things up to like 130,000 mi. So When I needed to get a new exhaust manifold it didn’t cost me anything. I have never experienced a Chevy shake and I have owned many chevys. As far as the wipers are concerned, had he been any sort of “expert” on vehicles he would’ve known about the recall and had I repaired. I did. As far as the build quality, I don’t think I have owned a vehicle that feels more well put together or safe than this one. Overall for what we paid for it and how good it has been to us, I would buy one again in a heartbeat. It’s quite simple, check online often for recalls, maintain your vehicle (simple routine maintenance) and don’t beat the crap out of it and most vehicles will be good to you. I always take mine to the dealership, not sure about other dealerships but my local Chevy dealership is amazing. They honestly give me the best service, price and repair overall.

The 2016 model I heard have engine problems around 90k miles. And sure enough at 84k mine started burning oil fast out of the exhaust. And at 85k it died. Had to get a new motor put in. The trade in value was not worth it

Your "shake" can't be a manufacturing fault. I've had mine up to about 100mph, nothing abnormal.

I bought a 2014 gmc terrain sle awd with the 2.4 about 1 year ago.....but i have yet to have any issues with it what so ever not even the oil consumption that everyones complaining about and i even pull a little trailer with it all over the place....it only had 95000 miles on it when i bout it now its up to like 105000.....only thing so far for me anyways that i can get behind is the always shifting it shifts so much and no real power but then again it's just a Lil 4 banger with a big body😂😂

In early January my transfer case literally exploded and sent shrapnel through the transmission. A one in a million issue. Would have been a wicked expensive fix. So we had the guys replace the transfer case and weld the hole in the transmission shut. I don't think I would get another one

I have a 2012 GMC terrain sle awd.My experience so far after owning it for a couple months is I've had to take the drivers interior door pannel off and libe the window cables and guide tracks because the motor that powers the window was barely able to raise the window and it started to raise crooked.I can see me replacing the motors sooner than later.I noticed the panel had been removed before but dont know why,my guess is that the window got stuck crooked and had to be manually straightened.Another problem with these vehicles is that there is a vent hole from the block into the intake manifold which is such a small hole that almost anything will clog it causing major expensive problems and will contribute to burning a chit load of oil. Also,the upper air intake that sits above the throttle body has a small vent hose on the side of it that gets clogged and needs cleaning every oil change which should be every 30,000 miles if you dont want crud build up and want the motor to last longer.Dont go buy what the oil percentage rating on the car says,if you do,you'll be very sorry after a while.Take the upper air intake box that sits above the throttle body off and clean it out with gas because that little vent hose pushes all kinds of used oil into it and moisture that gets sucked into the throttle body and back into the motor which is not good.Then remove the intake manifold,if your even somewhat mechanically savvy you can do this with some guidance from youtube.Reason for cleaning this is because it too collects everything that gets sucked through the throttle body also.I have the 2.4l motor,sorry,I should have mentioned that earlier but there you go. So far I've changed front and rear break shoes,air filter,plugs,diff fluid,transfer case fluid,oil & filter, both O2 sensors,since I've had it.Not because it needed it in the two months I have owned it but all but the oil change hadn't been done by previous owner as far as I could tell.Yes it had been taken in for servicing by the GMC dealership but I guess they dont count diff and transfer case fluid changes in their service regiment.Next on my list is of course all 4 wheel bearing replacements,front axels most likely,battery so I dont realize that I should have changed it after I know I should have changed it.lol Might have to change the cat but I hope not.Ive read that the resonator splits commonly,and I've noticed one of my rear tail lights has a small swimming pool in it after I wash it. Another let down is that the stereo,even though it sounds good,it doesnt get loud enough for me so if I keep it I'll be changing all speakers,installing after marked deck,amp,line driver,eq,signal processor and sub to start. Honestly,I do like my vehicle,its not too big,its comfortable,easy to drive and looks good.I have to wonder though,"HEY,GMC, c-mon brother,you could have very easily made this vehicle so much better by using better materials and some common sense and it would be a line of your product to be proud of for the price you asked for it. I've been a faithful GM follower for the better part of the 50 years but lately I cant say the same. It's at the point now where nothing is meant to last long enough to make till its paid off by the common folk never mind thinking your going to hand it down to your kids.I wouldnt put that financial overload and safety hazzard on someone.How many others remember getting the family vehicle when they got their licenses?Sad knowing that kind of passage is a thing of the past,my past.At least I can just go get a Koenigsegg or Bugatti,they aughta last,them carbonfibre cars dont rust.Im lieing,i wish.

I had to go get my wipers fixed now I need a new battery so far I love my terrain

My wipers did the same thing in a little storm ridiculous the oil consumption is terrible

I have 2014 gmc terrain sle 2.4l I had to have the engine burned out because of the smog pump Wierd white stuff in the spare tire area Consumes oil but not much Had to have lower control arms Ball joints Cv axles And the transmisson arm bushing on the wipers went out And now I need a exhaust manifold Other then that if you take care of it and maintain it like you're supposed to you won't have issues a car of any sort if only as good as the owner but I will say this you will have to take care of these a little more then you would have to like a toyota or a Honda I would rather have my terrain then a Mercedes BMW Nissan

Latest NEWS on this model 2010 - 2017 (Headlight Recall) As I mentioned before, assembled at my employer's facility. General Motors said Tuesday it will recall 740,000 U.S. sport utility vehicles to address a headlight glare problems after U.S. regulators rejected its request to avoid calling them back. (GM argued they shouldn't have to recall the vehicles since they didn't cause any accidents or injuries, that they know of). Earlier this month, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration denied GM’s 2019 petition to declare the issue inconsequential for GMC Terrain vehicles from the 2010 through 2017 model years. GM said the issue has been corrected in replacement parts and does not affect current generation vehicles. The automaker says it is still developing a fix.

Excessive oil consumption on the 2.4 variants. It’s happening on my stepmoms 2015 Chevrolet Equinox right now.

Bought 2016 terrain sle1 can’t have lower end after driving too many mini vans sure it will be a step up

Oil Consumption, gmc recall and replace the engine for me for free. But I'm very leary about staying in this vehicle. Never Again for sure.

Just replace the cat converter! This will solve a lot of the problems… well it did for me!

Estoy por comprar una de esas que m aconsejan

I bought a GMC Terrain 2012 sle and I’m having so many problems with the truck

Okay but did you know that the 1998 Dodge Neon R/T is god's chariot? Betcha didn't!

Ive owned a 2012 slt1 awd since it had 11 miles on it. It now has 89000. Not one problem ever. Brakes maintenance and oil changes. Looking to sell it for 8 or 9k now to put towards something newer.

The wind killed it for me.

Let's think Christ that Chevy build quality isn't what it used to be! Wait wait when the hell was Chevrolet or GM known for having high build quality? Was it the Chevrolet Chevette? Was it The Chevy cavalier /Cadillac Cimarron? Or perhaps you were most impressed by the wonderful build quality of the original Chevrolet dust Buster minivan? What the hell are you talking about? Next to Chrysler GM puts out more stinkers Then almost any Other "main stream" Manufacturer.

Owned a 2015 for 5 years now. Only issue is how goofy it is to replace a headlight

My wipers stopped completely again for the second time …felt the Chevy shake and heard the click I only have about 83K

I’m looking to buy a 2017 slt1 with 128k miles for $15k. I’m on the fence about it! It’s a 4cyl.

I have a 2018 terrain denali and have water in my spare tire well

I'm looking at one with 165,000 miles it's a 2013 gnc terrain feels like a new car

2017 terrain in the winter... Bad news.. condensation in pcv valve freezes and blows out the rear main seal.... Expensive repair.. week later I had to replace the water pump ( ran by timing chain btw..). 😐 Trading in this summer js. Nope nope nope. Not for me.

I have a GMC Terrain 2011 its s great suv for me!

I’ve been having problems with the car burning oil.

I have a 2016 terrain and mine loves to burn oil like it's going out of style.

We have had 2011 2014 Terrain, and now a 2017 equinox Great cars JUST CHANGE THE OILoften

Poor Build quality, thin Metal but still one of the safest mid size SUVs in the crashtest when tested even over Honda Pilot which is horrible, Toyota Hilander, Ford Exployer, Jeep Cherokee and so on.

What? Changing the battery takes 15 minutes. I’ve done it twice and it’s very easy. Remove the plastic cover, then it’s two bolts to remove the ECM and battery.

With the rust area at the door u are very correct

I love mine

A new GMC Terrain SLE sold for $15,900 in 2014.

The negative battery terminal is accessable.i don't know why that stud is said to be the spot

Holly Sh1t some get this guy a cry towel😭. This battery is easier to replace then the one in my Sierra.

I had a nightmare about a murder hornet

Going to buy one soon 💀☝️

SERIOUSLY? MINE SHAKES TOO!! AHH!..AND MUD GETS IN THE BOTTOM DOORS!! Same problems 😕

Cars that have bad access to the negative terminal do have an external one that looks like some bolts.

If you live in the North all cars have rust

HTF do you criticize how difficult the battery is to change or charge if you have not tried either?