2017 GMC Terrain
This year had at least 30% fewer complaints than this model's typical year.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2010 | 290 |
| 2011 | 386 |
| 2012 | 364 |
| 2013 | 364 |
| 2014 | 296 |
| 2015 | 297 |
| 2016 | 152 |
| 2017 | 133 |
| 2018 | 218 |
| 2019 | 182 |
| 2020 | 194 |
| 2021 | 35 |
| 2022 | 59 |
| 2023 | 38 |
| 2024 | 49 |
| 2025 | 13 |
| 2026 | 28 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Percentages can add to more than 100% -- a complaint can name more than one system.
58% of complaints: engine — 77 distinct reports on file.
FIREShow complaint excerpts
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
NHTSA ODI report, 20251110
Also filed under STEERING
2017 GMC Terrain motors consume oil at an excessive rate (1 quart per 1,000 miles). Getting an oil change every 5,000 miles, even consistently, puts the engine at risk for major internal failure and safety risks to the passengers.
NHTSA ODI report, 20230908
17% of complaints: power train — 23 distinct reports on file.
10% of complaints: air bags — 13 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing front passenger and driver.
CRASH FIRE INJURYShow complaint excerpts
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 .
NHTSA ODI report, 20180617
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.
NHTSA ODI report, 20180305
7% of complaints: electrical system — 9 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing ignition.
CRASH FIREShow complaint excerpts
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.
NHTSA ODI report, 20170621
5% of complaints: exterior lighting — 7 distinct reports on file.
SAFETY TIMELINE
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2010-2017 GMC Terrain vehicles. A reflection caused by the headlight housings may illuminate areas above the vehicle and outside of the driver's view with excessively bright light.
Remedy: Dealers will install headlamp appliques, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 8, 2022. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N222363740.
Campaign 22V137000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2017 GMC Terrain — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine issues (77 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for power train issues (23 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for air bags issues (13 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 22V137000 (exterior lighting) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2017 GMC Terrain reliable?
Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2017 GMC Terrain is rated "better than typical".
What are the most common problems with the 2017 GMC Terrain?
The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 58% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2017 GMC Terrain have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.