2021 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
- 36
- Recalls
- 2
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- Engine
Campaigns on file for 2021
None on file
28% of complaints
Complaints per year
2021: 36 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2010 | 290 |
| 2011 | 386 |
| 2012 | 364 |
| 2013 | 365 |
| 2014 | 296 |
| 2015 | 299 |
| 2016 | 153 |
| 2017 | 135 |
| 2018 | 222 |
| 2019 | 186 |
| 2020 | 196 |
| 2021 | 36 |
| 2022 | 61 |
| 2023 | 41 |
| 2024 | 53 |
| 2025 | 13 |
| 2026 | 32 |
| 2027 | 1 |
Known problem areas
Percentages can add to more than 100% — a complaint can name more than one system.
Engine
28% · 10 reportsShow complaint excerpts
I have had my check engine light come on for P0299. I've lost power while on the road. Had my turbo replaced and now the same issue is starting again. I'm afraid of my car stalling out again with my child in the car.
NHTSA ODI report, 2026-09-29
Vehicle Information:Year/Make/Model: 2021 GMC TerrainEngine Type: 1.5L Turbocharged EngineCurrent Mileage: 155,000 miles [1]Description of Safety Defect:I am writing to report a severe, sudden engine and turbocharger failure on my 2021 GMC Terrain...
NHTSA ODI report, 2026-09-11
Service brakes
22% · 8 reportsShow complaint excerpts
The contact owned a 2021 GMC Terrain. The contact stated while the brake pedal was depressed, it was released and the vehicle suddenly accelerated aggressively.
NHTSA ODI report, 2024-09-03
i WAS GOING TO MY SONS HOME WHICH IS LOCATED ON A STEEP DOWHILL STREET WITH SEVERAL TURNS, ONE OF THER ALMOST 90 DEGREES.aS i STARTED TO DESEND THE HILL AND GAIN SPEED, I DEPRESSED THE FOOT BRAKE. iT DID NOT RESPOND AT ALL.
NHTSA ODI report, 2021-09-07
Vacuum pump failure caused my brakes to lock up and almost caused me to wreck into another vehicle
NHTSA ODI report, 2026-07-12
Power train
22% · 8 reportsElectrical system
19% · 7 reportsForward collision avoidance
11% · 4 reportsMost commonly citing automatic emergency braking and warnings.
Safety timeline
2 recalls · 0 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
-
R
2021-08-31Tires21V612000 General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain vehicles equipped with certain Hankook tires.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect the tire DOT numbers, and replace any affected tires, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on August 31, 2021.
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R
2023-06-02Child seat23V339000 General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain vehicles.
Remedy: Owners are advised to install child seats using the vehicle's rear seat belts until the remedy is complete. Dealers will inspect the latch anchorage bars, and remove and replace the finish, as necessary, free of charge.
Buy-smart checklist
2021 GMC Terrain — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Engine: 10 reports on file for this year.
- Service brakes: 8 reports on file for this year.
- Power train: 8 reports on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 21V612000 · Tires
- Recall 23V339000 · Child seat
Other years of this model
See all years ranked →FAQ
- Is the 2021 GMC Terrain reliable?
- Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2021 GMC Terrain is rated "better than typical".
- What are the most common problems with the 2021 GMC Terrain?
- The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 28% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 2021 GMC Terrain have?
- 2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.