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 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.
26% of complaints: engine — 9 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
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, 20260911
23% of complaints: service brakes — 8 distinct reports on file.
CRASH INJURYShow 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, 20240903
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, 20210907
Vacuum pump failure caused my brakes to lock up and almost caused me to wreck into another vehicle
NHTSA ODI report, 20260712
23% of complaints: power train — 8 distinct reports on file.
20% of complaints: electrical system — 7 distinct reports on file.
11% of complaints: forward collision avoidance — 4 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing automatic emergency braking and warnings.
CRASH INJURYSAFETY TIMELINE
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.
Campaign 21V612000 — check if this car was fixed
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.
Campaign 23V339000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2021 GMC Terrain — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine issues (9 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for service brakes issues (8 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for power train issues (8 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 21V612000 (tires) has been completed.
- Verify recall 23V339000 (child seat) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
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 26% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2021 GMC Terrain have?
2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.