Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

2013 GMC Terrain Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict

68/ 100
MODERATE RISK

Grade: C+

A comfortable SUV that's a gamble if equipped with the common 2.4L engine, demanding vigilant maintenance or a V6 upgrade.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Should You Buy the 2013 GMC Terrain?

The 2013 GMC Terrain presents a compelling package of space and comfort, but its widespread 2.4L Ecotec engine issues, particularly excessive oil consumption and timing chain problems, make it a risky proposition. While the V6 offers more peace of mind, careful pre-purchase inspection and a robust maintenance plan are absolutely critical for any 2.4L variant to avoid significant repair costs.

Biggest Strengths

  • Spacious and comfortable interior for its class
  • Robust optional 3.6L V6 engine (if properly maintained)
  • Good ride quality and highway stability

Top Risk Areas

The systems that break first on the 2013 GMC Terrain. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

1
Engine (2.4L Ecotec)critical
2
Fuel System (2.4L Ecotec)major
3
HVAC Systemmoderate
Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

NHTSA Recalls

3 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.

VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:MOTOR

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2013 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the ball joints in the windshield wiper module may corrode and wear over time, possibly resulting in one or both of the windshield wipers becoming inoperative.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Buick Verano and 2016 Chevrolet Malibu as the electronic park lock lever may allow the ignition key to be removed without the transmission being in PARK. Also, certain 2013 Buick Encore, 2011 Buick Regal, 2013-2014 Buick Verano, 2011-2016 Chevrolet Cruze, 2010-2013 Chevrolet Equinox 2013-2015 Chevrolet Malibu, and 2011-2013 GMC Terrain vehicles may have been serviced with similar defective replacement electronic park lock levers. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 114, "Theft Protection and Rollaway Prevention."

What breaks on the 2013 GMC Terrain?

Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.

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GMC Terrain by Year

Compare reliability scores across nearby years of the GMC Terrain. Click any year for its full report.

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Relevant Products for Your 2013 GMC Terrain

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Frequently Asked Questions

Full Report

2013 GMC Terrain

7-system breakdown, mileage danger zones, repair cost projections, buyer checklist, and expert verdict.

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Complete Owner's Guide

Already own one? Get the 13-chapter owner's guide with specs, service schedules, and fluid capacities.

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Final Step

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