2019 GMC Terrain Reliability ReportKeepScore 78/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid
Quick Facts · 2019 GMC Terrain
- Scores 4 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2021 GMC Terrain earns a 82.
- The system most likely to surface first: engine oil consumption (major severity).
- Has 3 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the service brakes, hydraulic:foundation components:disc:caliper.
2019 GMC Terrain: Buy or Avoid?
The 2019 GMC Terrain offers a comfortable ride and decent practicality, but its long-term reliability is overshadowed by known issues with its turbocharged engines and some electrical glitches. While not a complete lemon, prudent buyers must approach with caution and prioritize a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection to mitigate potential future headaches.
The 2019 GMC Terrain is a comfortable and stylish compact SUV, but its known engine reliability issues, particularly excessive oil consumption, warrant a cautious approach. It's not a vehicle to buy without a thorough inspection and a commitment to diligent maintenance. If you find a well-documented, meticulously ma…
Best Model Years
2020-2021 (minor refinements, though 1.5T oil consumption still a factor), or 2017 (first generation, different engine options).
Years to Avoid
2018 (first year of 2nd gen, early kinks and widespread engine issues), specific problematic engine variants in any year.
Biggest Strengths
- Comfortable and quiet cabin ride
- Good fuel efficiency (especially 1.5T and 1.6L Diesel)
- User-friendly infotainment system
2019 GMC Terrain — Known Trouble Spots
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2019 GMC Terrain, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
The 1.5L and 2.0L turbocharged engines, particularly the 1.5T, are susceptible to excessive oil consumption due to piston ring design and PCV system issues. This can lead to low oil levels, premature wear, and potential engine damage if…
Owners frequently report issues with the infotainment screen freezing, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity problems, and glitches with the rearview camera. Less common but reported are issues with various sensors (e.g., parking assis…
While the 9-speed automatic transmission is generally robust, some owners experience occasional harsh shifts, hesitation, or clunking sounds, particularly at lower speeds or during downshifts. These are often software-related but can som…
2019 GMC Terrain Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2019 GMC Terrain most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, the vehicle is still relatively new. Focus on routine maintenance like oil changes, tire rotations, and cabin air filter replacements. This is also a critical time to establish an oil consumption baseline for the turbo e…
Maintenance Zone
Beyond the basic service, spark plugs are often due (especially on 2.0T), and an inspection of brake pads, tires, and suspension components becomes more critical. Transmission fluid checks and potential changes should be considered.
Elevated Risk Zone
Major fluid services (transmission, coolant) and inspection of accessory belts and hoses are paramount. Engine and transmission mounts may begin to show wear. Oil consumption issues, if present, will likely be more pronounced.
High Risk Zone
Expect potential for more significant component failures, especially if previous maintenance was neglected. Timing chain issues (2.0T) and significant engine wear become more likely. Budget for higher annual repair costs.
2019 GMC Terrain Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2019 GMC Terrain on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$450-650
Moderate Repairs
$600-1,800 occasionally for issues like infotainment repair, engine sensors, or significant suspension work.
How Long Does the 2019 GMC Terrain Last?
Purchase vehicles below 60,000 miles to maximize potential life and minimize exposure to the most common issues, ensuring comprehensive maintenance records are available. If considering a higher mileage example, a full independent pre-purchase inspection is non-negotiable.
What 2019 GMC Terrain Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Smooth, quiet, and comfortable ride quality suitable for daily commuting and longer trips.
- Spacious and practical interior with ample cargo room for its class.
- Intuitive and easy-to-use infotainment system with standard Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.
- Good fuel economy from the 1.5L turbo and exceptional economy from the rare 1.6L diesel.
Common Frustrations
- Persistent concerns over excessive oil consumption with the 1.5L and 2.0L turbocharged gasoline engines.
- Occasional rough or hesitant shifting from the 9-speed automatic transmission.
- Frustrating intermittent electrical glitches, particularly with the infotainment screen and rearview camera.
- Some interior materials feel less premium than competitors, prone to minor rattles over time.
Who Should Buy the 2019 GMC Terrain?
Best For
- Commuters prioritizing a quiet and comfortable ride over sporty dynamics.
- Individuals or small families needing decent cargo space and practicality.
- Buyers who appreciate GMC's styling and feature set in a compact SUV.
Not Ideal For
- Buyers seeking absolute bulletproof reliability and minimal maintenance worries.
- Anyone who habitually skips oil changes or rarely checks fluid levels.
How the 2019 GMC Terrain Compares to Rivals
The Terrain offers a competitive package in terms of comfort and features but falls short of top-tier Japanese rivals in terms of consistent long-term mechanical reliability, largely due to its specific engine concerns. It's generally on par with its domestic sibling, the Equi…
More Reliable Than
- Jeep Cherokee (earlier generations)
- Ford Escape (pre-2020 models)
- Mitsubishi Outlander
Comparable To
- Chevrolet Equinox (2019)
- Nissan Rogue (2019)
- Hyundai Tucson (2019)
Safety Recalls on the 2019 GMC Terrain
3 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Chevrolet Equinox, Impala, Cruze, Volt and Bolt EV vehicles, GMC Terrain vehicles, Buick Lacrosse and Regal vehicles, Cadillac XTS and XTS Professional vehicles and 2018 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles. The rear brake caliper pistons may have an insufficient coating causing gas pockets to form, potentially reducing rear brake performance.
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Chevrolet Cruze and Buick LaCrosse, 2018-2020 Chevrolet Equinox, Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Terrain, 2018 Chevrolet Malibu, 2019-2020 Buick Encore, Buick Enclave, Cadillac XT4, Chevrolet Blazer and GMC Acadia, and 2020 Cadillac XT6 vehicles. The start/stop accumulator endcap may have missing bolts.
What breaks on the 2019 GMC Terrain?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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GMC Terrain — Year-by-Year Comparison
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the GMC Terrain. Click any year for its full report.
Competing 2019s Worth a Look
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2019 GMC Terrain
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Frequently Asked Questions
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