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

2020 GMC Terrain Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict

78/ 100

KeepScore

MODERATE RISK

Grade: C+

A comfortable compact SUV that requires diligent maintenance and careful selection to mitigate known powertrain risks.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 2020 GMC Terrain

  • Has 2 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the power train:automatic transmission.
  • Scores 4 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2021 GMC Terrain earns a 82.
  • The system most likely to surface first: engine (1.5l turbo) (major severity).

Should You Buy the 2020 GMC Terrain?

The 2020 GMC Terrain presents a comfortable and well-appointed compact SUV package, but its reliability narrative is complicated by specific powertrain concerns, particularly with the standard 1.5L turbocharged engine and the 9-speed automatic transmission. While it offers good value and strong aesthetics, potential buyers must exercise caution and conduct thorough pre-purchase inspections to avoid costly repairs down the line.

Biggest Strengths

  • Comfortable ride quality
  • Stylish exterior design
  • Relatively quiet cabin

Top Risk Areas

The systems that break first on the 2020 GMC Terrain. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

1
Engine (1.5L Turbo)major
2
Transmission (9-Speed Automatic)moderate
3
Electrical Systemminor
Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

NHTSA Recalls

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

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.

CHILD SEAT:VEHICLE LATCH ANCHOR

General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain vehicles. The four rear-seat lower child seat LATCH anchorage bars may have excessive powder coating, which could prevent a child seat from being installed with the anchorage bars. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 225, "Child Restraint Anchorage Systems."

What breaks on the 2020 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 KeepScores across nearby years of the GMC Terrain. Click any year for its full report.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Full Report

2020 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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