2018 GMC Terrain

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints associated with the 2018 GMC Terrain, categorized by component and engine/transmission configuration, along with potential solutions and estimated costs.

The 2018 GMC Terrain is a compact SUV that offers a blend of comfort and practicality. While many owners appreciate its stylish design, comfortable ride, and user-friendly technology, some have reported experiencing certain issues. Engine options for the 2018 Terrain included a 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine (170 hp and 203 lb-ft of torque), a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine (252 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque), and a 1.6L turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine (137 hp and 240 lb-ft of torque). All engines were paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. Some common dislikes include smaller cargo space compared to rivals and some reported issues with the 9-speed transmission.

Engine

1.5L Turbocharged Engine

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Symptoms include the low oil pressure warning light illuminating and the engine running roughly. This can sometimes be due to faulty piston rings or valve seals.
  • Solution: Depending on the severity, potential solutions range from replacing the PCV valve to a full engine rebuild or replacement. A compression test and leak-down test can help diagnose the root cause.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (PCV valve) - $5,000+ (engine rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine Stalling
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported that the engine has stalled while driving. This can lead to hazardous conditions and reduced vehicle control.
  • Solution: The cause of stalling can be difficult to track down, so start with the basics such as spark plugs, fuel pump, fuel filter, and coils.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the underlying issue
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Turbocharged Engine

• No Issues Found

1.6L Turbo-Diesel Engine

• No Issues Found

Transmission

9-Speed Automatic Transmission (All Engine Options)

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing harsh or erratic shifting, particularly between certain gears. Hesitation during acceleration or delayed engagement is also reported.
  • Solution: Start with a transmission fluid flush. Some cases may require a software update (reprogramming the TCM - Transmission Control Module). In more severe cases, valve body replacement or full transmission replacement is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported transmission failure. This can be caused by internal damage or wear and tear.
  • Solution: Transmission replacement or rebuild is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $7,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system can freeze, crash, or become unresponsive. This can affect navigation, audio, and climate control functions.
  • Solution: Start with a system reset (often holding the power button). Software updates from the dealership or performing a hard reset (disconnecting the battery) might resolve the issue. In some cases, the infotainment unit needs to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (reset) - $1,500+ (infotainment unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Backup Camera Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Backup camera image may flicker, be distorted, or not display at all.
  • Solution: Check the camera connections and wiring. The camera itself might need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic Liftgate Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: The automatic liftgate may fail to open or close properly, or may become unresponsive to the key fob or interior button.
  • Solution: Check the liftgate struts, sensors, and motor. Replacement of the faulty component is often necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• No Issues Found

Summary

The 2018 GMC Terrain, while generally a reliable vehicle, has some common issues. The most concerning issues revolve around the 1.5L engine and 9-speed transmission, with potential for costly repairs related to oil consumption and transmission problems. Electrical issues, particularly with the infotainment system, can be frustrating but are generally less expensive to address. The overall severity of potential issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, with repair costs varying significantly depending on the specific problem and its severity.