Post
Research the Car Logo

2023 GMC Terrain

The 2023 GMC Terrain is a compact SUV known for its comfortable ride, user-friendly technology, and stylish design. It offers a single engine option: a 1.5L turbocharged inline-4 producing 175 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Terrain’s fuel efficiency and spacious interior, but some criticize its relatively low horsepower and the responsiveness of the automatic transmission. Common dislikes also include the sometimes underwhelming acceleration and the perceived value proposition compared to competitors.

Engine

1.5L Turbocharged Inline-4

  • Excessive Oil Consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than expected oil consumption requiring frequent oil top-offs between scheduled oil changes. Symptoms include low oil level warnings and the need to add oil more frequently than typical.
    • Solution: A possible solution is to monitor the oil levels more frequently, and take the vehicle to a certified mechanic or dealership to identify and resolve the issue
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Dependent on the root cause, repairs could range from minor fixes costing around $100 - $300 to more substantial repairs like piston ring replacement costing $1,000 - $3,000+.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Engine Misfires
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires can cause rough idling, reduced power, and illumination of the check engine light. These misfires may be caused by faulty spark plugs, ignition coils, or fuel injectors.
    • Solution: Diagnosis is required to determine the cause of the misfire. Replacement of faulty components such as spark plugs, ignition coils, or fuel injectors.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Repair costs range from $100-$200 for spark plugs to $200 - $500+ for ignition coils or fuel injectors.
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

9-Speed Automatic

  • Harsh Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced rough or jerky shifting, particularly between certain gears. This may be more pronounced during cold starts or under heavy acceleration.
    • Solution: Software re-programming of the transmission control module (TCM) might alleviate the issue. In more severe cases, transmission component replacement or complete transmission replacement might be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software updates could range from $100 - $300. Mechanical repairs could cost $500 - $4,000+ depending on the complexity and parts needed.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Hesitation or Delay in Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: A delay or hesitation when shifting gears, particularly when accelerating from a stop or when attempting to pass another vehicle.
    • Solution: The vehicle may need to have the transmission software updated/reflashed by the dealership, or in worst cases, transmission repair or replacement
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software updates could range from $100 - $300. Mechanical repairs could cost $500 - $4,000+ depending on the complexity and parts needed.
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • No Issues Found

Electrical

  • Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
    • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system may freeze, become unresponsive, or crash unexpectedly. This can affect navigation, audio, and climate control functions.
    • Solution: Try a system reset. The dealer may need to update the system software or, in some cases, replace the entire infotainment unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software updates could range from $0 - $200. Replacement of the infotainment unit could cost $500 - $1500+.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Backup Camera Malfunction
    • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent failure or complete malfunction of the backup camera. The screen may show a distorted image, a black screen, or no image at all.
    • Solution: Check the camera connection for corrosion or damage. The camera unit itself may need to be replaced.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • No Issues Found

Interior

  • Rattling/Squeaking Noises from Dashboard or Trim Pieces
    • Description/Symptoms: Annoying rattling or squeaking noises emanating from the dashboard, door panels, or other interior trim pieces. These noises are often more noticeable on rough roads.
    • Solution: Identify the source of the noise and apply felt pads or other sound-deadening materials to the affected areas. This may require professional assistance.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ depending on the complexity of the repair.
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2023 GMC Terrain, while generally reliable, exhibits some common issues. Engine problems like excessive oil consumption and misfires can lead to moderate costs, while transmission issues such as harsh shifting and hesitation can be annoying and potentially more expensive to fix. Electrical glitches involving the infotainment system and backup camera are also reported. Interior rattles and squeaks detract from the overall driving experience. Overall, while most issues appear to be relatively minor, potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and thoroughly inspect the vehicle before purchasing. The severity and cost of these issues can vary significantly depending on the specific case, but being informed can help mitigate potential repair expenses.

This post is licensed under CC BY 4.0 by the author.