2013 GMC Terrain engine problems

Updated from NHTSA data · How we count

111 owners have reported engine problems with the 2013 GMC Terrain, 71% of all complaints about this model year. The typical problem appeared around 103,000 mi.

Engine complaints
111
Crashes
1
Fires
0
Injuries
2
Related recalls
0
Median mileage
103,000 mi

Specific components reported

Engine covers: stalling, loss of power, oil consumption, overheating.

ComponentComplaints
Engine105
Engine and engine cooling5
Engine and engine cooling:exhaust system2
Engine and engine cooling:engine:oil/lubrication1

Engine complaints across GMC Terrain years

212010747820121119720146740201681452018646120201112202215112024212026
Engine complaints by model year. The 2013 is highlighted.

Mileage when the problem appeared

3Under 10k10k–30k430k–60k1860k–100k27100k–150k7150k+
Complaints that list mileage, grouped by odometer reading.

Related recalls

No recalls on file.

What owners say

  1. Filed Jan 7, 2026FLEngineFuel, Hybrid & EV PropulsionTransmission & Drivetrain
    The exhaust and emissions system appears to have failed or is malfunctioning, including the catalytic converter and potentially the exhaust manifold or upstream exhaust components. The engine and fuel/propulsion system are also affected, as evidenced by sputtering and drivability issues. The vehicle and affected components are available for inspection upon request. Exhaust and/or fuel fumes enter the passenger cabin, particularly when the heater or air conditioning is…
    NHTSA complaint #11709455 · source
  2. Filed Dec 12, 2025MNEngine
    Was driving my terrain and suddenly it started to shake and then check engine Light came on. Upon getting out I checked the dipstick and no oil was on dipstick. Start to put oil in and it's running out of the oil pan underneath the vehicle. Towed it home removed oil pan and engine parts laying shattered in bottom. Never got a low oil alert . Had codes misfire and knock sensor.
    NHTSA complaint #11704787 · source
  3. Filed Oct 21, 2025200,000 miMSEngine
    The contact owns a 2013 GMC Terrain. The contact stated that while coming to a complete stop or shifting into reverse, the vehicle lost automotive power. The check engine warning light was illuminated. In addition, the contact stated that the vehicle was shifted into park(P) to regain motive power. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 200,000.
    NHTSA complaint #11694674 · source
  4. Filed Sep 17, 2025MSEngine
    My 2013 GMC Terrain suddenly began to jerk as I was heading to run an errand in town. I pulled my truck back in the drive way at [XXX] where it is parked now. I had a mechanic to come and tell me the engine will need to be replaced and an estimate of the cost to repair it. I could have been rear ended by another vehicle since this suddenly occurred with no prior warning which could result in my death. I have contacted GMC due to a recall on the engine. GMC is declining to…
    NHTSA complaint #11687954 · source
  5. Filed Aug 6, 202588,000 miCAEngine
    The contact owns a 2013 GMC Terrain. The contact stated that while driving 30 MPH, the vehicle hesitated with the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact also stated that while coming to a stop, the vehicle lost automotive power. The vehicle was able to be restarted. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the engine had failed due to the engine consuming oil. The mechanic informed the contact that the engine could be…
    NHTSA complaint #11678887 · source
  6. Filed May 28, 2025172,000 miGAEngineTransmission & Drivetrain
    The contact owns a 2013 GMC Terrain. The contact stated that while driving 40 MPH, the transmission failed to shift as needed. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stopped and stalled. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was taken to a transmission center, which…
    NHTSA complaint #11663347 · source
  7. Filed Feb 16, 2025KSEngine
    Oil consumption rate was too high, roughly 2qts every 1500miles. Caused timing chain to break. Second time with the oil consumption. First fix under 100k mile warranty checked off as recall. It was done before a recall came out. Paying for timing chain to get fixed but recommended a new engine. Prefer GMC to replace engine since it's an ongoing issue. 307373 miles strong and now this.
    NHTSA complaint #11643011 · source
  8. Filed Jan 28, 2025VAEngine
    The contact owns a 2013 GMC Terrain. The contact stated that when slowing down to come to a stop, the vehicle was jumping and hesitating, causing the contact to shift into neutral(N) to stop the vehicle and prevent the vehicle from shaking. There was a fuel odor that smelled like rotten eggs. The check engine warning light was intermittently illuminated at first but became a constant failure. The vehicle was previously included in the emissions recall N192268180; NHTSA…
    NHTSA complaint #11639124 · source
  9. Filed Dec 16, 2024113,000 miWIEngine
    The contact owns a 2013 GMC Terrain. The contact stated while driving at approximately 40 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The contact stated that prior to the vehicle stalling, the vehicle was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil. The contact stated that one quart of oil was being added every week. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer who added engine oil and was…
    NHTSA complaint #11630895 · source
  10. Filed Oct 4, 2024KSEngine
    Excessive oil consumption before first oil change due, bought vehicle used less then month before service due. Vehicle has 102,102 miles oil dipstick showed no oil on dipstick. Bought oil and filled to recommended level 2 days before 1st oil change. Made dealership aware and scheduled a appointment for oil consumption issue.
    NHTSA complaint #11618166 · source
  11. Filed Jul 7, 2024PAElectrical SystemEngineTransmission & Drivetrain
    I hit a pot hole and a stabilitrack error popped up. Also reduced engine power I was miles from home and could have easily caused a major accident on the road.
    NHTSA complaint #11599815 · source
  12. Filed Jun 22, 2024NCEngineFuel, Hybrid & EV Propulsion
    The engine locked up due to oil leaking into it. This is a known issue with GM on these model cars but instead of issuing a recall they issued a special warranty that expired leaving consumers with these vehicles to be responsible for this repair which cost over $8,000.
    NHTSA complaint #11595939 · source

Other 2013 GMC Terrain problem areas

  • Transmission & Drivetrain (26)
  • Other / Unknown (16)
  • Fuel, Hybrid & EV Propulsion (15)
  • Electrical System (10)
  • Lighting (9)
  • Steering (7)
  • Airbags (6)
  • Visibility & Wipers (5)
  • Body & Structure (5)
  • Driver Assistance & Safety Tech (5)
  • Suspension (3)
  • Wheels & Tires (2)
  • Seats & Seat Belts (2)
  • Acceleration & Cruise Control (2)

Back to all 2013 GMC Terrain problems →

Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Office of Defects Investigation public data. Complaints are submitted by owners and are not verified by NHTSA or by us; a complaint does not prove a defect exists. View this vehicle on NHTSA.gov Methodology