2013 GMC TERRAIN Engine Problems

197 NHTSA complaints on file

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Engine Issues in the 2013 GMC TERRAIN

197 engine complaints have been filed with NHTSA for the 2013 GMC TERRAIN. Of these, 1 involved a crash, 0 involved a fire, and 2 resulted in injury.

197
Complaints
1
Crashes
0
Fires
2
Injuries
0
Deaths

All Engine Complaints

#11709455 |
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 operating. This creates a risk of exposure to harmful exhaust gases, including potential carbon monoxide, which poses a serious health and safety risk to vehicle occupants. The vehicle also sputters and hesitates, which could lead to unsafe driving conditions, especially in traffic or at highway speeds. Yes. The issue has been confirmed through diagnostic trouble codes indicating catalytic converter efficiency failure. Despite replacement of spark plugs and sensors, the problem continues to recur, indicating an underlying exhaust or emissions system defect rather than...
#11704787 |
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.
#11694674 |
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.
#11687954 |
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 honor my request repair my vehicle based on the estimate I provided. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
#11663347 |
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 determined that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and filed a claim. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 172,000.
#11643011 |
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.
#11630895 |
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 conducting an oil consumption test. The vehicle was not yet diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 113,000.
#11618166 |
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.
#11599815 |
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.
#11595847 |
Excessive oil consumption, and had to change out timing belt at 50,000 miles
#11595939 |
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.
#11593439 |
The contact owns a 2013 GMC Terrain. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to start up with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The contact stated that there was compression failure in each cylinder, causing the timing belt to jump timing, and the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacture was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 153,514.
#11585224 |
2013 GMC Terrain with 109000 miles. Check engine light came on. Drove to local independent repair shop to have codes checked and to have oil changed. Oil was due to be changed at 109000 miles. Repair shop showed oil was down over 3 quarts even though they found no leaks. All engine codes had been set by low oil. They changed oil and filter (twice) and performed complete oil system cleaning and ran diagnostics. They asked my to watch oil consumption and bring it back in 500 miles. The next day, the check engine symbol came back on so I took vehicle back to repair shop. Error codes now all pointed to timing chain problem. It would be $1500 to $2000 to replace timing chain. Vehicle not repaired since I recently had suspension work and also replaced exhaust system.
#11563833 |
The contact owns a 2013 GMC Terrain. The contact stated while driving 55 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power and stalled. The vehicle was not able to be restarted. The vehicle was towed to an impound lot and then to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the engine needed to be replaced due to a lack of engine oil. The vehicle was not prepared. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 39,106.
#11556635 |
When driving vehicle loses power, upon pushing accelerator there is no acceleration and vehicle keeps losing speed. This happens at any given time.
#11547717 |
Catalytic Converter - Available for inspection Safety Risk - Toxic Exhaust gasses and engine failure Problem was diagnosed by independent service center. Vehicle has not been inspected by manufacturer, police, insurance rep...only mechanic that made decision from a diagnostic test Warning Signs: O2 sensors replaced, excessive oil consumption, leaks, fuel pump replaced, check engine light keeps appearing even after cleared, poor acceleration Started seeing signs in 2019 I can provide additional receipts for past repairs once located. The receipt attached from HCS Auto performed a diagnostic on 9/25/23 and again today on 10/2/23. Please contact them to confirm that vehicle will need catalytic convertor.
#11541432 |
My PCV failed the winter of 2021. It blew the rear main. My Terrain has been parked since then.
#11540014 |
The contact owns a 2013 GMC Terrain. The contact stated that the vehicle was consuming 1 to 3 quarts of oil for every few miles. The contact stated that the cross member was covered in oil. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the timing chain had jumped and there was no compression in the engine. The contact was informed that the rod bearings were damaged. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 143,000.
#11538197 |
My airbag indicator lit up and I was not involved in any accident or even a fender bender. After this the engine indicator lit up as well, I had to replace the battery, change spark plugs at the local Firestone. Now I have a problem with the theft indicator and the vehicle does not turn on. Several problems have come up since the airbag indicator lit up.
#11530477 |
Massive oil consumption
#11521378 |
Bought my 2013 GMC Terrain SLT in 2017 from Carvana. I did not know there had been low oil issues or catalytic convertor issues that GM had put out a letter to get replaced in 2020. I always had to put oil in it. It just burnt right out. I also replaced 3 catalytic convertors. Fast forward to now 2023, I'm driving and my engine starts knocking loud. It has oil in it at this point. It finally died half way home 52 miles out. I had it towed home and then to a dealer. I find out from them that there was metal intermix with the oil and that this had a warranty for this issue. But... now my vehicle is 10 years old and over 120,000 miles. Now I can't get the warranty because it expired. that's crap! This should be a recall by now considering this has...
#11518112 |
This vehicle is burning/losing oil. It is full, it will have a greasy substance on the dipstick and oil cap. Then after 1k-12k miles the oil is almost empty. I have had almost 5k in repairs at McLaughlin and they state nothing is wrong, yet I keep having the same issue. I went to key Auto mall and oil looked fine and now it is almost empty again. No oil all over the engine or on the ground. I don't want the engine to blow or have excessive oil changes. What is the remedy to fix this?
#11515557 |
The contact owns a 2013 GMC Terrain. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, she smelled a burning odor throughout the vehicle then the vehicle started to hesitate. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that the vehicle was not included in a recall nor covered under Warranty. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that the VIN was not included in a recall. The failure mileage was approximately 108,000.
#11515123 |
Experienced two separate problems with the engine. The first is oil consumption. We have had to add oil almost every month for the past 2-3 years. The second is that the rear main seal blew after an extreme cold snap. While attempting to repair the vehicle we found metal shavings in the oil filter. The vehicle is no longer worth the cost of the repairs.
#11511232 |
Sudden Excessive Oil Consumption, Engine Seized, Oil Pressure Alert Warning Failed to alert driver that the car was bone dry with no oil, and the Information Screen indicated that 25% Oil Life was Remaining, when the car was bone dry with no oil. FYI - GM paid for 50% on costs of a replaced repurposed engine. And yet there is/was no recall? They should have paid 100%
#11509848 |
The contact owns a 2013 GMC Terrain. The contact stated that the vehicle was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil. Additionally, the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
#11508160 |
Vehicle began to hesitate and then became disabled. A large amount of oil was evident under the vehicle and continued to leak. It was apparent that the rear seal had blown out. Vehicle was towed to a GMC dealership and confirmed problem. Another mechanic informed us of a recall on these engines but this has yet to be confirmed with the dealership after nearly 3 weeks of it being there.
#11507250 |
The contact's mother owns a 2013 GMC Terrain. The contact stated while she was driving at approximately 30 MPH, the vehicle shuddered and stalled. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact had the vehicle towed to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the cam shaft sensor and timing chain needed to be replaced. Additionally, the dealer found that the oil level was very low level after having had an oil change the same day. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 129,000. The VIN was unavailable.
#11502096 |
I have almost been in 3 accidents. My 2013 Terrain has stalled while driving..Cut off at lights. Engine reduced while driving and massive oil leak that gas caused timing chain and engine failure. I have read other complaints, and this is sad GMC has been allowed to get away with this. These engines are dangerous and need to be replaced before someone looses their life.
#11500178 |
I was driving my 2013 GMC Terrain to a friends house, I stopped at a stop light, when I picked up speed, the car stalled and wouldn't get up to speed. Eventually, it did pick up speed. I went to turn into her neighborhood and the same thing happened. Trying to get to the destination, I continued into the neighborhood. I stopped at a stop sign, and when I tried to accelerate, the car died. No indicator lights were engaged. I turned the car off and waited a minute or so and turned it back on. I got to her house, and charged my battery and drove home without issue. The next day, I went to have my battery checked and they alerted me to a horrible oil leak. I had the car towed to the dealership. The next day, the dealership told me that GMC would specifically have to...
#11500229 |
Vehicle stopped running due to timing chain issues at 106,000 miles. Dealer stated the 3.6L V6 is known to not last past 100k miles and they can't do anything. This needs to be a recall as it's a very prevalent problem.
#11499141 |
Was driving vehicle all of a sudden reduce low power engine mode. Sign came on and something about stabilization traction. Not sure exactly what vehicle stalled out will not restart. Also have used too much oil constantly putting oil in one to 2 quarts every two weeks or more.
#11496272 |
While driving on the highway at speed limit 75mph, the vehicle (without warning ⚠️) suddenly went into (Reduced Power Engine Mode/ Service Stabilitrack) jerked and slowed down to 35mp almost causing a pile up as cars behind and next to me where still driving above 70mph. If not for my quick reaction to turn on emergency lights cars behind me would have hit me. Immediately after I got off the highway I drove the car (at 35mph as fast as it went) to my nearest Pepboys. Here the vehicle was serviced for nearly a month until the problem was fixed. The cost was almost $6500 GMC has failed to notify customers if this potential issue which not only risks the lives of the drivers and passengers of the 2013 Terrain but those driving alongside it. This is not a new issue as I found the testimonies of many other GMC...
#11493600 |
Timing chain broke, No check engine line! Please get a recall going on this motor! I've read hundreds of RECENT posted complaints about this. This is not the trust of an American made supplier. Do the right thing. Please.
#11491488 |
I've been having same issues Occurring since I Signed my purchase agreement. The constant rattle at about 1500 RPM, The oil leaves At such a rapid rate That I have to monitor it every day As to make sure the level doesn't go too low. I've only had the vehicle since September 2022 and here it is Halloween 2022 and I'm down over $2000 maintenance costs and maintenance costs trying to prevent catastrophic failure with the engine that I know is coming! OBDII code reads P0171
#11491135 |
We purchased the car in September of 2021, had the oil changed about two months after we bought it, no mention of any issues. In January, half of dashboard lights and the digital speedometer went out. The check engine light came on. We took the car to a mechanic and there was no oil registering on the dipstick. They put several quarts of oil in, the check engine light went off, and the dashboard lights/digital speedometer returned. If the engine had failed it could have caused a serious, possibly fatal accident with other vehicles. Upon research, GMC had issued a special coverage for excessive oil consumption. This appears to be the problem with our vehicle as we need to add oil at least once a week, and the car is not driven over 500 miles in a month. Because the special coverage expired even before we purchased the car, GMC...
#11490893 |
Vehicle burns excessive amounts of oil. I need to add oil almost every time I drive. This could result in catastrophic engine failure. GMC and Chevrolet know about this problem, but refuse to issue a recall for this engine.
#11490150 |
UNKNOWN
#11489063 |
Excessive oil consumption, on average this vehicle is burning off 2 or more quarts of oil over approximately 1,000 miles. The vehicle is also hard idling, jerky and lunging forward at a stop. The entire engine shakes until it sounds like it stalls out. The Check engine light turns on and off when it has been over 2500 miles after an oil change and when the gas gauge reads 1/4 of a tank or less. The diagnostic tool plug does not register anything; does not even turn the diagnostic tool on when plugged in. This vehicle has stalled while driving with no warning lights or indicators. I called GMC on 10/11/22 to inquiry about these issues the called me back on 10/12/22 and was told that they could not find a recall. I then mentioned the class action lawsuit and they said they found something. They then tried to tell...
#11485392 |
The contact owns a 2013 GMC Terrain. The contact stated that shortly after having the engine oil changed, the oil percentage information indicated that the engine oil level was quickly decreasing. The contact stated that while checking the oil dip stick, it was discovered that there was very little oil in the oil pan. Additionally, while operating the vehicle, there was a knocking sound coming from the engine compartment. The contact stated that occasionally the vehicle lost motive power. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who performed an oil consumption test. The result of the test was not yet available. Additionally, the cause of the failure was not yet determined. The manufacturer was also notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 80,000.
#11485457 |
My 2013 GMC Terrain is currently burning oil and requires an engine replacement. This is a known issue with this engine and needs to be addressed for those not notified of the class action lawsuit, or where GMC CLAIMS it is not impacted.
#11478509 |
Excessive oil consumption, on average this vehicle is burning off 2 or more quarts of oil over approximately 1,000 miles. The vehicle is also hard idling, jerky and lunging forward at a stop, hard shutoff where the engine does not immediately shut off when the key is turned off and the entire engine shakes until it sounds like it stalls out. The vehicle also accelerates slowly with high RPMs, approximately 3500 RPMs before shifting gears. Check engine light turns on and off when it has been over 2500 miles after an oil change and when the gas gauge reads 1/4 of a tank or less. The diagnostic tool plug does not register anything; does not even turn the diagnostic tool on when plugged in. This vehicle has also stalled out while driving with no warning lights or indicators. I called GMC on 8/9/22 to inquiry about these issues and was...
#11471689 |
My 2013 engine blew out, I did an oil change around February and a month later took my vehicle to aamco and they found a gallon of coolant in the engine. None of the warning lights came on prior to this happening at all whatsoever. The oil life was still at 32% with no oil in my engine. All 3 of my windshield wipers as well rotted within the year that I purchased the vehicle. Now I do not have a working vehicle at all whatsoever due to the engine and car not wanting to start. When I put the code reader in when it first happened it told me it was the camshaft sensor so I changed both sensors and all the spark plugs and even bought the crankshaft sensor and it was none of the above until later I found out it was the engine that blew. I...
#11466927 |
2013 GMC TERRAIN. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARD TO ENGINE FAILURE. THE CONSUMER STATED THE REAR MAIN SEAL FAILED DUE TO A FROZEN AND BLOCKED PCV LINE AT THE AIRBOX. THE CONSUMER REQUESTED TO BE REIMBURSED FOR THE REPAIRS.
#11463831 |
The contact owns a 2013 GMC Terrain. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle inadvertently stalled without warning. The vehicle was examined by an independent mechanic who diagnosed that timing chain pretensioner and rear main seal had failed causing the engine to lose engine oil and cause severe damage to the engine. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer and local dealer were notified of the failure but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 138,000.
#11462992 |
The vehicle lost sudden speed and stalled in the road and had to be pushed off the road to a safe location so I wouldn't get hit and be towed. The mechanic done an assessment to find out my timing chain broke and damaged my head and pistons. I was also advised by the mechanics that this goes along with the engine consumption issue that my Terrain had that GMC has refused to look at and take blame for. My car now needs a new motor. Consumer stated she has 5,000 worth of damages.*JB
#11456254 |
Bought my 2013 Gmc Terrain with 84,000 miles for $16,000. At 97,774 miles had to have it serviced for excessive oil consumption with timing cover and front crank seal cleaned and timing cover gasket replaced. Cost over $700. Then at 100333 miles had to have a new timing chain put in and water pump also the camshaft and cam phasers cost over $2,000. Now it is around 121000 miles and the lights on dash light up while driving to service stability track and I can not go faster then about 30 miles an hour. It then goes off and randomly comes back on while driving at any speed. Also there is a HUGE OIL PROBLEM with oil not just dripping like a small leak but spewing basically from underneath vehicle. I have to literally put oil in my car before I drive it anywhere because it all leaks out while...
#11455093 |
The contact owns a 2013 GMC Terrain. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed and approaching a stop sign, the vehicle stalled. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was restarted however, there was a knocking sound coming from the engine. The contact exited the vehicle to inspect the vehicle but found no issues. The vehicle was towed to the dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The Extended Warranty company notified the dealer of a possible recall however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that the repair would be an out-of-pocket expense. The failure mileage was 67,800.
#11449269 |
Vehicle stopped while driving three different times. Whenever alarm is turned on, car sometimes does not start next day. I've had to jump start it over 7 times in 9 months. Vehicle scheduled for review by dealer in three weeks.
#11448704 |
Bulletin 14882 from March 2015 - My Vehicle has all the same issues as this Bulletin along with Oil Consumption issue . Dealer stated there are 4 more of my exact vehicle under 100,000 mils with the same issue at GMC dealer . GMC will not honor extension on my vehicle and neither will Extended warranty corp. CNA - because dealer said it was due to "mother nature & Freezing "

Other 2013 GMC TERRAIN Problem Areas

Visibilitywiper 50 complaints Power Train 42 complaints Unknown Or Other 25 complaints Electrical System 21 complaints Fuelpropulsion System 21 complaints Air Bags 19 complaints Steering 14 complaints Exterior Lighting 9 complaints Structurebody 9 complaints Electronic Stability Control Esc 8 complaints Service Brakes 7 complaints Engine And Engine Cooling 6 complaints Suspension 6 complaints Wheels 6 complaints Vehicle Speed Control 5 complaints Seats 4 complaints Chest Clip Buckle Harness 2 complaints Engine And Engine Coolingexhaust System 2 complaints Engine And Engine Coolingexhaust Systememission Controlcrankcase Pcv 2 complaints Forward Collision Avoidance Automatic Emergency Braking 2 complaints Power Traintransfer Case 4 Wheel Drive 2 complaints Structurebodyhatchbackliftgate 2 complaints Structureframe And Members 2 complaints Visibility 2 complaints Back Over Prevention Camera System 1 complaint Carry Handle Shell Base 1 complaint Electrical System Instrument Clusterpanel 1 complaint Electrical Systemignition 1 complaint Engine And Engine Coolingengineoillubrication 1 complaint Equipment Adaptivemobility 1 complaint Equipmentapplianceair Conditioner 1 complaint Equipmentelectricalradiotape Deckcd Etc 1 complaint Exterior Lightingheadlights 1 complaint Forward Collision Avoidance Adaptive Cruise Control 1 complaint Fuel System Gasoline 1 complaint Fuel System Gasolinefuel Injection Systemthrottlebodymanifold 1 complaint Lane Departure Blind Spot Detection 1 complaint Seat Belts 1 complaint Suspensionrear 1 complaint Tires 1 complaint Visibilitydefrosterdefoggerhvac System 1 complaint Visibilitywindshield Wiperwasher 1 complaint
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