2011 GMC Terrain Problems: A Buyer’s Guide

Serious issues with the GMC Terrain include transmission breakdowns, cracked exhaust manifolds, and engine failures. Engine failures caused by excessive oil consumption are frequent at about 92,000 miles.

In this article, we discuss the most common and uncommon 2011 GMC Terrain problems for your knowledge, and you can also use this article as a buyer’s guide. So, stick around until the end to find out what you’ve been looking for.

What to know about the 2011 GMC Terrain?

The GMC Terrain occupies a middle ground between compact and midsize crossover SUVs, much like the Chevy Equinox, with the exception of exterior styling. Although it provides almost as much interior space as a midsize Ford Edge, it can get by with its standard four-cylinder engine thanks to its lighter weight.

Although the segment-leading EPA estimates for the Terrain’s fuel economy with this engine don’t quite match up, you’ll still save money when compared to the 2011 Ford Explorer and 2011 GMC Yukon with the four-cylinder Terrain.

A moderately powerful V6 engine is also available for those who require a little bit more power to transport growing children and their equipment.

2011 GMC Terrain
2011 GMC Terrain

What are the PROs and CONs of GMC Terrain 2011?

Pros.

  • Quiet and lovely cabin.
  • Spacious backseat.
  • Both standard and optional features are in abundance.
  • Good fuel efficiency.
  • Excellent safety ratings.
  • An elegant ride.

Cons

  • The cargo space could be bigger.
  • Numb driving.
  • Distorted visibility

Features and Specs

  • Seats 5
  • 16-22 City, 22-32 Hwy
  • FWD, AWD
  • 182 – 264 Horsepower

With a flexible chassis and good steering, the Terrain receives high marks for handling. Its 3.0L direct-injected V-6 engine, an optional feature, produces 264 horsepower and is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

A stable, car-like ride can be had on the Terrain thanks to its wide front and rear tracks and a 112.5-inch wheelbase. In addition to 19-inch chrome wheels, 17- and 18-inch aluminum wheels support the front and rear independent suspension systems.

What are the common problems of GMC Terrain 2011?

Due to the brand’s practice of rebadging vehicles, General Motors’ lineup of utility vehicles can occasionally be a little perplexing. The GMC Terrain was introduced to replace the Pontiac Torrent.

For a newly launched vehicle, the Terrain received fewer complaints after it was introduced, and it also saw strong sales. The SUV had 365 complaints for the 2011 model year, and there were 4 recalls.

Excessive oil usage.

Numerous 2011 GMC Terrain owners have complained about the vehicle using excessive amounts of oil. The engines need to have their engine oil refilled frequently because of the heavy oil burning. Because there was no engine oil, there have been instances of catastrophic engine failure. Among the complaints made were a few instances where engine oil leaked.

Noice in the power steering system.

Unusual noises coming from the power steering system: On occasion, the steering wheels made strange noises and vibrated when turning. In addition, a few complainants expressed concern over losing control of the cars while braking. Even though the car was only a few months old, it was necessary to replace the rack and pinion on one affected model.

Fallen blower motor

The blend door actuator has an impact on how much air flows through your Acadia and how hot it becomes. The mix door actuator may be faulty if the air conditioning system fails to maintain the desired temperature… (See more) – itismycar.com

Timing chain failure.

In addition to the problem with the heavy oil burning, the powertrain of the 2011 Terrain had a serious problem with timing chain failures. Without any prior symptom or warning, the timing chain failures happened abruptly. Due to the failures, some of the impacted engines needed to be completely rebuilt.

Stalling and jerking.

Stalling is one of the most frequently encountered problems with the 2011 GMC Terrain. The issue is that it can stall while moving quickly, which is risky. It doesn’t occur as frequently as the problem with oil consumption.

2011 GMC Terrain engine
2011 GMC Terrain engine

Failure to Downshift.

If one or more of the shift solenoids are stuck open or closed, the 6T45E will frequently fail to downshift.

This is a result of the transmission fluid’s inability to be redirected to the area of the transmission that would be performing the subsequent shift. Simply put, it is stuck performing the same actions that it was when the solenoid failed.

Inconsistent Shifting

The 6T45E frequently exhibits a great deal of erratic shift behavior when a shift solenoid fails. Transmission gears will be skipped. Additionally, it might appear to be “finding the right gear.” Or, to put it another way, it struggles to find the appropriate gear.

Reduced Gas Mileage

Fuel injectors won’t efficiently pump gas into the engine if the crankshaft position sensor doesn’t provide accurate timing data.

On both short and long drives, the engine will use more fuel than is necessary, lowering overall fuel efficiency. Have a mechanic check the sensor because poor fuel economy can also result from other problems.

The seat height adjuster bolt, the key can be removed while not in park, and the seat belt buckle anchor are three recalls. The most serious recall involves an SUV that can roll away if the key is removed while it is not in park.

Is it wise to purchase a used GMC Terrain?

Along with a ton of features and practicality, the GMC Terrain also boasts chunky, recognizable American styling.

Additionally, General Motors has been able to control the SUV problems through timely corrections and recalls, but some owners are still waiting for a response from the dealerships.

A thorough inspection of the used GMC Terrain is necessary before purchasing it, paying special attention to any issues with the steering, powertrain, or seat bolts coming loose.

Some related FAQs about 2011 GMC Terrain Problems.

Are GMC terrains reliable cars?

The GMC Terrain’s dependability the predicted reliability rating for the 2022 GMC Terrain is 83 out of 100. A predicted reliability score from J.D. Power of 91 to 100 is regarded as the best, 81 to 90 as great, 70 to 80 as average, and 0-69 as fair and below average.

What is high mileage for a GMC Terrain?

When the GMC Terrain reaches and surpasses the 300,000-mile mark, it will probably require significant repairs; at this point, the owner should consider the long-term costs and buying a new vehicle.

Which GMC Terrain is best?

We’d stick with the SLE model to keep the Terrain’s price from getting out of control. It includes a ton of features that buyers of compact SUVs now view as essentials, such as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability, a touchscreen infotainment system, and a slew of driver-assistance technologies.

We hope that our explanation provided you with the answer to your question, “2011 GMC Terrain Problems” If you have any additional questions, please leave a comment below, and we will be happy to assist you further. Check out this link for a review for 2014 Silverado. Thank you very much.

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