2016 GMC Terrain Recalls, Problems & Safety Rating

2016 GMC Terrain recalls

Most common 2016 GMC Terrain problems

Problem areas named in the 153 complaints owners filed with NHTSA.

Problem area	Reports
Engine	46
Visibility/Wiper	46
Unknown Or Other	13
Power Train	11
Air Bags	10
Exterior Lighting	10
Electrical System	9
Steering	6
Service Brakes	5
Vehicle Speed Control	4

What owners report

2026-10-19, Air Bags
On 10/1/26 I was in an accident where the entire front of the car was pushed in. The air bags did not employ, which resulted in me hitting my ribs on the steering wheel

2026-08-14, Engine
The timing chain snapped and caused the engine to seize on our 2016 GMC Terrain 2.4L SLC-1 SUV/Truck. Since this has occurred multiple times on the 2.4L engines in this model from 2012 - 2016, we believe that there should be a recall as this issue could cause a major accident if the timing chain snaps or breaks while traveling. It had 101000 miles on it when we bought it used from Klein Automotive, on April 12, 2024. We have only had it for 2 years and 4 months and kept it in good repair. We took it in for its oil change, brought it home, went to dinner 4 days after and the very next day it wouldn't start. We thought it was most likely the starter/solenoid, but the mechanic said those were

2026-08-09, Unknown Or Other
For an undetermined amount of time- many months for certain, I have been unable to get the key removed from the ignition when the car is shut off and placed in the locked position. I am forced to start and shut off the car for multiple times before I am finally able to remove the key. There is no rhyme no reason as to why the key finally decides to come out. This is obviously caused no accidents, however, it has become a constant source of frustration as it happens constantly. I have taken it to the dealership, and other than charging me for their exam, they had no answers as to the problem or how to resolve it. That was an absolute waste of time, and certainly my money. I have also taken it

2026-07-23, Structure
My cousin thought I had a trailing arm bushing was bad on the driver's side. The subframe holding the trailing arm rusted out completely. He was able to put his thumb through it with little pressure when trying to see if it can be fixed.

2026-06-05, Engine
My 2016 GMC Terrain 2.4L Ecotec first stalled while idling at a red light in Raleigh, NC. I restarted it and it sounded different, so I drove it home. The next morning it would not start. The failure occurred at approximately 69,939 miles with no meaningful warning. The dealer’s diagnostic report states there were no current relevant codes and no relevant codes in history. The dealer documented major timing-system failure: timing chain tensioner failure, timing chain guide failure, a timing chain guide bolt pulled out of the cylinder head, aluminum contamination in the cylinder head/oiling system, and engine replacement recommended. The vehicle was found unsafe to operate. This vehicle r

2016 GMC Terrain questions

Does the 2016 GMC Terrain have any recalls?

Yes. NHTSA lists 2 safety recalls for the 2016 GMC Terrain: Headlights may glare at other drivers, raising crash risk; Wrong tire and pressure labels could lead to a crash. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.

What are the most common problems with the 2016 GMC Terrain?

Based on 153 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are Engine (46), Visibility/Wiper (46), Unknown Or Other (13).

How do I check if a recall on my 2016 GMC Terrain has been fixed?

Enter your 17-character VIN in our VIN recall check. It shows open recalls that have not been repaired on your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.