This service bulletin provides information on replacing the intake manifold when the engine is replaced after severe internal engine damage.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2010 GMC Terrain engine problems
moderate Owners of the 2010 GMC Terrain have filed 70 NHTSA complaints about the engine, typically surfacing around 85,000 miles at roughly $3,100 to repair (U.S. federal records, as of July 2026). Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. See engine across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
70
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$3,100
| Model year | engine complaints |
|---|---|
| 2010 Terrain (this page) | 70 |
| 2011 Terrain | 123 |
| 2012 Terrain | 114 |
| 2013 Terrain | 152 |
| 2014 Terrain | 93 |
When does it fail?
Of the 70 engine complaints filed for the 2010 GMC Terrain, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 100,000-125,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Owners have filed 70 engine complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
Engine accounts for 24% of all owner complaints filed against this vehicle, across 12 categories tracked.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering engine on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
The service bulletin advises the tech of a normal transmission shift condition and the delay in throttle response when the throttle plate is opened rapidly and advises the customer that it is normal for the delay.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This informational bulletin explains Unscheduled Supplemental Services and the importance of GM Simplified Maintenance Schedules.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This service bulletin provides guidelines and diagnostic/repair information to technicians regarding vehicle engine oil consumption.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This service bulletin provides information for maintenance cleaning of the fuel injectors and gasoline detergent additive.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
The 2010 Terrain engine fails repeatedly across multiple failure modes. Timing chain stretch and breakage are the most catastrophic—owners report sudden power loss, stalling at traffic lights and highway speeds, and complete engine seizure with no warning. Replacement costs run $1,500–$2,400 for the chain alone; full engine replacement runs $6,000+, with GM covering only 60% in some cases. The problem strikes between 36,000 miles and beyond 100,000 miles, often just outside the 36,000-mile warranty window.
Excessive oil consumption is endemic. Owners report burning a quart every 900 miles, every month, or every three days. Dealers perform "oil consumption tests" that drag on for months, actually stalling warranty claims past the statute of limitations. Piston ring wear and rear main seal leaks are root causes, but dealers cite special coverage bulletins that exclude many VINs.
Camshaft actuators and balance shaft chains fail repeatedly on the same vehicles despite previous repairs. One owner had a complete overhaul—transmission, transaxle, tensioner, chain, water pump, balance shaft, ECM reprogramming—yet the same problems returned.
Power loss and limp mode plague owners during normal driving. The "service StabiliTrak" warning triggers without a clear fix, and some vehicles will not accelerate or shift gears despite the engine running. Rough idle, stalling at stops, and starting failures round out the picture. Catalytic converter failures occur early and recur; fuel pump seals fail and contaminate oil. Throughout, dealers report mystification—they cannot replicate problems, cannot access root-cause information from GM, and offer only guesses.
Same GMC Terrain engine reports on nearby years: 2011 · 2012 · 2013
Failure modes owners describe
Timing Chain Stretch/Failure
Timing chain stretches, jumps teeth, fractures, or breaks entirely, causing catastrophic engine damage including destroyed pistons, bent valves, and internal engine failure. Often occurs prematurely with no warning, leading to total engine seizure and the need for engine replacement.
When: Reported from 36,000 miles to 136,000 miles; multiple owners report failure within warranty period expiring at 36,000-60,000 miles, and others after 100,000+ miles. One case reported at 46,000 miles after dealer repair.
Symptoms owners cite: Clapping or rattling noise from engine; Check engine light illumination; Service StabiliTrak warning light; Sudden loss of power while driving; Vehicle stalling mid-route or at complete stop; Engine will not start after stalling; Engine power reduced message on display
Codes mentioned: P0017 (Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Timing Mismatch), Check engine light (unspecified codes in several narratives)
Repairs/costs cited: Timing chain replacement costs reported at $1,500-$2,400. One case required full engine replacement at $6,000 (60% covered by GM, owner paid $2,500 out-of-pocket). Dealers replaced tensioner, chain, gaskets, water pump, balance shaft, and spark plugs in various combinations. One owner paid $850 out-of-pocket after warranty replacement; another had timing chain replaced twice within 2 years. Metal debris found in oil pan after failure.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: GM issued recalls for timing chain issues (mentioned in #4); special coverage bulletins exist but are VIN-specific and exclude many owners. One owner reported GM offered $2,000 owner loyalty payment but refused vehicle replacement. Dealers claimed lack of awareness of recurring problem despite access to GM Global site.
Excessive Oil Consumption
Engine consumes abnormally high volumes of oil, requiring frequent top-ups. Caused by piston ring wear, rear main seal failure, or PCV system issues. Dealers often dismiss problem as not covered, and oil consumption tests stall resolution by pushing cases past warranty limits.
When: Reported from 52,000 miles onward. One case required oil change every month starting at 86,000 miles; another required quart every 900 miles; another every 3 days.
Symptoms owners cite: Check engine light illumination; Rattling noise at cold start; Service light never illuminates despite low oil; Engine noise and shuddering; Rough idle and sputtering; Clapping or ticking noise
Codes mentioned: P0017 (Crankshaft/Camshaft Position), Unspecified check engine codes
Repairs/costs cited: Piston ring replacement or rear main seal replacement attempted in some cases. One dealer diagnosed rear main seal failure ($cost not stated). Oil consumption tests performed over months or years at dealer; owners report oil always a quart or more low after each test but dealers claimed 'not an issue.' Owners reported costs of up to $1,000+ for gasket/seal repairs without resolution. Special coverage bulletin exists for crankshaft rear main seal on certain VINs (10 years/120,000 miles), but many owners' VINs not included.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: GM special coverage for excessive oil consumption exists but limited to specific VINs and mileage/age thresholds. Dealers cite that oil consumption test results do not support repair approval. One owner found special coverage bulletin online for rear main seal but was told their VIN not on approved list.
Camshaft Position Actuator and Balance Shaft Chain Malfunction
Camshaft position actuators, solenoids, and balance shaft chains malfunction repeatedly, requiring multiple replacements on the same vehicle. Problem recurs despite previous dealer repairs, indicating design or quality defect.
When: Reported between 65,000 and 97,111 miles; some cases show recurrence within 1-2 years of previous repair.
Symptoms owners cite: Rough idle; Check engine light illumination; Service StabiliTrak warning; Engine rattling or noise; Vehicle shaking or vibration
Codes mentioned: Service StabiliTrak error code, Check engine light (codes not always specified)
Repairs/costs cited: Camshaft position actuator replaced 2-4 times on same vehicles. Balance shaft chain, tensioner, and related gaskets replaced in multiple repairs. One vehicle had complete list of replacements: water pump, balance shaft chain, tensioner, intake/exhaust, camshaft position actuators, bolts, high-pressure fuel pump, V/C gasket, timing chain tensioner, left timing chain guide—all replaced in one warranty service visit; same problems recurred 18 months later in March 2015.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Two dealerships reported to GM that they were unaware of recurring problem despite access to GM Global site listing all repairs. GM customer care stalled resolution by requiring oil consumption test, pushing case past 4-year statute of limitations.
Power Loss and Reduced Power Mode
Engine enters limp or reduced power mode intermittently or repeatedly, causing vehicle to lose acceleration capability or stall without warning. StabiliTrak warning light often accompanies failure. Power is restored only after engine restart.
When: Reported from 36,000 miles onward; one case at 170,011 miles; timing ranges from early ownership to later years.
Symptoms owners cite: Service StabiliTrak warning light; Check engine light; Engine power reduced message on display; Loss of acceleration; vehicle slowed to 15-30 MPH despite throttle input; Vehicle stalled at traffic lights or while driving; Engine running but unable to accelerate or shift gears; Vibration and shuddering
Codes mentioned: Service StabiliTrak error, Engine power reduced code (unspecified in narratives)
Repairs/costs cited: One case had transmission, transaxle, tensioner, chain, gaskets, water pump, balance shaft replacement and ECM reprogramming—problem persisted. Another case involved throttle body replacement (cost not stated). Many cases had no permanent fix documented.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: One owner reported GM refused to help, stating they could only work through dealership. After major warranty repair, problems continued and owner felt reluctant to return to dealer.
Catalytic Converter Failure
Catalytic converter fails prematurely, requiring replacement. Failures are often repeated—some owners have replaced converter twice. Underlying cause may be exhaust manifold cracks or combustion issues, but GM special coverage only partially applies.
When: Reported from age 6 years onward; multiple replacements within short timeframes (e.g., two converters within weeks of each other).
Symptoms owners cite: Check engine light illumination; Engine running rough and hard; Vehicle idling roughly and jerking; Failed emissions testing; Fuel fumes emitting from vehicle
Codes mentioned: Check engine light (unspecified codes)
Repairs/costs cited: Catalytic converter replacement costs not specified in most cases, but one owner mentioned $1,200 repair cost. One case required replacement of cracked exhaust manifold at $582 in addition to converter repair. GM special coverage for catalytic converter exists for 2010-2011 2.4L engine models but does not extend to 3.0L engines (same failure pattern reported), and manifold cracks may not be covered separately.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: GM special coverage notice (free repair) for 2010-2011 catalytic converters on 2.4L engine; 3.0L engine owners report same issue but not covered. Cracked manifold repairs required out-of-pocket payment. One owner offered case number for potential future inclusion of 3.0L in coverage.
Engine Misfire and Compression Loss
Engine misfires in one or more cylinders, or loses compression entirely, causing performance degradation and engine failure. Diagnosed at independent shops and dealers as requiring engine replacement.
When: Reported at 120,000+ miles; one case at 98,000 miles.
Symptoms owners cite: Service StabiliTrak and check engine warning lights; Engine fails to respond to acceleration; Engine sounds abnormal; Vehicle will not exceed 15 MPH
Codes mentioned: Misfire in cylinder #3 (P-code unspecified), No compression in cylinder #3 (diagnosed, not code)
Repairs/costs cited: Piston replacement, piston ring replacement, and complete engine replacement recommended in various cases. One case noted rings were replaced but piston was found rubbing against motor after repair. Repair costs not detailed.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No manufacturer support documented in these narratives.
High-Pressure Fuel Pump Leaking into Crankcase
High-pressure fuel pump seal fails, allowing fuel to leak into the crankcase and contaminate engine oil. Causes rough idling and sputtering. Limited recall coverage by VIN.
When: Issue reported; recall #43180 issued September 2016 but coverage limited to specific VINs.
Symptoms owners cite: Sputtering at idle; Engine acting like it wants to die at idle; Check engine light
Codes mentioned: Related to emission system (Recall #43180)
Repairs/costs cited: Fuel pump repair/replacement required; cost not stated. Owner was not included in recall despite having same issue.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall #43180 issued for high-pressure fuel pump, but VIN-specific; affected owner's vehicle excluded from coverage. Owner requested recall expansion.
Rough Idle and Stalling at Low Speeds
Engine idles roughly, shakes at traffic stops, and stalls unexpectedly, especially at low speeds. Problem occurs intermittently and is difficult for dealers to replicate.
When: Reported from early ownership through various mileages; intermittent nature makes timeline variable.
Symptoms owners cite: Rough idle; Vehicle shaking at complete stops; Stalling at traffic lights or low-speed driving; Check engine light (sometimes); Service StabiliTrak warning (in some cases)
Codes mentioned: Timing issue (mentioned in diagnostic but no specific code), Unspecified check engine codes
Repairs/costs cited: Timing chain and fuel injector replaced in one case. Oil consumption test performed. One case had dealership unable to replicate problem during test drive.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealers often state 'nothing wrong' when unable to replicate. GM offered no resolution in cases where dealer could not diagnose.
Electrical System Malfunction and Computer Error
Electrical system provides false readings or fails entirely. Check engine light and warning messages come on and off randomly without corresponding actual failures. Computer does not accurately report vehicle status, preventing owner awareness of actual problems.
When: Reported from June 2010 onward (early in ownership).
Symptoms owners cite: Random warning lights on and off; Engine will not start; Static from radio; USB connection (iPhone) not functioning at times; Check engine light without actual engine problem (sometimes); Service StabiliTrak message with no replicable issue
Codes mentioned: Unspecified; dealers report computer gives false error codes or no codes when issues exist
Repairs/costs cited: ECM (engine control module) reprogrammed in one case; issue persisted. No specific repair documented to resolve electrical system issues.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealership reported unable to determine fixes because manufacturer provides no specific guidance. One dealer suggested only limited repairs possible with manufacturer-provided information.
Low Oil Warning System Failure
Vehicle provides no warning when oil level is critically low or depleted, preventing owner awareness until catastrophic engine damage occurs. Service lights do not illuminate; owners discover low oil only during routine checks or after engine failure.
When: Timing varies; one case noted oil depletion within 2,500 miles of oil change.
Symptoms owners cite: No warning indicator lights despite critically low or empty oil pan; Engine ticking or rattling noise (indication of low oil damage); Timing chain breakage as result of low oil
Codes mentioned: None; lack of warning indicator is the problem
Repairs/costs cited: Timing chain replacement or engine replacement required after low oil condition caused damage.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No manufacturer support for lack of warning system documented.
Synthesized from 70 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 6 most recent
I bought the vehicle with around 86,000 mi - one owner, from dealership. The engine was making a noise within a couple of months. I have to change the oil every month because of the unusual oil burning issue. It died on me three times. The engine would slow down to a stop. I had to turn it off and back on. Later, after a cold day, I had an oil leak. I took it in and the mechanic said there is a…
I I changed it. It stalled repeatedly and we had it repaired recently. We also had the oil checked and replaced so gm could track the oil consumption. Unfortunately a month later the car would not start sitting in the driveway, so we had it towed in to a gm dealer. They said the timing chain is busted and they need to pull the engine because there is metal in the oil pan so our oil test is…
My terrain recently got the check engine light on the mechanic is telling me that it is the timing chain that all of this vehicles have this problem and I got lucky it only jumped one tooth to repair will cost me around $ 1500 what I don't understand if this is been going on for long time how is it that this does not constitute a recall
Tl* the contact owns a 2010 GMC terrain. The contact stated that while driving at 65 MPH, the contact noticed an abnormal noise and noticed that the timing chain had fractured. The check engine warning light illuminated. In addition, the contact noticed fuel fumes emitting from the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to a dealer who diagnosed that the timing chain, water pump, fuel pump, pistons,…
The contact owns a 2010 GMC Terrain. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the service stabili-trak and check engine warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to O’Reilly Auto Parts, where it was diagnosed with a misfire in cylinder #3. The vehicle was then towed to an independent mechanic and the contact was informed that there was no compression in cylinder…
In sept. 2017, the dealer fixed the catalytic converter b/c it was under a "special warranty" for free however I had to pay $582 to replace the cracked manifold which caused the converter issue. I recently went to the dealership b/c the check engine light came on again, the catalytic converter is still under warranty and they have to fix the oil consumption problem the is under a "special…
Had engine trouble with your 2010 GMC Terrain?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the engine problem on the 2010 GMC Terrain?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 70 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $3,100 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the engine typically fail?
Across the 54 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most engine failures cluster between 58,450 and 108,000 miles, with the median around 85,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 58,450; a quarter make it past 108,000. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $3,100 for engine repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to engine?
No active recalls currently cover engine issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2010/GMC/Terrain.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.