This informational bulletin explains Unscheduled Supplemental Services and the importance of GM Simplified Maintenance Schedules.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2011 GMC Terrain powertrain problems
severe Owners of the 2011 GMC Terrain have filed 69 NHTSA complaints about the powertrain, typically surfacing around 80,000 miles at roughly $2,500 to repair (U.S. federal records, as of July 2026). Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. See powertrain across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
69
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$2,500
| Model year | powertrain complaints |
|---|---|
| 2010 Terrain | 46 |
| 2011 Terrain (this page) | 69 |
| 2012 Terrain | 36 |
| 2013 Terrain | 42 |
| 2014 Terrain | 33 |
| 2015 Terrain | 21 |
5injuries
What stands out
Of the 17 model years of GMC Terrain we track for powertrain problems, this one carries the most owner complaints on file — 69.
Owners have filed 69 powertrain 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.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering powertrain 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.
This service bulletin informs the technician of an alternate lift procedure that has been developed when the lift plate does not fit the top of the transmission case for 6T30, 6T35, 6T40, 6T45, and 6T50 Transmissions.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This bulletin provides information on Policies Applicable to All U.S. Dealers for Engine and Transmission Assembly Replacement Under Warranty, Policy or Customer Enthusiasm and information on Submission of Warranty Transaction in Global Warranty Management.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This service bulletin provides information on some vehicles that may rock or move slightly forward or rearward while in Park at start up after cold soak. This condition may be accompanied by a clunk noise. This is a slight movement that is more often seen visually, rather than felt, when viewed from the outside and using the auto-start feature, if equipped.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗GM is receiving damaged (cracked or broken) transmission cores returned to the reman facilities. The damage is being caused either in the removal process by the technician, or inadequate packaging or shipping. This bulletin advises the dealers to be more careful not to damage the transmissions during removal and to package the core properly for return.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
The 2011 GMC Terrain shows a consistent pattern of serious powertrain failures across the 69-complaint cluster. Engine stalling dominates: owners describe sudden loss of power while driving, at intersections, and during acceleration—with some reporting loss of power steering and brakes during events. One owner nearly lost control on a highway curve; another had a child in the vehicle. Dealers struggle to replicate the problem and often claim they cannot fix it without seeing it happen on-site.
Transmission issues are severe. Owners report harsh jerking during gear changes (particularly 1st to 2nd), hard clunking, and delayed engagement. Multiple service visits and software updates don't resolve the jerking. More critically, complete transmission failure occurs around 80,000–91,000 miles—typically after warranty expires—with replacement costs reaching $5,000. One dealership found metal particles in the fuel line; another documented a disintegrated weight plate at 80,000 miles.
Excessive engine oil consumption is chronic: owners burn 2–3 quarts every 1,500–2,000 miles with no visible leaks and no warning lights until oil runs critically low. A class action settlement was reached in 2020, but reimbursement enforcement was problematic. Timing chain failure occurs without warning, causing catastrophic engine damage at highway speeds. Rear main seal blowouts are documented, with one service manager noting 14 identical failures in a single day at his dealership—yet GM limits warranty coverage by manufacturing plant rather than issuing a blanket recall. Fuel economy falls 10 MPG short of EPA claims.
Same GMC Terrain powertrain reports on nearby years: 2010 · 2012 · 2013 · 2014
Failure modes owners describe
Engine stalling during operation
Vehicle stalls without warning while driving, at traffic lights, intersections, or during acceleration/deceleration. Occurs intermittently and recurrently, creating serious safety hazards. Some owners report loss of power steering and brakes during events.
When: Throughout ownership; reported from 6,000 miles onward, occurs across wide range of mileages
Symptoms owners cite: Sudden loss of engine power while driving; Stalling at stop signs and traffic lights; Stalling during acceleration from stopped position; Loss of power steering and brakes during stall events; Engine hesitation when pulling into traffic; Service stabilitrak light illumination; Reduced engine power warning light
Repairs/costs cited: Dealers unable to replicate issue in most cases. Some dealers performed throttle body replacement, fuel pump recall service, and electrical system updates without resolving stalling.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Fuel pump recall issued (6-8 weeks after purchase in some cases). Dealers stated they heard of problem but could not fix without replication at dealership. Software flash updates performed on some vehicles without full resolution.
Transmission jerking and hard shifting
Transmission exhibits harsh, jerky shifts particularly in lower gears (1st to 2nd), creating bucking sensation. Hard clunking during shift changes. Dealers often claim normal operation or attribute to 6-speed transmission design. Issue persists after software updates.
When: Early in ownership from 800 to 17,000+ miles; continues throughout vehicle life
Symptoms owners cite: Hard jerking during gear changes; Harsh clunking when transmission shifts; Vehicle bucking sensation during acceleration; Delayed or sticky gear engagement; Transmission hesitates before going into proper gear; Jerking occurs at 16-40 MPH range; Rough transmission operation in stop-and-go traffic
Repairs/costs cited: Dealers performed shift stick replacement, shift adaptive learns reset, electrical system updates. Multiple service visits without resolution. No transmission repair documented in narratives; issue described as persistent.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Software updates/flash updates performed by dealers. Dealers claim transmission operating normally and within design specifications. No recall issued specifically for this symptom.
Transmission failure and slipping
Transmission loses ability to shift gears or shifts erratically into wrong gears. Vehicle may slip into neutral, refuse to engage forward or reverse, or drop into lower gear unexpectedly on highway. Complete transmission failure requiring replacement at 80,000-91,000 miles.
When: 80,000-91,000 miles (typically after warranty expiration); reported at mileages 50,000-150,000
Symptoms owners cite: Transmission slipping gears intermittently; Vehicle unable to exceed 2 MPH due to transmission failure; Sudden downshift on highway from 65 MPH to 40 MPH; Transmission refuses to shift into forward or reverse; Vehicle drops into neutral during operation; Clicking sound from underneath vehicle; Wheezing sound when vehicle slows; Fuel line contamination with metal particles
Codes mentioned: Service transmission warning indicator
Repairs/costs cited: Transmission replacement cost $5,000. Transmission rebuilt or replaced. Metal particle contamination found in fuel line in at least one case. Transmission torque converter replacement documented. Weight plates disintegration noted at 80,000 miles.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recall for transmission failures. Manufacturer offered only 10% reimbursement of repair costs in one case. Offered to help pay off vehicle loan if customer purchased another GM vehicle.
Excessive engine oil consumption
Engine burns excessive quantities of oil, consuming 2-3 quarts every 1,500-2,000 miles. Owners must add oil frequently. Condition persists even after manufacturer warranty repairs. No visible leaks in many cases. Class action settlement issued but implementation problematic.
When: Ongoing issue throughout ownership; documented from early ownership through 150,000+ miles
Symptoms owners cite: Oil level drops rapidly between service intervals; Vehicle stalls during turns when oil is low; Vehicle jerks and jitters while idling when oil is low; No instrument panel warning light when oil is low; No OBDII code generated for oil consumption; Service engine or change oil lights intermittently illuminated
Repairs/costs cited: GM conducted warranty repairs replacing pistons and related engine components around 60,000 miles under extended warranty program. Cost described as 'several thousand dollars.' Repairs performed in 2020 under class action settlement framework. Condition recurred after repair work.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Class action lawsuit settled January 2020 (NHTSA Settlement); GM agreed to pay for repairs or reimburse customers. Settlement required owner to pay upfront and seek reimbursement. Customer reported reimbursement denied after deadline passed despite timely submission. Extended powertrain warranty issued covering excessive oil consumption.
Engine noise (rattling, knocking) and timing chain failure
Engine produces loud rattling or knocking noise on cold start and during operation, described as 'not getting oil' or bearing problem. Timing chain fails, causing catastrophic engine damage. Engine seizes during operation. Timing chain breaks strand owners.
When: Cold starts (early in day/after vehicle sits); timing chain failure at 80,000-90,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Loud rattling noise on cold start; Engine knock described as 'HEMI knock' sound; Engine sounds like bearings have problem; Noise goes away after few seconds of running; Engine running loudly during highway driving; Timing chain failure causing catastrophic engine damage; Engine seizing without warning; Vehicle stalling on highway due to timing chain failure; No warning lights before timing chain failure
Codes mentioned: P0016
Repairs/costs cited: Timing chain replacement cost $2,300 at one dealer. Complete engine replacement necessary in catastrophic failure cases. Service manager documented 'catastrophic engine damage' beyond repair in at least one case.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: GM Service Bulletin 14882 references timing chain issue but only applies to certain VIN numbers and manufacturing plants. Manufacturer declined to apply bulletin to same model/year vehicles manufactured at different plants despite same components being used. No broader recall issued.
Rear main seal failure and oil leaks
Rear main seal blows out, causing severe oil leaks that require adding 3+ quarts of oil. Service dealership documented 14 vehicles with identical issue on same day and 4 more the next day. GM acknowledges issue but limits warranty to certain manufacturing plants.
When: Cold weather conditions noted as factor; reported across mileage range
Symptoms owners cite: Oil leaking from underneath vehicle; Smoke from engine area; Hesitation upon acceleration; Rear main seal failure
Repairs/costs cited: Rear main seal replacement required. Dealership had to add 3.5 quarts of oil just to move vehicle to service bay.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: GM Service Bulletin 14882 issued but limited to specific VIN numbers from specific manufacturing plants. Manufacturer refused to apply to vehicles manufactured at different plants despite same parts being used. Service manager stated 'if it's a defective part or design it should be fixed on all cars and not just some.'
Fuel economy shortfall
Vehicle fails to achieve EPA-rated fuel economy. Owner reports maximum 22 MPG highway when sticker advertised 32 MPG highway. Shortfall of approximately 10 MPG documented.
When: Throughout ownership
Symptoms owners cite: Significantly lower fuel economy than EPA window sticker indicated; 22 MPG highway versus 32 MPG advertised
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No manufacturer response documented regarding fuel economy claims.
Transfer case failure
Transfer case fails, producing grinding noise that worsens rapidly. Repair cost $2,400 after warranty expiration. Dealership confirmed transfer case failure.
When: After warranty expiration; reported at 6+ years of ownership
Symptoms owners cite: Slight grinding noise when turning right; Grinding noise worsens dramatically to extremely loud within 2 hours; Noise sounds like entire engine falling out
Repairs/costs cited: Transfer case replacement/repair cost $2,400 out of warranty.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No warranty coverage for transfer case repair after warranty expiration.
Engine power loss and dashboard warning lights
Vehicle experiences sudden loss of engine power triggering 'reduced engine power' warning light. Engine shakes severely. Vehicle may need restart to recover power. Power loss occurs at highway speeds creating safety hazard.
When: Intermittent throughout ownership; some instances at highway speeds
Symptoms owners cite: Reduced engine power warning light illuminates; Sudden loss of engine power at highway speeds; Severe engine shaking; Service stabilitrak warning light on; AC off due to high engine temperature warning; Temperature gauge malfunction (stuck below normal)
Repairs/costs cited: Multiple restarts required to regain power. No repairs documented as successful in resolving issue.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No documented manufacturer response to power loss issue.
CV axle defect and loss of vehicle control
Left CV axle corroded and replaced at dealer. Replacement axle malfunctioned within 30 minutes of delivery. Vehicle lost all control including brakes and steering. Vehicle rolled even with parking brake applied.
When: After dealer service work
Symptoms owners cite: Pop noise after CV axle replacement; Complete loss of vehicle control; Loss of brake function; Loss of power steering; Vehicle continues rolling in park position; Loud noise from vehicle
Repairs/costs cited: New CV axle was defective/malfunctioned. Vehicle had to be returned to dealership for assessment.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealership identified CV axle malfunction but no broader action documented.
Fuel pump failure
Fuel pump fails causing vehicle issues. Recall issued for fuel pump but issue may have broader implications given transmission and stalling problems that persist after recall service.
When: Early in vehicle ownership
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle issues requiring fuel pump replacement; Fuel pump recall service performed
Repairs/costs cited: Fuel pump replaced under recall; dealer stated recall resolved one issue but jerking persisted.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Fuel pump recall issued and service performed at dealership.
Synthesized from 69 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 1 most recent
Ok so my 2011 GMC terrain just went over 150,000 miles I bought this vehicle used from a dealership not knowing that there was a big lawsuit or that GMC continuted making this make and model knowing that it had a oil usage problem. So mmm mmm with that being said let's start with my vehicle uses oil, my vehicle idles high low and always rough at times, my service stabilitrak flashes, my motor…
Had powertrain trouble with your 2011 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 powertrain problem on the 2011 GMC Terrain?
It's a meaningful issue. 69 complaints have been filed and the failure mode causes operational problems for owners. Repairs average $2,500.
At what mileage does the powertrain typically fail?
Across the 52 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most powertrain failures cluster between 47,000 and 116,649 miles, with the median around 80,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 47,000; a quarter make it past 116,649. 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 $2,500 for powertrain 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 powertrain?
No active recalls currently cover powertrain 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/2011/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.