2017 GMC Terrain recalls, problems & safety ratings
NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2017 GMC Terrain and 135 owner complaints. The most-reported problem areas are engine (79), power train (24), unknown or other (20). It earned a 4-star overall NHTSA safety rating. EPA-rated fuel economy is 18–25 mpg combined, depending on configuration.
The 2017 ranks #7 of 15 Terrain model years for fewest complaints (2012–2026), with fewer complaints than the average year (168). It has 1 recall vs. an average of 2.2 per model year.
Recalls 1
Every recall NHTSA lists for the 2017 GMC Terrain. Not every recall applies to every vehicle, so check your VIN. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer.
Exterior lighting · headlights
Problem: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2010-2017 GMC Terrain vehicles. A reflection caused by the headlight housings may illuminate areas above the vehicle and outside of the driver's view with excessively bright light. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Risk: The bright reflection may cause a glare for other drivers, reducing their visibility and increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will install headlamp appliques, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 8, 2022. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N222363740.
Common problems
From complaints owners filed with NHTSA. Complaints aren't verified, but patterns across hundreds of owners point to known weak spots.
Most-reported problem areas
By the numbers
Recent owner reports
Timing Chain driving, clanging noise while driving on I-475 expressway near Perrysburg exit
I bought this 2017 used on XXX I have had to put 1 quart of oil in the car every 500 miles. Because it burns oil like crazy. And now at this point, the transmission has just quit. I believe they call it the drive train. I am taking it to D and D auto repair in [XXX] on Thursday of this week. GMC knows about the drive train problem as it is common well known problem INFORMATI…
The head unit quit working around 98k. The head unit is the radio, and screen which includes the back up camera. From what we have been told and find online, this is a known problem with them and affects other models as well. For the most part the head unit doesn't work but once in a while, once a month, it comes on but shows the Chevy logo on the screen which is odd because it…
Safety ratings
2017 GMC Terrain SUV AWD
2017 GMC Terrain SUV FWD
Fuel economy
EPA ratings for common configurations of the 2017 GMC Terrain.
Terrain AWD
Auto 6-spd · 4 cyl · 2.4 L
Regular
Terrain AWD
Auto 6-spd · 6 cyl · 3.6 L
Regular
Terrain FWD
Auto 6-spd · 4 cyl · 2.4 L · SIDI
Regular
Terrain FWD
Auto 6-spd · 6 cyl · 3.6 L · SIDI
Regular
Other model years
Questions
How many recalls does the 2017 GMC Terrain have?
NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2017 GMC Terrain, most recently for exterior lighting · headlights (03/08/2022). Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer. Enter your VIN to check whether a recall applies to your vehicle.
What are the most common problems with the 2017 GMC Terrain?
Based on 135 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported areas are engine (79), power train (24), unknown or other (20).
Is the 2017 GMC Terrain safe?
The 2017 GMC Terrain earned a 4-star overall rating in NHTSA's 5-star safety ratings.
Is the 2017 a good year for the GMC Terrain?
The 2017 ranks #7 of 15 Terrain model years for fewest complaints (2012–2026), with fewer complaints than the average year (168). It has 1 recall vs. an average of 2.2 per model year.
What gas mileage does the 2017 GMC Terrain get?
EPA ratings for the 2017 GMC Terrain range from 18 to 25 mpg combined, depending on configuration.
Own a 2017 GMC Terrain in South Carolina?
Our mobile mechanics diagnose and fix the problems above at your home, office or fleet lot in Lexington, Columbia and the Midlands, with dealer-grade scan tools.
Related vehicles
Sources: NHTSA recalls, complaints and 5-Star Safety Ratings APIs; EPA fueleconomy.gov. Data retrieved November 2, 2026. NHTSA model names used: TERRAIN, Terrain.