2021 GMC Terrain recalls, problems & safety ratings
NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2021 GMC Terrain and 36 owner complaints. The most-reported problem areas are engine (10), service brakes (8), power train (8). It earned a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating. EPA-rated fuel economy is 26–27 mpg combined, depending on configuration.
The 2021 ranks #3 of 15 Terrain model years for fewest complaints (2012–2026), with fewer complaints than the average year (168). It has 2 recalls vs. an average of 2.2 per model year.
Recalls 2
Every recall NHTSA lists for the 2021 GMC Terrain. Not every recall applies to every vehicle, so check your VIN. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer.
Child seat · vehicle latch anchor
Problem: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain vehicles. The four rear-seat lower child seat LATCH anchorage bars may have excessive powder coating, which could prevent a child seat from being installed with the anchorage bars. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 225, "Child Restraint Anchorage Systems."
Risk: The inability to install a child seat with the LATCH anchorage bars could result in an unsecured child seat, increasing the risk of injury in a crash.
Fix: Owners are advised to install child seats using the vehicle's rear seat belts until the remedy is complete. Dealers will inspect the latch anchorage bars, and remove and replace the finish, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 2, 2023. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N232403240.
Tires
Problem: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain vehicles equipped with certain Hankook tires. The tires may have been manufactured with an insufficient amount of curative agent, which could cause tread separation.
Risk: Tread separation can result in a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will inspect the tire DOT numbers, and replace any affected tires, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on August 31, 2021. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782; and Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N212343560.
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
I have had my check engine light come on for P0299. I've lost power while on the road. Had my turbo replaced and now the same issue is starting again. I'm afraid of my car stalling out again with my child in the car. This is a definite safety issue especially since this is happening again months after getting the new turbo put in.
Vehicle Information:Year/Make/Model: 2021 GMC TerrainEngine Type: 1.5L Turbocharged EngineCurrent Mileage: 155,000 miles [1]Description of Safety Defect:I am writing to report a severe, sudden engine and turbocharger failure on my 2021 GMC Terrain that presents an extreme, life-threatening safety hazard. While operating the vehicle in active traffic, the engine began flashing…
Vacuum pump failure caused my brakes to lock up and almost caused me to wreck into another vehicle
Safety ratings
2021 GMC Terrain SUV AWD
2021 GMC Terrain SUV FWD
Fuel economy
EPA ratings for common configurations of the 2021 GMC Terrain.
Terrain AWD
Auto 9-spd · 4 cyl · 1.5 L · Turbo
Regular
Terrain FWD
Auto 9-spd · 4 cyl · 1.5 L · Turbo
Regular
Other model years
Questions
How many recalls does the 2021 GMC Terrain have?
NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2021 GMC Terrain, most recently for child seat · vehicle latch anchor (05/11/2023). 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 2021 GMC Terrain?
Based on 36 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported areas are engine (10), service brakes (8), power train (8).
Is the 2021 GMC Terrain safe?
The 2021 GMC Terrain earned a 5-star overall rating in NHTSA's 5-star safety ratings.
Is the 2021 a good year for the GMC Terrain?
The 2021 ranks #3 of 15 Terrain model years for fewest complaints (2012–2026), with fewer complaints than the average year (168). It has 2 recalls vs. an average of 2.2 per model year.
What gas mileage does the 2021 GMC Terrain get?
EPA ratings for the 2021 GMC Terrain range from 26 to 27 mpg combined, depending on configuration.
Own a 2021 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.