The 2018 GMC Terrain represents GM's second-generation crossover on the D2 platform. While the 1.5L turbo is common and generally serviceable, catastrophic engine failures — particularly on the 1.5L and 2.0L turbo four-cylinders — have become a documented pattern, alongside transmission cooling and driveline concerns.
Symptoms: Sudden severe knocking or rattling from engine bay, Metal shavings in oil, oil pressure warnings, Complete engine seizure or rod through block in worst cases, Often no prior warning — catastrophic failure mode
Fix: Short block replacement or complete engine swap typical. 16-24 labor hours depending on AWD and accessibility. GM had extended warranty coverage on some VINs but many owners stuck with bill. Root cause debated — oil consumption, LSPI (low-speed pre-ignition), or PCV system issues.
Estimated cost: $7,000-12,000
Transmission Oil Cooler Lines Leaking/Failure
Common · medium severity
Typical onset: 50,000-90,000 mi
Symptoms: Transmission fluid leaking near radiator or front of vehicle, Transmission overheating warning on dash, Burnt smell after highway driving, Pink fluid pooling under vehicle
Fix: Replace cooler lines and possibly external transmission cooler. 2-4 hours labor. Lines corrode or crack at fittings. If caught early, no internal trans damage. If overheated badly, expect transmission rebuild.
Estimated cost: $400-800
Driveshaft Coupling/U-Joint Failure (AWD models)
Occasional · high severity
Typical onset: 40,000-80,000 mi
Symptoms: Clunking or vibration during acceleration, Loud bang followed by loss of power to rear wheels, Driveshaft separation in extreme cases (recall issued), Check AWD system warning light
Fix: Driveshaft replacement, often under recall. 2-3 hours labor if not covered. GM recall 19V-699 covered many units. If coupling fails catastrophically, can damage underbody or cause loss of control.
Estimated cost: $800-1,400
Electronic Parking Brake Caliper Seizure
Occasional · medium severity
Typical onset: 30,000-70,000 mi
Symptoms: Parking brake won't release, 'Service Parking Brake' message, Rear brake drag, burning smell from rear wheels, Premature rear pad/rotor wear on one side, ABS/traction control warnings
Fix: Replace electronic parking brake caliper assembly. 1.5-2 hours per side. Often requires dealer scan tool to retract caliper motor. Moisture intrusion into caliper motor common cause. Recall 20V-074 covered some units.
Estimated cost: $600-1,000
Fuel Pump Failure (Recall)
Occasional · high severity
Symptoms: Engine stalling at speed without warning, No-start condition, cranks but won't fire, Loss of power under load or highway speeds, Fuel pressure codes (P0087, P0190)
Symptoms: Harsh shifts or delay when accelerating from stop, Shudder or vibration at 30-50 mph under light throttle, Transmission slipping between gears, hunting for ratio, Check engine light with P0700-series codes
Fix: Often requires TCM software update first (1 hour labor at dealer). If persistent, torque converter replacement or valve body work. 9-speed transmission in these is notorious for calibration issues. Fluid flush can help temporarily but rarely fixes root cause.
Estimated cost: $150-3,500
Owner tips
Check engine oil level every 1,000 miles — these 1.5L/2.0L turbos are known for consumption even when healthy
Use TOP TIER fuel and avoid lugging engine below 2,000 RPM under load to reduce LSPI risk
Verify all recalls completed, especially driveshaft (19V-699), fuel pump (N202313880), and parking brake (20V-074)
Change transmission fluid at 50,000 mi regardless of 'lifetime fill' claims — critical for 9-speed longevity
Have pre-purchase inspection specifically check for oil leaks, metal in oil, and transmission cooler line condition
Hard pass unless you find a screaming deal and have a comprehensive warranty — the engine failure risk alone makes this a gamble, and the 9-speed transmission has a troubled reputation across GM's lineup.
AI-assisted summary drawn from NHTSA recall data, our labor-times database, and platform knowledge. Not a substitute for a pre-purchase inspection on a specific vehicle.
Fitment notes: AGM battery required for start-stop system; located under hood
As an Amazon Associate, OLP earns from qualifying purchases — how we link. This never changes the specs we publish.
Every control module on the 2018-2024 GMC Terrain — where it lives, replacement time, and what it takes to program a replacement. Modules marked dealer / factory tool won't work after a part swap alone — budget for programming.
📍 9-speed automatic: integrated with valve body inside transmission (TEHCM - Transmission Electro-Hydraulic Control Module)
🔧 GM SPS via GDS2/MDI or MDI 2
⚠️ Requires transmission pan removal, fluid drain, and valve body disassembly. VIN programming, adaptive relearn, and security gateway authentication required. 9-speed transmission standard across all models.
Body Control Module (BCM)2.8 hr R&Rdealer / factory tool +1.0 hr▸ programming details
📍 Behind center of instrument panel, above center console, mounted to HVAC plenum bracket
🔧 GM SPS via GDS2/MDI or MDI 2
⚠️ Requires instrument panel top cover removal. VIN programming, theft deterrent relearn, security gateway authentication, and security linking with ECM/SDM required. All power accessories and options must be reconfigured. Critical security module.
Electric Power Steering Control Module (EPSCM)2.2 hr R&Rdealer / factory tool +0.5 hr▸ programming details
📍 Integrated with electric power steering motor assembly on steering column, below instrument panel
🔧 GM SPS via GDS2/MDI or MDI 2
⚠️ Steering column must be partially disassembled. VIN programming, steering angle sensor calibration, and security gateway authentication required after replacement.
📍 Behind center of instrument panel, near BCM, mounted to HVAC plenum
🔧 GM SPS via GDS2/MDI or MDI 2 with security access
⚠️ VIN programming and security gateway authentication required. Controls security access to all modules on vehicle network. Critical security module. Replacement requires dealer-level tools in most cases.
📍 Behind center of instrument panel, near radio, mounted to HVAC plenum
🔧 GM SPS via GDS2/MDI or MDI 2
⚠️ Camera calibration and dynamic guidelines configuration required. Processes feeds from four cameras (front, rear, both mirrors). Rear camera standard on all models; surround vision optional.
OnStar Communication Module / Vehicle Communication Interface Module (VCIM)1.8 hr R&Rsecurity gateway +0.6 hr▸ programming details
📍 Behind center stack, above radio assembly, mounted to HVAC plenum
🔧 GM SPS via GDS2/MDI or MDI 2 with security access
⚠️ VIN programming, security gateway authentication, and OnStar account linking required. Security-critical module. 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot capability. Aftermarket tools have very limited success.
Remote Control Door Lock Receiver (RCDLR)1.8 hr R&Rsecurity gateway +0.5 hr▸ programming details
📍 Behind center of instrument panel, near BCM, mounted to HVAC plenum
🔧 GM SPS via GDS2/MDI or MDI 2 with security access
⚠️ VIN programming and security gateway authentication required. Handles remote keyless entry, remote start, and push-button start signals. Security-linked with BCM and gateway. Aftermarket tools have limited success.
Fuel Pump Control Module (FPCM)1.8 hr R&Rno coding▸ programming details
📍 Under vehicle, mounted to fuel tank top, integrated with fuel pump assembly
⚠️ Fuel tank must be lowered. Fuel system depressurization required. Module controls variable fuel pump speed based on ECM commands.
📍 Engine compartment, driver side frame rail near strut tower, integrated with ABS hydraulic unit
🔧 GDS2/MDI or Autel/Launch
⚠️ Brake system bleeding required. Automated bleed procedure via scan tool recommended. StabiliTrak, traction control, and hill start assist integrated. Electronic parking brake control on some models.
📍 Behind left side of instrument panel, near BCM location
🔧 GDS2/MDI or Autel/Launch
⚠️ Trailer brake gain calibration required. Integrates with EBCM for coordinated braking. Trailer sway control and trailer tire pressure monitoring on some models.
Forward Collision Alert / Adaptive Cruise Control Module (FCA/ACC)1.5 hr R&Rdealer / factory tool +0.8 hrwith Forward Collision Alert or Adaptive Cruise Control (SLT/Denali trims)▸ programming details
📍 Behind front grille, center, mounted to radiator support
🔧 GM SPS via GDS2/MDI or MDI 2
⚠️ Radar calibration and aiming required after replacement. Requires specific alignment equipment. Controls forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and following distance indicator. Lane keep assist uses camera in mirror.
📍 Engine compartment, driver side firewall, mounted to bracket below brake master cylinder
🔧 GM SPS via GDS2/MDI or MDI 2
⚠️ VIN programming, theft deterrent relearn, and security gateway authentication required. 1.5L turbo and 2.0L turbo engines use different ECM hardware.
Infotainment Control Module / Radio (ICM)1.2 hr R&Rdealer / factory tool +0.5 hr▸ programming details
📍 Behind center stack, integrated with touchscreen display assembly
🔧 GM SPS via GDS2/MDI or MDI 2
⚠️ VIN programming and security gateway authentication required. 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen depending on trim. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard. OnStar and navigation features require activation.
Liftgate Control Module (LGM)1.2 hr R&Raftermarket tool +0.3 hrwith power liftgate▸ programming details
📍 Inside liftgate, driver side, behind interior trim panel
🔧 GDS2/MDI or Autel/Launch
⚠️ Liftgate position relearn and height programming required after replacement. Hands-free operation standard on most trims with power liftgate.
📍 Center console, below center stack, mounted to floor tunnel
🔧 GM SPS via GDS2/MDI or MDI 2 with security access
⚠️ VIN programming and security gateway authentication required. Security-linked with BCM. Crash data retrieval capability. Wait 2 minutes after battery disconnect before handling. Aftermarket tools have limited success.
Parking Assist Control Module (PACM)1.0 hr R&Raftermarket tool +0.3 hrwith front/rear park assist▸ programming details
📍 Behind rear bumper fascia, center, mounted to bumper reinforcement
🔧 GDS2/MDI or Autel/Launch
⚠️ Sensor calibration required after replacement. Front and rear park assist standard on most trims. Integrates with surround vision on equipped models.
Door Control Module (DCM)1.0 hr R&Raftermarket tool +0.2 hr▸ programming details
📍 Inside each front door, lower section, behind door trim panel
🔧 GDS2/MDI or Autel/Launch
⚠️ Window auto-up/down calibration required. One module per front door. Memory seat functions may require additional programming.
⚠️ VIN programming and security gateway authentication required. Mileage transfer from old module required by law. Digital cluster on higher trims. Theft deterrent relearn may be needed.
Headlamp Control Module (HCM)0.8 hr R&Raftermarket tool +0.2 hrwith LED or HID headlamps▸ programming details
📍 Engine compartment, behind driver side headlamp assembly
🔧 GDS2/MDI or Autel/Launch
⚠️ Headlamp aim calibration may be required. Controls adaptive lighting functions on equipped models. Standard halogen headlamps do not use this module.
⚠️ Seat position calibration required. Integrates with driver door module for memory recall. Heated and ventilated seat functions integrated.
Tire Pressure Monitor Control Module (TPMS)no coding▸ programming details
📍 Function integrated into BCM; no separate module
⚠️ TPMS sensor programming handled by BCM. Sensor relearn required after tire rotation or replacement.
Aftermarket tool coverage varies by software version and vehicle build — treat "aftermarket tool" rows as "usually possible" and verify against your tool maker's coverage list before promising a customer. Spot a wrong location or hour? Tell us — corrections ship fast here.
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Chevrolet Cruze and Buick LaCrosse, 2018-2020 Chevrolet Equinox, Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Terrain, 2018 Chevrolet Malibu, 2019-2020 Buick Encore, Buick Enclave, Cadillac XT4, Chevrolet Blazer and GMC Acadia, and 2020 Cadillac XT6 vehicles. The start/stop accumulator endcap may have missing bolts.
Consequence: Missing bolts on the start-stop accumulator endcap could result in a transmission oil leak and may progress to a loss of propulsion, increasing the risk of a crash. A transmission fluid leak in the presence of an ignition source may increase the risk of fire.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the start-stop transmission accumulator and replace it if any bolts are missing, free of charge. The recall began December 15, 2020. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Buick Customer service at 1-866-608-8080, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N202313440.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER · 18V576000
2018-08-30
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Chevrolet Equinox, Impala, Cruze, Volt and Bolt EV vehicles, GMC Terrain vehicles, Buick Lacrosse and Regal vehicles, Cadillac XTS and XTS Professional vehicles and 2018 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles. The rear brake caliper pistons may have an insufficient coating causing gas pockets to form, potentially reducing rear brake performance.
Consequence: A reduction of braking performance can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will bleed the vehicle's brake system, free of charge. The recall began October 11, 2018. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is 18279.
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2015-2018 GMC Canyon, 2016-2017 Buick Envision, 2016-2018 Chevrolet Colorado and Malibu, 2017-2018 GMC Acadia, 2018 Buick LaCrosse, Cadillac ATS, Chevrolet Equinox, and GMC Terrain vehicles. The high pressure fuel pump may detach from its mounting flange, possibly resulting in the pump damaging the high pressure fuel line.
Consequence: A damaged fuel line can create a fuel leak, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the high pressure fuel pump, and high pressure fuel pipe, free of charge. The recall began July 2, 2018. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is 18188.
AIR BAGS: AIR BAG/RESTRAINT CONTROL MODULE · 18V340000
2018-05-24
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018 GMC Terrain vehicles. The sensing diagnostic module (SDM) that senses a crash and deploys the necessary air bags may not power down correctly when the vehicle is shut off, causing it to be inoperative when the vehicle is restarted.
Consequence: If the SDM becomes inoperative, it will not detect a crash or command the necessary air bag deployment, increasing the risk of injury in the event of a crash.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the SDM with updated software, free of charge. The recall began June 29, 2018. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is 18179.
POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT · 17V516000
2017-08-22
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain vehicles and 2017-2018 GMC Acadia vehicles. The right front intermediate driveshaft may fracture and separate while driving.
Consequence: If the front right intermediate drive shaft assembly separates while driving, the vehicle will lose propulsion, increasing the risk of a crash. If the assembly separates while parked on a grade, without the park brake engaged, the vehicle may move unintentionally, increasing the risk of a vehicle roll-away.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the right front intermediate drive shaft assembly, free of charge. The recall began August 25, 2017. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is 17329.
Performance
Horsepower
170hp
Torque
203lb-ft
0–60 mph
9.2sec
Quarter mile
16.9sec
Top speed
112mph
Capability & size
Towing capacity
1,500lb
Payload
1,200lb
Curb weight
3,450lb
Wiper blades
Second generation (2018+). Redesigned model with different wiper sizes. J-hook attachment standard.
Size-standard part numbers — verify your connector type before buying. Rear blades are model-specific; check the package's vehicle list.
Fuel economy figures are EPA data via fueleconomy.gov (median across matching trims). Performance figures are compiled estimates for the 2018 GMC Terrain 1.5L I4 Turbo and can vary by trim.
🔧 Database maintained under the daily editorial review of Chris Hackleman · Master Technician · 20+ years and Jeff Moore · Master Lexus & Toyota Mechanic · 20+ years.