The 2019 GMC Terrain (second-gen platform) is plagued by catastrophic 1.5L turbo engine failures and transmission cooler leaks that have ruined otherwise decent compact SUVs. The 2.0L turbo is moderately more reliable, but avoid the 1.5L at all costs.
Symptoms: Sudden metal-on-metal knocking or rattling from engine bay, Check engine light with misfire codes or low oil pressure warning, Loss of power followed by complete engine seizure, Metal debris in oil during changes (if caught early)
Fix: Complete short block or long block replacement required. Piston skirts crack and disintegrate, sending debris through oil system and destroying bearings. Labor runs 18-24 hours for short block, more if heads are damaged. Many shops won't warranty used engines for this application due to high failure rate.
Estimated cost: $6,500-11,000
Transmission Oil Cooler Internal Leak
Common · high severity
Typical onset: 50,000-100,000 mi
Symptoms: Transmission slipping or harsh/delayed shifting, Milky or strawberry-colored transmission fluid (coolant contamination), White smoke from exhaust (coolant burning), Overheating transmission or engine
Fix: Cooler integrated into radiator end tank fails, allowing coolant and ATF to mix. Requires radiator replacement, transmission fluid flush (often multiple times), and frequently transmission overhaul if contamination circulated long enough. Labor 8-12 hours depending on transmission damage. This was subject to recall but many fall outside coverage.
Estimated cost: $2,800-7,500
Turbocharger Wastegate Rattle and Failure
Occasional · medium severity
Typical onset: 60,000-110,000 mi
Symptoms: Metallic rattling on cold start that disappears after 30 seconds, Loss of boost pressure under acceleration, Check engine light with underboost codes (P0299), Turbo whistling or whining noise under load
Fix: Wastegate actuator arms wear or wastegate flapper valve fails to seal. Turbo replacement is typical fix (rebuilds rarely available for these units). Labor 6-8 hours on 1.5L, slightly more on 2.0L due to packaging. Affects both turbo engines but more common on 1.5L.
Estimated cost: $1,800-3,200
Transmission Mount Failure
Common · low severity
Typical onset: 40,000-80,000 mi
Symptoms: Clunking noise during acceleration or deceleration, Excessive vibration at idle in Drive, Shifter jolts when moving from Park to Drive/Reverse, Visible sagging or torn rubber on mount inspection
Fix: Upper transmission mount fails prematurely due to inadequate design for engine torque. Straightforward replacement, 1.5-2.5 hours labor. Recommend replacing both upper and torque strut mount simultaneously as torque strut often fails shortly after.
Estimated cost: $350-650
Electronic Parking Brake Caliper Seizure
Occasional · medium severity
Typical onset: 50,000-90,000 mi
Symptoms: Parking brake warning light stays on, Grinding or dragging from rear wheels, Parking brake won't release or engage properly, Premature rear brake pad wear on one side
Fix: Electronic parking brake actuator motors seize or calipers bind due to corrosion in piston mechanism. Both rear calipers typically need replacement as units (actuators not serviceable separately on most). 3-4 hours labor for both sides including bleeding. More common in rust-belt states.
Estimated cost: $800-1,400
Diesel Particulate Filter Clogging (1.6L Diesel)
Common · medium severity
Typical onset: 40,000-70,000 mi
Symptoms: Check engine light with DPF codes, Reduced power mode (limp mode), Excessive regen cycles or failed regen attempts, Poor fuel economy and black smoke on acceleration
Fix: DPF clogs prematurely on vehicles used for short trips or city driving. Forced regen attempts often fail. DPF cleaning runs 4-6 hours labor, but replacement at $3,000+ parts alone is often needed. This engine is rare in US market but problematic where sold. Not recommended for owners doing frequent short trips.
Estimated cost: $1,200-4,500
Owner tips
If buying used, demand complete engine and transmission service records and avoid any 1.5L turbo with gaps in oil change history
Change transmission fluid every 40,000 mi regardless of 'lifetime fluid' claims—can prevent cooler damage from catching early contamination
On 1.5L engines, use only GM-spec dexos oil and change every 5,000 mi maximum—extended intervals accelerate piston failures
Inspect transmission cooler/radiator for any pink residue in overflow tank quarterly—early warning of cooler leak
Budget $500-800/year for post-warranty repairs on 1.5L models; these are not reliable long-term vehicles
Hard pass on the 1.5L turbo—it's a ticking time bomb; the 2.0L turbo is acceptable if under 60k miles with documented maintenance, but better compact SUVs exist for the money.
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; battery located under hood
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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.
SEATS · 19V184000
2019-03-07
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain vehicles. The rear-right seat may have insufficient welds on the head-restraint bracket.
Consequence: In the event of a crash, the insufficient welds may result in an increased risk of injury for an occupant seated in the rear-right position.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear-right seatback frame, free of charge. The recall began April 15, 2019. 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 N192209550.
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.
Performance
Horsepower
170hp
Torque
203lb-ft
0–60 mph
9.2sec
Quarter mile
16.8sec
Top speed
112mph
Fuel economy (EPA)
City
28mpg
Highway
38mpg
Combined
32mpg
Fuel
Regular Gasoline
Capability & size
Towing capacity
1,500lb
Payload
1,200lb
Curb weight
3,450lb
EPA class
Small Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD
Wiper blades
Second generation (2018+). 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 2019 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.