2016 Gmc Terrain Safety Report
2016 GMC Terrain: Good Crash Ratings, but Significant Engine and Wiper Failure Complaints Raise Safety Concerns
AI Safety Analysis for the 2016 Gmc Terrain
Reliability Score
The 2016 Gmc Terrain receives a reliability score of 55 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2016 Gmc Terrain
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2016 Gmc Terrain:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Windshield Wiper Failure Wipers suddenly stop working, often during rain, due to motor or linkage failure, severely impairing visibility and increasing crash risk. |
High | Common | variable miles |
| Excessive Oil Consumption / Engine Failure Engine consumes oil at an abnormal rate, often without warning lights, leading to low oil, stalling, reduced power, or complete engine failure. |
High | Common | 30000-80000 miles |
| Airbag Non-Deployment Airbags failed to deploy in reported crashes, despite significant vehicle damage, increasing injury risk. |
High | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Sudden Stalling / Loss Of Motive Power Vehicle unexpectedly shuts off while driving, often in traffic, leading to loss of power and potential rear-end collisions. |
High | Occasional | variable miles |
| Steering Wheel Locking Steering wheel locks completely while the car is in motion, preventing turning for several seconds. |
High | Rare | variable miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2016 Gmc Terrain:
Frequent reports of windshield wipers failing unexpectedly, often during adverse weather conditions, leading to loss of visibility.
Numerous complaints about excessive oil consumption, engine stalling, reduced power, and complete engine failure.
Issues related to exterior lights, including a recall for headlight glare affecting other drivers.
Several reports of airbags failing to deploy during crashes, despite significant impact.
Complaints related to transmission issues, including codes indicating transmission problems and rough driving.
Reports of steering issues, including the steering wheel locking while driving.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2016 Gmc Terrain
Is the 2016 GMC Terrain safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2016 GMC Terrain received good crash test ratings (4-star Overall, 5-star Side), but has a concerning number of owner complaints (144 total, 9 crashes, 9 injuries). Key safety concerns include frequent windshield wiper failures, excessive oil consumption leading to engine stalls, and reports of airbags not deploying in crashes.
What are common problems with the 2016 GMC Terrain?
The most reported issues for the 2016 GMC Terrain are related to 'VISIBILITY/WIPER' (44 complaints), primarily sudden windshield wiper failures, and 'ENGINE' (31 complaints), often involving excessive oil consumption leading to engine problems or stalling. Other concerns include airbag non-deployment and steering issues.
Are there any recalls for the 2016 GMC Terrain?
Yes, the 2016 GMC Terrain has two recalls. One is for 'EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS' (NHTSA Campaign Number 19V761000) due to potential glare for other drivers, and the other is for 'EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS' (NHTSA Campaign Number 15V804000) concerning incorrect tire/rim size information on the certification label.
How does the 2016 GMC Terrain perform in crash tests?
The 2016 GMC Terrain performed well in NHTSA crash tests, receiving an Overall 4-star rating. It earned 4 stars for Frontal crash, 5 stars for Side crash, and 4 stars for Rollover resistance.
Is excessive oil consumption a known issue for the 2016 GMC Terrain?
Yes, excessive oil consumption is a frequently reported and significant issue for the 2016 GMC Terrain, falling under the 'ENGINE' complaint category. Owners report the vehicle burning through oil rapidly, often without dashboard warnings, leading to engine damage, stalling, and loss of power.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Prospective buyers should be aware of the significant reported issues with windshield wipers and engine oil consumption. Thoroughly inspect service records for engine oil consumption and wiper system maintenance, and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2016 Gmc Terrain
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2016 Gmc Terrain. The data includes 144 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 2 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 9 reported crashes, 9 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2016 Gmc Terrain an overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.