2019 Gmc Terrain Safety Report
2019 GMC Terrain: Strong Crash Ratings, but Persistent Transmission and Brake Complaints Raise Safety Concerns
AI Safety Analysis for the 2019 Gmc Terrain
Reliability Score
The 2019 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 2019 Gmc Terrain
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2019 Gmc Terrain:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cvt Transmission Failure/Slippage Owners report transmissions unexpectedly shifting into neutral, slipping, or failing completely, leading to loss of propulsion and stranding vehicles in traffic. This is supported by 17 'POWER TRAIN' complaints and a recall for transmission oil leaks leading to loss of propulsion. |
High | Common | 22000-91669 miles |
| Brake Vacuum Pump Failure Multiple complaints describe sudden loss of braking power due to vacuum pump failure, resulting in a hard brake pedal and increased stopping distances, significantly raising crash risk. Some reports indicate the pump 'exploded' causing engine damage. |
High | Common | unknown miles |
| Reduced Engine Power/Engine Stall Drivers experience sudden 'reduced engine power' warnings, engine stalls, or the vehicle going into 'limp mode' while driving, often accompanied by check engine lights. This is linked to 'ENGINE' complaints (15 total) and sometimes to vacuum pump failure. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Backup Camera Failure The backup camera frequently displays a blue screen with a 'Service Rear Vision System' message, rendering it inoperable. This is a common complaint pattern, though less critical than powertrain or brake issues. |
Low | Occasional | unknown miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2019 Gmc Terrain:
Frequent reports of brake failure, hard brake pedal, and reduced braking performance, often linked to vacuum pump issues. There are 19 complaints specifically for 'SERVICE BRAKES' and a recall for brake caliper issues.
Numerous complaints about transmission slipping, unexpected shifts to neutral, and complete transmission failure, leading to loss of propulsion. This is supported by 17 'POWER TRAIN' complaints and a recall.
Issues include reduced engine power, engine stalls, and check engine lights, sometimes related to vacuum pump failure or turbocharger problems. There are 15 'ENGINE' complaints.
A significant number of complaints where brake failure is directly linked to engine components, specifically the vacuum pump, causing both braking and potential engine damage. This category has 12 complaints.
Primarily relates to the common failure of the backup camera, displaying a blue screen or 'Service Rear Vision System' message, impairing rear visibility. There are 7 complaints in this category.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2019 Gmc Terrain
Is the 2019 GMC Terrain safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2019 GMC Terrain received excellent 5-star overall crash test ratings. However, it has 167 owner complaints, including 7 crashes and 12 injuries, with recurring issues related to transmission failure and sudden loss of braking power due to vacuum pump problems. There have also been 3 safety recalls addressing critical components.
What are common problems with the 2019 GMC Terrain?
The most reported issues for the 2019 GMC Terrain are related to the 'SERVICE BRAKES' (19 complaints), 'POWER TRAIN' (17 complaints), and 'ENGINE' (15 complaints). Specific common problems include transmission slipping or failure, sudden loss of braking due to vacuum pump failure, and 'reduced engine power' warnings.
Has the 2019 GMC Terrain had any recalls?
Yes, the 2019 GMC Terrain has had 3 recalls. These include a recall for potential transmission oil leaks leading to loss of propulsion, insufficient welds on the rear-right seat head-restraint bracket, and issues with brake calipers that could reduce braking performance.
Are there any known transmission issues with the 2019 GMC Terrain?
Yes, there are significant known transmission issues. Owners report the transmission unexpectedly shifting into neutral, slipping, or failing completely, leading to loss of propulsion. This is reflected in 17 'POWER TRAIN' complaints and was also addressed by a recall concerning transmission oil leaks.
What should I know about the brakes on a 2019 GMC Terrain?
Brake issues are a major concern for the 2019 GMC Terrain. There are 19 'SERVICE BRAKES' complaints, with many describing sudden loss of braking power due to vacuum pump failure, resulting in a hard brake pedal. There was also a recall for brake caliper issues that could reduce braking performance.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Despite strong crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of the significant and recurring complaints regarding transmission failures and critical brake system issues, and factor in the cost of potential repairs or extended warranties.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2019 Gmc Terrain
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2019 Gmc Terrain. The data includes 167 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 3 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 7 reported crashes, 3 fire incidents, 12 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2019 Gmc Terrain an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 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.