2020 Gmc Terrain Safety Report

2020 GMC Terrain: Strong Crash Ratings Mask Significant Brake and Engine Complaint Patterns

164Complaints
2Recalls
★★★★★Safety Rating
55/100Reliability Score
7Crash Reports
1Fire Reports
5Injuries
Most reported components: Service Brakes (30)Unknown Or Other (16)Engine (11)Electrical System (10)Power Train (9)Service Brakes,Engine (7)Fuel/Propulsion System (6)Service Brakes, Hydraulic (5)Fuel System, Gasoline (4)Power Train,Electrical System,Engine (4)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2020 Gmc Terrain

The 2020 GMC Terrain presents a mixed safety profile. While it boasts excellent crash test performance with 5-star overall, frontal, and side ratings from NHTSA, and a respectable 4-star rollover rating, its complaint data reveals significant concerns, particularly regarding the braking system and engine. With 164 total complaints, 7 crashes, 1 fire, and 5 injuries reported, there's a notable pattern of critical component failures. The most frequently reported issues are related to 'SERVICE BRAKES' (30 complaints) and 'ENGINE' (11 complaints), often involving sudden loss of braking assist or catastrophic engine failure, which are severe safety hazards. Recall history includes two significant issues: one for 'CHILD SEAT:VEHICLE LATCH ANCHOR' which could prevent proper child seat installation, and another for 'POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION' due to missing bolts that could lead to a loss of propulsion. These recalls address fundamental safety aspects, and it's crucial for owners to ensure these have been remedied. The high number of brake-related complaints, often describing a sudden loss of power assist and extremely hard brake pedals, directly correlates with potential crash risks, as evidenced by some of the reported crashes. Engine issues, including sudden stalls and reduced power mode, also pose a substantial risk, especially at highway speeds. Overall, while the vehicle performs well in controlled crash tests, the real-world complaint data suggests potential reliability and safety vulnerabilities in critical systems like braking and propulsion. The frequency and severity of these reported issues, despite the relatively low number of recalls for such widespread problems, warrant careful consideration for current owners and potential buyers. The 5 injuries and 7 crashes reported underscore the tangible risks associated with these failures.

Reliability Score

The 2020 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 2020 Gmc Terrain

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2020 Gmc Terrain:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Brake Assist System Failure
Sudden loss of brake assist, leading to an extremely hard brake pedal and extended stopping distances. Often accompanied by 'service brake assist system' alerts and check engine lights. Multiple reports of vacuum pump and brake booster failures.		 High Common variable miles
Engine Failure/Stalling
Catastrophic engine failure, sudden stalling at various speeds, reduced engine power mode, and issues like intercooler failure or P0299 underboost code. Some reports indicate no warning lights prior to failure.		 High Occasional 30000-110000 miles
Transmission Issues (Loss Of Propulsion)
Vehicle losing motive power, stalling, or failing to accelerate. One recall specifically addresses missing bolts on the start-stop accumulator endcap leading to potential oil leaks and loss of propulsion.		 High Occasional variable miles
Child Seat Latch Anchor Defect
Excessive powder coating on rear-seat lower child seat LATCH anchorage bars may prevent proper child seat installation, increasing injury risk in a crash. Subject of a recall.		 Medium Rare new miles
Electrical System Malfunctions
Intermittent airbag warning light (B0014 code), loss of dashboard displays (speedometer, gauges, wipers), and issues with the automatic theft deterrent system activating unexpectedly.		 Medium Occasional variable miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2020 Gmc Terrain:

Service Brakes 18% of complaints

Frequent reports of brake assist failure, hard brake pedal, and extended stopping distances, often linked to vacuum pump or brake booster issues.

Engine 7% of complaints

Issues ranging from sudden stalling, reduced power mode, intercooler problems, and catastrophic engine failure without warning.

Power Train 5% of complaints

Problems with transmission, including loss of propulsion, difficulty accelerating, and a recall for missing transmission bolts.

Electrical System 6% of complaints

Malfunctions including airbag warning lights, dashboard display failures, and issues with the automatic theft deterrent system.

Fuel/Propulsion System 4% of complaints

Reports of fuel pump control module (FPCM) failure leading to unexpected stalling.

Unknown Or Other 10% of complaints

A significant number of complaints categorized as 'unknown or other' suggests diverse, less common but potentially serious issues not fitting neatly into other categories.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2020 Gmc Terrain

Is the 2020 GMC Terrain safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2020 GMC Terrain received excellent crash test ratings (5-star overall, frontal, and side, 4-star rollover). However, it has a notable number of owner complaints (164 total), including 7 crashes and 5 injuries, primarily concerning critical failures in the service brakes and engine systems. While it performs well in controlled crash scenarios, real-world reliability of these components is a concern.

What are common problems with the 2020 GMC Terrain?

The most reported issues for the 2020 GMC Terrain are related to the 'SERVICE BRAKES' (30 complaints), often involving sudden loss of brake assist and hard pedals. 'ENGINE' problems (11 complaints), including stalling and catastrophic failure, are also common. Other significant complaints involve the 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM' and 'POWER TRAIN', with some leading to loss of propulsion.

Are there any recalls for the 2020 GMC Terrain?

Yes, the 2020 GMC Terrain has two recalls. One addresses 'CHILD SEAT:VEHICLE LATCH ANCHOR' issues where excessive powder coating could prevent proper child seat installation. The second recall is for 'POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION' due to missing bolts that could lead to a transmission oil leak and loss of propulsion. Owners should ensure these recalls have been addressed.

How does the 2020 GMC Terrain perform in crash tests?

The 2020 GMC Terrain received high marks in NHTSA crash tests: a 5-star Overall Safety Rating, 5-star Frontal Crash Rating, 5-star Side Crash Rating, and a 4-star Rollover Rating. This indicates strong performance in protecting occupants during a collision.

Should I buy a used 2020 GMC Terrain?

Given the excellent crash test ratings but significant owner complaints regarding critical components like brakes and engines, potential buyers should proceed with caution. It is highly advisable to ensure all recalls have been completed and to have a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic, specifically checking the braking system, engine, and transmission for any signs of the reported issues.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: While offering strong crash protection, the 2020 GMC Terrain has notable real-world safety concerns regarding brake and engine reliability; ensure all recalls are addressed and get a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection focusing on these critical systems.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2020 Gmc Terrain

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2020 Gmc Terrain. The data includes 164 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 2 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 7 reported crashes, 1 fire incidents, 5 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

The NHTSA has assigned the 2020 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.