RoadVitals

2014 GMC Terrain Engine Problems

Owner-reported complaints naming the engine system, filed with NHTSA

Data refreshed

Engine reportsComplaints are reports submitted to NHTSA by owners and drivers. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a complaint does not establish that a defect exists. Volume is influenced by how many of a vehicle were sold, how long it has been on the road, and how much attention an issue has received.
129
Latest Feb 18, 2026
Share of all reportsThis category as a share of every owner report on file for this model year. One report can name more than one component, so the categories overlap.
44%
of 296 total
Crash or fire reportedReports in this category whose submitter recorded that a crash or a fire occurred. The reporter's own answer on the NHTSA form, not a verified finding.
0
Injuries or deaths reportedTotals the submitters entered on their own reports in this category. Not verified by NHTSA and not a casualty statistic.
0

What this page shows

Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components. Every record below is an owner-reported complaint about the 2014 GMC Terrain submitted to NHTSA — not a confirmed defect, not a recall and not a manufacturer bulletin. 129 reports on file name it.

Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.

Owner reports naming engine

The 25 most recent of 129, in the owner's own words

Engine
Filed Feb 18, 2026

My husband just did an at home oil change on the car not long before the incident. Unfortunately my car was barely under 3,000 miles since the oil change and we were going to change the oil again when my engine died mid drive on the way home. There was no oil in the car due to high oil consumption and no coolant either. High oil consumption was not reported and not disclosed to me before and a broken guide for my timing chain leading to total engine failure just after I started to exit the highway. Had my car died any sooner I would have crashed. Or wrecked with another vehicle. GMC and the dealership I got the car from did not properly disclose this safety risk to me when I purchased the car and no recall information was ever sent out. The high oil consumption causing engine failure has been a part of a class action lawsuit for these vehicles before and THAT was not disclosed to me either at any point. No notifications of low oil or other issues aside from a check engine light came on for my vehicle when I was driving. I dont know how fast I was going as I was applying the brakes to my car for a traffic light.

NHTSA ID
11718808
Incident
Feb 16, 2026
EngineFuel system
Filed Jul 21, 2025

I purchased this in March of 2025. 2 or 3 weeks after I bought this I took it to an oil lube shop and they said there was not any oil on the.dip stick. Also I started noticing the car being jerky while driving and when shutting it off it sputters. I took it to Max motors, a GMC dealer for a diagnostic check because it uses a quart of oil a week. They told me the high pressure fuel pump is bad and the piston rings were no good. This was on the 18th of June. I had taken it to the dealer I bought it from and complained about the problems, but he wouldn't do anything about it . The warranty was good at that time. Max motors told me it would cost me about $5000 to fix it which I don't have. I read that there was a recall on these cars with a 2.4L engine for these problems.

NHTSA ID
11675197
Incident
Jul 11, 2025
Engine
Filed Jul 15, 2025

The contact owns a 2014 GMC Terrain. The contact stated that while driving 50 MPH, the vehicle started jerking and hesitating abnormally. A dealer was contacted. The vehicle was towed to a dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the piston rings were damaged, the high-pressure fuel pump had failed, and the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 130,000.

NHTSA ID
11673778
Incident
Apr 5, 2025
Mileage
130,000 mi
Engine
Filed Jul 8, 2025

The contact owns a 2014 GMC Terrain. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact became aware of an abnormal odor coming from the engine compartment, with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the engine failed due to excessive oil consumption. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 125,000.

NHTSA ID
11671932
Incident
Jul 8, 2025
Mileage
125,000 mi
ElectricalEnginePowertrain (other)
Filed Jul 1, 2025

Tensioner issues keeps breaking the timing chain. . Replaced twice at own cost. Fuel pump/ loss of power while driving. Back up camera doesn't work sometimes. Screen goes black. If key is left in the ignition it starts itself. If you try to use a car charger for a phone the AC shuts off and a "systems error" message pops up. This happens alot. It's an ongoing issue since I bought the car in Feburary this year.

NHTSA ID
11670432
Incident
Jun 28, 2025
Body & structureEngine
Filed May 15, 2025

The contact owns a 2014 GMC Terrain. The contact stated that the was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil; however, there were no oil leaks evident. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a certified mechanic who informed the contact that the frame near the rear wheel on the driver's side was completely rusted. The mechanic stated that the vehicle was not safe to drive. The vehicle was not diagnosed for the oil consumption failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 71,000.

NHTSA ID
11661246
Incident
Apr 24, 2025
Mileage
71,000 mi
Engine
Filed May 1, 2025

The contact owns a 2014 GMC Terrain. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact was adding approximately 3-4 quarts of oil every 1,000 miles. The contact was informed by a mechanic that the failure might be related to a defective oil sending unit or piston oil ring. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 50,000.

NHTSA ID
11658263
Incident
Mar 1, 2024
Mileage
50,000 mi
Engine
Filed Apr 9, 2025

It has nothing to do with the headlights. I was told by a couple different technicians that there's an issue with there being a slow oil leak with the GMC Terrains causing the motor/engine to lock up. I get my oil changed religiously! I even have files/reports showing so. It was NOT time for an oil change and my motor locked up. I still have 3 years to pay on my vehicle and it's my primary ride. So after having it towed 4 times...I have to get it towed 1 more time back to the shop to get a used motor/engine installed for $6700 (that's what they estimated me). On top of not having a vehicle for 3 months and making payments on top of it.

NHTSA ID
11653601
Incident
Jan 19, 2025
Engine
Filed Feb 3, 2025

My motor blew out of nowhere. I took it to a shop and there was no explanation as to why. I barely drive my car and keep up with oil changes. Please help asap!

NHTSA ID
11640451
Incident
Jan 6, 2024
Engine
Filed Jan 10, 2025

The contact owns a 2014 GMC Terrain. The contact stated that the oil reservoir was constantly needing to be refilled. The contact stated that he had to have the oil changed and added every 4 weeks. The contact stated that the check engine warning light had been illuminated. The contact had taken the vehicle to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the catalytic converter had failed due to engine oil deposits and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that the failure reoccurred, he saw the check engine warning light was illuminated and was again having to add oil due to excessive oil consumption. The vehicle was taken back to the same independent mechanic who advised that the catalytic converter was going to fail again due to oil deposits. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and referred to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 160,000.

NHTSA ID
11635285
Incident
Feb 10, 2023
Mileage
160,000 mi
Engine
Filed Oct 24, 2024

Oil consumption issue caused timing chain to go causing catastrophic damage to the engine resulting in over 3000$ in repairs the oil light does not come on nor does it have a low oil pressure warning

NHTSA ID
11621702
Incident
Aug 31, 2023
EngineSteering
Filed Oct 23, 2024

The contact owns a 2014 GMC Terrain. The contact stated while at a complete stop at a red light, the doors were making locking and unlocking sounds. The contact stated upon depressing the accelerator pedal to resume driving, the vehicle failed to exceed 25 MPH. The messages "Service Stabili-trak" and "Service Power Steering" were displayed, and the check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact was able to drive to the residence. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was being diagnosed. The vehicle was not yet diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 159,500.

NHTSA ID
11621543
Incident
Oct 18, 2024
Mileage
159,500 mi
Engine
Filed Sep 4, 2024

The contact owns a 2014 GMC Terrain. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled. The contact stated that his wife was not aware of any warning lights being illuminated. The contact stated that his wife was unable to restart the vehicle, and had the vehicle towed to the residence. The contact called an independent mechanic to the residence who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that there was oil leaking into the engine block and cylinders. The mechanic determined that the positive crankcase valve (PCV) had failed and needed to be replaced and that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 105,000.

NHTSA ID
11612606
Incident
Aug 23, 2024
Mileage
105,000 mi
Engine
Filed Aug 7, 2024

On May 10, 2024 while driving my 2014 GMC Terrain driving at about 65mph my car cut off while driving to the point that the car started slowing down which had med confused as to what was going on but thankfully I was able to safely move over to the side of the of the highway in order to be in safer position to start the car back up. There was no warrant signs that the car had cut off but I had the air conditioning on do it stop blowing. At this point I knew the car was not safe to drive but I had to get off the highway. So I was about 5 miles from my exit which I was able to get to the exit without the car cutting off again on the highway but the car cut off once again on the exit as my speed was decelerating. I took my car to Meineke Car Care a few days later and was told that my car needed to have the solenoid replaced and the timing chain kit which was what the diagnostic was showing. Once they were able to fully inspect the car I was told that the timing chain kit was broken and I had medal in my oil which was suggested that I replace my engine. This put me at risk of being in an accident that could have injured myself or someone. There were no warning indications. My check engine light was not on. I had to pay to have the engine replaced which before I had it replaced I took my car to another shop just to get a second opinion in which I had the engine replaced.

NHTSA ID
11607122
Incident
May 10, 2024
Engine
Filed Jul 26, 2024

The contact owns a 2014 GMC Terrain. The contact stated that after refueling the vehicle, the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle started shaking and vibrating and then stalled. The vehicle was examined by a local mechanic, who determined that the engine was damaged due to a lack of engine oil. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer and local dealer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 147,623.

NHTSA ID
11604702
Incident
Jun 1, 2024
Mileage
147,623 mi
Engine
Filed Jul 19, 2024

The contact owns a 2014 GMC Terrain. The contact stated while driving at approximately 65 MPH, the accelerator pedal was depressed to overtake another vehicle in the right lane and the RPM raised up 8,000 RPM. The contact stated that there was an abnormal banging sound coming from the engine compartment. The contact stated that smoke started coming from the front of the vehicle. The contact stated that the check engine and check oil warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle lost motive power and the contact pulled off the roadway and turned off the vehicle. The contact had the vehicle towed to an independent mechanic. The mechanic diagnosed the vehicle and determined that a rod bearing had fractured and pierced the cylinder into the engine block. The contact was advised by the mechanic that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that prior to the engine failure, the contact was continuously adding oil to the engine. The contact was adding one quart of oil every week for more than 10 months. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.

NHTSA ID
11603465
Incident
Sep 18, 2023
Mileage
150,000 mi
Engine
Filed Jul 1, 2024

The contact's daughter owns a 2014 GMC Terrain. The contact stated that while his daughter was driving 70 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was steered to the side of the road and failed to restart. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the timing chain had fractured, and the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.

NHTSA ID
11597939
Incident
May 24, 2024
Mileage
120,000 mi
Engine
Filed Jun 12, 2024

Was driving from home to my job in Novi, MI. While driving at 70 mph on [XXX] [XXX] miles west of Grand Rapids the motor suddenly stopped. There was never any warnings on dashboard instruments, no audio signs, and no physical signs this was about to happen. Had 16% remaining oil life before next oil change per computer. Dealership is telling me there is no oil in motor and it has suffered a catastrophic motor failure after timing jumped. This almost caused a major accident at highway speeds. Motor only has just over 77,000 miles on it. Of course it is out of warranty. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID
11593997
Incident
Jun 9, 2024
Engine
Filed Jun 3, 2024

The oil leaks out of pan!! Oil consumption

NHTSA ID
11592285
Incident
May 28, 2024
ElectricalEngine
Filed Mar 12, 2024

See attached document for complaint

NHTSA ID
11576781
Incident
Dec 29, 2023
Engine
Filed Jan 25, 2024

While driving oil blew out of engine of 2.4 eco tech. Single digit temperatures. Very little warning caused engine to lock up cost over 5,000 to replace engine.

NHTSA ID
11567761
Incident
Jan 17, 2024
Engine
Filed Jan 18, 2024

Vehicle started leaking oil with no indicator. Didn't realize it for at least a few days. When I smelled a burned oil smell took it to the repair shop. Was told my oil gasket blew and the engine is about shot. I also only a month earlier replaced the battery. These vehicles apparently have known battery, oil and engine issues that were known since 2010. The following class action lawsuit in Missouri is pending: [XXX] , on behalf of herself and all others similarly situated, Plaintiff, v. GENERAL MOTORS LLC, Defendant. _____________________________________ Our vehicle is not even at 100,000 miles! This will cost thousands of dollars to fix or we will need to purchase a new vehicle which we didn't plan on for a few years at least! This has been devastating. Please help. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID
11566335
Incident
Jan 16, 2024
Engine
Filed Jan 3, 2024

2 and a 1/2 months after I bought my 2014 GMC Terrain used. It had no oil in it. I had to put pretty much a whole new engine in that cost me $5000

NHTSA ID
11563303
Incident
Jan 3, 2018
Engine
Filed Aug 24, 2023

Vehicle shut down and turned off while being operated. No warning lights were on at any point before the incident. I was driving down the road and without warning, it just turned off. My safety as well as the safety of the drivers on the road around me were compromised by this sudden failure as the vehicle was in motion when the incident occurred and I was unable to properly operate the vehicle. When I tried to re-start the vehicle the engine would not turn over and several warning lights were suddenly on. Vehicle was towed to dealership and the service department said the timing chain jumped and the engine needs to be replaced. Multiple complaints have been made against GM for the faulty 2.4L Ecoboost Engine that causes excessive oil consumption with no appropriate monitoring or warning system in place leading to timing chain issues/failure that destroys the engine without warning, often while the vehicle is being operated. No recall has been made and no warning is given to customers who purchase vehicles with these engines. I have owned this vehicle less than a year and the repair invoice I was given quotes over $10,000.

NHTSA ID
11540651
Incident
Aug 1, 2023
Engine
Filed Aug 12, 2023

Pcv system plugged up pressure in engine when remove oil cap have cleaned it my self

NHTSA ID
11538071
Incident
Aug 12, 2023

Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers.

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Elsewhere on this vehicle

Data sources

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