Last Updated on December 17, 2023 by Leepu Da Maxim
The GMC Terrain has a life expectancy of 20 years or 300,000 miles before it develops any severe issues. You can expect the model to last over 300,000 miles if maintained well, serviced regularly, and driven carefully. If you don’t maintain the vehicle adequately, its lifespan will be reduced significantly.
Key Takeaways
- Based on the reviews of GMC Terrain owners, a GMC Terrain can run over 200,000 miles without major issues
- GMC Terrain is a dependable SUV with impressive features, and affordable price
- According to J.D. Power, the 2021 GMC Terrain has a predicted reliability rating of 79 out of 100 which is above average for similar models of other brands
- You should follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, including regular oil changes, tire rotations, and other scheduled maintenance to increase the lifespan of the GMC Terrain
How long does a GMC Terrain last?
The GMC terrain has a life expectancy of 300,000 miles, but it can outlast this mileage when well maintained. Most drivers get over 20 years of service without experiencing any issues that need major repairs.
Some drivers say they got up to 200,000 miles without any issues, but they started experiencing some minor issues after that. Apart from the life expectancy of a vehicle, several other factors, such as your driving habits and how well you maintain the car plays a huge role in determining its lifespan.
Let’s look at some of the things that impact your GMC terrain’s lifespan.
Factors that affect the life expectancy of a GMC Terrain
- Driving habits
Did you know that how you drive directly impacts the lifespan of your car? If you want your GMC terrain to last for 300,000 miles or more, you need to be a cautious driver. Avoid driving the vehicle in unfavorable circumstances. Also, avoid short trips as they do not allow the engine to warm up enough; driving for short distances can be detrimental to your engine. If possible, combine all your short trips into one so that the machine can run long enough.
- Frequency of Maintenance
If you want your car to last for years, you need to keep up with the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule. Maintaining and servicing your vehicle frequently keeps it in good shape and helps you detect issues as soon as they occur. You can therefore repair any problems before they become severe. Always check the owner’s manual of your GMC Terrain to determine when you need to service your car or replace parts such as filters.
- Your choice of mechanic
Mechanics are a crucial part of your car’s lifespan because they repair problems and handle some maintenance services. Your GMC Terrain needs to be handled by a skilled mechanic who has sufficient computer, electronics, and engineering knowledge. If you want to enjoy your car for 300,000 miles and more, you need to stay away from quacks and unskilled mechs. Always ensure that the person handling your car is certified by GM and they have the proper tools, equipment, and skill for the job.
How long does the transmission in GMC Terrain last?
The transmission in the GMC Terrain is built to last as long as the vehicle’s lifespan. However, a survey has shown that the transmission lasts 130,000 to 180,000 miles. Going by those numbers, the transmission will last half of the vehicle’s lifespan, so you will need to change it at some point.
How long do brake pads last on a GMC Terrain?
The lifespan of your car’s brake pads will vary depending on where you drive, but on average, they last between 30,000 to 40,000 miles. Brake pads last longer if you mostly drive on highways instead of city roads. City roads require drivers to stop constantly over a short period which wears out the brakes. You can increase the lifespan of your brake pads by smooth braking.
How long do GMC Terrain’s spark plugs last?
Spark plugs don’t wear out quickly, so you can easily get over 50,000 miles on them before needing a replacement. However, GM recommends changing your spark plugs after every 30,000 miles or when you detect a problem. Common signs of failing spark plugs include: your check engine light is on, uneven power when accelerating, rough idling, and increased exhaust emissions. If you notice some of these symptoms before it’s time for spark plug replacement, visit your mechanic to be sure.
When should I change tires on a GMC Terrain?
It would be best to change your tires whenever you notice the sidewalls ripping apart. For a GMC Terrain, tires last 40,000 miles before they need to be replaced. Before it’s time to change the tires, you can keep them in great shape by ensuring you rotate them after every 5,000 miles.
You can also increase the longevity of the tires by maintaining the recommended tire pressure all the time. Wheel balancing and alignment also play a significant role in ensuring the tires of your GMC terrain last longer.
Tips to increase the lifespan of GMC terrain
As discussed earlier, a GMC Terrain can last for 300,000 miles or 20 years if you take good care of it. Some drivers have reported going over this lifespan, while others needed major repairs as soon as the vehicle clocked 150,000 miles. So, what makes the difference? How can you ensure your GMC Terrain lives to its expected lifespan? Let’s share some top tips with you:
- Regular maintenance
The first and most obvious way to extend the lifespan of your GMC Terrain is by keeping up with the maintenance schedule. Check the owner’s manual for when you need an oil change, filter replacements, and other crucial maintenance. If you want your GMC Terrain to serve you for long, you need to be on top of your game in maintenance matters. You can choose to invest in a vehicle management system that will remind you of any maintenance requirements.
Below is a summary of the GMC Terrain’s maintenance schedule:
| Mileage | Maintenance service required |
| After every 5,000 miles | Check oil levels |
| After every 10,000 miles | Replace oil filter |
| After every 20,000 miles | Inspect tires Check for fluid leaks Replace air filter |
| After every 40,000 miles | Replace transfer case fluid Replace air intake filter Change Automatic transmission fluid |
| After every 60,000 miles | Check spark plugs and ignition coils Use scanner tool for engine diagnosis to detect any abnormal reading Inspect brake pads and rotors Replace drive belt Change coolant |
| After every 100,000 miles | Replace worn out suspension components Service the AC condenser and radiator core |
- Check air and fuel filters regularly
Filters keep away dust, dirt, and debris, and they need to be replaced regularly to ensure there are functioning correctly. When you replace oil filters as required, they keep dirt away from the engine, thus running for long.
- Keep the car clean
Cleaning your car is essential if you plan to drive for 300,000 miles. Cleaning regularly helps prevent the buildup of dirt that causes some parts to fail and also helps to keep away rust. Washing your car regularly also helps it look newer for a longer period.
- Refill the gas tank before you run too low on gas
Refueling as soon as you notice you’re low on gas saves the engine and prolongs its lifespan.
- Check fluids regularly
Check fluid levels and refill as needed to ensure the car functions in optimal condition. Always ensure you are using the products that the manufacturer recommends. Most manufacturers will recommend engine oil and transmission fluids already tried and tested. Using the wrong fluids could easily void your warranty, so be careful.
- Don’t neglect tires
Check your tires to ensure they are always inflated to the correct pressure. Also, remember to rotate them frequently so that they wear out evenly. If you notice tires ripping on the sides, it’s time to get new tires.
Final word
GMC Terrain is built to last for over two decades, and they have a life expectancy of 300,000 miles. Most owners have reported going over this mileage, but some said their cars only lasted 150,000 miles, after which they experienced a major breakdown. The lifespan of a GMC Terrain varies depending on how well you take care of it. If you want your GMC Terrain to last long, ensure you keep up with the recommended maintenance schedule and follow our tips.
References:
https://www.quora.com/How-many-miles-will-a-GMC-Terrain-last
https://www.carparts.com/blog/gmc-terrain-reliability-and-common-problems/
Hi, I’m Leepu Da Maxim, a dedicated car enthusiast with over 10 years of experience in this field, and I’m thrilled to share my passion and expertise with fellow car enthusiasts like you. My journey began in my hometown West Jordan, Utah, where my fascination with the mechanics and design of cars sparked at a young age. Over the years, this passion has evolved into a commitment to providing accurate, insightful, and engaging information about all things automotive through CarsAmazing.
