The Good
The 2012 GMC Terrain offers a comfortable ride and a distinctive, muscular design (emotional appeal). It provides adequate performance from its engine options and decent fuel efficiency for its class (practical). It's generally considered reliable and offers good value as a used SUV, balancing features and price.
The Bad
Known weaknesses of the 2012 GMC Terrain include potential excessive oil consumption, particularly in the 2.4L engine. Timing chain issues have also been reported. Owners should watch for these problems and maintain diligent oil change schedules to mitigate potential risks.
2012 GMC Terrain: Quick Overview
2012 GMC Terrain Key Specs:
- Engine Options:
- 2.4L Inline-4: Standard engine
- 3.0L V6: Optional, more powerful engine
- Horsepower:
- 2.4L: Approximately 182 hp
- 3.0L: Approximately 264 hp
- Fuel Economy (estimated):
- 2.4L (FWD): 22 mpg city / 32 mpg highway
- 3.0L (FWD): 17 mpg city / 24 mpg highway
- AWD versions have slightly lower fuel economy.
- 0-60 Times (estimated):
- 2.4L: Around 9-10 seconds
- 3.0L: Around 7-8 seconds
- Towing Capacity:
- 3.0L V6: Up to 3,500 lbs (when properly equipped)
- 2.4L not recommended for significant towing.
- Trim Level Features:
- SLE: Base model, typically includes features like cloth upholstery, air conditioning, power windows and locks, and a basic audio system.
- SLT: Adds upgrades such as leather upholstery, automatic climate control, heated front seats, and an upgraded audio system.
- Denali: Top-of-the-line trim, featuring premium leather, unique styling elements, enhanced sound system, and additional comfort and convenience features.
- Common across trims: Available all-wheel drive, sunroof, navigation system, and rearview camera.
2012 GMC Terrain Specifications
Vehicle Information
Year | 2012 |
Make | GMC |
Model | Terrain |
Trim | - |
Style | - |
Type | Sport Utility Vehicle |
Category | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle |
Manufacturing Details
Made In | Canada |
Manufacturing City | CAMI |
Dimensions
Doors | 4-Door |
Curb Weight | 3881 pounds |
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 4960 pounds |
Overall Height | - |
Overall Length | - |
Overall Width | - |
Wheelbase Length | - |
Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
Engine | LEA Flexible Fuel (Gas/Alc), Aluminum, High Output |
Engine Size | 2.4L |
Engine Cylinders | 4 |
Transmission | 6-Speed Automatic |
Transmission Type | Automatic |
Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System | - |
Steering Type | - |
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $31,260 |
Invoice Price | $29,697 |
Delivery Charges | $825 |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2012 GMC Terrain Have?
There have been recalls related to various issues, including potential problems with the windshield wiper motor, and issues related to the side airbags not deploying properly in the event of a crash. Owners should check the NHTSA website or contact a GMC dealer to verify if their vehicle is affected by any open recalls.
Long-term reliability can be a concern, especially with the 2.4L engine. Keeping up with scheduled maintenance, particularly oil changes, is crucial to mitigating potential problems. The 3.0L V6 engine is generally considered more reliable, but regular maintenance is still essential. Suspension components and the electrical system can also experience issues over time. Prior model years (2010-2011) also exhibited similar oil consumption issues, suggesting this is a design flaw affecting multiple years.
How long will the 2012 GMC Terrain last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features were limited but included available features such as rear parking sensors.
Safety features included standard antilock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a suite of airbags. Optional safety features included lane departure warning and forward collision alert, though these were not widely available.
Crash test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) were generally favorable. The 2012 Terrain received an overall score of 4 out of 5 stars. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) gave the Terrain a "Good" rating in most crash tests, its highest rating. However, specific ratings can vary depending on the model year and test criteria. It is advisable to check both NHTSA and IIHS websites for the most up-to-date crash test information.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2012 GMC Terrain Prices and Market Value
2012 GMC Terrain Cost of Ownership
2012 GMC Terrain Fuel Efficiency
2012 GMC Terrain Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2012 GMC Terrain Recalls & Defects
Tires:pressure Monitoring and Regulating Systems
Seats:front Assembly:power Adjust
Power Train:automatic Transmission:control Module (Tcm/Pcm/Tecm)
Electrical System:ignition
Exterior Lighting:headlights
2012 GMC Terrain Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2012 GMC Terrain Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?
Feature-wise, the Terrain is comparable to its competitors, although some rivals may offer more advanced safety technology as standard. Reliability is a concern with the Terrain's 2.4L engine, where the CR-V and RAV4 are typically more reliable. Price-wise, the Terrain is often competitively priced in the used market.
Alternatives to consider include the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 for superior reliability. The Ford Escape offers a more engaging driving experience. The Chevrolet Equinox, mechanically similar to the Terrain, might be a good option if styling preferences differ. The Mazda CX-5 is another alternative, offering sporty handling and stylish design.
Ranks #1524 SUV
1 | 2023 Toyota 4Runner | (5.0★) |
2 | 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid | (5.0★) |
3 | 2023 Lexus GX | (0.0★) |
4 | 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV | (0.0★) |
5 | 2024 Subaru Crosstrek | (5.0★) |
6 | 2024 BMW iX | (0.0★) |
7 | 2023 Ford Bronco Sport | (5.0★) |
8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB | (0.0★) |
9 | 2024 Chevrolet Trax | (5.0★) |
10 | 2023 Audi A4 allroad | (0.0★) |
11 | 2023 Hyundai Kona N | (0.0★) |
12 | 2023 Nissan ARIYA | (5.0★) |
1524 | 2012 GMC Terrain | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2012 GMC Terrain a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?
Fixmypc1978 on September 9, 2023
Junk that should have been trashed off the line.In 2012 bought a 2012 GMC terrain sle brand new with only 60 miles on it. I had to replace wheel bearings before 25,000 miles, car stalled when entering the freeway with less than 10,000 miles, rumbles in eco mode, took to multiple dealerships for excessive exhaust noise and they all keep saying it's fine and normal noise. I had the manifold welded around 10,000 miles because they said I was right, there was an exhaust leak. Ok, well, I had to have the exhaust resonator, the flex pipe and catalytic converter replaced less than 60,000 miles, radio froze up on me multiple times and I recorded it in high definition and showed to dealership and they said they couldn't duplicate it so couldn't repair it, it finally stopped. The backup camera goes in and out whenever it wants, been doing it for years, driver side door panel came detached around 5,000 miles, windshield wipers stopped on the freeway in a torrential downpour in 2016 then again this year (2023) There was a recall for that so I was reimbursed for the first time I paid for it. You have to smash the gas pedal to the floor board and red line it when entering the freeway or you'll be ran off the freeway also when pulling out into traffic make a good judgement call because it doesn't have power to floor it. I have hundreds of paperwork receipts from everything I had repaired at the dealership,. I have kept up with all required maintenance and kept the oil changed on time or even before it was due to be changed and had the transmission fluid filter and fluid changed. I have kept tires rotated on time too. I also had the spark plugs replaced. It's 11.5 years old now and I think everything has been replaced on it except the motor and trans, I have less than almost 98,0000 miles on it. I had to sue under the lemon law and got money back because it was paid off since it was three years old. oops almost forgot the front window motors had to be replaced too. I wouldn't recommend this vehicle and in fact, I lost and Desire to buy any other GM made vehicle. I might expect it from a used car but not one bought brand new with ONLY 60 miles on it. I will never buy another GM not even Cadillac or Buick the supposed higher end upscale vehicles they slap together.
TS on June 22, 2023
Great car love the designI've had mine for 12 years I've driven it a cross country 6 times. It is a fantastic vehicle. I pulled a small travel trailer and it didn't change my gas mileage one bit. From IL to LA California never a problem.
J Robinson on March 20, 2023
NICE SUV GMC SLT2I had this GMC for 6 years. Very dependable. Nice amenities. Don't confuse it with the SLE. This model is one step below the Denali. I only traded in because I missed my sports car convertible.
murphy on June 13, 2022
now it is not dependable carwhen i brought the suv it was adepenable car now hachback door will not open good took it to shop 3 time they can not fix the problem other than that it is a good suv also have problem with oil leak ,i took the car to winchester tenn russell barnett car dealer they still have not fix my car on the back hatchback lock
Kim on May 16, 2022
So not happyI had to replace the motor within 3 month of buying the car, have to continuously add oil to the car every couple of days, have no idea where it goes, the engine that was put in is getting ready to go also as soon as I can I'm selling it!
Dissatisfied216 on June 8, 2021
I was happy, but GM doesn't stand behind themI was very pleased when I purchased this car new in 2012. I don't drive a lot so I'm currently only 50k miles. Very well kept and maintained. Recently in the last year, it started using oil (a quart a month), I'm told this is normal, yet I've been driving for 36 years, and NEVER had a vehicle that used a quart of oil in 1 month that was under 120k miles let alone just hitting 50k. Over all it was a fine vehicle, but since GM does not stand behind their products to fix their mistakes in the name of profit, I can't recommend anything GM.
Bummed Buyer on May 4, 2021
GMC Terrains Recalls IssuesUnknown recall on 2010 to 2012 Terrains that was a class action suit that was settled. However, for those of that purchased low mileage in good looking condition what's our recourse when there is major mechanical failure?
just D on March 2, 2021
Nice-looking and comfortable driving vehicleI chose this vehicle because I needed one as soon as possible I was pleasantly surprised by the ride aside from the issues hidden by the dealership
Rocket on February 15, 2021
Best looking SUV on the marketThe SLT has everything I need and want in an SUV. Loaded with options that come standard, and able to tow our small travel trailer. Also very stylish compared to all the bellybutton (everone has one) cars in this class.
clt101563 on January 29, 2021
Nicest car I've ownedMy 2012 Terrain is 8 yrs old and so clean it looks brand new for its age and has very low miles. Its in immaculate condition inside and out. It still has that new car smell to it!