2016 GMC Terrain Electrical system Problems
- Complaints
- 9about this part
- Share
- 6%of 153 total for the year
- Median mileage
- 44,000miles
- Trend
- Not enough dataFewer than 15 complaints, too few for a reliable trend.
NHTSA recorded 9 complaints about the electrical system of the 2016 GMC Terrain, 6% of the 153 complaints for this model year. Where a mileage was given, the median is 44,000 miles.
Fewer than 15 complaints name this part, so treat the figures as a rough indication only.
Example complaints
Selected from NHTSA records; personal details are removed. They are consumer reports, not findings.
“The digital clock does not keep accurate time, even when it is reset. Every time the vehicle is started the clock is several hours off. The dealer that sold us the vehicle claims this is due to the fact we do not have an onstar subscription. I contacted both GM and onstar, and both stated the clock issue is not related in any way to onstar”
NHTSA complaint #10915108, filed 2016-10, 25,000 miles“I took my vehicle to ed rinke chevrolet buick Gmc on 12/27/18, because my driver side window sometimes hesitates when I try to roll it up and down or just gets stuck and does not move at all. This happens when the vehicle is in motion or parked. I was told that this issue was no longer covered under warranty even though my vehicle only has 47,455 miles on it and it would be $99 for them to check it out. I previously purchased a 2006 Gmc envoy which I still own and the driver side window was doing the same thing pretty early after I purchased it. …”
NHTSA complaint #11165550, filed 2019-01, 44,000 miles“Vehicle since purchase shows no signs of leak but goes through oil at about 1 quart every 1000 miles max. Check engine light always on, sensors indicate possible faulty piston rings. All were problems in later model Gmc terrains. When low on oil while driving and stationary all lights will light up and engine will go into reduced power mode saying to service stabilitrack. Car will not go above 10 MPH when in this mode, sometimes unable to move at all. Goes away after more oil added. …”
NHTSA complaint #11397807, filed 2021-02, 111,000 miles“2016 Gmc Terrain will show the check engine, traction control and service stabilitrak lights after gauges jump up and down. Vehicle will then go into neutral and then suddenly slam into 2nd gear. This occurs at high rates of speed on the interstate, as well as, normal roads. The vehicle will then stay in 2nd gear and will not go into another gear when it is placed in manual either. Sometimes, after restarting several times, it will drive normally. Other times, it will not start once it is turned off. I have had it to the garage five times in the last month. …”
NHTSA complaint #11100255, filed 2018-06, 52,800 miles“Thermostat/coolant sensor malfunctioning causing engine fan to constantly run as if the engine is over heating. Some engine exhaust door/flap is stuck open or closed causing check engine light to come on. And or the actuators doors are broken causing windows to fog and obstruct view. Not sure what would cause this issue but I have had to have work done on my vehicle twice for this issue within 3 years.”
NHTSA complaint #11514747, filed 2023-03Related service bulletins
- 11017595Apr 3, 2025This service bulletin provides information on the proper Reflective High Temperature Heat and/or Insulating Tape to use for certain repairs, such as Wiring Harness Repairs.
- 11017244Mar 31, 2025The intent of this service bulletin is to identify aftermarket ALDL or DLC interface devices as potential sources for causing multiple customer concerns that do not have other…
- 11017207Mar 21, 2025This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Service Programming System (SPS) Error Codes E4398, E4399, E4401, E4403, M4404, M4413, M6954, M6955, E4414…
- 11017031Mar 12, 2025This service bulletin provides information to diagnose batteries that have set for a long period of time and/or cold weather climates and testing those batteries.
- 11014230Jan 31, 2025This bulletin advises the dealers to maintain the vehicle stock on hand by doing a full inspection on the vehicles before being sold (prepping) to the customer.
- 11013069Jan 9, 2025This bulletin provides information on identifying Non-GM Engine Calibrations for Gasoline Engines using the Tech 2 or GDS 2.
- 11012929Jan 7, 2025This warranty administration bulletin provides policy information on the requirements for 12V battery testing and warranty replacements.
- 11011805Dec 6, 2024This Preliminary information communicates a GM part number for reflective high temperature heat or insulating tape when repairing wiring harnesses.
- 11009170Oct 25, 2024This Preliminary information communicates additional information on how a LIN bus operates and diagnostic tips when working on a LIN bus.
- 11009156Oct 25, 2024This Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester…
Electrical system: other model years
| Year | Complaints | Share of year |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 5 | 15% |
| 2025 | 4 | 31% |
| 2024 | 7 | 13% |
| 2023 | 7 | 17% |
| 2022 | 7 | 12% |
| 2021 | 7 | 19% |
| 2020 | 27 | 14% |
| 2019 | 39 | 21% |
| 2018 | 35 | 15% |
| 2017 | 9 | 7% |
| 2016 | 9 | 6% |
| 2015 | 31 | 10% |
| 2014 | 31 | 10% |
| 2013 | 22 | 6% |
| 2012 | 32 | 9% |
| 2011 | 29 | 8% |
| 2010 | 48 | 17% |
Other parts of the 2016 GMC Terrain
49 complaintsEngine
46 complaintsOther or unknown
13 complaintsTransmission and drivetrain
11 complaintsAir bags
10 complaintsExterior lighting
10 complaintsBrakes
6 complaintsSteering
6 complaintsVehicle speed control
4 complaintsFuel system
3 complaintsSeat belts
3 complaintsBody and structure
3 complaints
← All problems reported for the 2016 GMC Terrain
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 27, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
To check a specific vehicle for open recalls, use its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Methodology