Legally reviewed by: Jessica Anvar Stotz, JD, MBA
Common problems: Electronic system issues, transmission problems, and brake problems were reported most frequently by 2021 GMC Terrain owners.
Two recalls have been issued for this vehicle, one for faulty child seat anchors and one for tire tread separation.
When purchasing a new vehicle, the last thing a consumer wants to discover is a hidden defect in their new purchase.
Unfortunately, that’s sometimes exactly what they get. Despite modern manufacturing being so advanced, some defects manage to make their way onto dealership lots where consumers end up driving home with them.
In this article, we will be covering the most commonly reported problems for the 2021 GMC Terrain as well as the lemon law and how you can use it to be compensated for purchasing a lemon vehicle!
Common 2021 GMC Terrain Problems
- Electronic System Issues: Infotainment system problems, screen blank or off, car drives without keys
- Transmission Problems: Shaking and vibration, gear slippage, problems staying in gear, problems accelerating
- Brake Problems: Squeaky or squealy brakes, unresponsive braking
2021 GMC Terrain Electronic System Issues
Electronic system issues are fairly common for cars, especially problems with the infotainment system.
Consumers who own the 2021 GMC Terrain noticed as much, and reported infotainment system problems and rearview camera problems more than any other electronic system issue.
These problems can sometimes be remedied through a software update provided by the manufacturer or an authorized dealer.
Sometimes they can even be done wirelessly, meaning the consumer doesn’t have to go anywhere with their vehicle.
Otherwise, exercise caution while driving with a vehicle whose infotainment system malfunctions, and do not rely on a backup camera that is not functioning properly.
2021 GMC Terrain Brake Problems
Brakes are obviously a very important part of a vehicle to have functioning correctly, and thankfully the 2021 GMC Terrain’s brake problems seem to be fairly minor.
Consumers primarily reported their brakes squeaking and grinding, which while definitely bad, can be easily addressed through inspection and potentially, replacement of the brake pads or other component,
One consumer mentioned their brakes failing outright, which is significantly more dangerous. A vehicle whose brakes have failed should be treated very carefully and ideally be towed to an authorized dealership to be inspected and repaired.
21 GMC Terrain Owner Complaints
“Recently I have noticed that the back brakes squeak and sound like they are grinding when backing up. Also every now and then the information screen will go black for a while then turn back on could be a few seconds or several minutes. 23,900 on car.”
“Rented it for two weeks in Hawaii. Drives and handles well as long as the tarmac is perfect. As soon as you hit ANY imperfections, bumps, cracks or potholes – or heaven forbid an unpaved road – it becomes an absolute disaster. Never seen anything as bad as this one. My stiffened Civic Si is more comfortable. An F.”
“Transmission issues at less than 1000 miles. GM has no plans to fix the issue. Dealership has no compassion. “I’m sorry, no loaner cars available”. That equates to… we got your money, now f off. What a joke.”
Lemon Law Protections for Your Faulty Terrain
If you own or lease a defective 2021 GMC Terrain that has been repeatedly repaired during the manufacturer’s original warranty, you may be eligible for compensation under your state’s lemon law.
This law applies when a new vehicle consistently experiences the same or similar issue that significantly impairs its use, value, or safety, commonly referred to as a “lemon.”
In most states, a vehicle is deemed a lemon if it undergoes two to four unsuccessful repair attempts for the same problem.
This standard ensures manufacturers have a fair chance to fix the issue while protecting consumers from endless repairs.
Otherwise, a vehicle which is under repair for 30 days or more (which need not be consecutive days) may also considered a lemon.
To start the lemon law process, take your defective vehicle to an authorized dealer for inspection and repair. If the problem persists despite multiple repair attempts, you can initiate a lemon law claim.
Keep detailed records of all repairs, including dates, descriptions of the issues, and repair outcomes.
It is often beneficial to consult an attorney specializing in lemon law cases. They can guide you through the process, help compile necessary documentation, and ensure your claim is properly filed. In most states, your attorney’s fees will be covered if you win your case.
As a consumer, your options are either negotiation with the manufacturer or a lemon lawsuit against them.
If successful, you will receive a replacement vehicle of comparable make and model or a refund of the payments made towards the defective vehicle, relieving you of your lemon vehicle and getting you back on the road!
Choose Lemon Law Attorneys with a Track Record of Success!
When pursuing a lemon law claim, it can be daunting and stressful to deal with the documentation collection, meeting deadlines, and communicating with the manufacturer and other involved parties.
Hiring a skilled lemon lawyer streamlines the claim process significantly and creates a smoother road to getting compensation for you.
The Lemon Law Experts have successfully resolved thousands of lemon law matters similar to yours and are eager to team up with you.
Our team has been working since 2009 to ensure consumer rights are protected from manufacturers who violate them.
Contact us today for a free consultation, either by giving us a call at (877) 885-5366 or by filling out a form on our website!
