2013 GMC Terrain — should you buy one?

Why people love the 2013 GMC Terrain

The 2013 Terrain's 2.4L four-cylinder paired with its six-speed automatic feels eager off the line and returns 26 highway mpg, which owners appreciate on long stretches. The cabin is quiet enough that you hear the engine note instead of road noise, making the drive feel more connected than rivals like the CR-V at the time. Storage cubbies throughout the interior mean your phone, sunglasses, and gum wrappers each get their own spot.

Common complaints and known issues

The transmission is known to shudder or hesitate between 2nd and 3rd gear, usually showing up between 60k and 100k miles; some owners report it doesn't fully resolve even after dealer reprogramming. Timing chain rattle on cold starts appears around 80k miles and can persist through the engine's life. The power steering hose tends to leak around 90k miles, and replacement costs $300–$500. NHTSA complaints cluster around transmission shift quality and illumination issues with the dashboard lighting.

Typical asking price

Under 80k miles: $12,500–$15,200. 80k–140k miles: $9,800–$12,000. Over 140k miles: $7,500–$10,000. Two-wheel-drive SLE trims sit at the lower end; AWD SLT and Denali command $1,500–$2,500 premiums. Single-owner vehicles with service records bridge gaps; accident-free title adds $800–$1,200 depending on region.

Ranges are typical 2026 asking prices, not appraisals. The actual fair offer depends on this specific car's title history, accident record, and open recalls — which is what EstimateProof tells you.