Does GMC Terrain Have a Timing Belt or Chain?

I am a huge fan of the GMC Terrain and was recently looking to finally purchase one for myself. 

During my search for the perfect GMC Terrain, I realized that I didn’t know if the GMC Terrain used a timing belt or a timing chain. 

As a result, I decided to do some research, and here is what I found!

Does GMC Terrain Have a Timing Belt or Chain?

The GMC Terrain uses a timing chain to power its engine. They use a timing chain in their engine due to its durability and reliability. Whereas a timing belt only has teeth on one side to engage the camshaft, a timing chain has teeth on both sides.

Now that you know that a GMC Terrain uses a timing chain to power its engine it’s time to take a deeper look at these details and to discover some more important facts about the GMC Terrain. 

Here is everything you need to know!

What is a Timing Belt?

A timing belt is a belt that is connected to your engine and helps power it by turning the camshaft. 

A timing belt has teeth on one side of the belt which engages with a sprocket connected to the drivetrain, causing it to rotate. 

This in turn rotates the camshaft and allows for your engine to function properly.

What is a Timing Chain?

A timing chain works similarly as well, but instead of one belt, there are multiple chains connected to each other in order to power the engine. 

A timing chain has teeth on both sides which engages with sprockets attached to the drivetrain and the camshaft.

Timing Chain Advantages

Last Longer

Timing chains, when properly maintained, are much more durable than timing belts. 

They are able to last for over 300,000 miles before needing replacement which is a huge benefit compared to the average life of a timing belt which can be anywhere between 60,000-70,000 miles. 

As well as lasting longer in general they also tend to last longer during harsh driving conditions or when a vehicle is being used a lot.

Less Maintenance

As timing chains tend to last longer they require less maintenance and in turn, you have fewer trips to the auto shop compared with a timing belt which, when it does break, can cause major damage leading up to engine failure. 

In addition, if your car has been put under too much strain, the timing belt will snap.

Easier to Tell When Needs to be Fixed or Changed

Timing chains are also easier to tell when they need to be fixed or changed since the noise that is made by timing belts as it wears becomes quite apparent. 

Here are some signs that a timing chain needs to be fixed:

Rattling Sound

If your timing chain needs to be serviced or replaced you will notice the engine making a rattling sound. 

When this happens, you will need to take your car in as soon as possible because if it is ignored, the engine can become damaged.

Rapid Revving

Another sign of a timing chain needing replacement or repair is rapid revving when driving at low speeds and constant vibrations throughout the drive. 

If there are any symptoms such as this with your GMC Terrain, it is important to get your timing chain looked at immediately.

Steering problems

If your timing chain needs to be serviced or replaced you will notice that the steering wheel becomes more difficult to turn. 

This is a common sign that you need to get your timing chain replaced.

Is it Expensive to Repair a Timing Chain?

When it comes to repairing or replacing a timing chain, it’s typically not too expensive. 

If your timing chain is in need of repairs the cost will be around $300-500 for parts and another $500 for labor which can vary depending on where you go to get it fixed or replaced.

If your timing chain needs to be replaced it is best to get it replaced as soon as possible to avoid any further damage or issues. 

It is recommended that a professional do the job for you to ensure your timing chain is replaced properly.

Why Does the GMC Terrain Have a Timing Chain?

As previously stated, the GMC Terrain utilizes a timing chain to run its engine. 

Why did they decide to use a timing chain instead of a timing belt?

Durability

One of the main reasons they decided to go with a timing chain was because it is more durable than a timing belt. 

Durability is a key feature in the GMC Terrain as it is a mid-size SUV, and having a durable vehicle that can take on all types of terrain is beneficial to the owner.

Reliability

Another reason they decided to go with the timing chain over the belt was because of its reliability in harsh driving conditions. 

Having a timing chain over a belt will ensure that even in less than favorable weather conditions, the vehicle should still function properly and not have any issues.

How Reliable is the GMC Terrain Overall?

The GMC Terrain is a very reliable vehicle overall. 

This is a great vehicle for someone who wants a reliable car that can get them from point A to B with no issues during the journey. 

If you are looking for a mid-size SUV, this would be an excellent choice as it has all of the features and benefits one looks for in such a vehicle without any major drawbacks or issues.

GMC Terrain Features

The GMC Terrain is a great vehicle with many features that make it an excellent choice for someone who is looking to purchase a car. 

Some of these features include:

• Engine power is 203 hp @ 5700 rpm, with a torque of 207 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm (LX) and 195 hp@5700 rpm, 217 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4250 rpm (SLE). Its engine has an EPA fuel economy rating of 20 mpg city / 27 highway for the front-wheel-drive version and 18/26 for the all-wheel-drive model.
• A 125 amp alternator is standard on SLE models, optional on LX. Its battery has a capacity of 55 amps/hour maintenance-free with a three-year warranty.
• A four-piston front and rear anti-lock brake system are installed for safety.
• It comes with a four-speed automatic transmission which is the standard on all models.
• The available options are power windows, locks, and mirrors; cruise control; tilt steering column; AM/FM stereo system w/cassette or CD player. Its speakers are six in number, front door-mounted, while two tweeters are located in the front pillars, two in each door panel and one in the center console.
• Its seating is roomy with a total of four rows. It has seating for up to eight passengers when equipped with a second-row bench seat. A third row provides seating for up to three additional passengers which are very spacious.

Closing Thoughts

If you are looking for an SUV that is reliable and stylish, the GMC Terrain may be your perfect match. 

The article explains how timing chains work in detail as well as all of the different features available on this vehicle.

It is a great choice for someone who wants a vehicle that is reliable and can handle everything they throw at it.