GMC Terrain excessive motor oil consumption possibly related to check engine light and catalytic converter issue on GMC Terrain

Submitted by Vehicle Owner · Jun 23, 2025
Published by RepairPal

Problem overview

Some GMC Terrain owners report experiencing excessive motor oil consumption, particularly in first-generation models with the 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine from 2010 to 2015, losing more than 1 quart between oil changes. This issue is often attributed to a defective piston design in the 2.4L engines. Additionally, some owners find that the check engine light frequently illuminates, which can indicate various engine issues; if this warning is accompanied by a low engine oil light, it is critical to stop the engine immediately and top up the oil. Failure to address excessive oil consumption can lead to catalytic converter problems, as oil contamination may affect emissions and overall vehicle performance. Therefore, it is essential for owners to investigate and resolve the root cause of oil consumption promptly to avoid costly repairs and potential engine damage.

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GMC Terrain vehicles with this problem

1 model year affected
Average mileage: 14,200 miles
(14,200 - 14,200)

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