The GMC Terrain is recognized as a compact SUV, celebrated for its versatility, comfort, and ample interior space.
Similar to other SUVs, it utilizes beeps, chimes, and alerts to notify the driver.
If your Terrain is continuously beeping and the cause is unclear, this guide is designed to help.
Table of Contents
1. Items on Passenger Seat
Objects placed on the passenger seat, such as a laptop or even a hat, have been known to trigger the chime in some cases. The weight and movement of these items can sometimes be interpreted as if a passenger isn’t wearing their seatbelt, leading to the chime.
If you need to have an item on the passenger seat, you can simply buckle the seat belt.
“Do you have anything of some weight (Like a heavy package) on the front passanger seat? Than can set off the airbag sensor.” – TerrainForum.net
“Its the seatbelt chime for the passenger… I get it when one of my dogs is sitting there, or if I have groceries on it. I don’t get any display indicating it… just the chimes…” – TerrainForum.net
“Do you have something on the passenger seat? Groceries? Purse? Five chimes usually means seatbelt warning. Our Terrain does this too, I then put whatever onto the backseat or floor.” – TerrainForum.net
Faulty Seat Sensor
Some owners have reported that the passenger seat sensor was faulty and thus their Terrain would beep even when the passenger seat was empty.
A quick fix for this is to plug in the seatbelt whilst the long-term solution is to replace the sensor.
2. Remote Alerts
Remote Left in Vehicle Alert
The Remote Left in Vehicle Alert feature is designed to sound an alert when the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter is inadvertently left inside the vehicle.
When the vehicle is turned off and an RKE transmitter remains in the vehicle, the horn will emit three beeps after all doors are closed.
Remote No Longer Left in Vehicle Alert
If the vehicle is on with a door open and then all doors are closed, the vehicle will check for RKE transmitters inside.
If an RKE transmitter is not detected, the Driver Information Center (DIC) will display NO REMOTE DETECTED and the horn will chirp three times.
This occurs only once each time the vehicle is driven.
How To Toggle These Alerts
The process for enabling or disabling these alerts may vary slightly depending on your Terrain model year. To access the Vehicle Personalization menu and adjust these settings, follow these steps:
- Touch the Settings icon located on the Home Page of the infotainment display.
- Select “Vehicle” to reveal a list of available options.
- Choose the desired feature setting by touching it.
- Use the “On” or “Off” options to toggle the alert feature.
- Return to the top level of the Settings menu by touching “X.”
Please note that adjusting the “Remote Left in Vehicle Alert” setting also affects the “Remote No Longer In Vehicle Alert.”
3. Turn Signal Left On
Leaving the turn signal (blinker) on for an extended period, typically more than 3/4 of a mile, can result in a chime.
This serves as a safety reminder to prompt the driver to turn off the blinker after completing a turn or lane change.
4. Weak Fob battery
A low battery in a Terrain’s key fob can cause unexplained beeping noises due to the fob’s interaction with the vehicle’s electronics, where a weakened battery might send erratic or unforeseen signals, triggering the beeps.
Changing the battery in the key fob is frequently a solution to this problem.
5. Parking Brake Engaged
If the parking brake is accidentally left engaged while you drive, it can trigger a chime as a safety reminder.
This chime is designed to alert you to disengage the parking brake before continuing to drive.
6. Navigation System (if equipped)
In certain situations, the GMC Terrain’s navigation system may produce a chime for different reasons, which can happen intermittently while using the system.
Some examples include:
- Proximity to a school zone activates a school warning alert.
- Nearing a red light camera location generates an alert.
- Software updates or malfunctions in the navigation system leading to periodic chimes.
The volume of these chimes can be modified within the navigation settings.
7. Faulty latches or Sticking Door Mechanisms
If a door latch in your Terrain is not functioning correctly, it may falsely signal that a door is ajar even when securely closed.
To remedy this, it’s advisable to clean all door mechanisms thoroughly and use WD-40 or a similar lubricant to ensure smooth operation.
Moreover, it’s important to check that all door locks function effortlessly, without resistance, during both the opening and closing actions.
8. 12V Battery Issues
A depleted 12V battery in a vehicle can cause electrical anomalies and unexpected beeping sounds. To assess the battery’s condition, usa a voltmeter to gauge the voltage between its terminals. Additionally, ensure there’s no loose connection at the terminals, as this can also contribute to electrical issues.
Should the voltmeter reading fall beneath 11 volts, this typically signals the battery’s insufficiency, suggesting that the beeping is a result of its inability to properly power the vehicle’s electronic systems, thereby necessitating its replacement.
You can also get a free battery health check at many auto parts stores.
Related: 11 Most Common GMC Terrain Problems (Explained)
9. Tire Pressure and Fluid Levels
It’s always worth checking your tire pressure and fluid levels are all correct, such as:
- Engine oil
- Coolant
- Power steering fluid
- Brake fluid
- Windshield washer
10. Aftermarket Devices
In a lot of cases, mysterious beeps are caused by aftermarket electronics that won’t show any warnings on the dash or DIC.
Common sources of beeping noises include:
- Aftermarket alarms
- Bluetooth adapters
- Radar detectors
- Dashcams (going over bumps)
- GPS tracking devices
- Insurance tracking devices
The beeps from these devices are often not as loud as the factory beeps and chimes.
They’re also more difficult to track down if they’re hidden somewhere behind the dashboard.
If you’ve already checked all throughout the vehicle and disconnected every device, an experienced mechanic should be able to investigate the problem further and diagnose any strange wiring problems.
11. It’s Not Your Terrain Beeping
Unidentified beeping sounds audible in your car may not necessarily originate from your Terrain.
For instance, they could emanate from a wristwatch with a depleted battery that has fallen out of view, a low battery in a carbon monoxide monitor or smoke detector located in your garage, or another battery-operated electronic device.
Additional Steps to Consider
Disconnect the Battery
Glitches in modern vehicles, which rely heavily on electronics, can cause mysterious beeps. Disconnecting the 12-volt battery’s negative (black) terminal for 10 to 20 minutes resets the vehicle’s systems.
Consult a Mechanic or Dealership
For unresolved issues after basic troubleshooting, seek an experienced mechanic or a local Chevrolet dealership. They possess the necessary tools and experience. If under warranty, prioritize the dealership and inquire about free initial diagnostics. Auto parts stores may offer free scans and advice.
Check for Recalls or TSBs
Use Chevy’s recall page with your car’s VIN to check for recalls. Google searches for Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) can reveal less serious issues causing beeps.
Use a Diagnostic Scanner
An OBD2 scanner, easily connected to the car’s OBD port, helps identify the issue. OBD apps allow smartphone connections for a convenient diagnosis. Research the codes online or consult vehicle-specific forums for advice.
Check the DIC (Driver Information Center)
When the beeping occurs can you see any lights come on at the same time on the DIC display? This can give a big clue as to what’s causing the beeping.
Related: GMC Terrain Alarm Going Off? (11 Common Causes)
