GMC Terrain Quiz
Driving and Operation

Forward Collision Alert (FCA) System

In this manual: Driving and Operation
Introduction — 1In Brief — 46Keys, Doors and Windows — 37Seats and Restraints — 60Storage — 6Instruments and Controls — 58Lighting — 16Infotainment System — 1Climate Control — 8Driving and Operation — 128Vehicle Care — 75Service and Maintenance — 8Technical Data — 5Customer Information — 18OnStar — 6Connected Services — 4
~4min read

If equipped, the FCA system may help avoid or reduce harm caused by forward crashes. When approaching a vehicle ahead too quickly, FCA provides a flashing red warning on the windshield and a rapid audible tone or pulses the driver seat. FCA also displays a yellow warning if you are following another vehicle too closely.

FCA detects vehicles up to approximately 60 m (197 ft) away and operates at speeds above 8 km/h.

FCA can be turned off using the FCA control on the steering wheel or, if equipped, through the vehicle personalization menu. See Collision/Detection Systems in the Vehicle Personalization section.

Forward Vehicle Detection

GMC Terrain. Forward Collision Alert (FCA) System

FCA warnings will not occur if the FCA system detects a vehicle ahead. When a vehicle is detected, the forward vehicle indicator will display green. Vehicles may not be detected on curves, freeway exit ramps, or hills due to limited visibility, or if the vehicle ahead is partially blocked by pedestrians or other objects. FCA will not detect another vehicle ahead until it is fully in the lane.

GMC Terrain. Forward Collision Alert (FCA) System

When your vehicle approaches a detected vehicle too quickly, the red FCA display will flash on the windshield. In addition, eight rapid high-pitched beeps will sound from the front or both sides, and the Alert Seat will pulse five times. When this Collision Alert occurs, the brake system may prepare for braking so that braking occurs faster, which may cause a brief, light deceleration. Continue to apply the brake pedal as needed. Cruise control may be disengaged when a Collision Alert occurs.

Following Distance Indicator Alert

GMC Terrain. Forward Collision Alert (FCA) System

The forward vehicle indicator will display yellow when you are following the vehicle ahead too closely.

Alert Timing Selection

The collision alert control is located on the steering wheel. PressGMC Terrain. Forward Collision Alert (FCA) SystemSet the FCA alert timing to Far, Medium, or Near, or on some vehicles, Off. Press the button once to show the current setting on the DIC. Press the button again to change the setting. The selected setting remains until it is changed. The timing affects both the Forward Collision Alert and the Rear Cross Traffic Alert functions. The timing for both alerts will vary depending on vehicle speed. The faster the vehicle speed, the earlier the alert will occur. Consider traffic and weather conditions when selecting the alert timing. The available alert timing may not be suitable for all drivers and driving conditions.

Following Distance Indicator

The following distance to the moving vehicle ahead in your path is displayed in seconds in the Driver Information Center (DIC).

See Driver Information Center (DIC) (Base and Midlevel) or Driver Information Center (DIC) (Upper Level). The minimum time displayed is 0.5 second. If no vehicle is detected ahead, or the vehicle ahead is outside the sensor range, dashes are displayed.

Nuisance Alerts

FCA may provide nuisance alerts for turning vehicles, vehicles in other lanes, non-vehicle objects, or shadows. These alerts are normal operation and the vehicle does not need service.

Cleaning the System

If the FCA system does not appear to be working properly, the following may correct the problem:

  • Clean the outside of the windshield in front of the rearview mirror.
  • Clean the entire front of the vehicle.
  • Clean the headlamps.

Test yourself

A quick GMC Terrain quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.