How to Reset the Anti-Theft System on a 2010 GMC Terrain

To reset the 2010 GMC Terrain anti-theft system, you’ll need to use your Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter.
Written by Mariza Morin
Reviewed by Hillary Kobayashi
background
To reset your 2010 GMC Terrain anti-theft system, just press the unlock symbol on your Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter, enter your SUV, and turn the ignition to ON/RUN. Allow the alarm to time out after about 30 seconds, and after that, the security light should turn off
Anti-theft systems installed in your vehicle are necessary for this day and age. And while the
GMC Sierra
heavy-duty pickup truck is more likely to get stolen than the GMC Terrain, a great anti-theft system is still vital to protect your compact SUV from being stolen. 
But what if this “great” anti-theft system prevents you from entering your SUV? That’s why
Jerry
, the #1 rated
car insurance
broker app, is here to walk you through how to reset your 2010 Terrain anti-theft system. As a bonus, we’ll even show you how installing aftermarket anti-theft devices can help you lower your
GMC Terrain insurance costs
!
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How to reset the 2010 GMC Terrain anti-theft system

To disarm the 2010 GMC Terrain anti-theft system, simply press the unlock symbol on your Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter, then hop back into your SUV, turn the ignition to the ON/RUN position, and allow the alarm to time out after about 30 seconds. 
Once the security light (located on your instrument panel cluster) turns off, that means the system successfully reset itself—and you should be good to go about your day!

What does the anti-theft system on a GMC Terrain do?

The anti-theft system on GMC vehicles, like the 2010 Terrain SUV, is a passive theft-deterrent system. This system is considered passive because it will automatically arm itself when you turn the vehicle on, when the ignition key is removed, or when you close all the doors. There’s no further action needed from you.  
This passive theft-deterrent system uses both an alarm system and an engine immobilizer to avert possible vehicle thefts. Basically, your key uses a transponder that matches the immobilizer control unit within the vehicle, which automatically disarms the anti-theft system with the correct key. But if you try to use the wrong key, the vehicle won’t start.
The security light in your GMC should only come on if there’s an issue with arming or disarming the theft-deterrent system. If the engine does not start and the security light remains on, turn the ignition on and off again. 
If this doesn’t work, try your spare ignition key, but if the second key fails as well, then you’ll need to take your vehicle to your local GMC dealer, who can service the theft-deterrent system and program new keys for you. 

What can trigger the GMC anti-theft system?

While the passive theft-deterrent system in your 2010 Terrain provides essential protection from car theft, false alarms can still happen. Loud noises, like thunder, fireworks, or gunshots, could potentially trigger the anti-theft system in your vehicle, which may interpret these sounds as a possible break-in attempt. 
Other likely causes of a triggered anti-theft system include: 
  • Damaged car lock
  • Dead battery 
  • Defective immobilizer
  • Failing RKE transmitter battery
If you’re unable to figure out the issue with your anti-theft system, then you may have a faulty component on your hands. You’ll need to take your compact SUV to your local GMC dealership. If you have a diagnostic scan tool, you can also use this device to see if there’s a mechanical failure. 

Can the GMC Terrain anti-theft system lower your insurance rate?

Possibly! In general, installing an anti-theft device in your vehicle can usually help you save on your insurance premium through a discount—oftentimes between 5% to 25% off your coverage!
Even though GMC Terrains are a mixed bag when it comes to reliability, the compact SUV does have average ownership costs, so you shouldn’t expect to overpay for repairs. Lower ownership costs should also help to keep your auto insurance rates low as well. 
The safety features on your Terrain could also positively affect your insurance premium. 
If you’re looking to lower your insurance rate, you can always add an aftermarket anti-theft device to your 2010 GMC Terrain, such as a catalytic converter strap or active alarm system. This could potentially make you eligible for an additional discount through your insurance provider. 

How to save on GMC Terrain insurance

Although an anti-theft system is intended to diminish the chances of your Terrain being stolen, it still does not make it impossible to steal. With this in mind, it’s always a good idea to consider
comprehensive insurance coverage
so you can submit a claim for damages. 
Yes, comprehensive insurance will cost more, but the tradeoff for extra protection could make it well worth the investment. And with
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. We’ll provide you with several competitive rates from a host of over 55 of the nation’s top insurance companies right at your fingertips. 
Once you find a new policy that works for you, Jerry’s team of expert insurance agents will get straight to work switching you over while helping you cancel your old policy. On average, Jerry customers save over $800 a year on car insurance when they switch!
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