GMC Terrain: Driving and Operating / Diesel Exhaust Fluid

Warning

Avoid getting Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) on your skin or in your eyes as it could cause irritation. For more safety, handling, and storage information, see the Diesel Exhaust Fluid container label.

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is used with diesel engines to reduce the amount of regulated emissions produced. Products such as AdBlue are types of DEF, and are approved for use in the vehicle as long as they have an API certification label or meet ISO 22241.The fluid level in the DEF tank must be maintained for the vehicle to run properly. DEF is not a fuel additive. DEF should not be mixed with or added to diesel fuel. DEF freezes when exposed to temperatures below −11 °C (12 ° F).

It is normal to hear the DEF system purge fluid back into the tank after the vehicle is shut off.

Locating Diesel Exhaust Fluid

DEF can be purchased at your dealer. It can also be purchased at authorized vehicle and truck dealerships. Additionally, some diesel truck fueling stations or retailers may have DEF for purchase. For vehicles with an active OnStar or connected services plan, OnStar can help to locate a DEF retailer. See Customer Assistance Offices for phone numbers to assist in contacting a GM dealer. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants.

Diesel Particulate Filter

The Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) system filters soot particles out of the exhaust gases. The DPF is under the vehicle in the exhaust system. Depending on a number of factors monitored by the engine computer, the DPF will need to be cleaned of accumulated solids...

Filling the DEF Tank

Caution Use only DEF that is GM approved, or fluid containing the API certified or ISO 22241 label. The use of other fluids could damage the system, requiring costly repairs that will not be covered by the vehicle warranty...

Other information:

GMC Terrain 2018-2025 Owners Manual: Compact Spare Tire


Warning Driving with more than one compact spare tire at a time could result in loss of braking and handling. This could lead to a crash and you or others could be injured. Use only one compact spare tire at a time. If this vehicle has a compact spare tire, it was fully inflated when new; however, it can lose air over time...

GMC Terrain 2018-2025 Owners Manual: Exhaust Fluid Quality Poor


Use only exhaust fluid that is GM approved, or fluid containing the API certified or ISO 22241 label. All DEF has an expiration date. If the system detects poor quality, or contaminated or diluted DEF, the DIC message EXHAUST FLUID QUALITY POOR - SEE OWNERS MANUAL NOW – 160 KM (99 MI) UNTIL 104 KM/H (65 MPH) MAX SPEED displays...

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    GMC Terrain. Tire Pressure Light

    For vehicles with the Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS), this light comes on briefly when the engine is started. It provides information about tire pressures and the TPMS.

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