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: Steering


Electric Power Steering The vehicle has electric power steering. It does not have power steering fluid. Regular maintenance is not required. If power steering assist is lost due to a system malfunction, the vehicle can be steered, but may require increased effort...

GMC Terrain 2018-2025 Owners Manual: Engine Oil Life System


The engine oil life system calculates engine oil life based on vehicle use and displays the CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON message when it is time to change the engine oil and filter. The oil life system should be reset to 100% only following an oil change...

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