GMC Terrain: Diesel Exhaust Fluid / Filling the DEF Tank

GMC Terrain. 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.

Caution

Do not mix fuel with DEF, and do not put DEF in the fuel tank. This could lead to costly repairs that might not be covered by the vehicle warranty.

It is recommended to fill the DEF tank on level ground and when the vehicle is not running. When adding fluid, it is recommended to fill the DEF tank.

Caution

Do not overfill the DEF tank and do not allow DEF to contact the finished surfaces of the vehicle, as it could damage the vehicle finish. If DEF is spilled during filling, wipe any affected surface with a damp cloth.

Do not top off the DEF tank. If using a bottle or jug to refill DEF, follow the instructions on the container label and use a dedicated fill aid. In certain cold conditions, it is possible to find some frozen DEF in the DEF fill pipe opening. If this condition prevents the filling of a DEF tank, place the vehicle in a warm garage overnight.

For information on how to fill the DEF tank, see Filling the Tank (Gasoline) or Filling the Tank (Diesel).

    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...

    Exhaust Fluid Low

    A full DEF tank will last for several thousand kilometers (miles), depending on vehicle usage. As the exhaust fluid level drops, warnings will automatically be displayed in the DIC...

    Other information:

    GMC Terrain 2018-2025 Owners Manual: Engine Overheating


    The vehicle has an engine coolant temperature gauge on the instrument cluster and overheat messages in the Driver Information Center (DIC) to warn of engine overheating. See Engine Coolant Temperature Gauge. The decision may be made not to lift the hood when the engine coolant temperature gauge is in the overheat zone or an engine overheat DIC message displays, but instead to get servic..

    GMC Terrain 2018-2025 Owners Manual: Water in Fuel (Diesel)


    Improper fuel tank inspection or cleaning, or contaminated fuel from suppliers, can cause water to be pumped into the fuel tank along with the diesel fuel. If a WATER IN FUEL - CONTACT SERVICE message displays, the water must be drained immediately. Warning Diesel fuel containing water is still combustible. You or others could be burned. If the fuel needs to be drained, keep sparks, flam..

    Copyright © 2025 www.gmcterrain2.com