GMC Terrain: Starting the Engine / Gasoline Engine Starting Procedure

  1. With the Keyless Access system, the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter must be in the vehicle. Press ENGINE START/STOP with the brake pedal applied. When the engine begins cranking, let go of the button.

    The idle speed will go down as the engine gets warm. Do not race the engine immediately after starting it.

    If the RKE transmitter is not in the vehicle, if there is interference, or if the RKE battery is low, a Driver Information Center (DIC) will display a message. See Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System Operation.

    Caution

    Cranking the engine for long periods of time, by trying to start the engine immediately after cranking has ended, can overheat and damage the cranking motor, and drain the battery. Wait at least 15 seconds between each try, to let the cranking motor cool down.

  2. If the engine does not start after five to 10 seconds, especially in very cold weather (below −18 °C or 0 °F), it could be flooded with too much gasoline. Try pushing the accelerator pedal all the way to the floor and holding it there as you press ENGINE START/ STOP. Wait at least 15 seconds between each try, to allow the cranking motor to cool down. When the engine starts, release the accelerator. If the vehicle starts briefly but then stops again, do the same thing.

    This clears the extra gasoline from the engine. Do not race the engine immediately after starting it. Operate the engine and transmission gently until the oil warms up and lubricates all moving parts.

    Starting the Engine

    Shift the vehicle into P (Park) or N (Neutral). To restart the engine when the vehicle is already moving, use N (Neutral) only. Caution Do not try to shift to P (Park) if the vehicle is moving...

    Diesel Engine Starting Procedure

    The diesel engine starts differently than a gasoline engine. With the Keyless Access system, the RKE transmitter must be in the vehicle. Press ENGINE START/STOP and observe the wait-to-start light...

    Other information:

    GMC Terrain 2018-2026 Owners Manual: Storing the Tire Sealant and Compressor Kit


    The tire sealant and compressor kit is in a bag in the rear compartment storage area. Open the liftgate. See Liftgate. Fold the rear part of the load floor to the front. Turn the retainer nut counterclockwise to remove the tire sealant and compressor kit bag...

    GMC Terrain 2018-2026 Owners Manual: Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH System)


    The LATCH system secures a child restraint during driving or in a crash. LATCH attachments on the child restraint are used to attach the child restraint to the anchors in the vehicle. The LATCH system is designed to make installation of a child restraint easier...

    Copyright © 2026 www.gmcterrain2.com