GMC Terrain Quiz
Service and Maintenance

Maintenance Schedule

In this manual: Service and Maintenance
Introduction — 1In Brief — 46Keys, Doors and Windows — 37Seats and Restraints — 60Storage — 6Instruments and Controls — 58Lighting — 16Infotainment System — 1Climate Control — 8Driving and Operation — 128Vehicle Care — 75Service and Maintenance — 8Technical Data — 5Customer Information — 18OnStar — 6Connected Services — 4
16steps
~96min
4/5difficulty
Done 0 of 16

Owner Checks and Services

At Each Fuel Stop

  • Check the engine oil level. See Engine Oil.

Monthly

  • Check the tire pressure. See Tire Pressure.
  • Inspect the tires for wear. See Tire Inspection.
  • Check the windshield washer fluid level. See Washer Fluid.

Engine Oil and Filter Replacement

When the ENGINE OIL LIFE message appears with SOON, have the engine oil and filter changed within the next 1,000 km/600 miles. If driving under the best conditions, the engine oil life system may not indicate the need for vehicle service for up to one year. Engine oil and filter must be changed at least once a year, and the oil life system must be reset. Your trained dealer technician can perform this work. If the engine oil life system is reset accidentally, service the vehicle within 5,000 km/3,000 miles of the last service. Reset the oil life system when the oil is changed. See Engine Oil Life System.

On vehicles with diesel engines, it is recommended that the diesel fuel filter water be drained when the oil is changed or when the WATER IN FUEL SERVICE message is displayed.

Air Conditioning Dryer (Replace Every Seven Years)

The air conditioning system requires service every seven years. This service requires replacement of the dryer to extend the life and efficient operation of the air conditioning system. This service can be complex. See your dealer.

Tire Rotation and Required Service Every 12,000 km/7,500 miles

Rotate the tires if recommended for the vehicle and perform the following services. See Tire Rotation.

  • Check the engine oil level and oil life percentage. If necessary, change the engine oil and filter, and reset the oil life system.

    See Engine Oil and Engine Oil Life System.

  • Check the engine coolant level. See Cooling System.
  • Check the windshield washer fluid level. See Washer Fluid.

    Check the tire pressure. See Tire Pressure.

  • Inspect the tires for wear. See Tire Inspection.
  • Visually inspect for fluid leaks.
  • Inspect the engine air cleaner filter. See Engine Air Cleaner/Filter.
  • Inspect the brake system. See Exterior Care.
  • Visually inspect the steering, suspension, and chassis components for damage, including cracks or tears in the rubber boots, loose or missing parts, or signs of wear, at least once a year. See Exterior Care.
  • Inspect the power steering system for proper mounting, connections, binding, leaks, cracks, chafing, and other damage.
  • Visually inspect the axle shafts and driveshafts for excessive wear, grease leakage, and/or damage, including: dents or cracks in the tubes, CV joint or universal joint looseness, cracked or missing boots, loose or missing clamps, excessive play in the center support bearing, loose or missing fasteners, and axle seal leakage.
  • Check the restraint system components. See Air Bag System Check.
  • Visually inspect the fuel system for damage or leaks.
  • Visually inspect the exhaust system and nearby heat shields for loose or damaged parts.
  • Lubricate body components. See Exterior Care.
  • Check the starter switch. See Starter Switch Check.
  • Check the parking brake and automatic transmission P (Park) mechanism. See Parking Brake and P (Park) Mechanism Check.
  • Check the accelerator pedal for damage, excessive effort, or binding. Replace if necessary.
  • Visually inspect the gas struts for wear, cracks, and other damage. Check the liftgate in the open position for strut holding ability. If the holding ability is low, service the gas strut. See Gas Struts.
  • Check the tire sealant expiration date, if equipped. See Tire Sealant and Compressor Kit.
  • Inspect the sunroof guide rail and seal, if equipped. See Sunroof.
GMC Terrain. Maintenance Schedule

Footnotes — Maintenance Schedule Additional Required Services — Normal

  1. Or every two years, whichever comes first. More frequent cabin air filter replacement may be required when driving in heavy traffic, poor air quality, high dust levels, or environmental allergens. Cabin air filter replacement may also be required if airflow is reduced, windows fog up, or odors occur. Your GM dealer can help determine when to replace the filter.
  2. Visually inspect all fuel and vapor lines and hoses for proper connection, attachment, routing, and condition.
  3. Or as indicated by the Driver Information Center (DIC) or two years, whichever comes first. The fuel filter may need to be replaced more often based on use of biodiesel, driving in dusty climates, off-road driving, or towing a trailer for extended periods.
  4. Or every four years, whichever comes first. If driving in dusty conditions, check the filter at every oil change or more often as needed.
  5. Or every five years, whichever comes first. See Cooling System.
  6. Or every 10 years, whichever comes first. Inspect for wear, excessive cracking, or damage; replace if necessary.
  7. Replace the brake fluid every five years. See Brake Fluid.
  8. Or every 12 months, whichever comes first. See Wiper Blade Replacement.
    GMC Terrain. Maintenance Schedule

Footnotes — Maintenance Schedule Additional Required Services — Severe

  1. Or every two years, whichever comes first. More frequent cabin air filter replacement may be required when driving in heavy traffic, poor air quality, high dust levels, or environmental allergens. Cabin air filter replacement may also be required if airflow is reduced, windows fog up, or odors occur. Your GM dealer can help determine when to replace the filter.
  2. Visually inspect all fuel and vapor lines and hoses for proper connection, attachment, routing, and condition.
  3. Or as indicated by the Driver Information Center (DIC) or two years, whichever comes first. The fuel filter may need to be replaced more often based on use of biodiesel, driving in dusty climates, off-road driving, or towing a trailer for extended periods.
  4. Or every four years, whichever comes first. If driving in dusty conditions, check the filter at every oil change or more often as needed.
  5. Or every five years, whichever comes first. See Cooling System.
  6. Or every 10 years, whichever comes first. Inspect for wear, excessive cracking, or damage; replace if necessary.
  7. Replace the brake fluid every five years. See Brake Fluid.
  8. Or every 12 months, whichever comes first. See Wiper Blade Replacement.

Test yourself

A quick GMC Terrain quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.