The 2014 GMC Terrain typically requires Dexos1 Gen 2 certified engine oil, usually in a 5W-30 viscosity. Always confirm the exact specification in your owner's manual or with a GM dealer, since engine type and climate can influence the precise requirement.
Understanding the oil requirement for the 2014 Terrain
The 2014 Terrain was offered with two gasoline engines: a 2.4L Ecotec four-cylinder and a 3.0L V6. For both engines, GM generally specifies Dexos1 Gen 2 oil to meet current performance and warranty standards, with 5W-30 as the common viscosity in typical operating conditions. Dexos1 Gen 2 oils can be synthetic or synthetic-blend formulations.
What Dexos1 Gen 2 means for your oil choice
Dexos1 Gen 2 is GM’s modern oil specification designed to provide adequate wear protection, sludge control, and fuel economy. When shopping, look for the Dexos1 Gen 2 label on the oil container to ensure it meets GM’s requirements.
Viscosity and climate considerations
For most climates, 5W-30 Dexos1 Gen 2 is recommended. In extremely cold climates, some owners consult the manual for possible alternatives (such as thinner formulations like 0W-30 or 0W-20 if specified), but you should verify the exact viscosity recommended for your engine and region before making a change.
Oil shopping and maintenance guidelines
To help you select the right oil and maintain the engine properly, consider the following guidelines.
- Use Dexos1 Gen 2 certified engine oil (synthetic or synthetic-blend) appropriate for your engine and climate.
- The typical viscosity for the 2014 Terrain is 5W-30; confirm this in your owner's manual if you drive in unusual conditions.
- Pair the oil with a compatible oil filter and replace both at each oil change.
- Follow GM’s recommended drain interval or your vehicle’s oil life monitor; common intervals range from about 5,000 to 7,500 miles depending on driving conditions.
- Avoid using oils that do not meet Dexos1 Gen 2 standards, as they may not provide adequate protection and could affect warranty coverage.
Regular oil changes and level checks help protect the engine and sustain performance, so keep a maintenance schedule and document changes.
What to tell a mechanic or service adviser
When you service the Terrain, specify the engine variant (2.4L or 3.0L), the 2014 model year, and request Dexos1 Gen 2 oil with the correct viscosity for your climate. Ask the technician to confirm and log the oil life/interval according to GM recommendations.
Summary
For a 2014 GMC Terrain, the standard oil specification is Dexos1 Gen 2, with 5W-30 being the common viscosity. Climate and engine variant can modify the exact requirement, so always verify against the owner's manual or a GM dealership.
What kind of oil does a 2014 GMC use?
GMC Sierra 1500 Oil Requirements by Engine and Year
| Years | Engine | Oil Type |
|---|---|---|
| 2014-2018 | 4.3L V6 | SAE 5W-30 Dexos1 Gen 2 |
| 2014-2024 | 5.3L V8 (DFM) | SAE 0W-20 Dexos1 Gen 2 |
| 2014-2019 | 5.3L V8 (AFM) | SAE 5W-30 Dexos1 Gen 2 |
| 2014-2024 | 6.2L V8 | SAE 0W-20 Dexos1 Gen 2 |
How many quarts of oil does a 2014 GMC Terrain take?
5 quarts
Oil Grade: SEOC3
| Viscosity: | 0W-30 (Below -29°C) 5W-30 (All TEMPS) |
|---|---|
| Capacity: | 5 quarts (with filter). After refill check oil level. |
| Torque: | 18 ft/lbs (Oil Drain Plug) |
What oil is recommended for a 2014 GMC terrain?
With the LTG 2.0L turbo engine, use SAE 5W-30 full synthetic engine oil. Winter temperatures commonly fall below 20°F in IN. For improved results in the winter months, we suggest going with SAE 0W-30 full synthetic oil.
Which engine oil is best for GMC Terrain?
full synthetic ACDelco dexos1
GMC recommends full synthetic ACDelco dexos1 as the best GMC Terrain oil. The correct GMC Terrain oil type also depends on the size of the engine under the hood and where you plan to drive.


