The 2022 GMC Terrain equipped with the 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine (Engine Code LYX) represents a blend of modern efficiency and compact SUV utility. To keep this vehicle performing at its best, adhering to strict lubrication guidelines is essential. The LYX engine is designed to run on low-viscosity oils that provide immediate protection during cold starts while maintaining stability under the high thermal loads generated by turbocharging. Using the correct fluid specifications ensures that internal components remain free from carbon buildup, sludge, and premature wear, ultimately extending the service life of the powertrain. This guide details the precise lubrication requirements, capacities, and recommended AMSOIL synthetic products tailored specifically for this engine and its associated systems.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Delivers unsurpassed engine protection for up to 25,000 miles or one year, offering 75% more protection against horsepower loss and wear.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Provides up to 20,000 miles of protection with 37% more cleaning power to help keep the engine running smoothly and combat Low-Speed Pre-Ignition (LSPI).
- AMSOIL OE 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – A trusted alternative that outperforms conventional oils and provides OEM-equivalent protection while fighting sludge and deposits.
- AMSOIL 0W-20 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – Specifically formulated for vehicles with over 75,000 miles to boost detergency, reduce sludge by 67%, and minimize oil consumption.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter – Engineered with a robust media to capture 99% of contaminants at 20 microns, providing greater capacity for wear-causing particles than standard filters.
- WIX Oil Filter – A premium aftermarket option featuring advanced filtration media that offers improvements over original equipment manufacturer-branded filters.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A unique OAT formulation that provides protection for up to 150,000 miles or 5 years without phosphates or silicates.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated option for maximum corrosion protection, extending service life up to 150,000 miles in passenger cars and light trucks.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Withstands the rigors of heavy towing and elevated temperatures while remaining fluid in sub-zero conditions for the 9T45 transmission.
- AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Designed to protect against wear and ensure smooth shifting for the 9-speed automatic transmission.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Offers advanced protection against wear and thermal runaway, ideal for rear differentials and limited-slip applications.
- AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid – Resists heat for long fluid life and helps seals remain soft to prevent leaks in power steering systems.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Provides excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness with a stable viscosity over a wide temperature range.
Engine Oil Specifications and Capacities
The heart of the 2022 GMC Terrain’s performance lies in its 1.5L inline-four turbocharged engine. This powertrain requires a specific viscosity to function correctly under both cold morning starts and the high heat generated by the turbocharger. For this engine, the manufacturer specifies a 0W-20 viscosity grade that meets the GM dexos1 Gen 2 specification. The oil capacity for a complete change, which includes replacing the oil filter, is 5.3 quarts. It is crucial to verify the oil level after the refill to ensure the engine is neither under-filled nor over-filled, as both conditions can lead to efficiency losses or potential damage.
AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-20 is the top-tier recommendation for this vehicle. Independent testing has shown that this oil offers 75% more protection against horsepower loss and wear compared to the industry standard. It is engineered to protect turbochargers up to 72% better than required by the GM specification, directly addressing the unique thermal challenges of the LYX engine. For those seeking a cost-effective option that still delivers synthetic performance, the AMSOIL OE Motor Oil is a certified alternative that fights sludge and deposits effectively. Owners of higher-mileage Terrains should consider the AMSOIL High-Mileage Motor Oil, which features enhanced detergents and anti-wear additives to boost engine cleanliness and reduce oil consumption in engines exceeding 75,000 miles.
Filtration and Air Intake
Even the most advanced synthetic oil requires a high-quality filter to remove contaminants from the circulation loop. The 2022 Terrain utilizes the EA15K50 AMSOIL Oil Filter, which is designed to work seamlessly with AMSOIL products. This filter provides a 99% filtration efficiency at 20 microns, capturing microscopic particles that can cause abrasive wear on cylinder walls and bearings. It features a robust construction that resists collapse under high pressure and allows for lower restriction, ensuring oil flows freely to critical engine parts. This extended service life means the filter can handle the longer intervals of AMSOIL synthetic oils without clogging.
While the AMSOIL Oil Filter is the factory-recommended match for a complete oil change kit, the WIX Oil Filter (WL10290) is also a compatible premium option. The WIX filter utilizes advanced media that improves upon the filtration capabilities of standard OEM filters, ensuring that the engine environment remains clean and safe for operation.
Transmission and Drivetrain Fluids
The 2022 GMC Terrain is equipped with a 9T45 9-speed automatic transmission, which demands a fluid capable of handling complex shifting sequences and varying load conditions. The total fill capacity for this transmission is 10 quarts, though an initial fill (likely for service scenarios) requires approximately 5.3 quarts, with actual operating capacities generally falling between 5.0 and 6.0 liters. Maintaining the correct fluid viscosity is vital for the longevity of the valve body and clutches within this transmission.
AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient Automatic Transmission Fluid is the superior choice for this unit. It is formulated to withstand the rigors of heavy towing, high ambient temperatures, and challenging terrain without losing its viscosity index. This fluid remains stable in sub-zero temperatures, ensuring quick hydraulic response and smooth shifts. The AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient Automatic Transmission Fluid offers a reliable alternative that protects against wear while maintaining the fuel economy benefits required by modern transmission designs. For those operating in severe conditions, these synthetic fluids offer significantly better resistance to thermal breakdown than conventional automatic transmission fluids.
Cooling and Brake Systems
Effective thermal management is critical for the 1.5L turbo engine. The cooling system capacity for the 2022 GMC Terrain is approximately 7 quarts. AMSOIL offers two primary AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant options depending on the owner’s preference. This pre-mixed, ethylene glycol-based solution provides protection for up to 150,000 miles or five years. It is free of phosphates, nitrates, and borates, making it safe for all modern cooling system metals. For those who prefer a concentrated formulation, the AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant offers superior heat transfer and corrosion protection, allowing for extended service intervals up to 150,000 miles.
The braking system also benefits from a switch to synthetic fluid. The recommended product is the AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid. Conventional brake fluids can absorb moisture over time, leading to a lower boiling point and potential brake fade. AMSOIL’s synthetic brake fluid maintains a stable viscosity across a wide temperature range, ensuring responsive pedal feel and optimal ABS and traction-control system performance even under heavy braking conditions.
AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR and Power Steering
For the rear differential, which typically requires 1.7 pints for GLS25 applications and 0.8 pints for specific clutch units, AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube is the ideal lubricant. This synthetic gear lube contains specialized friction modifiers for limited-slip differentials and is designed to control thermal runaway, protecting against rust and corrosion while reducing operating temperatures. This ensures the longevity of the gears and bearings in the rear axle.
Power steering systems in the Terrain also benefit from synthetic lubrication. The AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid helps seals remain soft to prevent leaks and offers excellent high-temperature protection. Its low-temperature performance ensures quiet operation and smooth steering input, eliminating the squeaks and groans often associated with aging fluid systems.
Additional Protection and Performance
To ensure the fuel system remains clean and efficient, AMSOIL P.i.® Performance Improver is a recommended additive. This gasoline additive can restore up to 14% horsepower and clean GDI fuel injectors to 100% flow rate after a single tank. It helps prevent carbon buildup and controls pre-ignition knock, which is particularly beneficial for direct injection engines like the Terrain’s 1.5L turbo. Additionally, AMSOIL Upper Cylinder Lubricant Corrosion Inhibitor provides extra protection for the fuel system and upper cylinders, compatible with capless fuel systems. For vehicle maintenance beyond lubrication, products like the AMSOIL Heavy-Duty Metal Protector offer long-lasting corrosion inhibition for undercarriages, while cleaners like the AMSOIL Heavy-Duty Degreaser and AMSOIL Power Foam® Carburetor and Induction-System Cleaner help maintain the engine bay and intake systems in top condition.
Vehicle Background
The 2022 GMC Terrain represents a significant step in the evolution of the compact crossover segment, balancing urban maneuverability with a rugged aesthetic that appeals to a broad demographic of drivers. Part of the larger GM Epsilon platform family, the Terrain shares its foundational architecture with the Chevrolet Equinox, yet it distinguishes itself through refined styling cues and a focus on a premium driving experience. The 2022 model year continued the design language introduced in recent refreshes, featuring a bold front fascia with a prominent grille that integrates seamlessly with sleek, swept-back LED headlamps. This visual identity gives the vehicle a confident stance, making it a formidable presence on city streets and family-oriented road trips alike.
Under the hood, the 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine (LYX) is a standout feature of this generation. Designed by General Motors, this powertrain was developed to provide a robust power-to-weight ratio without the fuel penalty of larger displacement engines. The turbocharging system allows the engine to produce peak torque early in the rev range, delivering responsive acceleration that belies its size. The 9-speed automatic transmission paired with this engine enhances efficiency by keeping the engine RPMs lower during cruising, optimizing fuel economy while maintaining smooth power delivery during acceleration. This combination makes the Terrain an excellent choice for daily commuting, where stop-and-go traffic is common, as well as for weekend getaways where a bit of extra power is welcome on winding roads. The interior design further complements this blend of utility and comfort, offering a cabin that is both spacious and technologically advanced, with available digital interfaces and high-quality materials that elevate the overall ownership experience.
Despite its many strengths, owners of the 2022 GMC Terrain may encounter specific issues that can be mitigated through diligent maintenance with AMSOIL synthetic lubricants. One common concern is oil sludge buildup in the turbocharger, which can restrict oil flow and lead to premature turbo failure. Using AMSOIL Signature Series or AMSOIL OE Motor Oil, which are formulated to resist thermal breakdown and carbon deposit formation, can significantly reduce the risk of this issue. Another potential problem involves the cooling system, where overheating can occur if the coolant is not maintained at optimal levels or if corrosion begins to restrict flow; AMSOIL Antifreeze & Coolant is designed to prevent corrosion and extend the service interval, ensuring the system operates efficiently.
Furthermore, the 9-speed automatic transmission can sometimes exhibit shuddering or delayed shifting, often attributed to fluid degradation under heavy use. The use of AMSOIL Fuel-Efficient Automatic Transmission Fluid can help alleviate these symptoms by providing superior shear stability and friction control. Finally, power steering leaks are a known issue in some models due to seal hardening over time; AMSOIL Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid helps keep seals supple, preventing leaks and ensuring the steering remains responsive throughout the vehicle’s life.