Duramax Problems

smallblockfuelie · April 7, 2007

So I just got back from my local GMC dealer after having my truck towed in for the third time because it wouldn't start. It's a 2003 with 85k miles on it, and arguably the engine is just getting broke in so I don't understand all the problems I am having with the truck. I ended up telling a service and sales guy into the room and giving them an earful about the truck. I explained the remote places I go with the truck while hunting and fishing, and that if it were to quit on me like has done with zero warning these last three times that my life could quite literally be in jeopardy. I explained that I do not trust my truck any more and will not be making any long trips in it until GM either gets it fixed or I buy a new truck.

The other two times that it just quit on me there was a faulty fuel sending unit (I think) in the fuel tank and the second was a failed o-ring on a plunger. The plunger problem happened at about 20K and the sender unit a 59K. No idea what the problem is this time, but man do I ever hate being stranded and not being able to depend or have confidence in my truck!

They promised me that they would have a talk with the service manager on Monday to look at history on other '03 Duramax's to see if these are common problems or if I just have a lemon. They also promised to have a conference call with me on Tuesday or Wednesday with a rep from GM to see what can be done to make me happy. No idea as of right now how this is going to play out, but it's all pretty frustrating. We're going to start by having the tech's determine what is wrong with it on Monday and proceed from there. I am a devoted Chevy/GM guy and have never owned anything BUT a GM product, but if they don't take care of my on this matter I am going to have a Cummins or International engine parked in the drive way soon.

Haulin' 8.1 · April 8, 2007

LOL at International, you can't know what you're talking about there, those are the sorriest diesel trucks on the road. It's too bad you are having the problems they are usually not any trouble.

Vernon

dietz4ibanez · April 8, 2007

Cummins arent any better and it sucks to have to know this for experience!!! You will have the same tow in problem from day 1!

smallblockfuelie · April 8, 2007

International (Ideal Lease) makes the diesel engine for Ford.

dogzapper · April 8, 2007

International (Ideal Lease) makes the diesel engine for Ford.

Yup, that'll show them; buy a Ford or a Dodge.

Three problems with the Duramax in 85,000 miles; truly it is garbage. Ford, Dodge and presumably Toyota are magnificently better in every way.

Happy landings, friend.

Steve

Haulin' 8.1 · April 9, 2007

International (Ideal Lease) makes the diesel engine for Ford.

My point exactly. Ford is a four letter word beginning with F that means you're screwed. Ask some of the guys who bought them.

Vernon

superbee · April 9, 2007

Wow, 3 whole problems. Is this your first vehicle of any make? I have had all of the others, including Jap brands that have stranded me. 4 wheeling alone is dumb, hunting in real backcountry alone is dumber. Good luck with your new Ford diesel.

smallblockfuelie · April 9, 2007

I certainly didn't come here and be insulting with any of you, so I don't understand the attacks. I certainly won't be spending much time here.

superbee · April 9, 2007

Sorry dude. I just thought this post was pretty rough, we get some trolls just trying to start fights. I apologize for the rough treatment. Are there any specific issues you would like our input on?

Haulin' 8.1 · April 9, 2007

Heath, you have to develop some thicker skin on the internet and learn not to take it to heart. This is a place where guys love thier GM trucks and negative comments better be backed up and comparisons to other makes are futile. Like I said it's too bad you're having the problems. I'm a real mechanic so I have doubts with anyone who considers Ford a good choice for reliable diesel transportation. Also, based on what you've said about your truck I would strongly consider that it may be your fuel source. You've had two fuel system issues that most don't ever see in 300,000 miles. One of them was repaired at the dealer then reocured, what's up with that?

Vernon

smallblockfuelie · April 9, 2007

No, I didn't come here to start fights. I really came in search of an answer/help/advice. I love my GM's and hate this feeling that I can't trust my truck. If this problem is one that is know to exist in 2003 models then I need to upgrade. If it's just my truck that is having problems then again I need to upgrade or get GM to fix these issues.