Any of my 5th Gen brethren own a Duramax?

[453030]

Have not posted much this past year or two. Still own and LOVE my 2010 5th Gen. Up to 48,000 miles and not a single issue. Only visit to my dealer was for a 30,000 mile fluids change (diffs, tranny, etc.). Other than that thrilled to not have been back a single time (I do my own regular maintenance).

Two years ago I bought an architectural stone business. My needs are changing and a full size pickup is in order. I can't stand the thought of trading my Runner. It might be possible to keep it and add a truck, but I'm looking at a brand new Sierra 2500 HD that will push 60k after everything. It's hard to justify keeping the Runner for the few times I'll want/need it. Buying a much less expensive pickup is an option of course, but after driving the 2015 Duramax anything else would be settling for my needs. The new truck is definitely going to be my daily driver.

Not looking for opinions on other trucks - the whole Chevy/Ford/Ram thing is lost on me. I choose what I like and in the HD platform the GMC is it for me. But I am wondering if anyone here runs a Duramax and if so how you like it. I'm aware of the emissions equipment and related issues. I am mostly highway miles and the diesel suits my long term towing requirements.

Appreciate any feedback.

PS, I know damn well that the first time a light goes off and needs a dealer visit I will miss my trusty 4Runner, and when I think this way, I consider keeping it "just in case".

 

[thebwlife]

They're good trucks as they should be for 55k+. I've driven my buddies a few times towing about 9k and it was nice.

I'm a dodge guy cause I don't want to buy urea every oil change. And the solid front axel.

Good luck man. they are all good trucks though.

 

[453030]

They're good trucks as they should be for 55k+. I've driven my buddies a few times towing about 9k and it was nice.

I'm a dodge guy cause I don't want to buy urea every oil change. And the solid front axel.

Good luck man. they are all good trucks though.

Thanks Boss, I appreciate the reply.

I have to admit, the 2500 drives quite a bit smoother than my lifted Trail on 33s. That said, I still find the 4Runner remarkable smooth for what it is. I think I just kind of forgot what a stock truck can drive like.

 

[T4R_Finally]

Not that you are trying to, but comparing the 4Runner and a HD Diesel is apples in oranges in every way. I didn't have a 2500, rather I had a 1500HD which they didn't make but a couple of years and it basically looked and rode like a 2500HD but it had a 6.0 Vortec gasser in it. Felt huge driving it, which I loved, and rode really nice, especially after I put some 285 Michelins on it instead of the little donuts it comes with. But I also have a Dodge Hemi pickup and didn't really need another pickup. Finally got tired of feeding it gas and sold it (took 2 days). Used the money to payoff the T4R and then went and got an Accord V6 that my wife now drives daily. So the payoff for me was that the 4Runner is now my DD. Desparately needs a lift and level for my taste. Fortunately, it's time for new tires so also a good time to do the suspension changes at the same time. Already removed the running boards which was a good first step.

You'll love the Duramax, especially if you have a practical use for it. But if you get rid of the 4Runner, there will be times you'll miss it.

 

[CatskillsRunner]

I have a Duramax dually that we picked up last summer because the 2500 gas truck was not capable of towing the horse trailer we bought. It is a great truck and what a difference in gas mileage. And maybe you arent considering a dually, but I much prefer the dual tires for a few reasons...very nice when you aren't hauling because the SRW truck bounced all over the place and this really rides much nicer. I do endurance races with my horses and I will tell you that from Maine to Virginia, the majority of the rigs at races use Duramaxes. I'm sure all three companies make good trucks, but those are folks for whom the dependability and safety factor of a truck are paramount. Most people like their horses better than their kids!!!

 

[CatskillsRunner]

Here's another idea. Why not hang onto the 4runner and get a used Duramax? You can pick up a used crew cab for 30k with 125k miles, which is what we did. Look at a few pics. of an LTZ. We got a 2009 and while its not the new interior it is really nice. The only tricky thing is finding a used one. Had to make a six hour drive to get ours but they might not be that rare once you get out of the Northeast.

 

[453030]

Not that you are trying to, but comparing the 4Runner and a HD Diesel is apples in oranges in every way. I didn't have a 2500, rather I had a 1500HD which they didn't make but a couple of years and it basically looked and rode like a 2500HD but it had a 6.0 Vortec gasser in it. Felt huge driving it, which I loved, and rode really nice, especially after I put some 285 Michelins on it instead of the little donuts it comes with. But I also have a Dodge Hemi pickup and didn't really need another pickup. Finally got tired of feeding it gas and sold it (took 2 days). Used the money to payoff the T4R and then went and got an Accord V6 that my wife now drives daily. So the payoff for me was that the 4Runner is now my DD. Desparately needs a lift and level for my taste. Fortunately, it's time for new tires so also a good time to do the suspension changes at the same time. Already removed the running boards which was a good first step.

You'll love the Duramax, especially if you have a practical use for it. But if you get rid of the 4Runner, there will be times you'll miss it.

Definitely not comparing the 4Runner to the Duramax HD. As I said, a pickup is becoming a necessity for my business, and it will become the daily driver. The interior really is like a mobile office, and has some great benefits for how I work and meet clients.

No doubt the Runner would be missed.

I have a Duramax dually that we picked up last summer because the 2500 gas truck was not capable of towing the horse trailer we bought. It is a great truck and what a difference in gas mileage. And maybe you arent considering a dually, but I much prefer the dual tires for a few reasons...very nice when you aren't hauling because the SRW truck bounced all over the place and this really rides much nicer. I do endurance races with my horses and I will tell you that from Maine to Virginia, the majority of the rigs at races use Duramaxes. I'm sure all three companies make good trucks, but those are folks for whom the dependability and safety factor of a truck are paramount. Most people like their horses better than their kids!!!

A few friends have various models, and those with the DM say they will never get rid of it. I think the SRW would definitely accommodate my requirements, but understand the appeal of the dually.

Here's another idea. Why not hang onto the 4runner and get a used Duramax? You can pick up a used crew cab for 30k with 125k miles, which is what we did. Look at a few pics. of an LTZ. We got a 2009 and while its not the new interior it is really nice. The only tricky thing is finding a used one. Had to make a six hour drive to get ours but they might not be that rare once you get out of the Northeast.

Definitely something I have considered. The main hesitation is knowing that M-F I will be in the truck a lot, and don't think the 4Runner will get driven a ton after being relegated to 2nd on the depth chart. Buying a new vehicle is always a special experience, especially when you have worked to earn it. With vehicles I tend to prefer new, even though they surely cost more.

 

[sf jakey]

I've owned 2 duramaxes, put over 100k on each. Sold both because around 80-90k they were requiring constant repairs. Have an 11 F350 now. I'm buying a 4Runner as a daily driver, camping, snow vehicle, and my F350 will be relegated to towing duty and long road trips which require a lot of gear or people. I would seriously consider a gas HD truck today over diesel. Diesel trucks today are very expensive to run. 14qts of synthetic oil isn't cheep. DEF is a non issue. Fuel filters every 10k, special coolant. Plus they EAT tires because of the massive torque, which run about 25k miles per set. Fuel mileage sucks around town, only improves on highway runs. Diesel is usually 25% more expensive than gas. If you really need the pulling power of diesel, then it is a necessity, but otherwise, the government has ruined diesel and diesel pickups.

 

[453030]

I've owned 2 duramaxes, put over 100k on each. Sold both because around 80-90k they were requiring constant repairs. Have an 11 F350 now. I'm buying a 4Runner as a daily driver, camping, snow vehicle, and my F350 will be relegated to towing duty and long road trips which require a lot of gear or people. I would seriously consider a gas HD truck today over diesel. Diesel trucks today are very expensive to run. 14qts of synthetic oil isn't cheep. DEF is a non issue. Fuel filters every 10k, special coolant. Plus they EAT tires because of the massive torque, which run about 25k miles per set. Fuel mileage sucks around town, only improves on highway runs. Diesel is usually 25% more expensive than gas. If you really need the pulling power of diesel, then it is a necessity, but otherwise, the government has ruined diesel and diesel pickups.

Thanks for your reply SFJ. No question the EPA has crushed the capability of the current diesels.

Most of my mileage is on the highway, at least 80% if not more, so the mileage is a non factor for me. And here in Colorado, diesel has averaged maybe 20-25 cents more per gallon, so I don't care much about that either. I assume it will remain around $4/gal.

The other expenses would add up I'm sure. I am going to test the new 6.2L in the 1500. Saves about 10k up front. Mileage numbers probably similar for my use. C&D got it to hit 60 in 5.4. And I was rather thrilled testing the Duramax which is probably mid 7s. Certainly the one downside of the 4Runner... just takes too long to get up and go.

 

[bluebullet]

GM never did completely repay the US tax payer for the bailout so they get no more of my money. The unions and the govt have ruined that company.

My Duramax has required 2 PRNDL switch replacements, a transmission shift cable (about 12' long), and replacement of all 4 brakes and rotors due to mag. chloride placed on MT roads in winter. It has been a reliable vehicle with normal maintenance and repairs. I will keep my 02 but would not purchase a new one. Union workers health care plans cost too much. Unless you pull a lot it is difficult to cost justify the diesel considering increased initial investment, cost of diesel vs unleaded, and added maintenance costs (oil changes/urea). When something does goes wrong with a diesel engine it can get quite expensive. Most of the other running gear on trucks (gas vs diesel) is comparable so they should last as long as you can stand the vehicle.

 

[tgamo]

I have owned 3 DuraMax GMC trucks - they have all been great, my last one had over 560k on the clock no major issues. These were all pre-urea trucks, with out the newer emission control systems. When I had to replace my last Duramax I decided on the 2011 F250 - with the solid front axle - just a better design imo. The DuraMax was great when it first came out - but is now getting a bit long in the tooth. My wife also had a 2011 F250 Tuscany Diesel, and we sold it for a 2014 - Trail Premium, (She absolutely hates the trail) so my vote is for the F250, but I don't think you can go wrong with any of the new diesels if that is what you need. keep in mind when these things break they are VERY expensive.

 

[1engineer]

Have not posted much this past year or two. Still own and LOVE my 2010 5th Gen. Up to 48,000 miles and not a single issue. Only visit to my dealer was for a 30,000 mile fluids change (diffs, tranny, etc.). Other than that thrilled to not have been back a single time (I do my own regular maintenance).

Two years ago I bought an architectural stone business. My needs are changing and a full size pickup is in order. I can't stand the thought of trading my Runner. It might be possible to keep it and add a truck, but I'm looking at a brand new Sierra 2500 HD that will push 60k after everything. It's hard to justify keeping the Runner for the few times I'll want/need it. Buying a much less expensive pickup is an option of course, but after driving the 2015 Duramax anything else would be settling for my needs. The new truck is definitely going to be my daily driver.

Not looking for opinions on other trucks - the whole Chevy/Ford/Ram thing is lost on me. I choose what I like and in the HD platform the GMC is it for me. But I am wondering if anyone here runs a Duramax and if so how you like it. I'm aware of the emissions equipment and related issues. I am mostly highway miles and the diesel suits my long term towing requirements.

Appreciate any feedback.

PS, I know damn well that the first time a light goes off and needs a dealer visit I will miss my trusty 4Runner, and when I think this way, I consider keeping it "just in case".

After reading your posts I really think you need to reevaluate your justification.

@SFJakey gave you facts that go right to the bottom line. Here are a few more:
My brother has SEVENTEEN pickup trucks for his various businesses. The heaviest hauling part is 30' lowboy trailers loaded with material such as pallets. Over the last few years he has bought new diesel Fords, GM's and Dodges. Without exception he has gotten rid of every single diesel that is newer that 2007 because of cost. Between the maintenance, fuel and repairs he could not afford to run them. He now has several new Fords that are gas and a few new gas Dodges. You say that "Diesel is only $.25 higher per gallon. Dude, that's a LOT of money if you are trying to make a profit!

Now, if you want to buy a new 2500 Chevy because it's cool, or because it goes fast from 0-60 or it sounds good then by all means go for it. If you want to use it as a work truck to make money with then that's a losing proposition. Today is not a good day to have a light duty diesel for a business. You need to step up to a Class VI truck before any benefit can be gained, unless that thing is going to be hitched up to a 15K load every single day. Good luck.

 

[453030]

GM never did completely repay the US tax payer for the bailout so they get no more of my money. The unions and the govt have ruined that company.

My Duramax has required 2 PRNDL switch replacements, a transmission shift cable (about 12' long), and replacement of all 4 brakes and rotors due to mag. chloride placed on MT roads in winter. It has been a reliable vehicle with normal maintenance and repairs. I will keep my 02 but would not purchase a new one. Union workers health care plans cost too much. Unless you pull a lot it is difficult to cost justify the diesel considering increased initial investment, cost of diesel vs unleaded, and added maintenance costs (oil changes/urea). When something does goes wrong with a diesel engine it can get quite expensive. Most of the other running gear on trucks (gas vs diesel) is comparable so they should last as long as you can stand the vehicle.

I have owned 3 DuraMax GMC trucks - they have all been great, my last one had over 560k on the clock no major issues. These were all pre-urea trucks, with out the newer emission control systems. When I had to replace my last Duramax I decided on the 2011 F250 - with the solid front axle - just a better design imo. The DuraMax was great when it first came out - but is now getting a bit long in the tooth. My wife also had a 2011 F250 Tuscany Diesel, and we sold it for a 2014 - Trail Premium, (She absolutely hates the trail) so my vote is for the F250, but I don't think you can go wrong with any of the new diesels if that is what you need. keep in mind when these things break they are VERY expensive.

Thanks guys for the input.

The powertrain comes with a 5yr/100k warranty, so I'm not overly concerned with repairs. And it comes w/ a 2 year service plan, so the first 4 services, including DEF (which is cheap) are free. It's all to easy to fall in love after a test drive, but I was rather shocked at well well the truck drove and handled. I think it weighs 7500 pounds or so; surprisingly nimble and very quick.

If I have read correctly, 2016 models will have even tighter emissions restrictions. So if I grab one, I would get a 2015. If it were not a daily driver and just for an heavy occasional pull, I would probably be looking for an 06 or something similar.

One thing is without question... any vehicle after a Toyota 4Runner will likely not measure up in terms of reliability.

 

[1engineer]

Thanks guys for the input.

The powertrain comes with a 5yr/100k warranty, so I'm not overly concerned with repairs. And it comes w/ a 2 year service plan, so the first 4 services, including DEF (which is cheap) are free. It's all to easy to fall in love after a test drive, but I was rather shocked at well well the truck drove and handled. I think it weighs 7500 pounds or so; surprisingly nimble and very quick.

If I have read correctly, 2016 models will have even tighter emissions restrictions. So if I grab one, I would get a 2015. If it were not a daily driver and just for an heavy occasional pull, I would probably be looking for an 06 or something similar.

One thing is without question... any vehicle after a Toyota 4Runner will likely not measure up in terms of reliability.

Well, you can't say you weren't warned. Good luck.

 

[453030]

After reading your posts I really think you need to reevaluate your justification.

@SFJakey gave you facts that go right to the bottom line. Here are a few more:
My brother has SEVENTEEN pickup trucks for his various businesses. The heaviest hauling part is 30' lowboy trailers loaded with material such as pallets. Over the last few years he has bought new diesel Fords, GM's and Dodges. Without exception he has gotten rid of every single diesel that is newer that 2007 because of cost. Between the maintenance, fuel and repairs he could not afford to run them. He now has several new Fords that are gas and a few new gas Dodges. You say that "Diesel is only $.25 higher per gallon. Dude, that's a LOT of money if you are trying to make a profit!

Now, if you want to buy a new 2500 Chevy because it's cool, or because it goes fast from 0-60 or it sounds good then by all means go for it. If you want to use it as a work truck to make money with then that's a losing proposition. Today is not a good day to have a light duty diesel for a business. You need to step up to a Class VI truck before any benefit can be gained, unless that thing is going to be hitched up to a 15K load every single day. Good luck.

Appreciate the input 1E.

My pulling needs will require mountain towing to areas like Vail and Aspen. With maybe 10-15,000 pounds of stone behind me, the diesel exhaust brake would be invaluable.

And the payload is another requirement for me. I can load a single fireplace surround in the pickup box that might weigh 3000 pounds or more, so an HD pickup is better for my needs. Maybe a gas HD is the solution? GM's 6.0L gets 12mpg unloaded. The diesel will get close to that towing, and probably 16-18 average will all my highway driving. So the extra 25 cents/gal is negligible. Now, the point about spending an extra 10k up front is reasonable to consider. I definitely will not be towing ever day.

I am in a fortunate position. I'm not in a rush and if I want to keep my 4Runner I can. Just doing my typical research.

 

[T4R_Finally]

One thing I know from the area I live in - once you get diesel fever, you can't shake it. We don't own one but my son is obsessed with them. I handed down my 10 year old hemi RAM to him and dressed it up with leveling kit, new rims, big tires, plasti-dipped, Y-Piped dual exhaust, bull bar with KC lights, new stereo with 2 12" subs under the back seat. And he'd trade it all tomorrow for anything with a Cummins in it. And he has absolutely no use for one other than to see it blow black smoke. And the vast majority of guys around here driving diesels have no practical need or use for one whatsoever.

I just bought a new Honda Accord V6 but I first looked into a Passat TDI. The estimated mileage got my attention. But then I factored in the extra cost for the fuel, the fact that I'd have to fill it up with exhaust fluid at every oil change, etc. and all that minimized the additional mpg real quick.

All that said, if you have a legit use for one, they are great to have, as long as your business model justifies the cost to own it.

 

[453030]

One thing I know from the area I live in - once you get diesel fever, you can't shake it. We don't own one but my son is obsessed with them. I handed down my 10 year old hemi RAM to him and dressed it up with leveling kit, new rims, big tires, plasti-dipped, Y-Piped dual exhaust, bull bar with KC lights, new stereo with 2 12" subs under the back seat. And he'd trade it all tomorrow for anything with a Cummins in it. And he has absolutely no use for one other than to see it blow black smoke. And the vast majority of guys around here driving diesels have no practical need or use for one whatsoever.

I just bought a new Honda Accord V6 but I first looked into a Passat TDI. The estimated mileage got my attention. But then I factored in the extra cost for the fuel, the fact that I'd have to fill it up with exhaust fluid at every oil change, etc. and all that minimized the additional mpg real quick.

All that said, if you have a legit use for one, they are great to have, as long as your business model justifies the cost to own it.

LOL, I have heard that. I am not yet committed to the diesel being my choice; just considering it, and since I speak the same language as most of you all here, I figured I would ask.

It is interesting, most of the reasons cited in these answers against a diesel have to do with higher fuel costs, repairs and maintenance costing more, etc. So higher operating costs.

Perhaps I did not verbalize my question correctly. I never asked if a diesel costs more to own and operate than a gas engine. I asked if 4Runner owners owned the Duramax, and if so how they have liked it. If I decide the diesel is right for me and it costs an extra K or two per year to operate, that is my choice.

My primary concern is buying a vehicle that does not require regular visits to the dealer. My time is a lot more valuable to me than a few K at the end of the year.

Thanks for the reply T4R_F.

 

[jeffroski]

Best truck I ever owned. Ultra reliable and had power to pull any hill. Worst mistake was getting rid of it. Longest still I production platform engine and transmission wise.

 

[wfo9]

I've owned several chevy trucks, but never a duramax. I currently own a 2014 GMC 1500 SLT/Denali. All the GM trucks I have owned ( I think I have had 5) have been pretty good. The 2014 is more car like than truck. The ride quality and gas mileage are amazing. You can't even hear the motor or any road noise at all and it is very luxurious. They have taken it to a new level in this generation. I'm not a big fan of the infotainment screen, but it works.

My 4 runner feels so rough and rugged compared to the GMC. I still like the 4 runner more for my needs and the wife drives the GMC daily. However, I always grab the GMC keys for long hwy trips that don't involve any offroad stuff. The gas mileage alone is night and day (but my t4r is a bit of a brick going down the road with the tires rack....)

The duramaxes are pretty amazing when towing. I have several friends that have them. One has a 2005 and it had some cooling design flaws that he had to solve on his own. I think the 06-09 were pretty good. Not sure about the new ones with all the latest emissions garbage. I can tell you that the power you can get out of those things is mind blowing. I've seen a few run 10 second quarter miles in full street trim. It seems impossible that a 8k lb truck can get up and go like that, but they do it. If I was towing something heavy, I would have a duramax.

 

[453030]

Best truck I ever owned. Ultra reliable and had power to pull any hill. Worst mistake was getting rid of it. Longest still I production platform engine and transmission wise.

Appreciate your reply Jeff.

I've owned several chevy trucks, but never a duramax. I currently own a 2014 GMC 1500 SLT/Denali. All the GM trucks I have owned ( I think I have had 5) have been pretty good. The 2014 is more car like than truck. The ride quality and gas mileage are amazing. You can't even hear the motor or any road noise at all and it is very luxurious. They have taken it to a new level in this generation. I'm not a big fan of the infotainment screen, but it works.

My 4 runner feels so rough and rugged compared to the GMC. I still like the 4 runner more for my needs and the wife drives the GMC daily. However, I always grab the GMC keys for long hwy trips that don't involve any offroad stuff. The gas mileage alone is night and day (but my t4r is a bit of a brick going down the road with the tires rack....)

The duramaxes are pretty amazing when towing. I have several friends that have them. One has a 2005 and it had some cooling design flaws that he had to solve on his own. I think the 06-09 were pretty good. Not sure about the new ones with all the latest emissions garbage. I can tell you that the power you can get out of those things is mind blowing. I've seen a few run 10 second quarter miles in full street trim. It seems impossible that a 8k lb truck can get up and go like that, but they do it. If I was towing something heavy, I would have a duramax.

There is no question that the 2015 2500 HD Duramax I test drove is way smoother and quieter than my 4Runner. The smoother is in part due to my Toyota being lifted and on 285s (DuraTracs now, will soon switch to my alternate set of MT/Rs for the summer), the quieter is rather amazing given the truck has a diesel engine. I don't mind the rugged ride of the 4Runner; for as amazing as it is offroad I find it very compliant on road. But the bulk of my driving is highway at 80mph, and this is not the 4Runner's strong suit.