Benton Road Auto Repair is your one-stop-shop for everything automotive, even if you drive a big diesel, turbocharged truck. We are certified to maintain and repair many diesel brands, including Duramax. Although the engine itself is fantastic, there are a handful of well-known problems associated with its 6.6-liter engine, especially in older models. Here’s what they are so you can watch out for them.
Fuel System Trouble
Fuel system trouble isn’t good in any automobile, and the 6.6-liter Duramax is known for two specific fuel-related issues. First, air can get into the fuel lines easily. Second, this starves the engine of fuel. This particular engine uses an injection pump instead of a lift pump and this cracks the fuel filter housing.
Water Pump Trouble
On average, a vehicle’s water pump should last well over 100,000 miles. Unfortunately, those who drive Duramax 6.6-liter engines usually have to replace theirs by 80,000 miles. In some cases, the pump will last to 100,000 miles, but it usually fails much earlier than an average water pump does.
Overheating Trouble
You don’t need us to tell you that if the water pump fails your engine will overheat, even if you don’t a diesel truck. A common issue with Duramax diesels that were manufactured in 2005 or earlier is fan clutch failure, and this will make your engine overheat, especially in hot weather.
Injector Trouble
You may have already dealt with this problem if you drive an LB7 manufactured between 2001 and 2004. The years for this model ended up having a flaw in the injector design, which the manufacturer has since fixed. The design caused the injectors to fail long before they should have.
Glow Plug Trouble
This problem is also model-specific. If you drive a 2006 LLY or LBZ, you may have received a recall notice for the glow plug. If you haven’t had that fixed yet, now is the time to do it. Otherwise, the faulty plug can become deformed and eventually break due to module over-cycling.
Oil Trouble
Oil trouble is never a good thing and in the case of the 6.6-liter Duramax, the problem extends into the turbocharger. This common problem actually introduces motor oil into the turbocharger, coating both its exterior and interior components. The problem is caused by faulty PCV design.
Even if you don’t have any of the above problems, Benton Road Auto Repair can take care of your Duramax diesel engine. Call our Bossier City, LA, shop at 318-746-9142 to schedule an appointment.
