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You can learn here about the Duramax engine. These are big, strong, and efficient engines made by a team-up of General Motors and Isuzu called DMAX. They made a big impact on the era of the automobile industry.
In this article, you can learn how this engine turned out to be a real powerhouse, and if you’re looking for information about the greatest and worst Duramax engine year models, then read the whole content.
I will tell you how the GMC and Chevrolet trucks with Duramax engines outperform other trucks. Not only are they useful for heavy-duty tasks, but they also dominate the roads. Let’s read out the factors that make Duramax engines so powerful.
Also, check 2 Bolt Main vs. 4 Bolt Main: Which Is Better for You?
Duramax Engine Year Models
What Year Duramax Modes Are Safe to Purchase Used?
Since 2001, there have been eleven different types of Duramax engines worldwide. They have different sizes and shapes, with eight, six, or four cylinders. So there are a lot of choices to find out the best engine.
The following are the top Duramax diesel engine year models to buy safely:
- 2010 – 2017 Duramax LGH
- 2011 – 2016 Duramax LML
- 2011 – present Duramax XLD25
- 2012 – present Duramax XLD28
- 2014 – present Duramax LWN
- 2017 – present Duramax L5P
- 2019 – present Duramax LM2
- (2020) – present Duramax LGH
- (2017-2023) – present Duramax L5P
In the past, some older Duramax engines had a couple of common problems that could have cost owners a lot in repairs. If you want an engine that’s less likely to give you trouble, we suggest looking at these specific Duramax year models:
Which Years of Duramax Should Avoid?
In the past, some older Duramax engines had a couple of many problems that could have cost owners a lot in repairs. If you want an engine that’s less likely to give you trouble, I suggest looking at these specific Duramax year models:
Avoid these Duramax engine year models:
- 2001 – 2004 Duramax LB7
- 2004 – 2005 Duramax LLY
- 2006 – 2007 Duramax LBZ
- 2007 – 2010 Duramax LMM
- 2007-2010 Duramax LMM
- 2011-2016 Duramax LML
- 2010-2016 Duramax LGH
- 2017-2023 Duramax L5P
Factors Influencing Duramax Engine Performance
Turbocharger Efficiency: The turbocharger is responsible for enhancing the power production of the Duramax engine. A well-designed turbocharger can normally increase engine performance.
The efficiency of the Cooling System: It has an amazing ability to cool the heated engine when it is overheated, particularly when there are large loads. Engine performance is improved overall when an effective cooling system helps to maintain ideal operating temperatures.
Engine Control Module (ECM) Tuning: The ECM regulates the timing, boost pressure, fuel delivery, and other elements of engine functioning. Custom adjustments can maintain performance for specific applications.
Load and Driving Conditions: Both the kind of driving conditions and the amount of load the engine is subjected to can affect performance. Engines designed with a particular purpose will function more effectively in that context.
Transmission Compatibility: For maximum performance and longevity, especially in heavy-duty applications, it is necessary to match the engine with the proper transmission.
Duramax Engine: All Year Models (2010 to 2023) Applications, and Common Problems
| Year Model | Applications | Common Problems |
|---|---|---|
| 2010 | Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra 2500HD/3500HD | Emissions system issues, DEF system, Injector problems |
| 2011 | Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra 2500HD/3500HD | DEF system, Exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system issues |
| 2012 | Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra 2500HD/3500HD | DEF system, Injector problems |
| 2013 | Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra 2500HD/3500HD | DEF system, Injector problems |
| 2014 | Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra 2500HD/3500HD | DEF system, Injector problems |
| 2015 | Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra 2500HD/3500HD | DEF system, Injector problems |
| 2016 | Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra 2500HD/3500HD | DEF system, Injector problems |
| 2017 | Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra 2500HD/3500HD | DEF system, Injector problems |
| 2018 | Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra 2500HD/3500HD | DEF system, Injector problems |
| 2019 | Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra 2500HD/3500HD | DEF system, Injector problems |
| 2020 | Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra 2500HD/3500HD | DEF system, Injector problems |
| 2021 | Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra 2500HD/3500HD | DEF system, Injector problems |
| 2022 | Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra 2500HD/3500HD | DEF system, Injector problems |
| 2023 | Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra 2500HD/3500HD | DEF system, Injector problems |
2001 – 2004 Duramax LB7
Applications
Up until early 2004, when the LLY took their place, the LB7 Duramax engines were utilized in the GMC Sierra HD 2500 and 3500, Chevrolet Silverado 2500 and 3500, Chevrolet Kodiak C4500 and C5500, and GMC Topkick C4500 and C500.
- Horsepower: 235 horsepower.
- Torque: 500 lb-ft of torque.
- Displacement: 6.6 liters (or 403 cubic inches).
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Powerful and torquey | Injector and fuel system issues |
| Good fuel efficiency | Potential for overheating in certain conditions |
| Durable and reliable | Limited aftermarket support for some parts |
| Long-lasting | EGR and emissions system complexities |
| Smooth and quiet operation | Potential for transmission issues |
| Good towing capabilities | Some reports of injector harness problems |
| Strong aftermarket support | Potential for head gasket issues |
| 5-speed Allison transmission | Lack of modern technology/features |
Is It Good Or Bad To Purchase?
No, buying the LB7 engine is not a good decision. It is undoubtedly powerful, but it is notorious for having many issues. If you go with this engine, you may find yourself at the mechanic’s shop quite often.
2006 – 2007 Duramax LLY/LBZ
Applications
Chevrolet and GMC vehicles from 2006 to 2007 were equipped with Duramax LLY/LBZ engines. Among the applications are a few of them:
- Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD/3500HD
- GMC Sierra 2500HD/3500HD
- Chevrolet Kodiak
- GMC Topkick
- Chevrolet Express
- GMC Savana
- Chevrolet Silverado 1500HD (2006)
- GMC Sierra 1500HD (2006)
- Chevrolet Suburban 2500 (2006)
- GMC Yukon XL 2500 (2006)
- Chevrolet Avalanche 2500 (2006)
- GMC Yukon Denali XL 2500 (2006)
- Hummer H1 Alpha (2006-2007)
Duramax LLY (2006):
- Horsepower: 310 horsepower
- Torque: 605 lb-ft of torque
- Displacement: 6.6 liters (or 403 cubic inches)
Duramax LBZ (2006 – early 2007):
- Horsepower: 360 horsepower
- Torque: 650 lb-ft of torque
- Displacement: 6.6 liters (or 403 cubic inches)
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Increased Power | Potential Injector Issues |
| Improved Fuel Efficiency | Emissions System Complexity |
| Durability | Higher Initial Purchase Price |
| Good Towing Capability | Limited Availability in the Used Market |
Is It Good Or Bad To Purchase?
Yes, these engines are amazing and reliable. If you want a Duramax engine from that era, they have a wide options for you.
2007 – 2010 Duramax LMM
Applications
The 2007 GMC Savana 2500, 3500, and 4500, the 2007 Chevrolet Express 2500, 3500, and 4500, and the 2007 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD, 3500 HD, and 3500 HD all have LMM engines.
Duramax LMM (2007 – 2010)
- Horsepower: 365 horsepower
- Torque: 660 lb-ft of torque
- Displacement: 6.6 liters (or 403 cubic inches)
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Reliability | Potential Injector Issues |
| Good Towing Capability | Emissions System Complexity |
| Strong Performance | Higher Initial Purchase Price |
| Improved Fuel Efficiency | Limited Availability in the Used Market |
Is It Good Or Bad To Purchase?
Yes, the LMM’s DPF system makes it a good option. Moreover, it is preferable to choose subsequent models, such as the LML from 2011 or later. They had more advancements and modifications.
2011 – 2016 Duramax LML
Applications
Duramax LML engines were widely utilized in various Chevrolet and GMC automobiles from 2011 to 2016. Among the applications are a few of them:
- Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD/3500HD
- GMC Sierra 2500HD/3500HD
- Chevrolet Express
- GMC Savana
- Chevrolet Kodiak
- GMC Topkick
Duramax LML (2011 – 2016)
- Horsepower: 397 horsepower
- Torque: 765 lb-ft of torque
- Displacement: 6.6 liters (or 403 cubic inches)
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Improved Power and Performance | Potential Emissions System Issues |
| Better Towing Capability | Higher Initial Purchase Price |
| Excellent Fuel Efficiency | Limited Availability in the Used Market |
| DPF and SCR System for Emissions Control | Potential DEF Fluid Costs |
Is It Good Or Bad To Purchase?
Yes, It is an excellent choice to buy. Frequent users know its abilities and its work; also, they don’t have the same problems as older Duramax engines, such as water pump troubles and power limits in the Allison 1000 transmission.
2010 – 2017 Duramax LGH
Applications
The Duramax LGH engine was mostly seen in heavy-duty Chevrolet and GMC vehicles from 2010 to 2017. Among the applications are a few of them:
- Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD
- GMC Sierra 2500HD
- Chevrolet Express 2500/3500
- GMC Savana 2500/3500
- Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD Chassis Cab
- GMC Sierra 3500HD Chassis Cab
Duramax LGH (2010 – 2017)
- Horsepower: 335 horsepower
- Torque: 685 lb-ft of torque
- Displacement: 6.6 liters (or 403 cubic inches)
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fuel Efficiency | Potential Emissions System Issues |
| Good Towing Capability | Higher Initial Purchase Price |
| Durability | Limited Availability in the Used Market |
| Strong Performance | Potential DEF Fluid Costs |
Is It Good Or Bad To Purchase?
Yes, Although the LGH engines are generally amazing, they share one issue. Moreover, having DPF and DEF systems is a good thing, so we advise buying them.
2017 – 2021 Duramax L5P
Applications
The Duramax L5P engine was mostly seen in heavy-duty Chevrolet and GMC vehicles from 2017 to 2021. Among the applications are a few of them:
- Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD
- GMC Sierra 2500HD
- Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD
- GMC Sierra 3500HD
Duramax L5P (2017 – 2021)
- Horsepower: 445 horsepower
- Torque: 910 lb-ft of torque
- Displacement: 6.6 liters (or 403 cubic inches)
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent Power and Performance | Higher Initial Purchase Price |
| Advanced Emissions Control Systems (DEF, DPF) | Potential DEF Fluid Costs |
| Strong Towing Capability | Limited Availability in the Used Market |
| Good Fuel Efficiency | Potential Emissions System Issues |
Is It Good Or Bad To Purchase?
Yes, for your purposes, L5P is a great option and a smart buy for GMC and Chevy.
2019 – 2023 Duramax LM2
Applications
- GMC Sierra 1500
- Chevrolet Silverado 1500
- GMC Yukon and Yukon XL
- Chevrolet Suburban and Tahoe
- Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana
Duramax LM2 (2019 – 2023)
- Horsepower: 277 horsepower
- Torque: 460 lb-ft of torque
- Displacement: 3.0 liters (or 183 cubic inches)
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Powerful and Torquey | Higher upfront cost compared to gasoline engines |
| Excellent Towing Capability | Potentially higher maintenance costs |
| Fuel Efficiency | Availability of diesel fuel may vary by region |
| Durable and Reliable | Potential for more expensive repairs |
| Long-lasting | Emission system complexity and potential issues |
| Smooth and Quiet Operation | Slightly slower acceleration compared to gas |
| Good Resale Value | Limited options for biodiesel fuels |
| Advanced Technology | Potential for higher repair costs |
Is It Good Or Bad To Purchase?
Yes, Most people think the Duramax LM2 engine is a good one because of its power, towing capacity, and fuel efficiency.
Best Duramax Engine: What Are the Best & Worst Years?
The Duramax engine is amazing and can run long if you maintain it properly. Some people who used Duramax vehicles have driven them for well than 100,000 miles, and they show efficiency at work and also continue to perform admirably. Most Duramax owners claim that their engines can run up to 200,000 or even 300,000 miles without experiencing major issues.
In the era of this auto technology, It is an amazing engine that someone has driven 535,000 miles on a Duramax.
But remember that this could vary based on how you operate and maintain your truck. Thus, it is safe to conclude that Duramax engines have a very high level of efficiency and longevity.
