I’m looking to buy a diesel pickup because I drive a lot of miles, and I want something reliable that can handle the wear and tear. I’ve been researching GMC, RAM, and Ford but feel overwhelmed by all the options. Are there any specific years or models to avoid? What’s a good mileage or idle hour range to look for? Appreciate any advice.
It really depends on what you need. If you’re looking for an older, affordable daily driver, the 7.3 Powerstroke is a solid option. For a new truck, the 6.7 Powerstroke is a beast but can be pricey. I drive a 2004 F350 with the 6.0—it’s studded, deleted, and tuned, and I tow a 14,000-pound fifth wheel with no issues. I’d avoid the 6.4 Powerstroke (2008-2010), though.
@Cedar
I’ve got a 2013 6.7 F250 with 212k miles, and it’s still going strong. Definitely avoid the 6.0 and 6.4 unless you know what you’re getting into—they can be a maintenance headache.
Laurel said:
@Cedar
I’ve got a 2013 6.7 F250 with 212k miles, and it’s still going strong. Definitely avoid the 6.0 and 6.4 unless you know what you’re getting into—they can be a maintenance headache.
Agreed. The 6.0 can be great if it’s been bulletproofed, but it’s not for everyone. I’d never touch a 6.4, though. A Ford mechanic once told me, ‘If a 6.0 goes bad, you need new head gaskets. If a 6.4 goes bad, you need a new engine.’
@Cedar
I’ve heard the same thing. But I know people who swear by their 6.0s when they’re tuned right.
Laurel said:
@Cedar
I’ve heard the same thing. But I know people who swear by their 6.0s when they’re tuned right.
Same here. Mine runs like a dream when I throw on the performance tune.
I’ve got a 2022 Powerstroke, and it’s fantastic. Tows like a dream and handles everything I throw at it.
Thank you all so much for your advice and recommendations. I really appreciate the responses!
I bought a 2015 LML Duramax. Great truck, but the CP4 fuel pump failed, and it cost me $13,000 to fix. If you’re getting a diesel, either go new with a warranty or look for an older 7.3 Powerstroke or Cummins. Avoid anything with the CP4 pump.
@Oakley
Yeah, the CP4 is notorious on newer Duramaxes. Surprised there hasn’t been a class-action lawsuit yet.
Pippin said:
@Oakley
Yeah, the CP4 is notorious on newer Duramaxes. Surprised there hasn’t been a class-action lawsuit yet.
It’s not just Duramaxes. The CP4 was also used in Powerstrokes and Cummins engines at one point. The issues vary, but it’s not limited to GM.
The Ford 7.3 Powerstroke is great for reliability, but the newer 6.7 models are far more capable if you can afford them. Cummins engines in RAM trucks are another excellent choice.
You can’t go wrong with a 7.3 Powerstroke. They’re bulletproof as long as you maintain them. Just avoid any that are rusted out.
Winter said:
You can’t go wrong with a 7.3 Powerstroke. They’re bulletproof as long as you maintain them. Just avoid any that are rusted out.
Any specific years I should look for?
Winter said:
You can’t go wrong with a 7.3 Powerstroke. They’re bulletproof as long as you maintain them. Just avoid any that are rusted out.
Any specific years I should look for?
Not really. Just focus on finding one in good condition with minimal rust.
If emissions regulations are strict in your area, look for pre-2008 models to avoid DPF issues. For older models, I’d recommend a Dodge Cummins with a manual transmission or an LB7/LML Duramax. Avoid the 6.0 Powerstroke unless it’s been bulletproofed.
@Lyric
Can’t I just delete the emissions equipment?
Avery said:
@Lyric
Can’t I just delete the emissions equipment?
Deleting emissions is illegal, and most shops won’t risk it anymore due to massive fines. If you’re in an emissions-testing state, you’ll likely fail unless the truck is stock. If you can’t deal with emissions, go for a pre-DPF model like a 2003-2007 Cummins.
If you’re open to alternatives, consider Japanese options like Isuzu or Fuso. They’re reliable, fuel-efficient, and handle payloads well, but they’re not great for heavy towing.
Hollis said:
If you’re open to alternatives, consider Japanese options like Isuzu or Fuso. They’re reliable, fuel-efficient, and handle payloads well, but they’re not great for heavy towing.
I didn’t even know Isuzu made trucks. I thought they were mostly used overseas.