Duramax 2005

[Trainer]

Anyone on here have knowledge pertaining to a Duramax 2005. I am looking into the possibility of buying one with about 50000 miles on it. Would like to know the good, bad, and ugly on them.

What kind of problems?

What kind of fuel mileage?

Any other thoughts on the 2500 HD Duramax.

 

[98ramtough]

You will get a few different opinions on this, but the 2005 duramax will have the LLY engine. Not a bad engine, but my least favorite of any of the Duramax engines. I really like the new one that came in the 07 year due to the 6 spd that comes with it. The LLYs had a problem of over heating when pulling in heat. That was fairly common. Other than that, a lot of them will have wheel berring problems within the 1st 100k miles. IFS suspension and a heavy duty truck its to be expected. (people will come on here and say I have xxxxxxk miles and no berring problems, but I had it on my 2006, my uncles have all had the same problems.) Good trucks, expect 17-18mpg highway if your easy on it. Great transmission a true pleasure to drive.

 

[George2615]

I had a 2005 Dmax (LLY) EC short box 4x4. I thought it was great. Got 19.5-20 MPG empty and 14.5 while hauling about 6500 lb. Traded it in on an 07. Unknown to me at the time was the 07 has a diesel particulate filter on the exhaust system. More HP and torque but mileage is only 15-15.5 empty. This one is a lease so when its up its going back. I am happy with the truck just expected mileage. I may look for another 05 when my lease is up. I never had any problems with the 05. I fact I still have a Diablo power programmer and a larger exhaust system for one with that engine.

 

[ronjhall]

One of the best places to get info on a Duramax engine/truck is http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/index.php]Diesel Place. Biggest difference from a newer model is 5 speed trans verses 6 speed and different engine controls. The heating problems of some 2004.5 -5 were addressed with better inlet and cooling. If I was looking for a newer truck a 2006 to 2007 LBZ would be my choice. But a good deal on a 2004.5-5 would be considered.