2007 Chevrolet T6500

The 2007 Chevrolet T6500 is a medium-duty truck designed for commercial applications like towing and hauling. Engine options typically included the Duramax diesel engines, such as the 6.6L LBZ, known for its reliability and power. Horsepower for the 6.6L LBZ was around 360 hp, with a torque of 650 lb-ft. Transmission options were primarily Allison automatic transmissions, known for their durability. Owners generally liked the T6500 for its robust chassis and towing capacity but sometimes disliked its fuel economy and ride quality compared to lighter-duty trucks. Common complaints often revolved around maintenance costs associated with commercial vehicles.

Engine

6.6L Duramax LBZ Diesel

• Fuel Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, white smoke from the exhaust, decreased fuel economy, and potential engine misfires. Often caused by wear and tear or contaminated fuel.
  • Solution: Replacement of the failed fuel injectors. It’s recommended to replace all injectors at the same time to ensure balanced performance.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+ (depending on labor rates and whether all injectors are replaced).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Glow Plug Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting in cold weather, excessive white smoke upon startup, and potential engine misfires.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty glow plugs. Diagnose and replace any failed glow plug or glow plug controller
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, decreased fuel economy, black smoke from the exhaust, and potential engine stalling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the EGR valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Allison Automatic Transmissions (Typically 1000 Series)

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, difficulty shifting, and potential transmission slippage. Can lead to complete transmission failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Shift Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, failure to shift, and transmission stuck in a particular gear.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty shift solenoids.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Sag/Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced load-carrying capacity, uneven ride height, and potential for the leaf spring to break under load.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ per side.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, and excessive body roll.
  • Solution: Replacement of the shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ for all shocks.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Wiring Harness Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, such as lights flickering, gauges malfunctioning, or difficulty starting. Often caused by corrosion or damaged wiring.
  • Solution: Inspection and repair or replacement of the affected wiring harness.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ (depending on the extent of the damage).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery draining quickly, especially overnight, leading to difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Identification and repair of the parasitic drain, which could be caused by a faulty module, short circuit, or accessory.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Formation of rust on body panels, particularly around wheel wells, door bottoms, and other areas prone to moisture accumulation.
  • Solution: Rust repair, which may involve sanding, patching, and repainting affected areas.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ per area, depending on severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Air conditioning or heat not working properly due to a malfunctioning blower motor.
  • Solution: Replacement of the blower motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2007 Chevrolet T6500, while a robust commercial vehicle, is prone to specific issues related to its diesel engine, automatic transmission, and heavy-duty use. Engine problems such as fuel injector and EGR valve failures can be costly, ranging from hundreds to several thousands of dollars. Transmission issues, like torque converter problems, can also lead to substantial repair bills. Suspension issues are typical for a vehicle designed to carry large loads. Electrical problems can also occur. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to major repairs, making pre-purchase inspection essential. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and factor in potential maintenance costs when considering purchasing a used 2007 Chevrolet T6500.