2007 GMC W5500HD Forward

Introduction:

The 2007 GMC W5500HD Forward is a heavy-duty commercial truck with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 55,000 lbs. It is available with two engine options: a 6.6L Duramax V8 diesel engine producing 360 horsepower and 660 lb-ft of torque, and a 7.8L Vortec V8 gasoline engine producing 320 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include an Allison 6-speed automatic transmission, an Eaton Fuller 9-speed manual transmission, and an Allison 1000 6-speed automatic transmission.

Drivers praise the W5500HD’s powerful engines, rugged construction, and spacious cabin, while some find its ride quality to be harsh and its fuel economy to be poor.

Engine

6.6L Duramax V8 Diesel

• Fuel Injector Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfiring, loss of power, decreased fuel economy
  • Solution: Replace fuel injectors
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number 15V401000
• Turbocharger Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Whistling noise from engine, decreased boost pressure, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace turbocharger
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

7.8L Vortec V8 Gasoline

• Head Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking from engine, overheating, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace head gaskets
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Allison 6-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Torque Converter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, slipping gears, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Eaton Fuller 9-Speed Manual Transmission

• Gear Grinding:
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding noise when shifting gears, difficulty shifting
  • Solution: Repair or replace damaged gears
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Allison 1000 6-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Solenoid Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping or hesitating, erratic shifting patterns
  • Solution: Replace solenoids
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging or broken leaves, decreased ride quality, axle misalignment
  • Solution: Replace leaf springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Shock Absorber Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive tire wear
  • Solution: Replace shock absorbers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery dies prematurely, difficulty starting vehicle
  • Solution: Test and replace faulty electrical components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dim headlights, battery not charging, electrical system issues
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust and Corrosion:
  • Description/Symptoms: Body panels, frame, and undercarriage rusting or corroding
  • Solution: Clean and protect metal surfaces, repair or replace affected parts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks developing on dashboard surface
  • Solution: Replace dashboard
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Reclining Mechanism Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat not reclining or reclining excessively
  • Solution: Replace seat reclining mechanism
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

While the 2007 GMC W5500HD Forward is a powerful and capable heavy-duty truck, it is not without its issues. The engine, transmission, and suspension components have been reported to have problems, leading to costly repairs. Additionally, the battery drain issue can be a nuisance, and the interior lacks durability. Overall, the W5500HD’s reliability and ownership costs can be a concern for potential buyers.