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2008 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2008 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD is a heavy-duty pickup truck known for its towing and hauling capabilities. Engine options include the 6.0L Vortec V8 (353 hp, 373 lb-ft of torque), the 8.1L Vortec V8 (330 hp, 450 lb-ft of torque), and the 6.6L Duramax Diesel V8 (365 hp, 660 lb-ft of torque). Transmission options include the 6-speed Allison 1000 automatic for the Duramax and the 4L80E 4-speed automatic and 6L90E 6-speed automatic for the gasoline engines. Owners often praise its robust performance and durability, while common complaints revolve around fuel economy, particularly with the gasoline engines, and some reported issues with the electrical system.

Engine

6.0L Vortec V8

  • Oil Consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, often exceeding 1 quart per 1,000 miles. May present with blue smoke from the exhaust.
    • Solution: Replacement of valve seals and/or piston rings.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Active Fuel Management (AFM) Lifter Failure (If Equipped)
    • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough running engine, and potential engine damage. Usually occurs at higher mileage.
    • Solution: AFM delete with new camshaft and lifters.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

6.6L Duramax Diesel V8 (LMM)

  • Fuel Injector Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, misfires, white smoke from exhaust, decreased fuel economy. Can cause engine damage if left unaddressed.
    • Solution: Replacement of failed fuel injectors.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,000 per injector
    • Recalls: None Found
  • EGR System Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Clogged EGR valve or cooler causing poor performance, reduced fuel economy, and potential for overheating.
    • Solution: Cleaning or replacement of EGR valve and/or cooler.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,200
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Glow Plug Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting, especially in cold weather. Engine may run rough initially.
    • Solution: Replacement of faulty glow plugs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150-$500
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Turbocharger Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Whining noises, loss of power, excessive black smoke from the exhaust.
    • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the turbocharger.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

8.1L Vortec V8

  • Oil Consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: Similar to the 6.0L, excessive oil consumption is a common issue, potentially exceeding 1 quart per 1,000 miles. May present with blue smoke from the exhaust.
    • Solution: Replacement of valve seals and/or piston rings.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Allison 1000 (6-Speed Automatic - Duramax Diesel)

  • Torque Converter Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, particularly at highway speeds. May also experience slipping or failure to lock up.
    • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Internal Clutch Wear
    • Description/Symptoms: Slipping between gears, delayed or harsh shifting, and eventual transmission failure.
    • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

4L80E (4-Speed Automatic - Gasoline Engines)

  • Slipping between gears
    • Description/Symptoms: Slipping between gears, delayed or harsh shifting, and eventual transmission failure.
    • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

6L90E (6-Speed Automatic - Gasoline Engines)

  • Harsh Shifts
    • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, especially between 1st and 2nd gear.
    • Solution: Replacement of valve body or full transmission rebuild.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $4,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Leaf Spring Sag
    • Description/Symptoms: Rear end sagging, reduced payload capacity, poor ride quality.
    • Solution: Replacement of leaf springs, potentially with upgraded heavy-duty springs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Front End Component Wear
    • Description/Symptoms: Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and idler arm causing loose steering, clunking noises, and uneven tire wear.
    • Solution: Replacement of worn front end components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Instrument Cluster Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Gauges malfunctioning (speedometer, fuel gauge, etc.), dim or flickering display, complete failure of the instrument cluster.
    • Solution: Replacement or repair of the instrument cluster.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Body Control Module (BCM) Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems such as power windows not working, door locks malfunctioning, and issues with the lighting system.
    • Solution: Replacement or reprogramming of the BCM.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,000
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Rust
    • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation along the rocker panels, cab corners, and wheel wells.
    • Solution: Repair or replacement of affected panels.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5,000+ depending on severity.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Door Handle Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Breaking of the external door handle, especially in cold climates
    • Solution: Door handle replacement
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Dashboard Cracking
    • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard, particularly in warmer climates due to sun exposure.
    • Solution: Replacement of dashboard or installation of a dashboard cover.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD is a capable truck that is prone to a variety of issues. Engine issues range from oil consumption and injector failures to EGR problems. Transmission issues include torque converter problems, slipping gears, and harsh shifting. Suspension components like leaf springs and front-end parts can wear out. Electrical problems with instrument clusters and the BCM are not uncommon. Exterior rust and interior dash cracks can detract from the vehicle’s appearance. The severity and cost of these issues can vary widely, but addressing them promptly is crucial to maintaining the truck’s reliability and value.

Chevrolet, Silverado 3500 HD
Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD 2008
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