2008 Chevrolet T6500

The 2008 Chevrolet T6500 is a medium-duty truck designed for commercial applications, offering a balance of capability and practicality. It was commonly used for applications such as delivery, service, and utility work. Engine options included the Duramax 6.6L diesel V8. People often appreciate its reliability and workhorse capabilities, while common complaints revolve around the cost of maintenance and repairs. The 6.6L Duramax engine produced around 330 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque.

Engine

Duramax 6.6L Diesel V8 (LMM)

• Fuel Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, poor fuel economy, white smoke from the exhaust, and potential engine misfires. Often linked to lower quality fuel.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty fuel injector(s). It’s often recommended to replace all injectors at the same time to ensure even fuel delivery and avoid future issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ per injector, including labor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Cooler Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant loss, white smoke from exhaust, engine overheating. Can lead to more serious engine damage if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the EGR cooler.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+ including labor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, black smoke from exhaust, whistling or screeching noises from the engine. Can be caused by a variety of factors including oil leaks or worn bearings.
  • Solution: Depending on the severity, either repair or replacement of the turbocharger. Repairing may involve replacing the bearing cartridge or cleaning the variable geometry vanes.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $3000+ including labor, depending on the extent of the damage and whether repair or replacement is chosen.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

No Issues Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Sagging/Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle leans to one side, reduced ride height, poor ride quality, visible cracks or breaks in the leaf springs. Common issue with heavy use.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+ per spring, including labor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Shocks/Struts
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll when cornering, poor handling, and increased stopping distances.
  • Solution: Replacement of the shocks and struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per axle (both sides), including labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Wiring Harness Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, such as lights not working, gauges malfunctioning, or starting problems. Caused by corrosion or damage to the wiring harness, especially in areas exposed to the elements.
  • Solution: Inspection and repair or replacement of the damaged wiring harness.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+, depending on the extent of the damage and the location of the harness.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

No Issues Found

Interior

• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Blower motor stops working or only works on certain speeds. Often caused by a faulty blower motor resistor or a failing blower motor itself.
  • Solution: Replacement of the blower motor or blower motor resistor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ including labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Chevrolet T6500 is a capable work truck, but owners should be aware of the potential for issues, especially regarding the engine’s fuel injectors and EGR cooler. The suspension may also require attention due to heavy usage. While the costs of individual repairs can vary, some engine-related issues can become quite expensive to fix. Overall, the severity of these issues ranges from moderate to significant, and the potential cost of repairs can be a considerable factor in the long-term ownership of this vehicle.