2010 GMC W5500 Forward

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints associated with the 2010 GMC W5500 Forward, organized by category. This medium-duty cab-over truck was often praised for its maneuverability and visibility in urban environments, making it a popular choice for delivery services and construction. Some criticisms centered on ride comfort and the relatively basic interior. The 2010 W5500 typically came with a 5.2L Isuzu 4HK1-TC diesel engine, producing around 200 horsepower and 441 lb-ft of torque, paired with an Aisin A465 6-speed automatic transmission. A 4.8L gas engine was also available but less common.

Category

Engine

Isuzu 4HK1-TC 5.2L Diesel

• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Frequent DPF regeneration cycles, leading to reduced fuel economy. Incomplete regeneration can cause clogging, resulting in a loss of power, warning lights, and potential engine shutdown.
  • Solution: Forced regeneration by a technician, DPF cleaning, or DPF replacement. Addressing underlying causes like excessive idling or faulty sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ depending on the solution needed.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, poor fuel economy, and black smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Diagnosing the faulty injector(s) and replacing them.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,500+ depending on how many injectors need to be replaced.
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, rough idling, increased emissions, and illumination of the check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacing the EGR valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Aisin A465 6-Speed Automatic

• Shift Hesitation/Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Delay in shifting, particularly between gears, or harsh/jerky shifts.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush, inspection for worn solenoids or valve body issues. Replacement or rebuild of the transmission may be necessary in severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid flush) to $3,000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, especially during acceleration. Poor fuel economy.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Sagging/Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle leaning to one side, reduced ride height, rough ride, and potential cracking or breaking of leaf springs.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ per side, depending on the complexity of the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Shocks/Struts
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll during cornering, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing worn shocks or struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on parts and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Wiring Harness Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, such as lights not working, gauges malfunctioning, or starting issues. Corrosion in wiring connectors and chafing of wires are common.
  • Solution: Locating and repairing damaged wiring, replacing corroded connectors, and protecting the wiring harness from further damage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the severity and location of the problem.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the engine, especially in cold weather. The battery may drain quickly.
  • Solution: Replacing the battery. Check the charging system for proper function.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust Corrosion
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation, especially in areas prone to salt exposure and moisture, like wheel wells, body panels, and undercarriage components.
  • Solution: Rust removal, body repair, and application of rust-preventative coatings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+ depending on the extent of the rust damage.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: HVAC Blower Motor not blowing air.
  • Solution: Replacing the HVAC Blower Motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2010 GMC W5500 Forward, while a practical and capable work truck, has potential issues that owners should be aware of. Engine and transmission problems related to the Isuzu diesel engine and Aisin transmission can be costly to repair, especially if the DPF or torque converter fail. Suspension issues like leaf spring problems can affect ride quality and handling. Electrical problems stemming from wiring corrosion can be difficult to diagnose. While some repairs can be relatively inexpensive, major engine or transmission overhauls can easily exceed several thousand dollars. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle and obtain a pre-purchase inspection from a qualified mechanic, paying close attention to the engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical systems. Addressing these issues promptly can help prevent more significant problems down the road.