2017 Chevrolet LCF 4500HD

The 2017 Chevrolet LCF 4500HD is a cab-over truck designed for urban environments and applications requiring a tight turning radius. It came standard with a 5.2L Isuzu 4HK1-TC diesel engine producing 215 horsepower and 452 lb-ft of torque, paired with an Aisin A465 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the LCF 4500HD for its maneuverability and visibility, but some complain about parts availability and ride quality. The focus here is on common issues beyond normal wear and tear.

Engine

5.2L Isuzu 4HK1-TC Diesel

• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Clogging/Regeneration Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Frequent DPF regeneration cycles, reduced engine power, DPF light illuminated, potential for engine derate. This can be caused by a faulty DPF sensor or excessive idling.
  • Solution: Forced DPF regeneration by a technician, cleaning the DPF, or replacing the DPF. Addressing the underlying cause of frequent regeneration, such as excessive idling.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+ depending on cleaning vs. replacement
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idling, reduced engine power, increased emissions. EGR valve may become clogged with carbon deposits.
  • Solution: Cleaning or replacing the EGR valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, misfires, reduced fuel economy, black smoke from exhaust, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacing faulty fuel injectors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1200+ depending on how many injectors need to be replaced.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Aisin A465 6-Speed Automatic

• Shifting Problems/Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Delayed shifts, harsh shifts, slipping between gears, inability to shift into certain gears. This can be caused by low transmission fluid, valve body issues, or internal damage.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and fill, valve body replacement, or transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid flush) - $5000+ (transmission replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Sagging/Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle leaning to one side, poor ride quality, reduced load capacity, visible cracks in leaf springs.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ per axle
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Wiring Harness Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, such as lights flickering, gauges malfunctioning, or sensors not reading correctly. These problems can be caused by chafing, corrosion, or loose connections.
  • Solution: Inspecting and repairing the wiring harness, replacing damaged sections, or cleaning connections.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, inaccurate readings on gauges, drivability issues, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) related to specific sensors (e.g., mass airflow sensor, oxygen sensor).
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Cab Seams
  • Description/Symptoms: Surface rust or significant rust along the seams of the cab, particularly around the windshield, doors, and roof. This is more prevalent in areas with harsh winters or high humidity.
  • Solution: Sanding down the affected areas, applying rust inhibitor, and repainting. For severe rust, body panel replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+ depending on the extent of the rust
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• No Issues Found

Summary

The 2017 Chevrolet LCF 4500HD is generally a reliable work truck, but owners should be aware of potential issues related to the diesel engine’s emissions system (DPF, EGR), transmission shifting, suspension, wiring harness, and rust. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to major repairs, with costs varying accordingly. Addressing these issues promptly can help prevent further damage and extend the lifespan of the vehicle.