2020 Chevrolet LCF 3500

Here is a comprehensive list of common issues and complaints reported by owners of the 2020 Chevrolet LCF 3500, categorized by major components, engine and transmission options, symptoms, solutions, and estimated costs. The Chevrolet LCF 3500 is a cab-over truck primarily used for commercial applications. For the 2020 model year, it’s offered with a 6.0L V8 gas engine producing 297 horsepower and 372 lb-ft of torque, and a 5.2L Duramax diesel engine rated at 215 horsepower and 441 lb-ft of torque. The gas engine is usually paired with a 6-speed Allison automatic transmission while the diesel engine is usually paired with an Aisin 6-speed automatic. Owners often appreciate the LCF 3500 for its maneuverability in urban environments and its versatility for various commercial applications. Common dislikes include ride comfort, due to the cab-over design, and some issues related to specific engine and transmission components, which we will discuss below.

Engine

6.0L V8 Gas

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. May be accompanied by blue exhaust smoke.
  • Solution: Depending on the severity, solutions range from replacing valve seals to piston rings or even engine replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.2L Duramax Diesel

• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Frequent DPF regeneration cycles, leading to reduced fuel economy. Potential for DPF clogging and associated warning lights.
  • Solution: Forced regeneration, cleaning of the DPF, or replacement of the DPF.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Glow Plug Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting in cold weather, rough idling, and engine misfires. Check engine light may illuminate.
  • Solution: Replacing faulty glow plugs and inspecting the glow plug control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Allison 6-Speed Automatic (Paired with 6.0L Gas)

• Shifting Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, slipping between gears, or failure to shift.
  • Solution: Diagnostics to determine if the valve body, solenoids, or the transmission itself needs replacement. Fluid changes can help but typically is a symptom and not a fix.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid change)- $4000+ (transmission replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Aisin 6-Speed Automatic (Paired with 5.2L Diesel)

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at low speeds, especially during light acceleration. Can worsen over time.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear end sagging, especially when loaded. Reduced ride height and potential for bottoming out.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaf springs or adding helper springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature battery failure and difficulty starting the vehicle, especially after periods of inactivity.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing parasitic draws, which can involve tracing faulty wiring or malfunctioning modules.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Frame
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the vehicle frame, especially in areas exposed to road salt.
  • Solution: Rust removal, application of rust inhibitor, and protective coating. In severe cases, frame repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $5000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Fan Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: HVAC fan not working or only working on certain speeds.
  • Solution: Replacing the HVAC fan motor or blower motor resistor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Chevrolet LCF 3500, while appreciated for its maneuverability and utility, experiences common issues such as excessive oil consumption in the 6.0L gas engine and DPF problems in the 5.2L diesel. The transmissions can also exhibit shifting problems and torque converter issues, respectively. Suspension and electrical problems, like leaf spring sagging and battery drain, also appear in reports. Rust on the frame can be a concern, especially in regions with road salt use. The severity and cost of these issues vary, but potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and consider them during inspection and maintenance. The cost of repairs can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the extent of the damage.