2020 Chevrolet LCF 5500XD
The 2020 Chevrolet LCF 5500XD is a medium-duty cab-over truck designed for commercial use. It’s known for its maneuverability in urban environments and its customizable chassis for various applications. Engine options include a 6.0L Vortec V8 gas engine (297 hp, 372 lb-ft of torque) and a 5.2L Isuzu 4HK1-TC diesel engine (215 hp, 452 lb-ft of torque). The available transmissions are the Allison 1000 RDS 6-speed automatic transmission and the Aisin A465 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciate the truck’s visibility, tight turning radius, and ease of maintenance. Common dislikes include a relatively basic interior and some concerns about diesel engine reliability in earlier model years.
Engine
6.0L Vortec V8 (Gas)
- No Issues Found
5.2L Isuzu 4HK1-TC (Diesel)
- Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Regeneration Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Frequent DPF regeneration cycles, reduced engine power, and a dashboard warning light indicating DPF overload. This can be caused by a faulty DPF sensor or excessive idling.
- Solution: Replace the faulty DPF sensor and ensure proper driving habits to facilitate complete regeneration cycles. Forced regeneration may be needed to clear the DPF.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
- Recalls: None Found
- Injector Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Hard starting, rough idling, decreased fuel economy, black smoke from the exhaust, and potential engine misfires.
- Solution: Diagnostic testing to identify the faulty injector(s) followed by replacement. Ensure proper fuel filtration to prevent future issues.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+ per injector depending on the shop.
- Recalls: None Found
- EGR Valve Problems
- Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, poor acceleration, decreased fuel economy, and the check engine light illuminating. Often caused by carbon buildup.
- Solution: Cleaning or replacement of the EGR valve. In some cases, the EGR cooler may also need to be inspected and cleaned.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
Allison 1000 RDS 6-Speed Automatic
- Torque Converter Shudder
- Description/Symptoms: A noticeable shaking or vibration, often described as a shudder, during low-speed acceleration or when the transmission is in lock-up.
- Solution: Fluid flush and replacement with updated Allison Transmission Fluid. If the shudder persists, the torque converter may require replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ depending on whether a fluid flush is effective or torque converter needs replacing.
- Recalls: None Found
Aisin A465 6-Speed Automatic
- No Issues Found
Suspension
- Leaf Spring Sagging/Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sitting lower on one side, reduced ride quality, and potential clunking noises from the suspension.
- Solution: Replacement of the affected leaf spring(s). Consider upgrading to heavier-duty springs if the vehicle is consistently used for heavy loads.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per spring.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Body Control Module (BCM) Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, such as malfunctioning lights, power windows, or door locks. The BCM may also cause issues with the vehicle’s starting system.
- Solution: Diagnostic testing to confirm the BCM failure, followed by replacement and reprogramming of the new BCM.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- No Issues Found
Interior
- HVAC Blower Motor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The HVAC blower motor stops working, resulting in a lack of airflow from the vents. This may be accompanied by a burning smell.
- Solution: Replacement of the blower motor resistor and blower motor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2020 Chevrolet LCF 5500XD can be a reliable work truck, however, there are a few notable issues potential owners should be aware of. The diesel engine has some potential issues involving the DPF, injectors, and EGR, which can be costly to repair. The Allison transmission sometimes experiences torque converter shudder. Suspension problems like leaf spring sagging and BCM issues can also occur. While the issues aren’t overwhelmingly common, they can lead to moderate to significant repair costs if they arise, especially with the diesel engine components. Prospective buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle’s maintenance history and be prepared for potential repair costs, particularly with the diesel variants.