2024 Silverado 1500 ZR2 with the 3.0 Duramax Diesel Towing an 18 Foot Cargo Trailer from Utah To California and Back = 1425 Total Miles. DEF warnings were constant, the fuel consumption was horrendous and when it was all said and done, I will say that I don't want to ever do that with this truck again ! Thankfully a little overnight part swap seemed to really help. this 2024 Silverado 1500 ZR2 with the 3.0 Duramax Diesel. www.bankspower.com/demonworks Banks idash - collabs.shop/ba9zd0 Banks iDash Data Monster - 66760 Banks iDash Super Gauge - 66562 (piggyback kit to datamonster) Banks Pedal Monster Kit - 64311 (piggyback kit to datamonster) Banks Stealth Pod Single - 63369 Banks Stealth Pod Dual - 63370 Product Link - boostautoparts.com/products/t... WEIGH SAFE HITCH: www.weigh-safe.com/product/we... ALSO USE Discount Code DW10 at weigh-safe.com ACDelco Fuel Filter: amzn.to/3QFfXex 3.0 Duramax Oil Change W/ PPE Oil Filter: amzn.to/3qmLR6o 3.0 Duramax Oil Change W/ ACDELCO: amzn.to/3QtmDO5 PPE OIL FILTER: amzn.to/3JP9j22 Fuel Filter Socket: amzn.to/4b52BkY Fuel Filter KlickWrench Socket: amzn.to/42arKH6 Aluminum Fuel Filter Cap: amzn.to/3FZir28 K&N Air Filter: amzn.to/3S5sLvq K&N Intake: amzn.to/4b6oy35 K&N Fuel Filter: amzn.to/4b6Ux3i www.bankspower.com/DemonWorks www.duramaxnews.com www.bankspower.com/demonworks As an Affiliate / Influencer, I earn from qualifying purchases. Your support is appreciated as it helps the channel to continue to test products!
But it obviously won't. Trying to maintain 80 mph(with cruise control on) pulling that weight;very high oil temps and high def usage and 3500 rpm.That engine will have a short life.He would need more truck if doing this on a regular basis.
Looks like you need a larger truck/engine. The small Duramax simply isn't what you needed. Enjoy folks complaining about the truck when clearly this truck would NEVER meet your needs.
@@sdc5683actually that’s not true, an engine that drives 10 miles and no highway mileage will destroy the oil in 3k miles because the temp is to low to cook off, water and fuel that contaminates. Then the oil only changed at the suggested 7,500 mile intervals absolutely kills engines. Driving them and using them hard doesn’t hurt them like you might think.
Watched this video a couple weeks ago... so I was concerned as I had a pulling road trip coming up. I'm back to report my real-world experience pulling a 5000# travel trailer 1,200 miles with my '24 GMC LZ0 3.0L Duramax. I kept speeds at 70 to 65 mph. The truck did absolutely fantastic! Average mpg was 14. Got as bad as 11.5 mpg at 70mph on hilly terrain. Got as good as 16 mpg going 65 mph on flatter sections. As far as DEF....absolutely zero issues. Truck three times reported DEF range remaining on separate sections of the drive. It was a simple acknowledgment on my part to clear the message. I typically topped off the DEF tank at fuel stops. DEF tank never was below 7 bars as indicated on dash. Consumed ~ 3-1/2 gallons DEF. My takeaway is all the DEF drama in this video was not my actual real-world experience pulling a 5000# travel trailer, so I wanted to share.
Just for reference on def usage. I drive a 2020 freightliner cascadia and I pull triples 100,000+ lbs on the same 570 mile run every day. It has the Cummins X-15 liter motor. We use between 3.2 and 4.6 gallons of def per day. Total weight and wind has a huge affect on consumption.
My 2023 Sierra had DEF warnings also while it was almost full and took it to service and they found 1 of the wire harnesses bad and went through a full system reset and update and all good and accurate ever since
Planning on getting one next year and stumbled upon your goldmine of a channel! Super informative! I’m sitting here watching 30 40 50 minute videos and I have never owned a diesel and don’t even have the truck currently 😂 keep up the good work man greetings from Texas 👍🏽
Nice job documenting this. Saw similar challenges on camper/cargo trailers as I was truck shopping last winter which made me go up to a 2500HD with 6.6L diesel. For comparison, towed our 7500lb travel trailer 6000 miles this summer for 10.6MPG overall. DEF usage averaged 1 top off 2.5gal jug of DEF for every 2 tanks (3/4 tank average fill) of diesel. Far less drama on the trip and FAR longer range with a 36gal diesel tank. So much safer towing in the wind with the HD mass and suspension as well. A no brainer given relatively small price difference if you go for a lower trim level LT with a few key option packages.
I'm a firm believer in having a little more than what you need, don't what to be limited . I have 2019 3500hd L5P crew cab swr ,last one I'll ever need. This truck will take me to the senior housing center!
I went back and forth moving from Toronto Canada to Dallas, Texas, twice with my 2023 3.0 Sierra at4. First load I was pulling 6k lbs and my truck did fine. Anything over 80-85 you drink DEF like crazy. 75 was the sweet spot. The truck is slow to calculate def range. I never shut the engine down until after a hotel stop 14 hours later and then it recalculated. 24 hours with weight going almost 2k miles it did fine. I did it again in winter in January with half that weight and I barely noticed the trailer there. Both trips total, I probably went through 3-4 DEF fill ups each. Definitely a good engine to tow/haul small loads or just for great MPGs. Anything over 7k lbs you definitely need a 6.2 or 2500HD. Oh and my trucks 100% stock, doesn't have anything like yours does!
I have a 22 max tow and routinely tow a ATC 2419 toy hauler that weighs 10800lbs when fully loaded with water, fuel and 2 Quads. Truck and trailer 17,200lbs usually towing around 65 to 70mph. Average between 11 and 12mpg. Yes it does drink the DEF. I live in the Pacific Northwest and Travel in the mountains. This truck amazes me everytime I tow with it, but mostly amazed bt the mpg of 27
Would like to know which routes, and how good the roads, traffic is, on the route you’re taking to and from Toronto. I’ll be doing it before long myself. Thxs
Thats crazy. My 23 at4 lz0 uses very little DEF when towing. Usually a passive reg during towing. Elevation 3600 to 9k mountain area. 60 to 65 mph towing 34ft rv 8k lbs.
I traded my 3.0 in on a new super duty with the 7.3 gas. I pull a 9000lb travel trailer and it pulls so much better than my 3.0 did. And no def to worry about. No regens. Just drive and fill up every now and then. No drama.
I did the same, but went with a 6.0 2500.. definitely not as powerful as your 7.3 or the new 6.6 gassers, but not having to think about def, fuel filters, oil belt, etc.. best decision ever.
yeah, i imagine 9000lbs is pushing a 1500 class. if i was always towing such a trailer i'd get a 2500 class to more comfortably tow that and give me plenty of breathing room
Thanks for the video, now I know I can push the def warning while towing. The biggest take away... all one needs is the intercooler to not be de- rated.
I towed a 24" 7000 lb. camp trailer all over in the Idaho mountains with my 23" LZO. I do not tow at 75mph ever. It is a little 3 liter so towing at 75mph is running that little engine at max!!
Idaho mountains are a little different from the majority of these straight hill climbs. People get stuck on the 75mph, but don’t comment on the same thing taking place at 65mph shown in the video. In addition, this was me taking it easy on this truck, my prior towing trips were a much more pleasant experience and 75mph towing 3000 pounds is nowhere near max.
Same here with a 7000lbs brick wall of an RV between Chicago and Denver. Never an issue even when hitting 9000 foot elevation. A dream of a truck. By the way I’m bone stock.
I made multiple trips, pulling a 7x16 enclosed trailer, and had nothing but issues with the def. It would say it was empty, and I would stop to put some in, and it would only take a gallon. Then it would read full and do the same thing after about 100 miles.
@@stuartgraesser6739 bummer, sorry to hear that. I tow a 30 foot Rv with no issues with def at all, other than it’s a bit thirsty. I would think it’s a software issue that the dealer should take care of. Hopefully they can fix that cause otherwise the truck is great with or without a trailer.
I towed a 20' cargo trailer at about 6,000 pounds from Florida to Oregon with my 2024 2500hd 6.6 gas. I had 0 issues and got about the same fuel mileage as you did. No mods and no def.
The updated programming for the after treatment system will correct the excessive use of DEF while towing. I towed my 20’x 8’ enclosed trailer 1,800 miles with a car in it last year and my Denali with the 3.0 Duramax almost drank as much DEF as fuel. After the update I towed my trailer with a Range Rover 900 miles and my DEF gauge went down one notch. Also after the update I get about 10,000 miles out of a full tank of DEF. That’s 80% without towing a trailer and 20% towing my 20’ trailer with something in it,ie; car, SUV, skid steer.
I have a 2018 eco diesel 4x4 with the 3.9 gear and use 1 tank every 8000 miles 90/10 highway tow and get 12 mpg with a 7000 lbs trailer like yours. I really liked the Chevy when it came out and now I'm glad I stuck with mine . I put the green diesel tune in at 1000 miles and now have 145000 miles and still like it .
@@JamesOMalley-hb4tf Mine is just like his but with a 2024 polaris turbo R and tools camping gear spare wheels and tires. I think it's closer to 8500 lbs. but it's the same kinda trailer. Sorry I did not put that I use my trailer to haul stuff.
I have the same, 2018 ED. Did GDE at 120,000 miles, should’ve done it on day 1 but I paid for 125,000 mile warranty. Factory tunes are worse than apple IIgs on a 3-1/4 disc.
also 270 oil has to be derating. ED people who tow run based on 240 oil temp and we get what we get for speed. i don’t know anybody who tows above 70mph, those tires might be rated for that speed but most are 65mph max
Very similar experience in my 2014 ecodiesel jeep grand cherokee with my 23' v nose. GDE, fully deleted at 36k miles...120k miles ago and no issues. Bypass oil filter with aux oil cooler is a game changer too!
Glad I own a 2020 3.0 Duramax. The 3.0 gets 17% better fuel mileage when towing the same 8K load that my 2012 6.6 Duramax and 2017 5.0 Cummis Titian pulled. I love the 45% better fuel mileage when unloaded. I do run a weight distribution hitch on the 3.0 truck that I didn't have to on the other two trucks. I save around $1746 a year in fuel costs alone.
My 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali with the LZO is in the shop now because of a def issue. My gauge shows 2 bars of def but as I pulled into work it said DEF LOW, 78 miles to speed reduction. I never got the 1000 mile warning or the 300 mile warning. I also knew based on when I added DEF I should have at least 1500 miles of range left. Before taking it to the shop I added more DEF and the gauge and warnings did not change. Oh, and I have not been towing or working it hard.
I like the commitment. I have a 6.7 power stroke when my oil temp gets to 240 if I back out of it, it will drop back to 200-210. 240+ happens hauling a 30ft enclosed 8ft internal ceiling doing 80 through AZ at 100* outside temp. I have 2 egt probes one at turbo one in the manifold. EGT will be around 1000* on flat ground.
Always good to see people do things with their vehicle that I won't do with mine. I appreciate it. $32 for a 2.5 gallons of DEF is beyond highway robbery. DEF is just branded swine pee. I had no problem paying through the nose for the Denali Ultimate 3.0 price premium as I want the luxury car comfort and interior appointments, but I buy Walmart house brand DEF for $9 a jug. I seldom go over 72 mph with mine even not towing. Aerodynamic drag is the biggest fuel economy killer, after towing a heavy trailer up steep hills. I only use mine to tow a flatbed trailer going to get construction material.
My little molded fiberglass travel trailer is shaped like a Tic Tac. No issues whatsoever with my '22 3.0 Max going back and forth from Salt Lake to Tucson. At 70mph I'm able to maintain approx 20 miles to the gallon. So yes, I have to agree that aerodynamics play a big role.
Same issues towing approx 3000 lb trailer from Wyoming to St George last week - DEF warnings when I had 3/4 tank of DEF left as computer was over anticipating my regens. I am running every archoil treatment as well with same truck (Bison) and I will be deleting this when warranty is up
I can verify I have had identical issues with my 2024 AT4 LZ0 while towing a similar trailer with snowmobiles, total weight around 4500 pounds. Only difference is it was minus 15 Celsius. I have learned to ignore the warnings and use a BlueDriver OBDII reader to see my actual DEF level. Getting locked out by the gauge and having it scroll constantly when DEF is "low" is a massive fail by GM. When empty, this truck is a dream. Towing is the nightmare..... For us metric folks, the warning to empty starts at 1600 km to go, and can be dismissed. But it counts down doing it's own thing. Drive 10 km, it drops 30 km, no rhyme or reason. Once you get to 0 km, it will revert to 800 km to go. At this point you are locked out of the DIC and it gives the scrolling warning to refill now. That distance will count down accurately. It is 1:1, so you know how far to go. The gauge for DEF level is useless. It will show down 1 bar, then 2 and then jump to empty. Now that I understand it, and you have replicated what I experienced (THANK YOU!) I still feel it is a great truck and worth working through the issue. My hope is GM will get rid of the scrolling lockout DEF warning screen in a future update.
I have had 2 trucks with the 3.0 and my wife has the Suburban with the 3.0 and we love them. The reason to get the 3.0 isn't for crazy towing capability its for the fuel economy and the ability to go 600 miles on a tank when traveling with the family. That being said I pulled a fifth wheel camper behind my first truck out to Utah and yes it used a lot of DEF but it pulled it just fine and didn't give me any issues. It's still a very capable truck. My ZR2 with the 2" lift and bigger tires from the factory can get 28 MPG pretty regular and 30 plus in the Suburban if you're not heavy on the pedal. 100K mile warranty is nice also.
There is absolutely no reason they should be nagging us with these DEF warnings when it’s nowhere near empty. If they can’t figure this shit out and apply a software update once and for all, I’m probably not risking it with a new LZ0 when I replace my LM2.
I have a 2022 GMC Crew Cab 4x4 with a LM2 and so far I have been very happy with it and have not really seen what I would think is excessive DPF use or regens.
Really awesome vid, man! 1300F EGT climbing and losing some speed probably answers my defueling question. Overall I don't think your truck did bad at all pulling a wind brake of a trailer like that at those speeds. GM has got to do something with that awful calibration or calculation of DEF range and not being able to dismiss the warning at least for 10 minutes so you can see regular gauges. What if something like a TPMS warning needs to pop up? I would hope the DEF messages don't override a critical safety warning like that. I really hope some GM folks are watching your videos.
I have big brother 2022 6.6 and used it for my hotshot rig and in my experience I use Loves if I had too and learned the hard way not too use Flying J/Pilot fuel. I would only use TA fuel when possible or in Utah I would run Maverick. Fuel quality does make a difference in these newer trucks. I also would only use Blue DEF platinum and hot shots secret diesel extreme fuel additive. I’ve been using it since day one at new with 25 miles and it sits with 174k. I also use AMSOIL. Another thing to do is to clean the MAP sensor. I cleaned it once a week or if I was towing in the mountains I would clean when I would stop for the night. Soot really builds on this sensor. Of course I hauled around 30k lbs too. I have heard that having the Banks or other programmers add more soot levels than stock. I bet your MAP is very dirty. May these tips help someone out.
I have the same DEF flaw! It will show empty when I know it’s not. When I fill the empty DEF (with only 2 gallons) not 5 gallons it’ll read full, but always seems to go empty fast (at half tank.). Very annoying. Took it to the speed limited and it will then take you to 55mph limit in the next 100 miles. The DEF gauge or float in DEF tank are trash!
Depending on the year of your truck, you may just need an updated calibration in the system. In my case, it's a 24 thing when towing... every year since new, they upped the def consumption and it's always much worse when towing. Interested to see what they up it to for the 2025+ trucks
Same issue from Reno to Idaho Falls on 24 Sierra. A 3000lbs trailer with horrible mileage and DEF consumption. Dealer had to replace DEF tank under warranty due to faulty gauge causing false readings. Very disappointing....
I have LTZ 23 with 3.0 - First I love the passion you have for this 3.0. And the information you share. The towing I’ve done with my truck - ( 16 foot tandem axel trailer with 2200 pound side Honda Talon with Windshield) so not aero dynamic- I find I get better fuel mileage not using cruise control- truck kicks into passing going over a simple overpass small incline cruising at 75 mph When no cruise feathering pedal no downshift and a consistent rpm. Better fuel milage at 14 avg.
That's horrible for a open trailer and sxs. I have a 18ft Big T with a pro xp with windshield and all the extras, f350 with 6.7 gets 15-15-5mpg at 70-75mph and it's like it's not even behind it. I do like the empty mpg on the 3.0 where the 6.7 Ford only gets 16-18 depending on driving type. Idk how they give that 3.0 such high tow rate with these temps his truck runs at. I'd be pretty upset with the def usage and the high temps and 10-12mpg probably worse in northeast since it's hilly vs his flat land towing in video
My 2001 crewcab dually long box F350 6.8l V10 Gas averages 11.3mpg with a 17k pound 5th wheel camper. This just shows you these little trucks get no free lunch. I'm still on my all original drive line after 23 years and a dually handles better in the wind and a 2001 F350's weight is actually what a modern half ton weighs today
I have the same DEF issue. The dealership wants my truck in for a week to evaluate and service. I was thinking it was either a computer system error or a defective "float" in the DEF tank...we'll see when I take it in next week.
Follow up after Dealership Service. With the new required Service Center computer update for the infotainment system, they found that the DEF indicator needed a recalculation. I will follow up to see if it was the system recalibration issue, or if the issue returns and it may be a tank/float (mechanical) issue.
@@ToddRAdams1I am having the same issue the dealer has no clue and is waiting for an answer from Chevy. Curious how yours does after the recalibration
@@lanceklecker7752 So far (just local driving) so good. I will definitely be checking back in after our next road trip (500+ miles.). The Dealer did the latest computer update (which is a required Dealer update) and they said they were able to recalibrate and update the DEF indicator...We'll see!
My 2023 Denali with LZO mirrors has the same issues off an on. It is such a pain. As far as the DEF issue, my truck had the same issues with warnings. I took it into the dealer for this issue. Not sure what they did. The work order said they reset the system. I have not had the issues since with DEF warnings like you are getting.
I have a 2021 3.0l and have a 30ft. Travel trailer with a gross weight of 7900. We have put around 6000 miles trailering this summer and have never used as much DEF as you are using. When not trailering we normally drive around 450 miles between Regen. This is actually my second 3.0 liter. My first one we drove it around 80,000 miles and pulled a 27 ft 5th wheel with it and that truck also used much less DEF than yours is using. Both of my trucks were bone stock and I have a gauge package for both of them so I can monitor engine parameters. I hope you get your DEF usage sorted out. I use Amsoil 0-20 diesel oil in mine and neither truck had an oil consumption issue. With the truck I have now I have averaged 12.7 MPG towing this summer. I live in Minnesota so the terrain is relatively flat.
The LM2's were definitely more efficient on DEF fluid. Mine is stock as well, this is just a programming thing, each year newer they use more. Sounds like you have a good one that treats you right !
I love this truck and your channel. Tow a 16’ Formula with a 7’ inside. When I’m towing it never shut it off. Gas is would get 12 to 14 mpg. With the 3L i was getting close to 18.
My concern would be for the longevity of the engine. Sure it can do it now fresh out of the factory. What about 100k or 200k down the road or more. The truck does look amazing. I have a old 97 ford f 250 with 7.3l powerstroke pushing 485k still going strong pulls 7,000 trailer almost every day. Great video thank you for all your hard work on it.
I had the same issue in my 24 ZR2 LZ0 when I first picked up an enclosed car hauler in Salt Lake City. Drove it up the continental divide back to Denver. Suffered through the constant DEF warnings and false empty DEF tank readings. Took it to the dealer and asked for them to check for TSBs on the DEF issue as I have seen others mention it. It took me sending them the TSP (22-NA-150) for them to find it and follow the DEF reset procedure. I asked for the newest ECM update you did and was told my VIN did not need it. After the DEF reset I have towed the trailer weighing aprox 8k lbs to CO Springs and back mult times. Def goes down only 2 ticks on the level indicator and no warnings. My average MPG with the loaded trailer, including the SLC - DEN unloaded drive back, at 1700 miles traveled is 11.76 MPG.
@@etmidust Bozarth Chevy. They said the same at first until I sent them that TSB number. It was a clear fix after and the DEF level seems to barely move now even when towing. 2500 ft of elevation change each way on that drive to.
Hello, thank you for the video! I live in South Florida and the light just came on the other day in the morning while towing my 20ft trailer. It was like 60 degrees that morning and by the middle of the day it was 85. The check engine light stayed on but not the warning on my drive home that day. Then the light went off and hasn't came back on sense.. not sure why or what lol bit your video helps me sleep at night now lol
Great video. I do a similar trip with a similar trailer at same speeds. Was thinking about a 3.0l diesel but now going to wait till reviews of the 2025. Thanks
Thanks for the kind words! My experience has shown me that each new model year has seen a significant jump in DEF consumption. The 23 was better than the 24. The LM2's were much better than the LZ0, in terms of DEF consumption.
I towed 5k inclosed trailer from phx to southern utah in late May. Triple digit temps and mostly uphill with zero issues. But i have the lm2 with max towe. Friend had the lm2 lifted with 35s and towed 30 foot camper into the mountains all the time with zero issues.
Comparison 2013 F150 Ecoboost max tow with 26 foot v-neck enclosed grossing 8k lbs. 3.5 MPG over Texas 580 miles in total. IMHO the wind resistance from the enclosed is like towing an additional 4k lbs at 70 mph.
I had a 2013 Ecoboost as well. Towing it did not do well on fuel...the truck had a drinking problem, 6.5MPG towing a 5th wheel was common for me. I think think my catalytic converters were getting clogged and killing the power and MPG. I have a 2023 canyon now, I get around 9mpg towing with the canyon (7k lbs in a flat nose utility trailer).
Hey, I have 2023 Tahoe High Country (LM2), and I did a similar route with about 5k lbs ( open trailer, towing a car that had an aggressive track wing ), I was going from Park City to Las Vegas; I believe I averaged 16-17 MPG, I pumped once around Cedar City, and I filled my Def once. I never encountered the messages you got for DEF; I did get a notification once that it dropped below 1k. It is worth noting I was traveling into the headwind as well. I averaged 70-75 MPH as well. It never lost speed on the uphills either. The car is bone stock, minus the transmission pan which is PPE ( thanks to your videos :D). It does have the tow hall package as well, However I do not think that matters Also Amsoil for both the transmission and engine. and I have been using Amsoil Fuel additive with every single tank. Also thank you for showing the IDASH I will purchase that soon. I also towed another vehicle from LAS to Phoenix, the total load was probably closer to 5500-6000 LBs, and it was +110 degree day Got there with one tank, and no def added, The only thing I can think of is that it was a windy day, and the trailer was acting like a sail. Also, do you have a bed cover? If not, that could have been another contributing factor on a windy day.
There is an update on the software and reprogramming of the DEF sensor for anyone having issues. I have a 2024 Trail Boss with the 3.0 and had a similar 'problem' towing a 19 ft camper 1200 miles from Utah up and back to the Idaho panhandle in July, over mountain passes etc in Montana. Averaged around 14 MPG and used maybe 6 gallons of DEF total, but kept getting a warning that DEF was low but it was a faulty reading but when I went to add it the tank was only .5 gallon empty. So I just topped it off each refill and went through two DEF boxes each way. The problem was the error in the reading, I had it updated and now it seems accurate but does give me miles remaining on DEF message from time to time which is annoying.
Mine has been checked for updates since new, not 1 update for the def module. Several for the ECM but unrelated to DEF. I have videos on those updates. It sounds like you still have the same annoying messages I get, GM really needs to get that sorted out.
Crazy! I towed about 6K travel trailer from San Diego to Amarillo to Dallas. Going bout 65mph, no issues, filled DEF 1.5 times round trip. Could have gone 80 but wasn’t safe towing. My 22 LM2 seems to sip DEF and produce overall more power while towing than the LZ0. Maybe the HP boost was to offset the emissions changes to the LZ0?
I have a 2019 GMC Canyon with the mini duramax 2.8. I absolutely love it 90k on it now. Never any issues. 75 mph interstate driving is 32-34. That's in Montana and Idaho mountains.
This 10000% all the trans cooler bypass, the extended pan, the upgraded trans cooler are all useless mods. I’ve towed thousands of miles through the Rockies and my trans temp never sees anything over 205 bone stock. Engine oil on the other hand? I’m in the 240-250 ranges not even towing when it’s 85+ outside. Those temps seems dangerously high yet no one has come up with anything.
Wow, you really had issues. I had a 2022 5.3L v8 high country and could NOT even get to 77mph with it floored, maybe downhill. I had the same trailer as you with race bike, tools, gear, tow weight total 5900 lbs. Had to drive at 68-70mph to keep from overheating. That was on flats. Up hills was 55-62mph. My avg fuel was 5.2mpg over 780 mile trip across Texas, NM, AZ, and Ca. 91 degree day. I sold the truck and bought 23 RST 3.0L duramax. No mods, Same trip, one year later, same trailer, gear, and weight . Outside temp was 94. Was able to easily hold 75mph, that I could not in gas engine. avg fuel was 16.4mpg. YES I went through DEF like crazy. 5.5 gallons. Normally without trailer 4,200 miles to 5 gallons. Still diesel held way better speed avg and over 10mpg better fuel avg. Will not go back the gas 1/2 ton ever. Love the video. Because I will look for some of these issues in future
Currently have a 6.4 power wagon had a chev 6.0 2500hd 3.73 rear 2010, in the white mtns with 6k behind I averaged about 7mpg hilly / mtns about 85% of the trip of 220ish miles. Power wagon is similar with the 6.4 and 4.10s to my old 6.0.
Man this is the definition of problems are there if you create them. Came to this video as I’m researching 3.0L for a possible purchase. I’ve learned in the roughly 14 minutes of the video I’ve watched. Don’t get a banks reader. And don’t worry about it.
In that same thought, don't look at your dash either. Thankfully, I had the Banks idash so I knew I really did have DEF fluid when the cluster was in full meltdown / blockout mode ! I have over 100 videos on the 3.0 duramax, showing all sides of it, hopefully the channel helps you out on your choice.
By any chance, are you actually turning the motor off at any point pulling the key and giving it a moment or two or three to see if it resets your DEF issue? (During fuel up). The system might be triggered, looking for an engine off before it looks for the volume of DEF fluid.
The vehicle was turned off quite a bit. At each fill up. The video shows it resetting after fill up but once we get moving again it comes back as the calculations within the system are so far off. As far as def consumption goes, each model year I had (20/21/22.5/23 and this 24) each year the def consumption went up. I hate to see what the owners of the 2025 models experience
I’m on my second Duramax 3.0. I have enjoyed both trucks very much. They’re very fuel efficient and if you’re not pulling all the time, it is perfect. Of course it will burn more def fluid while towing but overall it still saves me money because I only tow maybe once or twice a month it has great power is a little muscle for the size. I have been more than pleased with my two trucks when I’m towing I just have to put in a little more fluid more often but that’s OK with me. I love my average 28 miles per gallon.
You said you only have to put in a little more DEF fluid when towing, makes me think you do not have a 24 then? The 24's chug the def when towing as shown in the video. That's all fine, but the warnings on the dash that lead to dash lockout when there is still more than 90% def fluid remaining is a fail.
Hey man, you should do an oil analysis from a third-party company to see how the Amsoil held up to that heat. It’s all I’ve been running since my truck was new and I’ve seen some pretty high temps not that high but close and just like you, I’m curious to know when Amsoilwill start to breakdown
I have been a Duramax owner since 2003, currently have the GMC Danali 3.0 D'Max. I didn't buy this truck to tow, I bought it as a luxury truck with some bed space. However, I do tow a jet ski trailer. I would never have bought a 3.0 D'Max if I thought I was going to pull anything of significant weight regardless of what the specs say. Do yourself a favor and upgrade to a 2500HD or 3500HD.
Best truck I ever owned and it pulls perfectly! No problem with DEF. Replace with every three fill ups. No issues! Don't overload your truck. Follow tow guidelines!!
you said it was overloaded … I get the feeling you read the title, watched the first 10 seconds then came right here. The truck was run in tow haul mode…. It was in sport mode for 1 mile 😂 I’ve also towed much heavier without an issue. I’m sorry you got upset over this. The 3.0 is not perfect…
@@DemonWorks Not upset at all. Just saying I've hauled up to 5000 with no problems. But not using tow haul mode all the time. I get great fuel mileage towing or not also. I use Diesel Clean. Enjoy !😊
I’m having exactly the same problem with 3 oil leaks so far. 2023 Duramax 3.0 , the 2023 had a few changes done. The DPF is smaller, muffler added and a pressure valve added to the 2023. The truck is rated to tow 13,500lbs, my trailer is 7,800lbs . A GM field engineer came to inspect my truck on 10/15/24. For his bad luck my dash cam was running and he’s only concern was to cover up my findings, making jokes about the issue and he was clueless.
Ugh, that's terrible to hear. The DPF actually isn't smaller, there are now 3 total exhaust filters instead of 2. A lot was changed when the 23 came out. ua-cam.com/video/dxPkKIX-4aM/v-deo.html
Seems like GM has a bad design DEF sensors on these 3.0’s or a simple software update to be more accurate readings. Base on the difference readings between the Banks dash and cluster reading.
Have you ever look into insane diesel external extreme bypass filter along with their oil cooler? I would be interested in a review and test of their product. I'm sure others would be too considering I believe they are the only one currently with one on the market for an external oil cooler.
I did a tow with my 3.0 out of Texas -->Colorado with a trailer and I also used tons of fuel and def. I think I averaged 9.4 mpg. Also stretched out the timing chain causing valves to kit pistons . Needed new motor and decided to trade it off for the 6.2. Could not agree more with this video.
Interesting- with my 2023 3.0 diesel High Country last summer, I towed a 6800+ travel trailer up and down the west coast with some days temp above 100 D. F. I used about 4.5 gallons of DEF, and never had any issues whatsoever. In Salt Lake City, I was moving at a snail pace for about 45 minutes at 102 D. F. I think that I could (although I never would) be able to tow much heavier. Still, I appreciate your advice, input and videos, and will keep watching and 👍.
9:42 Maybe it's my imagination, but I don't fully trust that transmission thermometer. It's reading the same temp idling as it was when you were sautéing your engine going up that hill. Maybe GM just nailed the thermal management and it never deviates from op temp. P.s. Time for Water/Meth injection? Or is that an emissions compliance problem?
I have a trans cooler bypass valve installed. Without it, those temps would have been north of 200 degrees the whole time and even higher during the high load situations. I think this is an emissions calibration issue, many are complaining more and more about it. The newer trucks keep getting higher def consumption for emissions.
I think the issue is simply the tuning of the DEF consumption algorithm. GM needs to fix that and then this issue goes away. It's no different than a HD Diesel and we don't have these issues in those trucks. Granted the DEF consumption on my new 2024 F350 eats the DEF fast.
could have had a v8 diesel i pull a 28' enclosed car hauler and get 15 mpg loaded going through Houston Denver Colorado to Houston and only used 3 gallons of def. Is something is not working correctly on your truck
I would be curious to know what the temperature is outside the engine in various places under the hood, such as near the exhaust-manifold. I would think some kind of system to inject fresh-air into those hot areas and expel it would be beneficial.
Do you regret purchasing the Chevy with the 3.0? I'm seriously considering buying the 2025, but I do have some concerns about the reliability and now the useage of DEF when towing. I likely will never tow more than 6,000 lbs. I also live along the Wasatch front so will be towing the same route you did in this video. Should I rethink this and go with the gas engine?
I do not regret it. I just will not tow a cargo trailer with this truck again. It tows the 6000 pound car and trailer just fine, while gettting great mileage, aside from the DEF consumption of course.
That is several years old and basically wants the tech to check for updated programming, which has been done on this truck several times. no updates for the def system. Having owned 5 of these now, one from each year, i have shown the progression of def usage from 2020 to 2024 model years and they really messed up on the 2024 trucks. I thought my 23 was bad...
@@DemonWorks I totally believe it could inject a tank of DEF in less then 1000 miles. The part that throws me is where it thinks it out of DEF when the level sensor shows otherwise. That seems like a software issue. Which is why I asked about that tsb.
When pulling my enlcosed car hauler with my LM2 at 70mph I'm seeing mid 12's mpg compared to around 8 mpg with my previous 5.3. So with you running 75 and up and down hills, 11 mpg seems pretty respectable. Still 30%+ better than a 1500 gasser so that is pretty on par.
Same truck (2022 Silverado LTZ) towing a 6940 lb (scale weight) travel trailer at 65 mph max (cruise set) and we average 12.0 mpg over the same mountain terrain. Our 2024, NASH trailer is 8' wide and 11'6" tall (brick) on tandem axles. Our DEF usage is 1-gallon per 400 miles, way less than your driving experience. The wind resistance between your travel speed and ours is a major factor! Although most don't adhere to it, CA trailer towing speed limit is 55 mph.
It’s 100% up to date. I’ve watched the def consumption on all trucks I have owned. Each year they use more. 24 is by far the worst. I have customers coming in complaining about the def consumption on these 24’s quite often.
This is a huge eye opener. I suspected that 3.0 diesel would be thirsty when you started working it some. 3000 lbs is really nothing though. My 2022 6.2 gas ZR2 gets between 9 and 11 mpg towing my flat fronted 2007 Wildwood 25 foot travel trailer that weighs 7500 lbs loaded.. No DEF to mess with. I also still have a 2015 F350 with the 6.7 diesel that is tuned. With that tune it makes over 600 HP and 1200 ft lbs of torque. Interestingly it only gets about 12 to 13 MPG towing that trailer under the same circumstances going to the same camping location. All at 3500 to 4000 feet altitude in the foothills and the rocky mountains. This video has confirmed to me that I will never again consider trading in my 6.2 gas ZR2 for the 3.0 diesel version. I have worked my ZR2 pretty hard a times and it has been flawless so far. It regularly gets 19 to 21 MPG hwy at 70 MPH unless it is really windy and that is perfectly fine with me.
I have a 21 z71 with a 3.0l I pull a lawn trailer every weekend. My truck pull so good and uses very little def fluid. One of the best trucks I have owned
no, that's not of interest to me. There won't be any temperature differences, it will just be able to handle the high temps better. An oil analysis will show the condition of the oils and in my findings, the 0w20 has been just fine. www.duramaxnews.com/post/dexos-d-oil-analysis-comparison
Hey brother I have a 2022 Chevy Silverado trial boss with the 3.0 L diesel I drove from El Paso to Corpus Christi to help one of my brothers move into his new apartment and with a fully loaded truck and uhaul 6x12 trailer attached we drove there and back and only used half of my trucks def fluid also I was making about 21 mpg. My truck is completely stock I’m not sure if it’s a problem with the newer diesel engines that are able to pull more power out of the 3.0 Liter diesel but I hope this helps!
Talk about tearing down expectations. GM definitely needs a software fix for the DEF monitor on this truck. I would lose my patience if my truck was nagging me about a non-problem. Almost seems like the PCM cares more about calculated miles left in the DEF tank than the volume of DEF in the tank. Is the banks instrument just reading DEF level from the PCM? Imagine the frustration and uncertainty if you didn't have the Banks gauge. Makes me think keeping my 2012 half-ton isn't such a bad idea. My fuel economy isn't any worse with 7000# going from DFW to Amarillo. I also don't have constant DEF warnings. Engine oil temps also aren't going to "Deep Fry"
With your oil temps getting that high, perhaps a bigger oil cooler (which will add some oil capacity too, allowing the oil to dissipate more heat) is called for.
Not sure what's different about my truck (2022 RST Z71 3.0) and mine barely uses any Def. Regen is every 500 miles and while towing my 8500lbs 30 ft camper it doesn't change much. The only thing is it drops from 32 miles per gallon down to 17 while towing. I do use HotShot EDT in every tank. One thing is the speed limit here is only 70 in some places, but mostly 65.
each year the def consumption goes up by gm. This 24 is by far the very worst as I have had one from each year, this being the 5th. Your LM2 is doing well, great to hear !
I had a similar experience this week, but not quite as bad as yours. I took a 900 mile trip from Utah to Southern California with a 5,000 lb boat behind my '24 LZ0 max tow at about 70 mph. I was getting ~200 miles per gallon of DEF, and getting low DEF range warnings almost immediately.
We're you running on cruise control or not? 270 for engine temp is pretty high along with almost 1300 egt. 2400-2500 rpm seems high also. My observations are based on my owning ram 2500 4x4 cummins and towing a lot heavier.
Cruise control at times, yes. 20 hours worth of driving packed into this video, so not everything is shown. 2500 with a Cummins is a little different build than this....
I would get that truck checked, I run a 2023 Gmc Sierra 1500 3.0, Pulls my 5000LB boat from Victorville to Lake Havasu in 110 plus heat and doesn't come close to any of those numbers..Wouldn't trade it for anything unless I go bigger on the boat..
Sold my 2022 3.0 for a 2000 f250. Sure it leaks oil, needed a little TLC for the rust. Needed shocks and rotors. But the damn thing would tow the moon if I could hook it up. Never looked back.
Just about ready to press the trigger and buy one of these trucks to replace my 08 tundra but this video gives me serious pause. There seems to be serious issues with at least the soft wear on this truck. It would be helpful to know before I waste $65k if this experience is common. But at that 11 mpg while towing an enclosed trailer with a 1/2 ton truck is impressive especially compared to my tundra where if I towed at his speed I know it would be in the area of 7-8mpg. The addition of DEF however? Ugg thought I knew the truck I was going to buy but after this now I have even more research to do
I have to tell ya, this was an absolute worst case scenario here. This is my 5th 3.0 Duramax, all I have been great towing., The DEF experience was miserable. Had I driven slower, the mpg would be better and likely def a smidge better. I encourage you to take a look around the channel and see the other positive videos on these trucks. I do show the good and the bad, I'm a 3.0 fan but I share what I think everyone else should know before buying.
I have a 2024 with a 5.3 L and a 10 speed transmission. I would’ve likely got about nine or 10 miles to the gallon pulling a trailer like that when you consider the additional cost of diesel as compared to gas, plus roughly 11% additional fuel cost in DEF I don’t think there would be a meaningful savings pulling that trailer with a diesel then a 5.3 gasser. In fact, it could possibly be cheaper in the gas V8. I used to have a Ford eco-boost 3.5 L and the 5.3 Silverado actually gives me about a mile a gallon better when I’m pulling a big trailer.
Thanks for sharing. Our old 1997 5.7lL Suburban gets 10 to 11 mpg pulling our 5000 lb boat and trailer. Our newer 2019 5.3L gets 12 mpg on that same boat.
I have an old 96 dodge 12 valve and towing our 28 foot Jayco camper trailer it would burn less fuel than that for sure. The new diesels are nice but they sure burn the fuel?
Our little 2001 Toyota Tacoma 4X4 with 3.4L 4 cam will tow flat out 65-70mph 3500lbs trailer, while no diesel it returns about 12-14 mpg, but seen 15 mpg coming down long grade but averaged is about 11-12 mpg over four mountain passes over 8000ft, and one at about 7500ft Carson Pass, Devils Gate, Conway Summit. I find myself in 3rd gear most of the time occasional 2nd gear nearing the top some of the passes, but usually can pull 3rd gear 3200-3500rpm 50-55mph. I feel for you diesel guys, they are completely strangling these new diesels to death with all the emissions they have on them now not to mention the computer glitches.
What's your thoughts on the PPE charge air cooler against stock? I've been considering it, just debating on pulling the trigger. Looks to be doing well with the delta across. Have you had any change in MPG since installing?
That oil got hot. Do you run 0w-20 still? Also good grief the def situation. Makes no sense why its doing that when you have plenty of def. Is gm still doing the lunch with an fse thing? That would be a great opportunity to bring this up
I tow an 8000 lb camper and the engine has no trouble even through the mountains. It tows great. The suspicious DEF consumption is troubling. And it would seem some commenting here expect this to perform like the 6.5. “This truck needs to do what I want it to do and that’s all that there is to it.” I bought the heavy tow package with the 3.73 rear end. Nothing ever got hot.
This being my 5th 3.0 featured on this channel, they have all towed well. This trip was an exception, as you can see. I just show the facts, I could have different results pulling this 3000 pound trailer at 55mph.... I also have better results pulling a 7000 pound car trailer. The def consumption is something that changes each year as emissions requirements are climbing with every new model year. I didn't buy this truck to tow, it's a ZR2, but a 3000 pound trailer and a little side wind really made it work. The good thing is that it did the job and I made it home and runs perfectly fine, but it's the internet, I get it.
The fact you state is correct. The metering of the DEF is flawed. GM put out a bulletin I received today that was mealy mouthed. See if you can find it online and explain it to me. Or I can send it to you.
You know if your just needing your blinker for just a few blinks on gmc/Chevy trucks, and my 2011 dmax does it. Just move blinker arm just enough to make contact and let it go back. It will blink about 4 or 5 times and stop by itself. I have a 24 3.0 Yukon also that has this feature.
2024 Silverado 1500 ZR2 with the 3.0 Duramax Diesel Towing an 18 Foot Cargo Trailer from Utah To California and Back = 1425 Total Miles. DEF warnings were constant, the fuel consumption was horrendous and when it was all said and done, I will say that I don't want to ever do that with this truck again ! Thankfully a little overnight part swap seemed to really help. this 2024 Silverado 1500 ZR2 with the 3.0 Duramax Diesel.
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My takeaway from this video as well as my personal experience with a Diesel Titan, modern Diesels are absolute garbage and not worth the money.
"This truck needs to do what I want it to do, and thats all there is to it" - truer words never spoken
Should say "I need to get a truck that does what I need"
But it obviously won't. Trying to maintain 80 mph(with cruise control on) pulling that weight;very high oil temps and high def usage and 3500 rpm.That engine will have a short life.He would need more truck if doing this on a regular basis.
Haha
Looks like you need a larger truck/engine. The small Duramax simply isn't what you needed. Enjoy folks complaining about the truck when clearly this truck would NEVER meet your needs.
@@sdc5683actually that’s not true, an engine that drives 10 miles and no highway mileage will destroy the oil in 3k miles because the temp is to low to cook off, water and fuel that contaminates. Then the oil only changed at the suggested 7,500 mile intervals absolutely kills engines. Driving them and using them hard doesn’t hurt them like you might think.
Watched this video a couple weeks ago... so I was concerned as I had a pulling road trip coming up.
I'm back to report my real-world experience pulling a 5000# travel trailer 1,200 miles with my '24 GMC LZ0 3.0L Duramax.
I kept speeds at 70 to 65 mph. The truck did absolutely fantastic! Average mpg was 14. Got as bad as 11.5 mpg at 70mph on hilly terrain. Got as good as 16 mpg going 65 mph on flatter sections.
As far as DEF....absolutely zero issues. Truck three times reported DEF range remaining on separate sections of the drive. It was a simple acknowledgment on my part to clear the message. I typically topped off the DEF tank at fuel stops. DEF tank never was below 7 bars as indicated on dash. Consumed ~ 3-1/2 gallons DEF. My takeaway is all the DEF drama in this video was not my actual real-world experience pulling a 5000# travel trailer, so I wanted to share.
I have simlar experience to you in my 2021. Something is definitely wrong with this guys truck!
@@blairmartin3567it's still way to much def usage. F that, I'll buy gas. I'm not getting def like that, it's a hustle.
Love my 3.0. Kicked ass pulling my rv in the appalachians. Drank alot at first, then adjusted. Barely consumed any def. Thrilled with the truck
Just for reference on def usage. I drive a 2020 freightliner cascadia and I pull triples 100,000+ lbs on the same 570 mile run every day. It has the Cummins X-15 liter motor. We use between 3.2 and 4.6 gallons of def per day. Total weight and wind has a huge affect on consumption.
My 2023 Sierra had DEF warnings also while it was almost full and took it to service and they found 1 of the wire harnesses bad and went through a full system reset and update and all good and accurate ever since
Planning on getting one next year and stumbled upon your goldmine of a channel! Super informative! I’m sitting here watching 30 40 50 minute videos and I have never owned a diesel and don’t even have the truck currently 😂 keep up the good work man greetings from Texas 👍🏽
Nice job documenting this. Saw similar challenges on camper/cargo trailers as I was truck shopping last winter which made me go up to a 2500HD with 6.6L diesel. For comparison, towed our 7500lb travel trailer 6000 miles this summer for 10.6MPG overall. DEF usage averaged 1 top off 2.5gal jug of DEF for every 2 tanks (3/4 tank average fill) of diesel. Far less drama on the trip and FAR longer range with a 36gal diesel tank. So much safer towing in the wind with the HD mass and suspension as well. A no brainer given relatively small price difference if you go for a lower trim level LT with a few key option packages.
I'm a firm believer in having a little more than what you need, don't what to be limited . I have 2019 3500hd L5P crew cab swr ,last one I'll ever need. This truck will take me to the senior housing center!
I went back and forth moving from Toronto Canada to Dallas, Texas, twice with my 2023 3.0 Sierra at4. First load I was pulling 6k lbs and my truck did fine. Anything over 80-85 you drink DEF like crazy. 75 was the sweet spot. The truck is slow to calculate def range. I never shut the engine down until after a hotel stop 14 hours later and then it recalculated. 24 hours with weight going almost 2k miles it did fine. I did it again in winter in January with half that weight and I barely noticed the trailer there. Both trips total, I probably went through 3-4 DEF fill ups each. Definitely a good engine to tow/haul small loads or just for great MPGs. Anything over 7k lbs you definitely need a 6.2 or 2500HD. Oh and my trucks 100% stock, doesn't have anything like yours does!
That is a good explanation for all those messages. Seems like a minor software tweak would fix it.
Mine is completely stock I tow 6k every day. It's been amazing
Towing at 85mph is smart 😂
I have a 22 max tow and routinely tow a ATC 2419 toy hauler that weighs 10800lbs when fully loaded with water, fuel and 2 Quads. Truck and trailer 17,200lbs usually towing around 65 to 70mph. Average between 11 and 12mpg. Yes it does drink the DEF. I live in the Pacific Northwest and Travel in the mountains. This truck amazes me everytime I tow with it, but mostly amazed bt the mpg of 27
Would like to know which routes, and how good the roads, traffic is, on the route you’re taking to and from Toronto. I’ll be doing it before long myself. Thxs
Thats crazy. My 23 at4 lz0 uses very little DEF when towing. Usually a passive reg during towing. Elevation 3600 to 9k mountain area. 60 to 65 mph towing 34ft rv 8k lbs.
I traded my 3.0 in on a new super duty with the 7.3 gas. I pull a 9000lb travel trailer and it pulls so much better than my 3.0 did. And no def to worry about. No regens. Just drive and fill up every now and then. No drama.
I think I will get the GMC 2500 with 6.6 gasser
Wow a heavy duty truck tows better than a 1/2 ton, go figure
@@ccs9271 wow
I did the same, but went with a 6.0 2500.. definitely not as powerful as your 7.3 or the new 6.6 gassers, but not having to think about def, fuel filters, oil belt, etc.. best decision ever.
yeah, i imagine 9000lbs is pushing a 1500 class. if i was always towing such a trailer i'd get a 2500 class to more comfortably tow that and give me plenty of breathing room
Thanks for the video, now I know I can push the def warning while towing. The biggest take away... all one needs is the intercooler to not be de- rated.
I towed a 24" 7000 lb. camp trailer all over in the Idaho mountains with my 23" LZO. I do not tow at 75mph ever. It is a little 3 liter so towing at 75mph is running that little engine at max!!
Idaho mountains are a little different from the majority of these straight hill climbs. People get stuck on the 75mph, but don’t comment on the same thing taking place at 65mph shown in the video. In addition, this was me taking it easy on this truck, my prior towing trips were a much more pleasant experience and 75mph towing 3000 pounds is nowhere near max.
A 2.3 Ranger will tow 7k lbs. This diesel towing 3k should be very easy.
Nobody should be PURPOSELY towing anything 7k lbs with a Colorado or any other mid size. 😂
@@JamesOMalley-hb4tf Okay Boomer 🙄 "MuH V-8 "
I make multiple trips a year from socal to southern utah in my ZR2 diesel towing 6k+ and max cargo. 100% stock. Zero issues.
Same here with a 7000lbs brick wall of an RV between Chicago and Denver. Never an issue even when hitting 9000 foot elevation. A dream of a truck.
By the way I’m bone stock.
Not even DEF messages?
@@nowayoutstp4 Def messages? 4300 miles on the odo using bio diesel and I've filled up def (costco) once...
I made multiple trips, pulling a 7x16 enclosed trailer, and had nothing but issues with the def. It would say it was empty, and I would stop to put some in, and it would only take a gallon. Then it would read full and do the same thing after about 100 miles.
@@stuartgraesser6739 bummer, sorry to hear that. I tow a 30 foot Rv with no issues with def at all, other than it’s a bit thirsty. I would think it’s a software issue that the dealer should take care of. Hopefully they can fix that cause otherwise the truck is great with or without a trailer.
I towed a 20' cargo trailer at about 6,000 pounds from Florida to Oregon with my 2024 2500hd 6.6 gas. I had 0 issues and got about the same fuel mileage as you did. No mods and no def.
No mods here either. That’s great to hear about the 6.6 doing that well !
The updated programming for the after treatment system will correct the excessive use of DEF while towing. I towed my 20’x 8’ enclosed trailer 1,800 miles with a car in it last year and my Denali with the 3.0 Duramax almost drank as much DEF as fuel. After the update I towed my trailer with a Range Rover 900 miles and my DEF gauge went down one notch. Also after the update I get about 10,000 miles out of a full tank of DEF. That’s 80% without towing a trailer and 20% towing my 20’ trailer with something in it,ie; car, SUV, skid steer.
I have a 2018 eco diesel 4x4 with the 3.9 gear and use 1 tank every 8000 miles 90/10 highway tow and get 12 mpg with a 7000 lbs trailer like yours. I really liked the Chevy when it came out and now I'm glad I stuck with mine . I put the green diesel tune in at 1000 miles and now have 145000 miles and still like it .
That is not a 7k lb trailer. 😂
@@JamesOMalley-hb4tf Mine is just like his but with a 2024 polaris turbo R and tools camping gear spare wheels and tires. I think it's closer to 8500 lbs. but it's the same kinda trailer. Sorry I did not put that I use my trailer to haul stuff.
I have the same, 2018 ED. Did GDE at 120,000 miles, should’ve done it on day 1 but I paid for 125,000 mile warranty. Factory tunes are worse than apple IIgs on a 3-1/4 disc.
also 270 oil has to be derating. ED people who tow run based on 240 oil temp and we get what we get for speed. i don’t know anybody who tows above 70mph, those tires might be rated for that speed but most are 65mph max
Very similar experience in my 2014 ecodiesel jeep grand cherokee with my 23' v nose. GDE, fully deleted at 36k miles...120k miles ago and no issues. Bypass oil filter with aux oil cooler is a game changer too!
Glad I own a 2020 3.0 Duramax. The 3.0 gets 17% better fuel mileage when towing the same 8K load that my 2012 6.6 Duramax and 2017 5.0 Cummis Titian pulled. I love the 45% better fuel mileage when unloaded. I do run a weight distribution hitch on the 3.0 truck that I didn't have to on the other two trucks. I save around $1746 a year in fuel costs alone.
There's a recall on the 20-21.. rear end lockup issue.. transmission related
That is 5 bucks a day😅What the
My 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali with the LZO is in the shop now because of a def issue. My gauge shows 2 bars of def but as I pulled into work it said DEF LOW, 78 miles to speed reduction. I never got the 1000 mile warning or the 300 mile warning. I also knew based on when I added DEF I should have at least 1500 miles of range left. Before taking it to the shop I added more DEF and the gauge and warnings did not change. Oh, and I have not been towing or working it hard.
I like the commitment. I have a 6.7 power stroke when my oil temp gets to 240 if I back out of it, it will drop back to 200-210. 240+ happens hauling a 30ft enclosed 8ft internal ceiling doing 80 through AZ at 100* outside temp. I have 2 egt probes one at turbo one in the manifold. EGT will be around 1000* on flat ground.
Always good to see people do things with their vehicle that I won't do with mine. I appreciate it. $32 for a 2.5 gallons of DEF is beyond highway robbery. DEF is just branded swine pee. I had no problem paying through the nose for the Denali Ultimate 3.0 price premium as I want the luxury car comfort and interior appointments, but I buy Walmart house brand DEF for $9 a jug. I seldom go over 72 mph with mine even not towing. Aerodynamic drag is the biggest fuel economy killer, after towing a heavy trailer up steep hills. I only use mine to tow a flatbed trailer going to get construction material.
If I could get away with treating mine like a Colorado, I would do the same.
My little molded fiberglass travel trailer is shaped like a Tic Tac. No issues whatsoever with my '22 3.0 Max going back and forth from Salt Lake to Tucson. At 70mph I'm able to maintain approx 20 miles to the gallon. So yes, I have to agree that aerodynamics play a big role.
Same issues towing approx 3000 lb trailer from Wyoming to St George last week - DEF warnings when I had 3/4 tank of DEF left as computer was over anticipating my regens. I am running every archoil treatment as well with same truck (Bison) and I will be deleting this when warranty is up
Are there tunes available for the LZ0 now?
I can verify I have had identical issues with my 2024 AT4 LZ0 while towing a similar trailer with snowmobiles, total weight around 4500 pounds. Only difference is it was minus 15 Celsius. I have learned to ignore the warnings and use a BlueDriver OBDII reader to see my actual DEF level. Getting locked out by the gauge and having it scroll constantly when DEF is "low" is a massive fail by GM. When empty, this truck is a dream. Towing is the nightmare.....
For us metric folks, the warning to empty starts at 1600 km to go, and can be dismissed. But it counts down doing it's own thing. Drive 10 km, it drops 30 km, no rhyme or reason. Once you get to 0 km, it will revert to 800 km to go. At this point you are locked out of the DIC and it gives the scrolling warning to refill now. That distance will count down accurately. It is 1:1, so you know how far to go.
The gauge for DEF level is useless. It will show down 1 bar, then 2 and then jump to empty. Now that I understand it, and you have replicated what I experienced (THANK YOU!) I still feel it is a great truck and worth working through the issue. My hope is GM will get rid of the scrolling lockout DEF warning screen in a future update.
I have had 2 trucks with the 3.0 and my wife has the Suburban with the 3.0 and we love them. The reason to get the 3.0 isn't for crazy towing capability its for the fuel economy and the ability to go 600 miles on a tank when traveling with the family. That being said I pulled a fifth wheel camper behind my first truck out to Utah and yes it used a lot of DEF but it pulled it just fine and didn't give me any issues. It's still a very capable truck. My ZR2 with the 2" lift and bigger tires from the factory can get 28 MPG pretty regular and 30 plus in the Suburban if you're not heavy on the pedal. 100K mile warranty is nice also.
There is absolutely no reason they should be nagging us with these DEF warnings when it’s nowhere near empty. If they can’t figure this shit out and apply a software update once and for all, I’m probably not risking it with a new LZ0 when I replace my LM2.
I have a 2022 GMC Crew Cab 4x4 with a LM2 and so far I have been very happy with it and have not really seen what I would think is excessive DPF use or regens.
Awesome! The LM2 is way more DEF efficient than LZ0
I have had the same experience. Towing around 5k lbs is great, anything over that with too much tongue weight, it absolutely drinks DEF.
Really awesome vid, man! 1300F EGT climbing and losing some speed probably answers my defueling question. Overall I don't think your truck did bad at all pulling a wind brake of a trailer like that at those speeds. GM has got to do something with that awful calibration or calculation of DEF range and not being able to dismiss the warning at least for 10 minutes so you can see regular gauges. What if something like a TPMS warning needs to pop up? I would hope the DEF messages don't override a critical safety warning like that. I really hope some GM folks are watching your videos.
I have big brother 2022 6.6 and used it for my hotshot rig and in my experience I use Loves if I had too and learned the hard way not too use Flying J/Pilot fuel. I would only use TA fuel when possible or in Utah I would run Maverick. Fuel quality does make a difference in these newer trucks. I also would only use Blue DEF platinum and hot shots secret diesel extreme fuel additive. I’ve been using it since day one at new with 25 miles and it sits with 174k. I also use AMSOIL. Another thing to do is to clean the MAP sensor. I cleaned it once a week or if I was towing in the mountains I would clean when I would stop for the night. Soot really builds on this sensor. Of course I hauled around 30k lbs too. I have heard that having the Banks or other programmers add more soot levels than stock. I bet your MAP is very dirty. May these tips help someone out.
I have the same DEF flaw! It will show empty when I know it’s not. When I fill the empty DEF (with only 2 gallons) not 5 gallons it’ll read full, but always seems to go empty fast (at half tank.). Very annoying. Took it to the speed limited and it will then take you to 55mph limit in the next 100 miles. The DEF gauge or float in DEF tank are trash!
Depending on the year of your truck, you may just need an updated calibration in the system. In my case, it's a 24 thing when towing... every year since new, they upped the def consumption and it's always much worse when towing. Interested to see what they up it to for the 2025+ trucks
Same issue from Reno to Idaho Falls on 24 Sierra. A 3000lbs trailer with horrible mileage and DEF consumption. Dealer had to replace DEF tank under warranty due to faulty gauge causing false readings. Very disappointing....
I have LTZ 23 with 3.0 - First I love the passion you have for this 3.0. And the information you share.
The towing I’ve done with my truck - ( 16 foot tandem axel trailer with 2200 pound side Honda Talon with Windshield) so not aero dynamic- I find I get better fuel mileage not using cruise control- truck kicks into passing going over a simple overpass small incline cruising at 75 mph When no cruise feathering pedal no downshift and a consistent rpm. Better fuel milage at 14 avg.
That's horrible for a open trailer and sxs. I have a 18ft Big T with a pro xp with windshield and all the extras, f350 with 6.7 gets 15-15-5mpg at 70-75mph and it's like it's not even behind it. I do like the empty mpg on the 3.0 where the 6.7 Ford only gets 16-18 depending on driving type. Idk how they give that 3.0 such high tow rate with these temps his truck runs at. I'd be pretty upset with the def usage and the high temps and 10-12mpg probably worse in northeast since it's hilly vs his flat land towing in video
My 2001 crewcab dually long box F350 6.8l V10 Gas averages 11.3mpg with a 17k pound 5th wheel camper. This just shows you these little trucks get no free lunch. I'm still on my all original drive line after 23 years and a dually handles better in the wind and a 2001 F350's weight is actually what a modern half ton weighs today
You can see out of it better too
I have the same DEF issue. The dealership wants my truck in for a week to evaluate and service. I was thinking it was either a computer system error or a defective "float" in the DEF tank...we'll see when I take it in next week.
Follow up after Dealership Service. With the new required Service Center computer update for the infotainment system, they found that the DEF indicator needed a recalculation. I will follow up to see if it was the system recalibration issue, or if the issue returns and it may be a tank/float (mechanical) issue.
@@ToddRAdams1I am having the same issue the dealer has no clue and is waiting for an answer from Chevy. Curious how yours does after the recalibration
@@lanceklecker7752 So far (just local driving) so good. I will definitely be checking back in after our next road trip (500+ miles.). The Dealer did the latest computer update (which is a required Dealer update) and they said they were able to recalibrate and update the DEF indicator...We'll see!
My 2023 Denali with LZO mirrors has the same issues off an on. It is such a pain. As far as the DEF issue, my truck had the same issues with warnings. I took it into the dealer for this issue. Not sure what they did. The work order said they reset the system. I have not had the issues since with DEF warnings like you are getting.
I have a 2021 3.0l and have a 30ft. Travel trailer with a gross weight of 7900. We have put around 6000 miles trailering this summer and have never used as much DEF as you are using. When not trailering we normally drive around 450 miles between Regen. This is actually my second 3.0 liter. My first one we drove it around 80,000 miles and pulled a 27 ft 5th wheel with it and that truck also used much less DEF than yours is using. Both of my trucks were bone stock and I have a gauge package for both of them so I can monitor engine parameters. I hope you get your DEF usage sorted out.
I use Amsoil 0-20 diesel oil in mine and neither truck had an oil consumption issue. With the truck I have now I have averaged 12.7 MPG towing this summer. I live in Minnesota so the terrain is relatively flat.
The LM2's were definitely more efficient on DEF fluid. Mine is stock as well, this is just a
programming thing, each year newer they use more. Sounds like you have a good one that treats you right !
I love this truck and your channel. Tow a 16’ Formula with a 7’ inside. When I’m towing it never shut it off. Gas is would get 12 to 14 mpg. With the 3L i was getting close to 18.
I appreciate the kind words ! These trucks can get the job done !
My concern would be for the longevity of the engine. Sure it can do it now fresh out of the factory. What about 100k or 200k down the road or more. The truck does look amazing. I have a old 97 ford f 250 with 7.3l powerstroke pushing 485k still going strong pulls 7,000 trailer almost every day. Great video thank you for all your hard work on it.
I had the same issue in my 24 ZR2 LZ0 when I first picked up an enclosed car hauler in Salt Lake City. Drove it up the continental divide back to Denver. Suffered through the constant DEF warnings and false empty DEF tank readings. Took it to the dealer and asked for them to check for TSBs on the DEF issue as I have seen others mention it. It took me sending them the TSP (22-NA-150) for them to find it and follow the DEF reset procedure. I asked for the newest ECM update you did and was told my VIN did not need it. After the DEF reset I have towed the trailer weighing aprox 8k lbs to CO Springs and back mult times. Def goes down only 2 ticks on the level indicator and no warnings. My average MPG with the loaded trailer, including the SLC - DEN unloaded drive back, at 1700 miles traveled is 11.76 MPG.
Which dealer did you take it to? I have brought up the exact TSB you did with my dealer and they still said my vehicle didn't qualify.
@@etmidust Bozarth Chevy. They said the same at first until I sent them that TSB number. It was a clear fix after and the DEF level seems to barely move now even when towing. 2500 ft of elevation change each way on that drive to.
@@c.j.drifts thanks. definitely worth a little drive to south denver to see if theyll do a def reset on mine
Do they make an aftermarket deep sump oil pan. Extra quart of oil and better heat dispersion?
Hello, thank you for the video! I live in South Florida and the light just came on the other day in the morning while towing my 20ft trailer. It was like 60 degrees that morning and by the middle of the day it was 85. The check engine light stayed on but not the warning on my drive home that day. Then the light went off and hasn't came back on sense.. not sure why or what lol bit your video helps me sleep at night now lol
Real life is always better than manufacturer data. Thanks for sharing. Concerning.. not really more like its reality. Stay safe and be well.
Great video. I do a similar trip with a similar trailer at same speeds. Was thinking about a 3.0l diesel but now going to wait till reviews of the 2025. Thanks
Thanks for the kind words! My experience has shown me that each new model year has seen a significant jump in DEF consumption. The 23 was better than the 24. The LM2's were much better than the LZ0, in terms of DEF consumption.
I towed 5k inclosed trailer from phx to southern utah in late May. Triple digit temps and mostly uphill with zero issues. But i have the lm2 with max towe. Friend had the lm2 lifted with 35s and towed 30 foot camper into the mountains all the time with zero issues.
Does your friend with the 35s have the max tow as well?
@@austinnapoli1326 no he did not
@@philipjohnson882 thanks for the info!! I’m looking to go the same route but so hard to find a max trailering package on the used market
Comparison 2013 F150 Ecoboost max tow with 26 foot v-neck enclosed grossing 8k lbs. 3.5 MPG over Texas 580 miles in total. IMHO the wind resistance from the enclosed is like towing an additional 4k lbs at 70 mph.
I had a 2013 Ecoboost as well. Towing it did not do well on fuel...the truck had a drinking problem, 6.5MPG towing a 5th wheel was common for me. I think think my catalytic converters were getting clogged and killing the power and MPG. I have a 2023 canyon now, I get around 9mpg towing with the canyon (7k lbs in a flat nose utility trailer).
Hey,
I have 2023 Tahoe High Country (LM2), and I did a similar route with about 5k lbs ( open trailer, towing a car that had an aggressive track wing ), I was going from Park City to Las Vegas; I believe I averaged 16-17 MPG, I pumped once around Cedar City, and I filled my Def once. I never encountered the messages you got for DEF; I did get a notification once that it dropped below 1k.
It is worth noting I was traveling into the headwind as well. I averaged 70-75 MPH as well. It never lost speed on the uphills either.
The car is bone stock, minus the transmission pan which is PPE ( thanks to your videos :D).
It does have the tow hall package as well, However I do not think that matters
Also Amsoil for both the transmission and engine.
and I have been using Amsoil Fuel additive with every single tank.
Also thank you for showing the IDASH I will purchase that soon.
I also towed another vehicle from LAS to Phoenix, the total load was probably closer to 5500-6000 LBs, and it was +110 degree day
Got there with one tank, and no def added,
The only thing I can think of is that it was a windy day, and the trailer was acting like a sail. Also, do you have a bed cover? If not, that could have been another contributing factor on a windy day.
There is an update on the software and reprogramming of the DEF sensor for anyone having issues. I have a 2024 Trail Boss with the 3.0 and had a similar 'problem' towing a 19 ft camper 1200 miles from Utah up and back to the Idaho panhandle in July, over mountain passes etc in Montana. Averaged around 14 MPG and used maybe 6 gallons of DEF total, but kept getting a warning that DEF was low but it was a faulty reading but when I went to add it the tank was only .5 gallon empty. So I just topped it off each refill and went through two DEF boxes each way. The problem was the error in the reading, I had it updated and now it seems accurate but does give me miles remaining on DEF message from time to time which is annoying.
Mine has been checked for updates since new, not 1 update for the def module. Several for the ECM but unrelated to DEF. I have videos on those updates. It sounds like you still have the same annoying messages I get, GM really needs to get that sorted out.
Good to know, thanks.
I drove my 21' at4 3.0L from ohio to kansas and back round-trip never had a def issue with a car trailer . All stock no tuner or anything
Yeah, the 21's have very different def programming. I had the same results with my 20/21/22.5 but the 23 and 24 showed warnings.
Crazy! I towed about 6K travel trailer from San Diego to Amarillo to Dallas. Going bout 65mph, no issues, filled DEF 1.5 times round trip. Could have gone 80 but wasn’t safe towing. My 22 LM2 seems to sip DEF and produce overall more power while towing than the LZ0. Maybe the HP boost was to offset the emissions changes to the LZ0?
I have a 2019 GMC Canyon with the mini duramax 2.8. I absolutely love it 90k on it now. Never any issues. 75 mph interstate driving is 32-34. That's in Montana and Idaho mountains.
Seems like PPE needs an oil cooler release.
This 10000% all the trans cooler bypass, the extended pan, the upgraded trans cooler are all useless mods. I’ve towed thousands of miles through the Rockies and my trans temp never sees anything over 205 bone stock. Engine oil on the other hand? I’m in the 240-250 ranges not even towing when it’s 85+ outside. Those temps seems dangerously high yet no one has come up with anything.
Wow, you really had issues. I had a 2022 5.3L v8 high country and could NOT even get to 77mph with it floored, maybe downhill. I had the same trailer as you with race bike, tools, gear, tow weight total 5900 lbs. Had to drive at 68-70mph to keep from overheating. That was on flats. Up hills was 55-62mph. My avg fuel was 5.2mpg over 780 mile trip across Texas, NM, AZ, and Ca. 91 degree day. I sold the truck and bought 23 RST 3.0L duramax. No mods, Same trip, one year later, same trailer, gear, and weight . Outside temp was 94. Was able to easily hold 75mph, that I could not in gas engine. avg fuel was 16.4mpg. YES I went through DEF like crazy. 5.5 gallons. Normally without trailer 4,200 miles to 5 gallons. Still diesel held way better speed avg and over 10mpg better fuel avg. Will not go back the gas 1/2 ton ever. Love the video. Because I will look for some of these issues in future
ZR2 trim definitely doesn't help. Your previous max tow probably would have been much better. With a gas truck you may have averaged 8-9mpg if that.
Currently have a 6.4 power wagon had a chev 6.0 2500hd 3.73 rear 2010, in the white mtns with 6k behind I averaged about 7mpg hilly / mtns about 85% of the trip of 220ish miles. Power wagon is similar with the 6.4 and 4.10s to my old 6.0.
Man this is the definition of problems are there if you create them. Came to this video as I’m researching 3.0L for a possible purchase. I’ve learned in the roughly 14 minutes of the video I’ve watched. Don’t get a banks reader. And don’t worry about it.
In that same thought, don't look at your dash either. Thankfully, I had the Banks idash so I knew I really did have DEF fluid when the cluster was in full meltdown / blockout mode ! I have over 100 videos on the 3.0 duramax, showing all sides of it, hopefully the channel helps you out on your choice.
By any chance, are you actually turning the motor off at any point pulling the key and giving it a moment or two or three to see if it resets your DEF issue? (During fuel up). The system might be triggered, looking for an engine off before it looks for the volume of DEF fluid.
The vehicle was turned off quite a bit. At each fill up. The video shows it resetting after fill up but once we get moving again it comes back as the calculations within the system are so far off. As far as def consumption goes, each model year I had (20/21/22.5/23 and this 24) each year the def consumption went up. I hate to see what the owners of the 2025 models experience
I pick up my TB soon and can’t wait for a delete kit to come out.
I’m on my second Duramax 3.0. I have enjoyed both trucks very much. They’re very fuel efficient and if you’re not pulling all the time, it is perfect. Of course it will burn more def fluid while towing but overall it still saves me money because I only tow maybe once or twice a month it has great power is a little muscle for the size. I have been more than pleased with my two trucks when I’m towing I just have to put in a little more fluid more often but that’s OK with me. I love my average 28 miles per gallon.
You said you only have to put in a little more DEF fluid when towing, makes me think you do not have a 24 then? The 24's chug the def when towing as shown in the video. That's all fine, but the warnings on the dash that lead to dash lockout when there is still more than 90% def fluid remaining is a fail.
is this not an issue for 2023 model?
Hey man, you should do an oil analysis from a third-party company to see how the Amsoil held up to that heat. It’s all I’ve been running since my truck was new and I’ve seen some pretty high temps not that high but close and just like you, I’m curious to know when Amsoilwill start to breakdown
So you never commented on the air K&N air filter swap at 1/2 trip. Any noted improvements?
I have been a Duramax owner since 2003, currently have the GMC Danali 3.0 D'Max. I didn't buy this truck to tow, I bought it as a luxury truck with some bed space. However, I do tow a jet ski trailer. I would never have bought a 3.0 D'Max if I thought I was going to pull anything of significant weight regardless of what the specs say.
Do yourself a favor and upgrade to a 2500HD or 3500HD.
You think these things are "luxury" trucks?? 😂
Best truck I ever owned and it pulls perfectly! No problem with DEF. Replace with every three fill ups. No issues! Don't overload your truck. Follow tow guidelines!!
I didn't realize 3000 pounds was overloaded. I am happy to hear you are doing well! I think it's safe to assume yours is not a 2024 though ....
@@DemonWorks 3000 is not over. Use tow haul mode. Also know when not to. I've towed up to 5000lbs no problems!
you said it was overloaded … I get the feeling you read the title, watched the first 10 seconds then came right here. The truck was run in tow haul mode…. It was in sport mode for 1 mile 😂 I’ve also towed much heavier without an issue. I’m sorry you got upset over this. The 3.0 is not perfect…
@@DemonWorks Not upset at all. Just saying I've hauled up to 5000 with no problems. But not using tow haul mode all the time. I get great fuel mileage towing or not also. I use Diesel Clean. Enjoy !😊
I’m having exactly the same problem with 3 oil leaks so far.
2023 Duramax 3.0 , the 2023 had a few changes done.
The DPF is smaller, muffler added and a pressure valve added to the 2023.
The truck is rated to tow 13,500lbs, my trailer is 7,800lbs .
A GM field engineer came to inspect my truck on 10/15/24.
For his bad luck my dash cam was running and he’s only concern was to cover up my findings, making jokes about the issue and he was clueless.
Ugh, that's terrible to hear. The DPF actually isn't smaller, there are now 3 total exhaust filters instead of 2. A lot was changed when the 23 came out. ua-cam.com/video/dxPkKIX-4aM/v-deo.html
Seems like GM has a bad design DEF sensors on these 3.0’s or a simple software update to be more accurate readings. Base on the difference readings between the Banks dash and cluster reading.
Have you ever look into insane diesel external extreme bypass filter along with their oil cooler? I would be interested in a review and test of their product. I'm sure others would be too considering I believe they are the only one currently with one on the market for an external oil cooler.
I did a tow with my 3.0 out of Texas -->Colorado with a trailer and I also used tons of fuel and def. I think I averaged 9.4 mpg. Also stretched out the timing chain causing valves to kit pistons . Needed new motor and decided to trade it off for the 6.2. Could not agree more with this video.
Interesting- with my 2023 3.0 diesel High Country last summer, I towed a 6800+ travel trailer up and down the west coast with some days temp above 100 D. F. I used about 4.5 gallons of DEF, and never had any issues whatsoever. In Salt Lake City, I was moving at a snail pace for about 45 minutes at 102 D. F.
I think that I could (although I never would) be able to tow much heavier.
Still, I appreciate your advice, input and videos, and will keep watching and 👍.
9:42 Maybe it's my imagination, but I don't fully trust that transmission thermometer.
It's reading the same temp idling as it was when you were sautéing your engine going up that hill. Maybe GM just nailed the thermal management and it never deviates from op temp.
P.s. Time for Water/Meth injection? Or is that an emissions compliance problem?
I have a trans cooler bypass valve installed. Without it, those temps would have been north of 200 degrees the whole time and even higher during the high load situations. I think this is an emissions calibration issue, many are complaining more and more about it. The newer trucks keep getting higher def consumption for emissions.
I think the issue is simply the tuning of the DEF consumption algorithm. GM needs to fix that and then this issue goes away. It's no different than a HD Diesel and we don't have these issues in those trucks. Granted the DEF consumption on my new 2024 F350 eats the DEF fast.
100% that was what I was hoping would get seen.
could have had a v8 diesel i pull a 28' enclosed car hauler and get 15 mpg loaded going through Houston Denver Colorado to Houston and only used 3 gallons of def. Is something is not working correctly on your truck
I would be curious to know what the temperature is outside the engine in various places under the hood, such as near the
exhaust-manifold. I would think some kind of system to inject fresh-air into those hot areas and expel it would be beneficial.
Do you think that your 23 with the max tow package and 3.73's would have made a difference?
100%
Do you regret purchasing the Chevy with the 3.0? I'm seriously considering buying the 2025, but I do have some concerns about the reliability and now the useage of DEF when towing. I likely will never tow more than 6,000 lbs. I also live along the Wasatch front so will be towing the same route you did in this video. Should I rethink this and go with the gas engine?
I do not regret it. I just will not tow a cargo trailer with this truck again. It tows the 6000 pound car and trailer just fine, while gettting great mileage, aside from the DEF consumption of course.
My buddy did an experiment went without hooking trailer lights vs running with them. Def drained quickly when lights plugged in. Didnt move without.
it's almost like a switch to engage 100x the def when you hit that tow button, haha
What what???
He was towing a 12 foot trailer no weight at all.
Has TSB 22-NA-150 been completed? It seems to perfectly describe this DEF level issue.
That is several years old and basically wants the tech to check for updated programming, which has been done on this truck several times. no updates for the def system. Having owned 5 of these now, one from each year, i have shown the progression of def usage from 2020 to 2024 model years and they really messed up on the 2024 trucks. I thought my 23 was bad...
@@DemonWorks I totally believe it could inject a tank of DEF in less then 1000 miles. The part that throws me is where it thinks it out of DEF when the level sensor shows otherwise. That seems like a software issue. Which is why I asked about that tsb.
Not a big fan of cruise control into the wind up steep grades. Good informative video thank you
When pulling my enlcosed car hauler with my LM2 at 70mph I'm seeing mid 12's mpg compared to around 8 mpg with my previous 5.3. So with you running 75 and up and down hills, 11 mpg seems pretty respectable. Still 30%+ better than a 1500 gasser so that is pretty on par.
Same truck (2022 Silverado LTZ) towing a 6940 lb (scale weight) travel trailer at 65 mph max (cruise set) and we average 12.0 mpg over the same mountain terrain. Our 2024, NASH trailer is 8' wide and 11'6" tall (brick) on tandem axles. Our DEF usage is 1-gallon per 400 miles, way less than your driving experience. The wind resistance between your travel speed and ours is a major factor! Although most don't adhere to it, CA trailer towing speed limit is 55 mph.
@DemonWorks
Does your truck have the K115 Reductant Control Module Calibration Update?
TSB 22-NA-150
It’s 100% up to date. I’ve watched the def consumption on all trucks I have owned. Each year they use more. 24 is by far the worst. I have customers coming in complaining about the def consumption on these 24’s quite often.
This is a huge eye opener. I suspected that 3.0 diesel would be thirsty when you started working it some. 3000 lbs is really nothing though. My 2022 6.2 gas ZR2 gets between 9 and 11 mpg towing my flat fronted 2007 Wildwood 25 foot travel trailer that weighs 7500 lbs loaded.. No DEF to mess with. I also still have a 2015 F350 with the 6.7 diesel that is tuned. With that tune it makes over 600 HP and 1200 ft lbs of torque. Interestingly it only gets about 12 to 13 MPG towing that trailer under the same circumstances going to the same camping location. All at 3500 to 4000 feet altitude in the foothills and the rocky mountains.
This video has confirmed to me that I will never again consider trading in my 6.2 gas ZR2 for the 3.0 diesel version. I have worked my ZR2 pretty hard a times and it has been flawless so far. It regularly gets 19 to 21 MPG hwy at 70 MPH unless it is really windy and that is perfectly fine with me.
I have a 21 z71 with a 3.0l
I pull a lawn trailer every weekend. My truck pull so good and uses very little def fluid. One of the best trucks I have owned
Sorry, maybe i missed it, your trans temps are great, have you changed the trans bypass valve in your latest truck, thsnks in advance
Yes, trans bypass is installed on this truck just before the trip. I mention it somewhere in the video, but it's brief.
Any chance you would try 5w30? And see if there is any temp differences? There’s another guy on UA-cam who’s been running it and just swapped to 5w40.
no, that's not of interest to me. There won't be any temperature differences, it will just be able to handle the high temps better. An oil analysis will show the condition of the oils and in my findings, the 0w20 has been just fine. www.duramaxnews.com/post/dexos-d-oil-analysis-comparison
@@DemonWorks FWIW, using 0w20 my oil temps would run in the 260's. Now I use 5w30 and my EOT never gets above 250 and it's much quieter
Hey brother I have a 2022 Chevy Silverado trial boss with the 3.0 L diesel I drove from El Paso to Corpus Christi to help one of my brothers move into his new apartment and with a fully loaded truck and uhaul 6x12 trailer attached we drove there and back and only used half of my trucks def fluid also I was making about 21 mpg. My truck is completely stock I’m not sure if it’s a problem with the newer diesel engines that are able to pull more power out of the 3.0 Liter diesel but I hope this helps!
Talk about tearing down expectations. GM definitely needs a software fix for the DEF monitor on this truck. I would lose my patience if my truck was nagging me about a non-problem. Almost seems like the PCM cares more about calculated miles left in the DEF tank than the volume of DEF in the tank. Is the banks instrument just reading DEF level from the PCM? Imagine the frustration and uncertainty if you didn't have the Banks gauge.
Makes me think keeping my 2012 half-ton isn't such a bad idea. My fuel economy isn't any worse with 7000# going from DFW to Amarillo. I also don't have constant DEF warnings. Engine oil temps also aren't going to "Deep Fry"
Have you check your catch can after that trip? Thanks for the videos
Yes, check out this video ua-cam.com/video/x1TEt1VKPp0/v-deo.html
With your oil temps getting that high, perhaps a bigger oil cooler (which will add some oil capacity too, allowing the oil to dissipate more heat) is called for.
I agree. No aftermarket options available yet.
Not sure what's different about my truck (2022 RST Z71 3.0) and mine barely uses any Def. Regen is every 500 miles and while towing my 8500lbs 30 ft camper it doesn't change much. The only thing is it drops from 32 miles per gallon down to 17 while towing. I do use HotShot EDT in every tank.
One thing is the speed limit here is only 70 in some places, but mostly 65.
each year the def consumption goes up by gm. This 24 is by far the very worst as I have had one from each year, this being the 5th. Your LM2 is doing well, great to hear !
I had a similar experience this week, but not quite as bad as yours. I took a 900 mile trip from Utah to Southern California with a 5,000 lb boat behind my '24 LZ0 max tow at about 70 mph. I was getting ~200 miles per gallon of DEF, and getting low DEF range warnings almost immediately.
We're you running on cruise control or not? 270 for engine temp is pretty high along with almost 1300 egt. 2400-2500 rpm seems high also. My observations are based on my owning ram 2500 4x4 cummins and towing a lot heavier.
Cruise control at times, yes. 20 hours worth of driving packed into this video, so not everything is shown. 2500 with a Cummins is a little different build than this....
I would get that truck checked, I run a 2023 Gmc Sierra 1500 3.0, Pulls my 5000LB boat from Victorville to Lake Havasu in 110 plus heat and doesn't come close to any of those numbers..Wouldn't trade it for anything unless I go bigger on the boat..
Sold my 2022 3.0 for a 2000 f250.
Sure it leaks oil, needed a little TLC for the rust. Needed shocks and rotors. But the damn thing would tow the moon if I could hook it up.
Never looked back.
Just about ready to press the trigger and buy one of these trucks to replace my 08 tundra but this video gives me serious pause. There seems to be serious issues with at least the soft wear on this truck. It would be helpful to know before I waste $65k if this experience is common. But at that 11 mpg while towing an enclosed trailer with a 1/2 ton truck is impressive especially compared to my tundra where if I towed at his speed I know it would be in the area of 7-8mpg. The addition of DEF however? Ugg thought I knew the truck I was going to buy but after this now I have even more research to do
I have to tell ya, this was an absolute worst case scenario here. This is my 5th 3.0 Duramax, all I have been great towing., The DEF experience was miserable. Had I driven slower, the mpg would be better and likely def a smidge better. I encourage you to take a look around the channel and see the other positive videos on these trucks. I do show the good and the bad, I'm a 3.0 fan but I share what I think everyone else should know before buying.
Don’t ever sell a reliable Toyota for a GM !!! You’ll be sorry
I have a 2024 with a 5.3 L and a 10 speed transmission. I would’ve likely got about nine or 10 miles to the gallon pulling a trailer like that when you consider the additional cost of diesel as compared to gas, plus roughly 11% additional fuel cost in DEF I don’t think there would be a meaningful savings pulling that trailer with a diesel then a 5.3 gasser. In fact, it could possibly be cheaper in the gas V8. I used to have a Ford eco-boost 3.5 L and the 5.3 Silverado actually gives me about a mile a gallon better when I’m pulling a big trailer.
Thanks for sharing. Our old 1997 5.7lL Suburban gets 10 to 11 mpg pulling our 5000 lb boat and trailer. Our newer 2019 5.3L gets 12 mpg on that same boat.
I have an old 96 dodge 12 valve and towing our 28 foot Jayco camper trailer it would burn less fuel than that for sure. The new diesels are nice but they sure burn the fuel?
Our little 2001 Toyota Tacoma 4X4 with 3.4L 4 cam will tow flat out 65-70mph 3500lbs trailer, while no diesel it returns about 12-14 mpg, but seen 15 mpg coming down long grade but averaged is about 11-12 mpg over four mountain passes over 8000ft, and one at about 7500ft Carson Pass, Devils Gate, Conway Summit. I find myself in 3rd gear most of the time occasional 2nd gear nearing the top some of the passes, but usually can pull 3rd gear 3200-3500rpm 50-55mph. I feel for you diesel guys, they are completely strangling these new diesels to death with all the emissions they have on them now not to mention the computer glitches.
No way with the trailer type from the vdo..
What's your thoughts on the PPE charge air cooler against stock? I've been considering it, just debating on pulling the trigger. Looks to be doing well with the delta across. Have you had any change in MPG since installing?
That oil got hot. Do you run 0w-20 still? Also good grief the def situation. Makes no sense why its doing that when you have plenty of def. Is gm still doing the lunch with an fse thing? That would be a great opportunity to bring this up
I tow an 8000 lb camper and the engine has no trouble even through the mountains. It tows great. The suspicious DEF consumption is troubling. And it would seem some commenting here expect this to perform like the 6.5. “This truck needs to do what I want it to do and that’s all that there is to it.” I bought the heavy tow package with the 3.73 rear end. Nothing ever got hot.
This being my 5th 3.0 featured on this channel, they have all towed well. This trip was an exception, as you can see. I just show the facts, I could have different results pulling this 3000 pound trailer at 55mph.... I also have better results pulling a 7000 pound car trailer. The def consumption is something that changes each year as emissions requirements are climbing with every new model year. I didn't buy this truck to tow, it's a ZR2, but a 3000 pound trailer and a little side wind really made it work. The good thing is that it did the job and I made it home and runs perfectly fine, but it's the internet, I get it.
The fact you state is correct. The metering of the DEF is flawed. GM put out a bulletin I received today that was mealy mouthed. See if you can find it online and explain it to me. Or I can send it to you.
Do you have the heavy towing package installed?
With the ZR2, that is not an option. I had it on a prior truck, the gearing would have helped this situation for sure.
You know if your just needing your blinker for just a few blinks on gmc/Chevy trucks, and my 2011 dmax does it. Just move blinker arm just enough to make contact and let it go back. It will blink about 4 or 5 times and stop by itself. I have a 24 3.0 Yukon also that has this feature.
3 times in normal mode. And 7 times if you have your tow/haul engaged.
Towing that empty trailer ( or my 24 footer) with my 3500 hd 6.6L L5P Duramax would have been effortless and given the same fuel mileage.