2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Duramax: We Answer Your Questions
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We recently spent a week driving the 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Duramax – the one powered by the turbo-diesel 3.0L LM2 I-6 turbo-diesel Duramax engine. Much like all-new GM T1 platform that underpins the new Silverado, the straight-six diesel motor is also all-new, rated at 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque while being mated to the GM 10-speed automatic transmission that sends either to the two rear wheels or to all four.
Many of you chimed in with questions about the truck, and we’re here to provide you the answers. Here we go.
Q: I have heard of overheating issues. Is this true? Are you having overheating issues?
A: A similar question was asked to us when we drove the 2020 GMC Sierra Duramax. Much like we said for the Sierra, we experienced no temperature-related issues while driving the Silverado. In addition, the engine also performed very much like a gasoline unit during cold starts, with the temperature gauge rising to optimal levels after only a short time driving. In other words, nothing alarming was observed. However, we should note that we didn’t perform any towing during this particular test.
Q: Is there an electric version?
A: Not yet. As we write this, there are no mass-production electric pickup trucks on the market, though several carmakers like Tesla, Rivian, Ford and GM have announced plans to bring such a product to market. In fact, General Motors was supposed reveal the much-anticipated GMC Hummer EV in May 2020, but the event was postponed due to the COVID-19 global pandemic.
Besides the GMC Hummer EV, we have also heard whispers of an all-electric Silverado in the works and we expect such a model to become available in the next few years.
Q: How is the NVH of the Duramax engine? How well does it accelerate off the line?
A: Consider us impressed by this new Duramax inline six. Thus far, we have drive it in two different applications – the Silverado High Country being discussed here, and the GMC Sierra Elevation. In both cases, we were very surprised by how quiet and smooth this diesel engine is compared to the competition.
As a matter of fact, we also recently drove the 2020 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel. We not only found the Duramax to be generally more refined than the Ram’s turbo-diesel V6, but a livelier motor, too. Throttle response is considerably better in the Chevrolet Silverado and the engine revs a full 1,000 rpm higher, allowing it to feel more energetic and eager. Off-the-line acceleration is more than ample, mostly due to the fact that the engine produces its 460 pound-feet of torque at just 1,500 rpm.
Q: How does it compare to the 6.2L? Pulling, passing, overall driving?
A: Although the Duramax’s maximum torque rating of 460 pound-feet is identical to that of the available gasoline 6.2L L87 V8, its power delivery isn’t quite as linear as its gasoline counterpart. That said, we weren’t disappointed by the engine’s grunt. Acceleration is brisk, better than the 5.3L L84 V8 due to the fact that torque is available almost immediately, lower on in the rev range. But the Duramax engine still can’t match the smoothness, linearity and high-rpm performance of the 6.2L.
Q: Can you turn off the start/stop feature?
A: Yes. We know that engine auto stop/start has been a source of many complaints from owners of various GM vehicles, and although it hasn’t yet been applied to Chevrolet’s entire lineup, we’re happy to report that yes, one can indeed turn it off in the 2020 Chevrolet Silverado. This is the case for all models and trim levels.
Q: I also want to know about real-world performance, mileage and how that 10-speed transmission works.
A: We performed a similar fuel economy test on the Silverado as when we drove the Sierra Duramax and recorded similar readings. EPA-estimated ratings for the 2020 Chevrolet Silverado Duramax are 29 mpg highway and 23 mpg city. These are actually better numbers than its mechanical twin, the GMC Sierra Duramax, which advertises 22 mpg city and 26 highway. The discrepancy between the two is explained in this GM Authority exclusive.
During our drive with the Silverado, we easily recorded 20 mpg in the city and 25 on the highway, numbers that are considerably better than delivered by the available V8 engines.
As for the ten-speed automatic gearbox, we have absolutely nothing negative to say. In every vehicle we’ve driven with the new transmission thus far, the gearbox has done a formidable job maximizing the engine’s powerband, shifting smoothly and never hesitating to downshift when asked.
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What is the most endearing feature as to why anyone would want to buy a Chevrolet Silverado with a turbodiesel engine instead of a naturally aspirated V8; does this configuration have a fun-to-drive feature that this configuration Silverado will make buyers want.
1. Driving range
2. Torque availability
3. Less maintenance than a gas / petrol engine
Point 3 seems debatable to me. At least in my own limited experience I’ve had my Diesel Cruze in the shop more than any other car I’ve owned at that age.
Nothing major, but random emissions message when almost new, and a one time “don’t drive your vehicle” message. Both were a little terrifying to me and mysteriously went away with the dealer saying nothing is wrong.
And apparently nothing was, as that was like 20k and 50k miles ago.
Also, the oil changes cost twice and much and the fuel prices negate any savings from the amazing mpg.
Basically the range is the only plus, and I do love the range.
Forgot to mention I just had a recall taken care of that reprogrammed it to make it more likely to alert if it is regenerating too much.
I kind of wish I could have skipped that one.
For towing on a truck, sure maybe it’s better, but honestly I’d just get the gas engine. They’ve towed pretty good in my experience.
Because the 5.3 is uninspiring. Also, this I6 is giving people a lot problems and isn’t very reliable. GM only offers the 6.2 in the upper trims so they can change you for a bunch of stuff I don’t want. I will take an LT with the 2.7 engine.
Thanks for getting my question in. I figured GM’s I6 would be a superior contender in terms of all around refinement. The only thing I’ve seen that can be criticized is how GM designed the serpentine chain belt behind the engine, making it harder to service.
No towing huh? This is a truck afterall
What is the maintenance costs compared to the gasoline options (5.3 and 6.2)??
I have a 2020 LTZ w/3.0 i have a little over 2,800 miles on it and def/guage still reads full? Shouldn’t it have used some by now or do i need to let my dealer look into it?
That’s normal. It won’t report the DEF until it’s like 1/3 left or so. The reason is they don’t want people topping it up because then some of it would always remain in the tank for long periods.
What I do is just put the larger (2.5 gal I think) bottle of DEF in once it starts complaining at less than 200 miles. If you’re planning on a long trip, then go ahead and refill before that if you need.
Bought new 1600 high country Diesel. In the shop more than at my house. At least 7 check engine light. Had steering column replaced. Waited a month for parts. Waited 8 weeks for other parts. Because of strike. Scared to drive long distance.
Oh man, I was kind of hoping the truck owners on here would tell me there is an upside to the diesel. Like, lasts for 500,000 miles or something.
Ok the one you drove did not over heat. But did they FIX the Heating problem that they are having?
You answer was very cryptic about the one YOU drove. So pls answer the Question.
I have one. I LOVE it. I get to abd from work all week on a half tank of fuel. It’s quiet, effortless shifting, good acceleration.
I would like to know how much time, history, work was put into the 10 speed transmission. What will the faults be long term? Recalls? Pressed metal? Like the older trans the pin fell over and rubbed a home in the case. Will it last double the warranty period?
I bought one still wrapped in plastic and have put 25k miles on it. Mileage is about 25 mpg. Best full size truck I have owned. You won’t know a trailer is there. The engine is very quiet for a diesel. I can report absolutely no problems whatsoever and have drove the crap out of it.
Jason, now two years later how has your experience been with your truck??
oui jaimerais savoir moi aussi
I have found that when using cruise control I get 28-29 mpg regularly. I realize that during 2021-2022, we were all getting crappy fuel. My MPG’s went way down and I thought something was wrong with my truck. About four months ago, that changed back and it is getting what it used to when I bought it in March 2020. Love my truck!
I would like specific temperatures. You answer with “temperature gauge rising to optimal levels” does not give me comfort. I have this vehicle and I am not comfortable with the engine running 210 to 225 most if the time. Be specific.
Sounds like you should buy a gasoline engine.
The coolant valve is computer controled so the temperatures will vary. I have found mine as high as 226 then settles down to 210 range. It has never gone over that temp. Now towing it will run around 200. The engine is very impressive connected to the 10 speed transmission. I have 10,000 miles with only 1 issues. A turbo boot torn.
Follow up to my original request/comments. Now that I have been driving this a while, I have some observations. 1) The engine always runs between 210 and 225 under normal driving conditions. 2) When the engine is working harder (towing or on a significant grade) the engine runs cooler – as low as 180-190). The transmission never gets above 200 and usually runs in the 190’s range – towing or otherwise. DEF is a major issue. Towing a 6400lb trailer, I burn up a tank of DEF in 1100 miles. That’s ridiculous. And not towing – maybe 2,000 to 2,500 miles per tank of DEF. The oil needs to be changed every 4,000 miles and DexosD 0W-20 oil has only been available at the dealer. This is not a low cost effective vehicle, but I do like the performance of this engine and have had a “best” 34.6 mpg for a 50 mile average. Not sure I would get the LM2 engine again, but for now, I’m getting used to the hot running temps and it’s getting the job done.
I just did a quick search and average running temperature for a diesel engine is between 210°-230°
I purchased a 2020 Silverado 1500 LTZ I6 Turbo Diesel back in the beginning of May. Before I could take delivery of the truck, a regulator had to be replaced. Then after I purchased and drove the truck for about a week it started leaking fluid and I was told the gasket on the high pressure fuel pump failed. Truck has been at the dealer since then. While I was able to drive the truck it was amazing, but I have serious concerns about how reliable it will be. I plan to tow a boat and go on trips several hundred miles away from home. I really hope I did not buy a lemon.
Don’t feel like the lone ranger Shawn. I ordered a 2020 LTZ I6 turbo diesel and picked it 1/3/2020. About a week layer the AC stopped cooling. I took it back to my dealership the ran diagnostic on it and found out that there 2/o-rings coming off the compressor that were never installed. They fixed that and i haven’t had any other problems. Good luck w/yours. I really do enjoy mine and hopefully will get good service from it. j/m/b
I purchased on in mid-March and starting in June, I’ve had nothing but issues with the temperature and CEL coming on non-stop. The first time the CEL came on, the radiator fan would go full boar as soon as you started it, while driving on flat roads, the temp would bounce from 210 to 240. Took it in the dealer, they said is normal but it’s never been above 200 prior. They said the CEL was for a sensor and they replaced it. Three days and 80 miles later, CEL is back on and radiator fan will not turn on but temp is around 200-220. Went back to the dealer, waited 5 days since they had to pull in the GM technical team, only to find out they will need to replace the intake manifold and it will take 4 days to get the part and 4 days to install it. So it will be at the dealer for at least one more week.
There is an issue and GM knows about it but will only repair it if your truck experiences issues! Truck has less then 4K miles and it now the engine has to be torn apart to fix a major issue. The computer control cooling with no back is a major design flaw and I’m sure trucks are going to be blowing more and more. Love the truck and engine, but it’s got some big flaws! Buyer beware!
Sorry Tyler, mine has none of your problems and mine has about the same mileage 3,874. And runs great and i’m fixing to go on a short 300/mile trip each way next week pulling a 27′ travel trailer. i’ll do another post if i have any problems, Good luck , Tyler on yours.
Sorry to hear about your issue Tyler. A LakeForkGuy, a youtuber I watch, had similar issue with his truck and was able to get the dealership to swap it out for him. Not saying this will happen for everyone but check your local state lemon laws to see if you qualify and put pressure on the dealership to get your truck fixed right. We as consumers should not be treated as if it is our problem when a brand new vehicle has these kinds of issues off the lot. I don’t think most of us can just say, “oh well, guess I will just buy another truck.”
The issue with my truck as a rolled O-Ring on the high pressure fuel pump that caused the oil leak. It only took removal of the entire cab and a 20 hours of labor to fix. Things have been doing well since I got my truck back and will be towing a boat today.
I really do enjoy driving this truck and I think GM put out a good product. I am curious what the percentage of 2020 silverado 1500 diesel lemons will be.
I have a 2020 3L diesel and after pulling a trailer i started having DEF problems saying it was almost empty when i fact it was 3/4 full. My brother has one and he also had this problem while pulling his trailer. Anyone else having this problem?
3.i Duramax sucks for towing. DEF comes on and slows truck to 65 the 55 the 8 mph. Been in shop 5 times and still not fixed. bought to tow boat, leaving in 2 weeks maybe. should have bought a ford
I have the 2020 half ton DM . What is goin on with the def issue when I’m towing lite comes on sayin hav a thousand miles left of def 20 minutes later its 300 miles ? What’s the fix or deal ?
Yes only one time event . Was 1/2 full 1000 mile range went to 80 mile then red empty within 5 miles pulling box trailer . Reported to dealer. Nothing done. Never happened again .now have 6,000 miles. Now im concerned that starting off from stop with 3.0 and 10 speed is slipping on take off. But not sure.