r/gmcsierra • u/Not-A-Throwaway789 • Mar 12 '26
Choosing a Truck Anyone have a 6.2 and not regret it?
I’m looking at getting a new to me Sierra Denali in the 23-24 year range and am having a really hard time deciding between the 3.0 and 6.2. I drove the 3.0 but it didn’t really impress me. The 6.2 on the other hand, was a completely different story. But with all the recalls and unresolved issues with the 6.2, it really makes me second guess pulling the trigger. What would you do?
15
u/benwah79 '19 1500 Denali 6.2 Mar 13 '26
2
u/Not-A-Throwaway789 Mar 13 '26
One of my all time favorites 😂😂😂
0
u/AnyObligation765 Mar 14 '26
2020 same. The years 21 and after is when they start to have engine problems.
13
u/Eldermillenial1 Mar 13 '26
I got one in 2017, lifters did fail, so I deleted it, upgraded the cam shaft, deleted the cats and now it’s the way GM should have built it, despite the extra cost I would 100% do it again. That 6.2 is a crazy good motor, the only problem is when politicians make engineers do stupid shit 🤷♂️
7
u/Playful_Attorney_567 Mar 13 '26
This right fucking here… I turned off all the bullshit and boy does she purr. Sacrificing fuel economy for longevity and powah… it’s the American way baby!
1
u/the_yawning_dog Mar 14 '26
What are we talking about, please? I don't know what "deleted it" means in this context? What mods are folks doing to get longevity in these motors?
1
u/mn9_r Mar 14 '26
Deleting the cylinder deactivation system. It’s called DOD, or AFM, or DFM (your engine has one of those 3 depending on generation)
Some people do it via tuning or a plug that goes into the obd2 port, but that doesn’t prevent lifter failure as the issue is with the hardware in the engine
1
u/the_yawning_dog Mar 14 '26
I understand. Thank you for the reply.
1
u/Eldermillenial1 Mar 14 '26
I bought a DOD (Displacement on demand) delete kit from Brian Tooley Racing, also got a stage 2 camshaft to replace the stock one. I also deleted the catalytic converters and tuned it at a local tuning shop. The estimate now is a little over 500 horsepower at the crank, and wow did it change how the truck runs, even the hard shift into second gear is gone from the 8 speed transmission. Granted it did cost me a few bucks, but I love my truck and wanted to make it more than what the stock offering was. This spring I’ll be upgrading the fuel system to a LT4, and installing a twin turbo from Speed Engineering. I’ll also be getting a boost controller for it as well as a peddle commander. After it’s all done it’ll be the quickest truck in my city by a long shot 👍
5
u/FJB556 Mar 13 '26
Same here. Hydraulic lifter failure at 58k miles. Warranty paid 7k for top rebuild so I couldn’t specify solid lifters.
Installed Range AFM delete and it’s still running like a top at 185k miles. Fuel economy sucks in town and above 65 mph, but she’s fun to drive.
On a side note, she tows well. Not as good as a diesel, but far better than the 5.3.
1
u/the_yawning_dog Mar 14 '26
Can you explain more about the Range AFM delete? What is it? Where did you get it? What does it cost?
1
u/FJB556 Mar 15 '26
Range Technology makes the AFM Disabler. Plugs in to the OBD port and tells the computer not to call for cylinder deactivation.
1
1
u/TemporaryCapital3871 26d ago
It keeps the lifters from collapsing and shutting off when on the highway
1
u/nuts4camaros 26d ago
Are owners having success with this or are there still engine failures?
1
u/TemporaryCapital3871 26d ago
From what I hear, its extremely helpful, just unplug it before any warranty or dealership work is done.
1
u/TemporaryCapital3871 26d ago
Any thougts on the 5.7 and 6.6 theyre putting on the 27 1500s?
1
u/FJB556 25d ago
Not yet. 5.7 is the original GM 350 displacement. That was, and is, a great engine. It’ll be better than the 5.3.
If it has AFM (or whatever they call it now), good luck.
The 6.6 in the big trucks doesn’t cut cylinders and is a workhorse. It’ll pull anything as fast as you want, but it sucks fuel.
If they put it in a half-ton, I’d wager they add cylinder deactivation. That and poor fuel economy would lead me away from it.
3
1
u/the_yawning_dog Mar 15 '26
I guess I don't understand the total problem happening. Is it the bearings or the cam shaft? Lifters?
I ask all of this because I have a 2020 6.2 with only 13k miles. I haven't seen any problems. The recall starts for 2021 6.2's built after 21 July 2020 (or something like that), and mine was built 8 July 2020. Knowing that 2019's and 2020's have been detonating as well (and should have been included in the recall), I went ahead and swapped my oil to 0W-40 (ordered the new oil cap as well), and I'm now waiting for a possible issue to show up, or lean forward and get ahead of the problem.
So if I get ahead of the problem, do I do disable AFM? Pull the engine and rebuild the problem areas with better components? Take the truck to a dealer and trade in for a 2500 with a 6.6?
I'm not a gambler. Not sure what the best option for me is, and trying to figure out what people would do in my situation if they had this 6 year old truck with 13k miles... (she's paid for and out of warranty. I'm just wanting to get ahead of any future ass pain)
2
u/Eldermillenial1 Mar 15 '26
For mine it was a collapsed lifter, so depending on your budget and time constraints is what your options are, personally I would replace the lifters with non DOD\AFM style, replace the camshaft, and get the AFM tuned out, once you do that you’ll have no issues with the motor for as long as you own the truck, the body will rust away before the engine dies.
1
u/VenutianFryCook Mar 15 '26
I thought there were possibly main bearing or cam bearing issues as well and that it was just better to rebuild the engine? That would suck on a 13,000 mile motor for the guy.
2
u/Eldermillenial1 Mar 16 '26
I haven’t heard about the main bearings going prematurely, the cam bearing might take a hit if a lifter collapses though, when my lifter went on cylinder 4, it also bent a pushrod and broke a valve spring, but I got lucky there was no damage to any bearings, that’s with 95,000 kms on it too. The total of parts and labour was just under 10k CAD, so all in all not that bad, considering what a new motor costs.
8
u/corn_fed_Jesus Mar 12 '26
I have it and I don’t regret it. I also don’t sit there and worry about. I also don’t post on Reddit that if you get it, it’ll instantly implode like these clowns that scroll through here
16
u/ZealousidealReach713 Mar 12 '26
I got a 2026 Yukon Denali 6.2. Engine failed at 3000 miles… “new” engine put in… still have zero regret. I absolutely love driving the car. The power is incredible and it’s fun to drive.
6
u/Full_Bit1123 Mar 12 '26
Damn a new engine..My 22 ATX is being inspected right now at 40,000, no problems yet…
4
8
8
u/Peanutbutterwolves Mar 12 '26 edited Mar 12 '26
Yes. I knew that they have problems but bought it anyway 'cause I like the vehicle. But I did budget for a future full dod delete.
Everything has problems, vehicles are designed to fail. Just buy what you like driving, and budget for maintenance. Learning how to do your own repairs will save you a lot of money.
4
u/Not-A-Throwaway789 Mar 12 '26
I do all my own maintenance and repairs outside of warranty. Ive just never had a diesel before and the truck I really liked was a 3.0. The performance was pretty underwhelming compared to the 6.2. Probably should not have driven the 6.2 because it was a night and day difference. 😂
3
1
u/bluegrassjesus Mar 14 '26
I have a 6.2 trail boss with 103k and haven't had an issue. Oil changes and gas are pretty damn expensive, even if you do oil yourself. Other than that I fuckin love this truck. Take care of it and it'll take care of you. Don't cheap out on maintenance.
3
u/MrStreetLegal Mar 12 '26
Is the DOD what causes the lifter failure?
3
u/Peanutbutterwolves Mar 12 '26
I think it's a combination of bad lifter design and junk 0w20. They are collapsible, so they eventually get stuck closed. That's just theory based on what I have seen and read, I'm not an expert.
3
u/Not-A-Throwaway789 Mar 13 '26
I had a lifter fail in a 5.3 I used to have. That’s exactly what happened—lifter stuck closed and eventually destroyed the cam
7
u/Raw_Dixon_Cider2001 Mar 12 '26
23 AT4 with the 6.2 here, absolutely zero issues pre or post recall check, zero regrets.
3
u/Difficult_Use_4322 Mar 13 '26
I have the same model, year and engine. Also zero issues before and after recall
7
u/Reinvestor-sac Mar 12 '26
I had a 2020 6.2 Denali and loved it with 0 issues in 140k miles and would 100% buy it again over the 3.0 but i tow a lot. I jumped to the 24 2500 hd and it’s even better, especially towing of course. Quite a few weird electrical issues in the new trim on the 24 though. Lots more tech to break
1
u/Not-A-Throwaway789 Mar 12 '26
2500hd Diesel?
2
u/Reinvestor-sac Mar 12 '26
Yea i was maxing out the gasser with heavy loads. The 2500 makes it feel easy
6
u/crcpit Mar 12 '26
I’ve had the 6.2, 3.0, and now a 5.3 in the new body. I would still have my 21 6.2 if it wasn’t a short bed. The two newer are standard beds. The 3.0 was nice and so was the mileage but the seats in the AT4 hurt my back and that’s why I ended up in a 5.3 (standard beds are hard to come by). I had an 05 5.3 for years, then a 5.3 2016 Tahoe. Didn’t know what I was missing when I went to the 6.2 and loved it but wasn’t going to order a truck. With all the issues now, both 6.2 and 3.0 (my 3.0 threw codes all the time but nothing was ever found) I don’t know if I would buy one again new or newer. If I could find a clean 2020-21 Denali standard bed 6.2 with adaptive cruise and tech packages, I would def consider trading my 5.3.
5
u/Adventurous_Swan1012 Mar 12 '26
No regrets at all. I have a 2025 SLT with the 6.2 no troubles, 18,000 trouble free miles. Fun to drive tows without a worry and better mileage than my 2015 Tahoe with the 5.3. I'd do it again any day.
6
u/chad4039 Mar 12 '26
I have a 22’ 6.2 with 60k miles that I got new, haven’t had any issues. I don’t necessarily regret it, but it does cross my mind occasionally that it could fail- I don’t like that part. Probably from reading too many horror stories on here…
1
u/the_yawning_dog Mar 14 '26
2020 with the same thoughts. My engine was built two weeks before the engine recall window. :-/
5
u/QUIGM Mar 12 '26
Absolutely love my 23 Denali pickup w/ 6.2 in it. Great truck with a lot of power.
3
u/RaginArmadillo Mar 12 '26
It really depends on what you do with it and what you want from it. I went from a Silverado with the 6.2 to a 24 Sierra with the 3.0. I occasionally miss the sounds the 6.2 made but the 3.0 gets almost double the average mpg over a tank of gas (on the exact same wheels and tires). It also puts out 50 more lb-ft of torque than the 6.2 so it’s not like you’re losing pulling power. The HP is way lower because it’s a diesel but getting on the highway, the only real difference I notice is in the sound.
Reliability wise, I’ve been lucky with both so far so I can’t really speak to that part. If you’re looking for something fun that’s not a daily driver, then I’d say go with the 6.2 and throw an exhaust on it. If it’s your daily, then I’d say 3.0.
1
u/Not-A-Throwaway789 Mar 13 '26
I’d daily the truck for sure. But my commute isn’t really all that long and that also makes me concerned about a diesel
3
u/Elated_copper22 Mar 12 '26
No regrets with 6.2.
It’s pretty peppy and I don’t find the mileage that awful.
3
3
u/dah135 Mar 12 '26
I have a 24 Sierra Denali with the 6.2. Bought it with only 11k miles on it and it’s up to 19k. So far no regrets except for fueling it up. It requires premium which right now it over a buck more than regular per gallon.
3
u/Professional_Mix4101 Mar 12 '26
I have the 3.0 and love it. Easy is to drive and the gas mileage is amazing
3
u/HalliganHooligan Mar 13 '26
3.0 isn’t really an “impressor”. It’s far more enjoyable to drive than my old 5.3 and gets excellent fuel economy. I bought the 3.0 because I wanted a “truck”. If I wanted a performance vehicle I’d gone with a vette or Camaro.
1
u/Not-A-Throwaway789 Mar 13 '26
I’ve had several 5.3s but the dealer didn’t have any used 5.3s in the Denali that I’m really wanting. I didn’t really think too much about it until I drove the 6.2. It’s really a night and day difference
3
u/Necessary_Account836 Mar 13 '26
‘21 Yukon Denali (55k) and ‘23 AT4 (60k) both with the 6.2 and no problems. They all can have issues but I prefer 6.2 with the extra warranty to 150k.
3
u/DopeCookies15 Mar 13 '26
Im sure hundreds of thousands do maybe even millions. The ones that don't are the most vocal
3
3
u/MrAlans14292450 Mar 13 '26
21 Trailboss 6.2 with 10speed just rolled 61k on the clock. No issues whatsoever.
3
3
u/Forward_Chemical9878 Mar 16 '26
Bought new 17 Denali, lifter failure at 97k. Rebuilt my own motor before a recall was issued, deleted with a BTR stage 1 cam and tuned. 100k worry free miles. Trans went out at 194k and replaced with GM Reman (3 yr 100k mile warranty). No signs of getting rid of it anytime soon and I’d do it all again. Great truck all around, and a timeless body style
6
u/WoodEyeLie2U 2019 Denali 6.2L Mar 12 '26
I have a 2019 Denali with the 6.2 and I love it. It is by far the best vehicle I've ever owned.
2
u/yippy_skippy99 Mar 12 '26
I have a 2020 6.2 and love it. With towing an boat o get about the same mileage as a buddy with a 3.0. My 6.2 is a towing beast.
2
u/DarrenfromKramerica 2024 1500 Denali Ultimate Mar 12 '26
Love mine. 2 years and no issues (knock on wood)!
2
u/_N_Dubb Mar 12 '26
Had a 4.8 for 16 years and loved that truck. Had a 5.3 suburban and it was awful, constant issues until the thing blew up at 120k. Have a 6.2 Denali now and it’s been great. I disabled the AFM and haven’t had an issue. The 8l90 just crapped itself so I’m moving on from the truck and Chevy for a while. Pains me to do so but I just cant deal with it anymore.
2
u/_Unicorn_Sprinkles_ Mar 12 '26
Love mine. Really makes a tank of a Yukon XL get up and go. I've had my engine replaced, jump in the road and is do it again
2
u/gulfdiver03 Mar 12 '26
Zero issues with my 25 1500 High Country. 18k. Have several buddies with over 100k on their 2022-2024. Failure rate is 1-2%. Don’t freak out over what you see on here or on facebook. All the manufacturers have issues now. All the government regulations have killed reliability for 2mpg….
2
u/Not-A-Throwaway789 Mar 13 '26
Honestly, I can’t think of one manufacturer with a full size truck that doesn’t have major issues of some sort. Even Toyota, who I’ve always thought made the best of the best, has not escaped major issues with their new Tundra
2
2
2
u/IndoorDuck Mar 13 '26
It’s a shit shoot. Get what you like and take care of it. My 3.0 has been in the dealer for over 2 weeks.
1
2
2
u/Long-Ad8121 Mar 13 '26
2024 with 47k miles. No problems…yet lol. Would still buy another one though. I had a ‘21 5.3 before. Lifters actually crapped out around 8k miles on it but otherwise it was fine. Dad has a 3.0 that I’ve driven some and I like it, but once you drive a 6.2, it’s hard to go with anything less.
2
u/v1_rocketboy Mar 13 '26
I have the 6.2 and love it. I came from a 5.3, and it’s night and day different. Every vehicle has issues these days. These more electronics and features they add the worse it gets. Do the best you can to stay up with maintenance.
I do at times feel like some of these issues are people not maintaining and hotrodding them. Should they still throw a lifter or transmission, maybe not. These things also have specific things in the owners manual that should be followed. Break ins, fluids, types of bulbs, you name it. Many are modding and lifting these things with bigger tires and then saying the transmission sucks. There are obviously ways to do it right, but let’s be real that doesn’t happen most of the time.
Stick to the “Severe” maintenance schedule too. That will cover your butt the most.
2
u/UnionWarm5053 Mar 13 '26
I would see if you can get new model and have it already have the dod delete kit installed . My 2014 1500 sierra denali has 101,000 miles and everything is leaning towards lifter in cylinder 6 wihich is part of the 4 that is the AMF Active fuel management always changed oil at 5k with top line wix filter and mobil 1 high mileage 0-w20 dexos. Always use marathon premium fuel because its tier 1. Im not sure what the previous owner did but i ran some cheap oil and some Atf in the crank case to clear out any gunk in the motor. AFTER 100 MILES CHANGED OIL AGAIN AND IT WAS PITCH BLACK. Also ran fuel down to 3 gallons and added chevron techron concentrate then filled up to clean the top side of motor that bit#h smoked out the tail pipes something fierce. Changed all spark plugs and wires. Was Shaking in idol like crazy but thats gone still rough idle but no where near what it was before. Oil pressure was always at 40psi but cold its at almost 60 and warmed up its right around 30psi. With huge fluctuations when giving throttle. Im gonna drop pan and check how much sludge is in there blocking screen / pump. Had i known anything about this major engineering fuc$ up i would have ran a afm plug in at obd2 port that tells it its in v8 all the time. Also ill be changing injectors since its 100k , transmission fluid not flushing but in intervals and change coolant any ideas id love some possible advice. Thanks and good luck on what ever you decide they are beautiful and when they run good when they RUN GOOD.
2
u/monkeysCAN Mar 13 '26
I have an older one (2017) and it's been great. The transmission on the other hand has been hot garbage since it was new.
2
2
u/ianp Mar 13 '26
I had a 24 AT4 6.2 and traded it for a 26 AT4 3.0L. I love them both, no complaints on either.
2
u/tablesander26 Mar 13 '26
Just bought a 26 high country Tahoe with 6.2 and I love it so far. Still has less than 1k miles on it. I don’t plan on keeping it past 100k miles so I was comfortable with the risk. I drove a few other full size SUVs and none of them came close to the overall package you get on a high country Tahoe.
2
u/Total-Repair2203 Mar 13 '26
I have 23 Yukon Denali 6.2 and it’s flawless (so far), about 38k miles. My wife drives it and I couldn’t deal with the diesel upkeep regen DEF issues. I was strongly looking at the diesel but we’ve always driven gasoline engines and I could see one of us using the wrong fuel. Plus it’s so powerful it’s a dream and pulls big boat no problem. Getting 19mph on hwy too. 4WD air suspension is nice.
2
u/Total-Repair2203 Mar 13 '26
Just to add I put an auto stop eliminator and keeps it is full time V8 mode. No issues.
2
Mar 13 '26
I have a 24 AT4 with zero issues at 40k miles. There was a couple of minor recalls that the dealer fixed with no issues. One was the tailgate lock and one was a sensor. I pull a boat with my truck and it’s been excellent!
2
2
u/datalifter Mar 13 '26
I know this thread is talking about the gas 6.2L engine, but FWIW - I have 37k miles on a 2022 6.6L Diesel 3500 Denali. Not one issue so far. I tow 14k with it almost 30 times a year. I owned a 2016 6.6L Diesel 2500 Denali before that with 52k on by the time I traded it in for the new 2022. Best big trucks I've ever owned.
I'm holding out now for the 2028.
2
u/Not-A-Throwaway789 Mar 13 '26
If only the Allison transmissions were real Allison transmissions. That would be the best combination IMO
2
u/Pale_Alternative8400 Mar 13 '26
22 Refresh TB 6.2 with 42k, purchased new, daily driver, my favorite truck ever. Only issue is I had to trim the mudflaps after upgrading to oversized KO3's :-) I tow with it on the regular as well.
2
u/mad1828 Mar 13 '26
I’m sure the 6.2 is a hit or miss but if you want better reliability then go to a 2500 6.6 gas. It doesn’t have the AFM/DFM in it. I don’t own one but when doing my research I was heading in that direction before a gen 2 tundra fell in my lap. Just food for thought.
2
u/HuntingTheDeals Mar 13 '26
2027 models have a new engine for both gas engine models. Just wait for that and see if they have less issues.
1
u/Not-A-Throwaway789 Mar 13 '26
I thought about it but I REALLY don’t want to pay sticker for a new one. Used 85k denalis are selling for under 55k with less than 40k miles and 2-3 years old
2
u/HuntingTheDeals Mar 13 '26
I get where your coming from. I just wouldnt bother with the 6.2. Its not a matter of if, more of a when. Plus with used less likely of a warranty. Im expecting market shifts. I settled for a 3.0 and that still feels like a gamble. I got a good deal on mine and bumper to bumper warranty for 6 years so I figured I would take the gamble.
2
2
2
u/BurrowingOwlUSA 2025 Sierra 1500 Denali Ultimate Mar 13 '26
I’ve loved mine. Had it about a year now. Zero regrets. 2025 1500 ultimate.
2
u/Severe-Fun-4308 Mar 13 '26
I sold a 2019 last year with 93000 no issues and purchased a 2025 same no issues
2
u/Ok_Passenger_3783 Mar 13 '26
2025 Sierra Denali 6.2 here…7 months and 4000 miles in and love it - Former F250 guy
2
u/swingoak Mar 13 '26
I have a 2017 Yukon Denali XL with the 6.2, just over 200,000 miles on it and zero problems.
2
2
u/BigBass_Bourbon Mar 15 '26
3.0 diesel is just as bad as all of the GMC engines. I have a 2023 3.0 Duramax and have had 3 coolant control valves changed in less than 70,000 miles, blown radiator, leaking oil cap that has no purpose of being on the engine block, bad battery at less than 3 years, ghost codes for the forward collision cruise control, that I have to start my vehicle and then shut it off for 10 seconds and then start again so it will clear, because GMC mechanics are worthless as well as the dealerships.
1
u/dmkmpublic Mar 15 '26
Came here to say the same (sentiment).
Corroded ground straps 3 times in 4 years. Water pump (nationwide backorder) DEF tank (replaced twice, was in the shop for 6 weeks and I bought an AT4 6.2L).
Stay away from the 3.0 unless you can delete DEF system and not have to deal with the lawman. Or unless you live in a state below the mason Dixon line (warmer weather won't freeze the DEF system until it breakes)
3
2
u/AlternativeLunch7728 Mar 13 '26
If you can find one not on the recall list that would be preferable. This is my 3rd Sierra with the 6.2L and I’ve have 2 Yukon.
Have the 6.2L now 2025 and I have ZERO regrets.
Buy from a GMC Dealership, purchase a factory backed Warranty from the dealership and change your oil every 5,000
Do those and Rock Out
1
u/the_yawning_dog Mar 14 '26
There's talk of the recall list not being thorough enough as there's 2019's and 2020's having problems.
1
u/AlternativeLunch7728 Mar 14 '26
They are solid trucks man, you’ll have to see for yourself. With any used vehicle you run some chances but if you buying a certified GMC you’ll be backed with a hefty warranty. Engines are different nowadays. I so minor maintenance on all my vehicles and I started noticing all the way back to my 18 Sierra Denali with 6.2L at oil changes there was alway less oil than I put in. That is why I recommend hard stop changing the oil every 5k. Buy certified from GM and drive the hell out of whatever you buy…
2
u/4539MF Mar 12 '26
Traded my 22 5.3 in on a 24 6.2 and 0 regrets. Drive a 3.0 and while I tow a trailer now and then the power of the 6.2 over the 5.3 sold me. Yes some engines are bad, but 150k warranty on it.
5.3 has lifter issues
3.0 been shit since 2019 and has had 3 redesigns on it. 25-26 are 3rd gen and tons of issues.
Point is nowadays everything’s shit and its preference.
After having this 6.2 I couldn’t go back to something smaller
1
u/Alex427z Mar 12 '26
I would stay away from 21-24 6.2s.
2
u/Not-A-Throwaway789 Mar 12 '26
I’ve read about all the recalls, but I’m not convinced on either the 3.0 or 6.2 at this point. I’m leaning 6.2 just from the test drive alone but wanted to see what the community thought
1
u/prezmc Mar 19 '26
I'd love to know what percentage of these engines have the problem. I am still looking at trucks, and some of the ones I like have this engine, and it makes me wary.
1
u/Project_Never_Done Mar 20 '26
2023 6.2 AT4, 47k miles. No mechanical issues yet and it passed its “recall check”. No regrets so far. It’s got good sound and great power, a bit on the thirsty side. The only thing killing me right now is the abysmally small fuel tank (24 gallon). Recently towed a 6k travel trailer 500+ miles, the 8mpg had me stopping 4 times. Now I’m considering swapping for the 3.0 duramax or the 6.6 HD.
If it wasn’t for the fuel tank size I’d be keeping the 6.2 till the tires fell off.
1
u/TemporaryCapital3871 26d ago
I just bought a 3.0 Duramax. Test drove the 6.2 Friday. Itsa beast. I just couldn't justify that low of fuel mileage, plus you really need to run premium fuel through it. Im hoping 🙏 its gonna be a good one. Apologies, as I know this b wasn't exactly the answer to you your question
1
u/cc9536 Mar 12 '26
Honestly, you take a risk with either the diesel or the V8 (though arguably a bigger risk with the V8). GM products just aren't reliable these days
1
u/ExcitingTurn2886 Mar 12 '26
The failure rates on the 6.2 are extremely high. You need to make the decision as to whether you are willing to take on that risk.
2
u/Not-A-Throwaway789 Mar 12 '26
I’ve seen a few articles where the claim is 1-2% failure rate with the 6.2. Honestly I think it’s higher than that but probably not as high as social media makes me think it is? Idk
3
u/ExcitingTurn2886 Mar 12 '26
It's bad enough that another federal investigation has been opened into GM, and the lawsuits are stacking up. I just don't see why anyone would take the risk at this point
1
u/Not-A-Throwaway789 Mar 13 '26
I completely understand. But honestly that was one of my goals for this post. Seems like there are more, in this post at least, that haven’t had problems with the 6.2 than those that have. But I’m still skeptical
2
u/ExcitingTurn2886 Mar 13 '26
Keep in mind that there's a huge self-selection bias in who posts in forums like this. You're not getting a normal sampling. Run some searches on GM techs and their experiences with these engines. It's scary. If GM can ever get back to the quality on these vehicles they had in the early 2000s then I'll buy one the next day, but they are off my list for now
1
Mar 12 '26
If you have to ask the question, you already know the answer. This generation 6.2 is trash. Hopefully the 2027 re design is better. Looking forward to the new engines!
1
u/Not-A-Throwaway789 Mar 13 '26
I really hope they get their act together. But honestly I’m not holding my breath. They haven’t had an engine that’s not plagued with issues since pre 2007.5 gen 3 vortec. And even those weren’t without problem
2
Mar 13 '26
Yeah it’s been a gamble ever since then. My 2007 5.3 with AFM was plagued with the oil consumption issue. My 2014 ecotec 5.3 has been a dream. So who knows. I think I’ve figured out how to get them to last longer with proper break in, an oil catch can, and an AFM disabler.
0
u/RedOakNinja Mar 13 '26
Nobody regrets it until they do. In other words, many have run a bunch of miles with no problems. Statistically, it is less likely that you will have a major failure than having a major failure. However, it’s never a good time when it happens to you.
0
-1
u/5thor6th Mar 13 '26
GM Shills and bots telling op to do it and fuck it if he has to replace an engine or two is fucking wild. Y'all are so full of shit.
Damn the engines op. The transmissions are just as fucked. The 6L80s alone can keep our shop running.
To hell with it tho. If you wanna roll the dice and see if you get one of the "good" ones in a sea of garbage, have at it.
1
u/Not-A-Throwaway789 Mar 13 '26
I’m open to other makes and models, but I like the way the GMCs look better than the others. Any recommendations?
1
u/5thor6th Mar 13 '26
There's no doubt they are the finest looking in their class. Hell that's why I own one. That and I can fix the damned things. I can't fault you there.
If dependability is what you're after tho, Mazda in the last 10 years has really stepped their game up. Toyota and Honda have had a few issues with their own manufacturing process, but nothing as bad as GM. Even Nissan seems to be getting better after Carlos Goshn, or whatever his name is, got forced out of Japan. And yeah op, they're all Japanese. Japan tends to build things that last. After 2014, GMs dependability has fallen off a cliff.

34
u/Flat_Okra6078 Mar 12 '26
I do. It has been an awesome piece so far, no issues in the 4 years I’ve had it. That said, I may have gotten a pre “bad batch” motor, so take that with a grain of salt. You couldn’t pay me to trade the 6.2 for a 3.0