When your long-term plans include driving the Chevy truck you buy today for many years, that truck should have a Duramax engine under the hood. This is the brand of diesel engines used by Chevy across the truck lineup, and these engines last a long time. Unlike some brands that don’t offer this engine in the midsize truck models, Chevy gives you a diesel powertrain across the board, making it easy for you to have the power you need and the longevity you deserve.

What is high mileage on a Duramax diesel?

Diesel engines last a lot longer than gasoline engines when properly maintained. They can withstand higher compression ratios and provide incredible levels of power. According to the McNally Institute, a Duramax diesel engine doesn’t reach high mileage until 350,000 miles. Some Chevy trucks with this engine have lasted for more than 1,000,000 miles before needing major repairs.

What sizes are the diesel engines found in Chevy trucks?

Across the four Chevy models, you’ll find three different Duramax engines offered. These are:

Chevy Colorado

2.8-liter turbocharged Duramax diesel four-cylinder engine

186 horsepower, 369 lb.-ft. of torque, 20/30 mpg (2WD), 19/29 (4WD), 18/22 (ZR2)

Tow rating 7,700 pounds

Chevy Silverado 1500

3.0-liter turbocharged Duramax diesel six-cylinder engine

277 horsepower, 460 lb.-ft. of torque, 23/31 mpg (RWD), 22/26 mpg (4WD)

Tow rating 13,300 pounds

Chevy Silverado 2500 HD/3500 HD

6.6-liter turbocharged Duramax diesel V8 engine

445 horsepower, 910 lb.-ft. of torque

Tow rating 2500 HD 14,50 pounds

Tow rating 3500 HD 36,000 pounds

Why does the Silverado 3500 HD have a significantly higher tow rating than the 2500 HD?

These two heavy-duty trucks use the same diesel engine with the same power: so what’s the difference? The Chevy Silverado 3500 HD has a reinforced chassis to make it stronger. This, along with the option of dual rear wheels (called a dually), allows the truck to handle more payload and tow much heavier trailers than the 2500 HD model.

What is the average life of a Duramax diesel?

A Chevy truck with a diesel engine that’s been properly cared for should last well beyond the 300,000-mile mark. The experts at Pro Source Diesel warn that not all high mileage is equal. There’s nothing wrong with buying a high-mileage diesel truck; many fetch a significant price and last a long time. That said, you do need to check a few things before buying a used model. Make sure you review:

• The maintenance records
• Current truck condition
• Number of owners
• Primary use
• Accident reports

Which trims of the Chevy trucks are eligible for the diesel engines?

Working from the largest truck down, you can have the Duramax diesel on every trim of the heavy-duty Chevy trucks. The 2500 HD and 3500 HD models readily allow you to increase the power to get more work done by offering the massive 6.6-liter engine on every trim.

If you’re considering the half-ton Silverado 1500, the Duramax engine is available starting at the LT trim. This is the trim where more options are available, including various powertrains to give you the truck package you desire.

Similar to the half-ton Silverado, if you want your midsize Chevy truck to have a diesel engine, you’ve got to step up to at least the Colorado LT trim. This gives you the power and longevity you want from the Duramax diesel power plant.

Are the new Duramax engines reliable?

GM stamps a 200,000-mile warranty on all Duramax diesel engines. This is a good indicator that the manufacturer of this truck has confidence the engine will last a long time. These engines can handle rough towing, hard work, and strenuous driving for many miles. You won’t worry that your Chevy truck can’t get the job done. All you’ve got to do is properly maintain your diesel truck, and it will last a long time.

Should you buy a Chevy truck with a diesel engine?

If you want your truck to last a long time, you can’t go wrong with the Duramax diesel engine under the hood. You might replace parts and features on your truck well before you ever face a major engine repair. Chevy trucks with diesel engines offer the most power and longevity across the lineup.

Next check out the new Chevy Silverado EV Trail Boss, or watch the overview o the 3.0-liter Duramax diesel engine in the video below:

This article was updated on 8/3/2022.