Market Segment:
Full-size pickup truck, targeting work, towing, and general consumer use.
Key Competitors:
Ford F-150, Dodge Ram 1500, Toyota Tundra, Nissan Titan.
Versatility:
Renowned for its robust build, towing capacity, and diverse configurations (cab styles, bed lengths, 2WD/4WD).
Durability:
Built on the proven GMT800 platform, known for its ruggedness and longevity.
Engine Systems:
Engine identification, lubrication, cooling, fuel, exhaust, ignition, starting, charging systems, engine controls (ECM/PCM).
Transmission Drivetrain:
Automatic transmission operation (4L60-E, 4L70-E, 4L80-E), torque converter, driveline components (driveshafts, differentials), 4WD system operation.
Brakes:
Brake system operation, ABS operation, parking brake, brake fluid specifications.
Steering Suspension:
Power steering system, steering wheel controls, suspension components (shocks, struts, springs, ball joints), alignment.
Electrical:
Battery, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), power outlets, fuses and relays, instrument cluster and warning lights, horn, wiper/washer system.
Body Interior:
Door locks, windows, mirrors, seats, seat belts, airbags, climate control system (HVAC), audio system, interior trim.
Wheels Tires:
Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) operation, tire sizes, wheel specifications, jacking points, spare tire and tool kit.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel filler, fuel pump, fuel filter location (often in-tank), fuel recommendations.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, tailpipe.
Operation Controls:
Driver information center, steering wheel controls, cruise control, trailer brake controller operation (if equipped).
Maintenance Schedules:
Recommended maintenance intervals for oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tire rotations, and major service items.
Fluid Checks Replacements:
Engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, windshield washer fluid.
Tire Maintenance:
Tire pressure checks, tire rotation, changing a flat tire.
Lighting Adjustment:
Headlight aiming, interior light adjustments.
Wiper Washer Operation:
Wiper speed selection, washer fluid operation, blade replacement instructions.
Emergency Procedures:
Jump starting a dead battery, towing procedures, emergency tool locations.
Troubleshooting:
Explanation of dashboard warning lights and their meaning, basic troubleshooting tips for common issues.
Diagnostic Level:
Basic owner-level diagnostics and troubleshooting; does not cover in-depth electronic diagnostics or mechanical repair procedures.
Repair Scope:
Focuses on 'what' and 'when' for maintenance, not 'how' for complex repairs. Does not include torque specifications for engine/transmission components or detailed wiring diagrams.
Maintenance Detail:
Provides specific fluid types, capacities, and recommended service intervals for routine maintenance.
Engine Options:
4.8L V8 (LR4), 5.3L V8 (LM7/L59 - FlexFuel), 6.0L V8 (LQ4/LQ9 - High Output).
4.8L V8 Horsepower:
285 hp @ 5200 rpm
4.8L V8 Torque:
295 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
5.3L V8 Horsepower:
295 hp @ 5200 rpm (295 hp for L59 FlexFuel)
5.3L V8 Torque:
335 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (335 lb-ft for L59 FlexFuel)
6.0L V8 Lq4 Horsepower:
300 hp @ 4400 rpm
6.0L V8 Lq4 Torque:
360 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
6.0L V8 Lq9 Horsepower:
345 hp @ 5200 rpm (High Output)
6.0L V8 Lq9 Torque:
380 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (High Output)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended); 5.3L L59 variant is FlexFuel (E85 compatible)
Emissions Control:
Catalytic Converter, On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II)
Wheelbase Std Cab:
133.0 inches
Wheelbase Ext Cab:
143.5 inches
Wheelbase Crew Cab:
143.5 inches
Bed Length Options:
6.5 ft (standard), 8.0 ft (long bed)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 4,600 - 5,500 lbs depending on configuration
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Ranges from approx. 6,700 lbs to 8,600 lbs depending on model (1500, 2500, 3500 series)
Towing Capacity Max:
Up to approx. 10,500 lbs (with proper equipment and configuration, typically 2500/3500HD models)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5 Stars (for 2006 model year, specific test may vary by configuration)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5 Stars (for 2006 model year, specific test may vary by configuration)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:
5 Stars (for 2006 model year, specific test may vary by configuration)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:
4 Stars (for 2006 model year, specific test may vary by configuration)
IIHS Frontal Offset Rating:
Good
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels.
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS) on 1500 models; StabiliTrak stability control available on some models.
Airbags:
Frontal airbags for driver and front passenger; available side-impact airbags.
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts for all seating positions; driver and front passenger seat belt pretensioners.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system in rear seating areas (where applicable).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used. Consult manual for specific recommendations.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or with every oil change.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Typically every 30,000-60,000 miles or 5 years, depending on coolant type.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 50,000-100,000 miles, depending on towing/heavy-duty use. Consult manual for specific type and interval.
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic recommended for most engines. Check dipstick for exact capacity.
Coolant Specification:
GM P/N 12346997 (Dex-Cool Extended Life Antifreeze/Coolant) or equivalent orange silicate-free 50/50 mix.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid Specification:
Dexron-III (or equivalent)
Common Issues Powertrain:
Some 4L60-E/4L70-E transmissions may experience delayed shifting or solenoid failures. Certain 5.3L V8 engines can exhibit piston slap when cold.
Common Issues Suspension Steering:
Ball joint wear, tie rod end wear, and power steering pump leaks can occur with age and mileage.
Common Issues Electrical:
Body control module (BCM) issues, gauge cluster problems, and failing power window motors have been reported.
Common Issues Interior:
Headliner sagging, dashboard cracking (especially in hotter climates), and climate control actuator failures.