The Duramax diesel engine has been a workhorse in the realm of heavy-duty trucking for decades. Various industries, like construction and farming, use this engine. Unfortunately, even the best engines must be replaced at some point. If you work in an industry that benefits from Duramax engines, you might wonder what their life expectancy is. Let’s take a look at the different models.

2001–2004 Duramax Engine

Though the 2001–2004 LB7 Duramax crate engine is 20 years old at this point, these engines are still highly valued. Even these early models run efficiently, without much trouble up to and beyond 100,000 miles. General Motors, the manufacturer of Duramax engines, has given the engine a 95% rating at 200,000 miles, but with this older model, you’ll need to have the injectors replaced periodically, which is an extra $3,000 to $5,000 expense.

2006–2007 Duramax Engine

Although it was only a year before a new model replaced this one, the 2006–2007 engine remains one of the most desired Duramax engines to this day. Most notable for its plug-and-play horsepower potential, this engine is easy to customize to optimize its lifespan.

2007–2010 Duramax Engine

This model was notable for having an improved interior and a new body style. It was also the first to have an exhaust after-treatment process. As a trade-off, however, the mileage of this engine was reduced, which shortens the life expectancy of this Duramax engine. Although this model has more specific and demanding components, there is still plenty of untapped potential for the savvy truck owner to improve upon.

2011–2016 Duramax Engine

The 2011–2016 model is often used in tow rigs because LML Duramax engines use diesel exhaust fluid (also referred to as Urea injections). This engine has more complex emission controls after-treatment systems but can experience varying issues that affect its life expectancy.

2018–Present Duramax Engine

Duramax updated and overhauled most aspects of their newest model, including an all-new body style, to offer a more streamlined and efficient product in both performance and design. They have replaced the historically problematic injectors with a redesigned high-pressure oil rail system, better fuel shutoff solenoid, and updated ECM programming. These changes have helped improve the engine’s life expectancy.