Downsizing truck

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Shiggins37

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I know, I know….. you never know when you need the HD truck. Better to have it and most likely not need it than to need it and not have it.
Long story short, I bought a 2024 Ram 2500 Cummins at the end of 24 for an INSANE deal. I’ve used its capabilities a few times, but don’t need it. I’ve only put 12k miles on it since new since I try and let it sit as much as possible due to fuel economy and the recent price hike in fuel.

I’m looking at downsizing to a 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 with the 3.0 Duramax. Anybody with some experience with one or it’s Silverado 1500 twin would be nice to hear from…. Real world MPG’s towing, towing within its limits, size of the passenger space for adults in the rear and any other useful information would be awesome!
Thanks in advance….
 
I have watched a bunch of videos on Youtube put out by Dave's automotive on the 3.0 Duramax and I would personally never own one.

 
Shiggins37 said:
I know, I know….. you never know when you need the HD truck. Better to have it and most likely not need it than to need it and not have it.
Long story short, I bought a 2024 Ram 2500 Cummins at the end of 24 for an INSANE deal. I’ve used its capabilities a few times, but don’t need it. I’ve only put 12k miles on it since new since I try and let it sit as much as possible due to fuel economy and the recent price hike in fuel.

I’m looking at downsizing to a 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 with the 3.0 Duramax. Anybody with some experience with one or it’s Silverado 1500 twin would be nice to hear from…. Real world MPG’s towing, towing within its limits, size of the passenger space for adults in the rear and any other useful information would be awesome!
Thanks in advance….
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I had a 2023 GMC 1500 AT4 with dmax. Truck was great and motor was peppy. Got around 20-23MPG, could squeeze 26-27 on a long road trip. Trans failed at 29k miles, sat at the dealership forever. Then coolant valve failed and it got lemon lawed

Went to the dark side and now drive a 25 Ford Raptor. Much more comfortable / smooth driving. Horrible MPG but fun as hell to drive.
 
ChasingSand said:
I have watched a bunch of videos on Youtube put out by Dave's automotive on the 3.0 Duramax and I would personally never own one.

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I did watch that whole video yesterday….. it’s the oil pump belt that has to be replaced. The new LZ0 requires it every 200k miles. I know the first tennis those engines had oil consumption issues and trans issues. It does sound like most of them are worked out at this point. I’m trying g to balance value with quality. I absolutely love my Ram, but the family hates the back seat and how small it seems compared to my 2019 F250 that had a massive backseat. The huge transmission him on the middle back sucks too for leg room and the roof is super low with the sunroof. So with not needing the HD truck and hating the MPG, I know it’s time to downsize. I have also looked into the F150 with the 2.7 eco boost that sounds to be insanely over engineered, sharing the same block material and forged pistons, rods and crank. The MPG of the Duramax 3.0 is what is drawing me to the 1500 as well as the nicer interior in the midrange trim levels compared to the F150. Just don’t want to make a mistake and regret getting the Sierra. I like the look of the black accents on the Elevation trim on the white.
 
Shiggins37 said:
I know, I know….. you never know when you need the HD truck. Better to have it and most likely not need it than to need it and not have it.
Long story short, I bought a 2024 Ram 2500 Cummins at the end of 24 for an INSANE deal. I’ve used its capabilities a few times, but don’t need it. I’ve only put 12k miles on it since new since I try and let it sit as much as possible due to fuel economy and the recent price hike in fuel.

I’m looking at downsizing to a 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 with the 3.0 Duramax. Anybody with some experience with one or it’s Silverado 1500 twin would be nice to hear from…. Real world MPG’s towing, towing within its limits, size of the passenger space for adults in the rear and any other useful information would be awesome!
Thanks in advance….
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Are you going to list the 2500?
 
A buddy of mine is buying it… it bums me out every time I walk up to it since it’s setup exactly how I want it, it’s just not what I need anymore…
IMG_3143.jpeg
 
was curious what copilot would say:

Short answer:
Based on current U.S. fuel prices (≈ $4.15/gal gas and $5.21/gal diesel) and 2026 Silverado fuel economy data, the 3.0 Duramax is not cost‑effective for most buyers unless you drive very high annual mileage (20k–30k+) or tow frequently. The higher diesel price wipes out most of the MPG advantage, and the Duramax engine option costs more upfront.

🔍 Fuel Prices (Current U.S. Averages)​

Diesel is currently $1.06/gal more expensive.

🚛 Silverado 1500 Fuel Economy (2026 Models)​

From verified fuel‑economy data:

5.3L Gas V8​

3.0L Duramax Diesel​

  • 23 city / 28 hwy / 25 combined (2WD)
    (Some trims rated 26 combined) GM Authority

💰 Annual Fuel Cost Comparison​

Assume 15,000 miles/year (U.S. average).

5.3 Gas V8​

  • 15,000 miles ÷ 18 mpg = 833 gallons
  • 833 × $4.15 = $3,456/year

3.0 Duramax Diesel​

  • 15,000 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 600 gallons
  • 600 × $5.21 = $3,126/year

Annual Savings With Diesel:​

$3,456 – $3,126 = $330/year

💵 Upfront Cost Difference​

The Duramax option typically costs $2,000–$3,000 more depending on trim (inference based on typical GM pricing patterns; exact 2026 pricing not published).

Break-even mileage​

If diesel saves $330/year, then:
  • $2,500 premium ÷ $330/year ≈ 7.5 years
  • $3,000 premium ÷ $330/year ≈ 9 years

📌 Real-World Conclusion​

The 3.0 Duramax is NOT cost-effective for most buyers​

because:
  • Diesel fuel is significantly more expensive than gas.
  • The MPG advantage is not enough to offset the fuel price gap.
  • The engine option costs $2–3k more upfront.
  • Diesel maintenance (DEF, fuel filters) adds cost.

When the Duramax is worth it​

  • You tow heavy loads often (diesel torque = easier towing).
  • You drive 20,000–30,000+ miles/year.
  • You keep trucks for 10+ years.
  • You value long-range highway efficiency (up to 28–33 mpg hwy).

📊 Summary Table​

EngineCombined MPGFuel Cost/yrUpfront CostBest For
5.3 Gas V818~$3,456BaselineNormal use, lower cost
3.0 Duramax25~$3,126+$2–3kHigh mileage, towing

Want a personalized break-even calculation?​

I can compute your exact cost-effectiveness if you tell me:
  • Your annual mileage
  • How much you tow
  • How long you keep trucks
Just pick one to continue.
 
I'm truck-less at the moment, gave my kid my '03 2500HD 6.0l 4x4 (200k miles). Perfect for him and his adventures now.

When I buy, it will be a Chevy 1500, I'm also leaning to the 3.0 Duramax. I already know I want less vs more in Trim level electronics, media console, etc.

They all have issues, this model has been around long enough, and most issues have been hammered out I feel, Lemon Law it if you end up one of the few that have the problems.

My Dad is doing same, about to sell his 2018 Chevy 1500 5.3 V8 and go down to a midsize, maybe a Colorado or Ranger.


I wish Toyotas were not stupidly overpriced.
 
AI is crazy how fast it comes up with all the info…. It’s hard for me to break away from the diesels…. I love them, but also understand it’s not always cost effective with upfront vs smaller advantage of the fuel economy than it used to be since all the emissions and increased maintenance cost. DEF is a non issue since the trucks just don’t go through it very quickly unless towing heavy.
If I were to go gas, I would do the 2.7 ecoboost f150. Not the gas sierra 1500… the 2.7 if over engineered as its components almost mirror the power stroke 6.7. I just like the looks and interior of the GMC more in the lower trim levels. There is no perfect truck for me, but I have had a bad habit of replacing trucks every few years but at some point I need to settle and keep one long term!
 
Sounds like you have an addiction to new trucks. 🤔
 
Soooooo........ I had a 06 Dodge Cummins from new until I got rear ended and the frame bent. We hadn't towed heavy in a long time had a 5th wheel, went to MoHo and box trailer. Now that box trailer is heavy, heavier then I thought....The dodge towed the box perfect, bought a 2022 Chevy 1500 5.3 gas, stated it could tow 10k. Well after two trips towing my box trailer I knew it was not up for the task. That trailer squated and floated the front of the truck so bad it was not drivable. I even put overload bump stops on for towing and nope.... Sold it bought a tired old Ford F250, tows great but I hate the truck. Really want my old Dodge back.

Long story short, make sure that new truck can actually tow what you want. Don't go by the numbers feel it out.
 
Shiggins37 said:
I did watch that whole video yesterday….. it’s the oil pump belt that has to be replaced. The new LZ0 requires it every 200k miles. I know the first tennis those engines had oil consumption issues and trans issues. It does sound like most of them are worked out at this point. I’m trying g to balance value with quality. I absolutely love my Ram, but the family hates the back seat and how small it seems compared to my 2019 F250 that had a massive backseat. The huge transmission him on the middle back sucks too for leg room and the roof is super low with the sunroof. So with not needing the HD truck and hating the MPG, I know it’s time to downsize. I have also looked into the F150 with the 2.7 eco boost that sounds to be insanely over engineered, sharing the same block material and forged pistons, rods and crank. The MPG of the Duramax 3.0 is what is drawing me to the 1500 as well as the nicer interior in the midrange trim levels compared to the F150. Just don’t want to make a mistake and regret getting the Sierra. I like the look of the black accents on the Elevation trim on the white.
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My Coworker had the GMC Sierra 1500 in the elevation trim and loved it, but had the TCM go out three times in two years. His was a 2024 I believe. He ended up selling the truck back to GM. Not trying to scare you, just sharing some of the experience's I have heard about.
 
Thanks for the input….. still haven’t fully decided what to do. I did place an order for an F150 spec’d out exactly how I want it. Avalanche color, FX4 package with the 2.7. I really don’t tow much at all anymore since we’ve sold all the toys in lieu of kids activities changing. There’s no harm or commitment in ordering so i figured get it in while I am researching still. I really want the sierra with the baby max, but if it has tons of issues potentially and the cost differential for diesel and regular stays where it is… the increased economy on the diesel doesn’t compensate for the price difference.
 
I bought a 4dr commuter car for better mileage so I don’t have to drive a 4wd diesel dually whenever I go anywhere. Things went sideways in my decision making and the commuter car only gets 14mpg.
 
In Excess said:
I bought a 4dr commuter car for better mileage so I don’t have to drive a 4wd diesel dually whenever I go anywhere. Things went sideways in my decision making and the commuter car only gets 14mpg.
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I bought a 2025 4 door RS edition blazer for the same reason. It gets two different mpg averages.
24 mpg when I'm nice to it.
3 mpg when I'm not 😁
 
Grease Monkey said:
I bought a 2025 4 door RS edition blazer for the same reason. It gets two different mpg averages.
24 mpg when I'm nice to it.
3 mpg when I'm not 😁
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lol I’m not nice, but I have to have restraint as I have a Cdl.
I have 19k miles on the car and have less than 20% remaining on 2nd set of tires.
 
Shiggins37 said:
I know, I know….. you never know when you need the HD truck. Better to have it and most likely not need it than to need it and not have it.
Long story short, I bought a 2024 Ram 2500 Cummins at the end of 24 for an INSANE deal. I’ve used its capabilities a few times, but don’t need it. I’ve only put 12k miles on it since new since I try and let it sit as much as possible due to fuel economy and the recent price hike in fuel.

I’m looking at downsizing to a 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 with the 3.0 Duramax. Anybody with some experience with one or it’s Silverado 1500 twin would be nice to hear from…. Real world MPG’s towing, towing within its limits, size of the passenger space for adults in the rear and any other useful information would be awesome!
Thanks in advance….
Click to expand...
My friend had the 1500 with the diesel and it ended up getting lemon lawed. It was a 2023.

If you go 1/2 ton you are better off with a gas engine. They all get decent mileage on the highway whether a twin turbo V6 or the V8s.

If you are not towing much there is no need to deal with more expensive diesel fuel. Plus the gas engine 1/2 tons have plenty of power to tow.
 
This has all been kind of what the masses have said..... Most are happy with their 3.0's but a lot of people know someone who has had issues. Im struggling getting away from diesel all together, but for no other reason than I love them.... Ive never had issues with emissions systems but I've also never kept one much outside the factory warranty. I have a truck addiction that won't go away! My Ram has all of 12k miles on it and im getting rid of it. I do need to stop at some point says the wife. Im still torn between F150 with 2.7 and Sierra with 3.0. Both are right around the same price point right now similarly equipped. I should probably just be patient and wait for the F150 I ordered to come in as my buddy that's buying the truck is in no rush and has a truck to drive in the meantime. Thanks again and keep the real world knowledge coming!
I haven't heard a single negative about the Ford 2.7 ecoboost from anybody other than if you're wanting to tow heavy which Im not... Im just a diesel nerd!
 
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