Chuckanut

I'm in the market of a new to me truck. I'm looking into the mid 2000's. I was curious what some common issues are on these rigs.

JK23112

Assuming you mean Chevy/GMC, I would recommend that you get a Silverado extended cab (suicide doors) with the 6.5-foot bed. That is the best combo to have enough room to take five {or six with the fold-down center console} passengers AND a decent amount of room for cargo in the bed. The "crew cab" is more convenient for hauling people, but you sacrifice with only having a five-foot bed.

Engine choices would include a 4.3L V6, a 4.8L V8, a 5.3L V8 and - in some rare instances - a 6.0L V8. I have never seen an extended-cab with a V6, though.

My 2004 has the 5.3L V8 and it has PLENTY of power; although it doesn't do very well at the gas pump. Then again, if you want economy, buy a Civic, Sentra or Corolla.

Maintenance, maintenance, maintenance is the key. Take care of the truck and it shall take care of you.

Chuckanut

Yep, Chevy or GMC 1/2 ton. Is there any common problems with these trucks, with engine or tranny?

country_09

Engines run great with proper maintenanc(oil changes, filter inspection, throttle body cleaning) you get the idea. Tranny runs decent, just don't beat on it and it'll last. Keep a tranny cooler on it as well as heat is the greatest enemy

Chuckanut

Cool thanks! Just what I wanted to hear. I'm not hearing very good things on the F-150's of the same years.

ron750

I had to rebuild the tranny on my '03 1500 @ 87k. The electronic brake control module malfunctions in below zero weather, and you lose ABS. 3 different dealers said I would cause more problems messing with it, so leave it alone.
Speedometer had a recall on it, if it stopped registering your speed before 70k. After that you have to pay for it. My speedometer stopped working at 63 k and GM replaced it.
Emergency Brake Backing plates rust away at around 8 years.
Otherwise good truck. Just traded it in on a long bed extended cab All Star edition 2013, which has 9k in rebates, now.