Chevy 6.6 Gas Problems


in Problems

We deep-dive into Chevy 6.6 gas problems: common issues, how much they cost to fix, and how to avoid these issues so you can enjoy a dependable car ownership experience.

White Chevy truck
Source: Flickr

The Chevy 6.6 engine is a popular selection built into selections like the GMC Sierra and the Chevy Silverado. Unfortunately, these machines have been recalled several times thanks to engine issues. If you’re considering an investment in this car, examine some significant Chevy 6.6 gas problems.

Whether you want a vehicle with a Chevy 6.6 system inside or are curious about various options, it’s vital to consider potential troubles you could run into with any system. Read on to learn more about troubles with the Chevy 6.6 gas engine and how to keep these problems at bay.

The Most Common Problems With the Chevy 6.6 Gas Engine:

  • Excessive Oil Consumption. Cost to fix: $3,000-$5,000
  • Engine Failure. Cost to fix: $3,000-$8,000
  • Strange Noises. Cost to fix: $100-$800
  • Exhaust Leaks. Cost to fx: $220-$330
  • Timing Chain Issues. Cost to fix: $500-$1,500

Excessive Oil Consumption

Problem:

One of the most apparent issues in the Chevy 6.6 engine system is excessive oil consumption. When drivers get behind the wheel, they notice the vehicle uses far more oil than it should on a typical drive. This issue can lead to failure in the engine and sudden breakdowns on the go.

Clear indications of trouble with too much oil consumption include disappearing oil, poor engine performance, bad acceleration, and blue smoke. If you see any of these, take your car to a professional or act as soon as possible to prevent anything from getting worse. 


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Cost:

This item on our list of significant Chevy 6.6 gas problems will be pricey if you’re too late. Lacking oil could cause the engine to break down completely, which could range from $3,000-$5,000, depending on if you need a complete engine replacement. 

Engine Failure

Problem:

Unfortunately, engine failure is also a significant trouble with the Chevy 6.6 gas engine system. Drivers reported the vehicle breaking down and failing to start on them, which isn’t something anyone wants in their machine. This trouble is why so many Chevy 6.6 vehicles have been recalled at some point.

Usually, the signs of engine failure are obvious. Look for a check engine light, overheating, lowered performance, engine noise, smoke from the exhaust, and more. These are items you should not ignore. They can quickly get out of control and, like the oil consumption, destroy your engine. 

Cost:

The price to repair an engine is one of the most extreme price points you will experience in a vehicle investment. The price point for a Chevy 6.6 engine system ranges from $3,000-$8,000. It’s vital to save up for it if you think a complete engine replacement is in the future. 

Strange Noises

Problem:

Strange noises can also occur if you drive a vehicle with a Chevy 6.6 gas engine in tow. These can occur in various locations in the car, from the engine to the transmission and everything in between. Noises can be frustrating and annoying, but they can also point to a larger problem in the system.

Hissing, chugging, and rattling are troubles that could appear in your Chevy 6.6 and point to issues. These sounds could indicate troubles like leaks in the hoses or vacuum line, faults with the exhaust system, issues with the wheel bearings, and more. Strange noises aren’t normal in any car.

Cost:

The price point for repairing these noises will vary depending on the cause of the strange noises. On average, anticipate paying $100-$800.


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Exhaust Leaks

Problem:

Leaks are no one’s friend, and that’s especially true when considering leaks in the exhaust system. Typically, an exhaust leak happens when there is an issue in the tailpipe and the gas gets out before it can exit in its proper location. This fault can be dangerous and seriously impact your vehicle.

An exhaust leak will make itself known through an apparent hissing sound near where the tailpipe sits on your vehicle. You could also hear a popping noise, which is more extreme but shows the same thing.

Cost:

The cost for these items on our list of Chevy 6.6 gas problems is one of the most affordable. Anticipate paying $220-$330 for a repair in this area.

Timing Chain Issues

Problem:

Finally, timing chain issues are problematic and often appear in the Chevy 6.6 gas engine. Most of the time, trouble in this area means part of the chain is off a tooth and the entire rotation is off. 

Symptoms of timing chain issues could include misfiring, an idling engine, or a rough running experience. Anything that seems off in this department could indicate troubles with the timing chain.

Cost:

The price point for repairing Chevy 6.6 issues is up there, but it isn’t too bad. Expect to pay $500-$1,500 for this repair. The severity of the issue does depend on the fault with the timing chain. Something that only takes a few hours to fix will be far less expensive than something that requires a complete deconstruction. 


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Avoiding Chevy 6.6 Gas Problems 

Maintenance and a careful eye are the best ways to keep the Chevy 6.6 gas problems at bay and repair them as soon as possible. Look for symptoms pointing to something wrong in your car and have a mechanic take a look to ensure the state of your vehicle remains ideal.

Do not address these troubles yourself unless you have an extensive history of repair in the world of cars. Fixing a vehicle yourself might be more affordable but damaging the car because you don’t know what you’re doing could be more.

Final Thoughts

Unfortunately, the Chevy 6.6 system is prone to trouble and has even created recalls for the system. Watch for excessive oil consumption, engine failure, strange noises, exhaust leaks, and timing chain issues, to name a few. There are clear symptoms associated with these items.

The more you know about your car, the easier to keep it in excellent condition for the long term. No engine is perfect, but the Chevy 6.6 has more trouble than the average machine.



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