The Duramax Years To Avoid – And More On P1693 Code

The p1693 code is a common issue with the Duramax engine, and it can be difficult and expensive to fix. That’s why you have to be careful if you are contemplating buying a Duramax-powered truck.

And yes, if you’re wondering which are these years you need to steer clear of, we’ve compiled a list for you.

But just before that;

What Is P1693 Code, Anyway?

The p1693 code simply is a result of the engine’s ECU, or Engine Control Unit, not being able to properly communicate with the transmission’s TCM, or Transmission Control Module.

In order to function properly, the ECU needs to be able to talk to the TCM so that it can make the necessary adjustments to shifting based on driving conditions.

When this communication is disrupted, it can cause a number of problems ranging from shifting issues to the engine going into “limp mode,” which is a fail-safe mode that limits power and speed in order to prevent further damage.

So without further ado, what are the Duramax years to avoid?

When buying a truck, avoid those coming with 2001 to 2010 Duramax engines. These engines are known to have issues with the injectors, fuel system, and turbochargers.

Let’s take a closer look at these Duramax engines;

2001-2004 Model Years

You see, Duramax has come a long way. Its debut engine was the  6.6L Duramax LB7, which was used for the 2001 to 2004 model years. That includes Chevrolet Kodiak, Chevrolet Silverado, Chevrolet Suburban, Chevrolet Tahoe, GMC Denali, GMC Sierra, and more.

The LB7 was a great engine, but it had its fair share of issues. One of the main problems with this engine is that the injectors are known to fail. In fact, it’s not uncommon for them to fail as early as 100,000 miles.

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Another issue with the LB7 is that it’s known to have issues with the fuel system. These problems are often caused by a faulty lift pump, which leads to fuel starvation and ultimately engine failure.

Finally, the turbochargers on the LB7 are also known to be problematic. These turbos are known to fail prematurely, often leading to engine failure.

2004.5-2005 Model Years

The next Duramax engine is the  6.6L Duramax LLY, which was used for the 2004.5 to 2005 model years, although it’s still popular today. Some of the trucks utilizing this engine include the Chevrolet Kodiak, Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Topkick, Hummer H1 Alpha, Chevrolet Suburban, Chevrolet Tahoe, GMC Sierra, and more.

This engine came as an update of the LB7 and addressed some of the issues that plagued it. However, this engine was plagued with issues.

Again, the most common problem of the LLY was overheating, a problem that often led to blown-out head gaskets.

But compared to the issues of cracked or leaky injectors, premature turbo failure, and fuel system problems of the LB7, the head gasket issues of the LLY were relatively minor.

2006-2007 Model Years

What years did Duramax have problems?

The third Duramax engine is the  6.6L Duramax LBZ, which was used for the 2006 to 2007 model years in Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra trucks.

This engine was an update of the LLY and addressed many of the issues that plagued it. The LBZ was a reliable engine and didn’t have any major issues.

The only real problem with this engine is that its pistons may crack, especially when you exceed 600 HP output. However, this won’t be an issue to the majority of owners as most won’t be pushing their engines that hard.

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The other problem with the LBZ is that it’s known to consume oil, often burning through a quart every 1,000 miles.

2008-2010 Model Years

The fourth Duramax engine is the  6.6L Duramax LMM, which was used for the 2008 to 2010 model years in Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra.

The engine marks the beginning of emission standards, which required the use of Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF).

The Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF), oxidation catalyst, and EGR are all failure points on the LMM.

The DPF will get plugged up and need to be cleaned or replaced every 30-40k miles. The EGR cooler is also a common failure point and needs to be replaced every 50-60k miles.

But other than that, the LMM is up there with LBZ when it comes to power and reliability.

What Duramax Years Have The Best Engines?

p1693

Now that we’ve gone over the Duramax years to avoid, you’re probably wondering which ones have the best engines.

The answer is that it really depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re looking for an engine with the least amount of issues, then you’ll want to go with the newest models.

Here are some of the best Duramax year models;

2010 to 2017: The Duramax LGH

2011 to 2016: The Duramax LML

2011 to 2022: The Duramax XLD25

2012 to 2022: The Duramax XLD28

2014 to 2022: Duramax LWN

2017 to 2022: Duramax L5P

2019 to 2022: Duramax LM2

These are just a few of the best Duramax years. As you can see, the newer the model, the better the engine.

If you’re looking for an older model Duramax engine, then you’ll want to avoid the 2001 to 2010 models. These engines are known to have a lot of issues.

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So, if you’re looking for a used Duramax engine, be sure to avoid the earlier models and stick with the later ones. You’ll be glad you did.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)

What year Duramax is most reliable?

The most reliable Duramax year is 2007. The 6.6L Duramax LBZ engine was used for this model year and it’s known to be a reliable engine. Of course it had an issue with the pistons cracking down, but that was not a common problem. In fact, this engine was one of the most praised by auto experts.

What years did Duramax have problems?

The majority of the earlier Duramax engines running from 2001 through 2010 are known to have a lot of issues. In this case, the most common problems are with the injectors and turbochargers.

Which Duramax is the best?

The 6.6L Duramax LBZ is the best Duramax engine just as the 2007 model year is the most reliable. This engine was an update of the LLY and addressed many of the issues that plagued it. The LBZ was a reliable engine and didn’t have any major issues. Other best Duramax engines are those coming in 2022, 2021, and 2019.

What year Duramax have Injector Problems?

The 2001 to 2004 Duramax LB7 engines are known to have injector problems. This is the most common problem with these engines.

The Duramax Years To Avoid – In Conclusion

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a used Duramax engine, it’s important to know which years to avoid. That’s the only way to avoid the p1693 common issue. The 2001 to 2010 model years are best avoided as they are known to have an injector, fuel system, and turbocharger issues.

GM made improvements in later years, so if you’re looking for a used Duramax engine, stick with the later model years.

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