What year of 6.7 Cummins to avoid?
The 6.7 Cummins diesel engine is renowned for its power, reliability, and performance, making it a popular choice for heavy-duty trucks. However, like any engine, certain production years have faced more issues than others. If you're considering purchasing a vehicle with a 6.7 Cummins engine, it's essential to know which years to approach with caution to avoid potential headaches and costly repairs.
Why Some 6.7 Cummins Engines Have Issues
The 6.7 Cummins engine, introduced in 2007, has undergone various updates and improvements over the years. While it is generally a robust and reliable engine, certain model years have been plagued by specific problems. These issues often stem from emissions control systems, design flaws, or manufacturing inconsistencies. Understanding these problems can help you make an informed decision when buying a used truck.
The Year to Avoid: 2007-2008 Models
The 2007 and 2008 model years of the 6.7 Cummins engine are widely regarded as the most problematic. These early versions of the engine were equipped with new emissions control technologies, including the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) and Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system. While these systems were designed to meet stricter emissions standards, they introduced several reliability issues.
- DPF Clogging: The Diesel Particulate Filter in these early models was prone to clogging, especially for drivers who primarily used their trucks for short trips or light-duty tasks. This led to reduced performance and frequent regeneration cycles.
- EGR Cooler Failures: The EGR system, designed to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions, often failed in these years. This could result in coolant leaks, engine overheating, and even catastrophic engine damage if left unaddressed.
- Turbocharger Problems: The variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) used in these models was another weak point. It was prone to soot buildup, which could cause sticking vanes and reduced turbo efficiency.
- Software Issues: Early versions of the engine control software were not optimized, leading to poor fuel economy and drivability concerns.
While these issues were not universal, they were common enough to make the 2007-2008 6.7 Cummins models less desirable compared to later years. Many of these problems were addressed in subsequent updates, making newer models more reliable.
What to Look for in a Used 6.7 Cummins
If you're set on purchasing a truck with a 6.7 Cummins engine, here are some tips to ensure you get a reliable vehicle:
- Choose Post-2010 Models: By 2010, many of the early emissions system issues had been resolved, and the engine had undergone significant improvements.
- Check Maintenance Records: A well-maintained truck is less likely to have issues. Look for records of regular oil changes, DPF cleanings, and EGR system maintenance.
- Consider Deleted Trucks Carefully: Some owners choose to "delete" the emissions systems to improve reliability. While this can solve certain problems, it may make the truck non-compliant with emissions regulations.
- Inspect for Signs of Wear: Pay attention to signs of excessive soot buildup, coolant leaks, or turbocharger issues during your inspection or test drive.
By following these tips, you can avoid the pitfalls of problematic model years and enjoy the benefits of a reliable 6.7 Cummins engine.
Conclusion
The 6.7 Cummins engine is a powerhouse, but not all model years are created equal. The 2007-2008 models are best avoided due to their early emissions system issues and associated reliability concerns. If you're in the market for a used truck, consider newer models and prioritize vehicles with a solid maintenance history. With the right choice, a 6.7 Cummins engine can provide years of dependable performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What year should I not buy a Dodge Ram 2500?
General Buying Advice: Avoid The 2013-2018 Model Years
As such, if you're in the market for the most reliable RAM 2500 year, skip the 2013 to 2018 models because they're riddled with reliability woes, recalls, and complaints. For example, the 2013 model year doesn't quite hit the landing in reliability.
What is high mileage for a 6.7 Cummins?
If your Cummins-powered RAM, TITAN XD pickup, Cummins Repowered crate engine vehicle, RV or other Cummins powered vehicle has surpassed the 100,000-mile mark, we'd be honored to have you in the Cummins High Mileage Club.
What is the holy grail of diesel trucks?
The grail of the grail seems to be the 1998 Ram 2500 Quad Cab with a 12-valve Cummins and a manual transmission. Why? 1998 was the first year for the Quad Cab (four-door), but the last months for the 12-valve. Ram owners can tell you that the automatics in these trucks weren't a strong point.
What year did Cummins have a bad block?
The second potentially deadly flaw occurs in '99 to '02 5.9L Cummins 24-valve engines. It's known as the 53 block problem, because these engine blocks have the number 53 cast into the side of the crankcase. After years of use, the 53 blocks tend to crack until coolant starts to pour out the side of the block.
What is the most desirable Cummins engine?
High Output 6.7L Cummins I-6
One of the best truck engines to handle heavy hauls is the 6.7L Cummins, which offers the most torque ever available in a non-commercial vehicle: Power — 310 hp @ 3,200 rpm.
What year of Cummins are most reliable?
Fans Say These Are The 5 Best Years For Cummins Diesel Engines
- By John Davis May 21, 2024 11:15 am EST.
- First-generation 5.9-liter 12-valve (1989 - 1993)
- Second-generation 5.9-liter 12-valve (1994 - 1998)
- Late second-generation and third-generation 5.9-liter 24-valve (2002 - 2007)
Why is the 12 valve Cummins so sought after?
A stroke of 4.72 inches (accompanied by a 4.02-inch bore) yields 359 cubic inches, incredible low-rpm torque and remarkable fuel efficiency. Along with it being in an inline engine's nature to produce gobs of torque, they're also easier to work on than the V8 competition.
What years to stay away from Dodge Cummins?
Therefore, you should avoid the worst model years of Dodge Cummins to get a pleasant driving experience. Due to higher problem counts and lower reliability and safety ratings, the Dodge Cummins model years from 1991 to 1993, 1999, 2003, 2006, 2007, 2008, and 2010-2013 should be avoided.
What years are the best to avoid the 6.7 Cummins?
Anything 2012 or newer. Avoid 2011, they had glow plugs problems. 2015+ for a better turbo and more power. Really, the newer the better, but anything from 2012 on is going to be pretty solid.
What Cummins block to avoid?
But not all the manufacturer's diesel engines have been so beloved. In fact, roughly a decade after Cummins began outfitting trucks bearing the Ram badge with engines, it delivered one of the worst diesels in its history, the so-called "53 Block."
