2024 Silverado 1500 Z71 Trailboss LT 3.0l Duramax diesel vs 5.3l v8 MPG loop and drive impressions

[@adkgrass]

i just got 31.3 mpgs highway on my 2023 LT Trailboss Duramax. So far I've had it for a year now and I am quite happy with it. I came from a 2020 6.2L Trailboss but was surprised to see the LZ0 engine provides great power still. Obviously not the same as the 6.2L but that said, I actually really love the 3.0L Duramax. For a little diesel it even has some great sounds to it.

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

Heck ya!!

[@josels1292]

I was in the market for a new 2024 LT with a 5.3L. When at the dealership I found a new 23 LT Silverado 4X4 with the 3L Duramax this truck had a sticker of 58k but it had 11k In rebates since it was a new 23 model. Got this for 47k and so far it’s been a great engine and purchase.

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

Good buy!! Nice work!

[@gunsho11b]

Im getting around 34 to 36 mpg's on the highway with my 2024 3.0 Duramax. Mind you I have the RST trim with the 3.23 axel ratio and 20 inch tires. Mine also has the column shifter (mechanical shifter) which I prefer. I use it as my daily driver and drive almost 20 miles one way to work along with sporadic around town driving. I fill it up once every two weeks. My previous truck was a 2019 RAM with the 5.7 Hemi and I was filling that thing up at least once a week. I cannot speak for the 5.3 liter engine but despite Diesel being almost a $1 more a gallon in my area (NE Ohio) I am spending overall less in fuel. So far no issues and I could not be happier.

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

great to hear! thanks for watching

[@itsshadowuser9536]

def want to get a diesel soon in ohio as well i drive 600miles a week minimum and i think going the diesel would be the best option for me for a truck its either the truck or a prius

[@MsAce0424]

Good to read this. I'm From NE ohio. Same gas prices obviously. Might Be buying one too. I just wish i knew the long-term reliably

[@itsshadowuser9536]

@@MsAce0424 right hopefully over 200k

[@vinnypazzo]

I am from NE Ohio as well. Been considering getting one. I do a lot of driving for my job. Only thing I’ve heard is that these have transmission issues… but can’t find a whole lot supporting that.

[@bradscott9865]

I switched from a 21 RST 5.3 to a 24 Trailboss 3.0 duramax and I couldn't be any happier. The 3.0 tows a trailer much better and the fuel mileage is crazy. My 1,700 mile average including some light towing is 27 MPG and I can get up to 40 highway. My 5.3 had an engine failure at only 9,000 miles too. I'll never go back.

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

Sounds like you have a nice trail boss, enjoy. Thanks for watching! What ended up going bad on the 5.3?

[@bradscott9865]

@@CTECH-REVIEW Lifters

[@Ekimsnegdoh27]

FYI with this new key fob you don’t need to hit lock first to remote start. Just hit remote start twice and it will lock the truck for you if it’s unlocked. One less step. Cheers

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

Thank you for watching, good to know!

[@nick4030]

One thing that I didnt see mentioned is that the diesel is getting the worst mileage its going to get brand new. As it breaks in the mileage increases dramatically. For example, and this is anecdotal but still representative, my fathers 2021 1500 AT4 with the 3.0 L duramax now with 30k miles is averaging over 30mgp and up to 35 freeway.

[@redcapote4760]

While that is awesome, if the price difference is going to be $8-10k for the diesel engine over the gas engine, plus tax on that engine price difference, plus DEF costs... I wouldn't break even in cost until I drove at least 700,000 miles or so, assuming the majority of that was highway mileage. By that point, I'd more than likely need a new engine. While all of us like seeing 30+ mpg on our road trips instead of 21 or 22 mpg, the math just doesn't math for diesel. The only real reason to get the diesel is if you truly need a 2500 or 3500 HD truck because you are actually doing some heavy hauling of a very heavy trailer, camper, boat, or otherwise, because you need the towing power of the diesel that a gasser would struggle with. If you aren't towing very heavy, diesel just doesn't math out versus gas. Furthermore, I think diesel's future is waning over the next 20 years in the US, and the supply will lessen, which means prices will increase for it, creating an even smaller diminishing return on this debate for diesel.

[@danquenell]

@@redcapote4760 The diesel is a $2,500 premium over the 5.3, 6.2 is also a $2,500 premium over the 5.3. In the higher trims such as my Denali Ultimate the diesel was $995 cheaper than the 6.2. The premium for the diesel in the 1/2 ton isn’t like HD trucks.

[@nick4030]

There is still more to the story though. Diesel was gaining in popularity in the 2000's and into the 20-teens, until diesel gate. For some reason the EPA has decided to take aim at diesel. But theres a lot to unpack there. First, diesel is FAR more energy dense than gasoline. It also requires less refining. Less refining= less energy in production. All of this is important. Gas engines are similarly getting hit with combustion emission restrictions that are requiring filters and all of that as well, it is coming. Diesels do emit more NOX, but less CO2, which seems to be what the environment alarmists are worried about. Diesels do have a higher up front cost, but they also hold that value, generally, far better than gas equivalents do. To your point, the diesel will likely hit that 700k mileage, most gas engines will not.@@redcapote4760

[@redcapote4760]

@@nick4030 I get bored of cars after 3 years. I need to make enough money to just lease for 24 months and switch often. Driving out of warranty scares me.

[@redcapote4760]

@@nick4030 That was a very informative and insightful response. I appreciated reading it. Thank you.

[@josephcaron6904]

you read the miles traveled on the 5.3 not the MPG which was 18.3

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

Thank you...I fixed as much as I could! Thank you for watching!

[@tomhenry5293]

Yep, a difference of 7.2 mpg. That's quite a bit. With a 24 gallon fuel tank that's a 172.8 miles extra on a tank of fuel. The diesel please!

[@Constricting_Creations]

I’ve owned a 2023 and a 2024 3.0L trailboss LT and a 2024 trailboss custom with the 5.3L. I like the 3.0L much more for a few reasons. I would get the 18’ rims (they come with much better tires) and if you get an LT I would spend the extra cash for the leather package, it’s a significant upgrade for the money.

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

Awesome comment! Thanks for watching!

[@ANG1940]

Thanks!

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

Thank you for watching, I am glad you enjoyed!

[@sodbuster518able]

120 volt plug 🔌 in bumper is for Block heater not glow plugs,most all Diesel have block heater for extreme cold temperature to aid in cold starting.

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

Thanks for the comment!

[@jaronritchie2372]

I promise you this, that most 5.3l Trail Boss owners are only getting around 15-18 mpg average. While most 3.0 Trail Boss owners are getting around 24-26 average mpg. I only say this, because overall cost of ownership is about the same long term unless you can buy diesel for 25cents a gallon more lol

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

Thank you for watching...I messed up...I just Edited. I got 18.3MPG not 21.5MPG...I got the miles and MPG mixed up. Sorry for the confusion.

[@jaronritchie2372]

@@CTECH-REVIEW my Trail Boss 3.0 is currently getting around 23 mpg with my heavy foot. 6500 miles on it.

[@phototac9287]

Actually your wrong I have a 2023 5.3 trail boss and highway is 23 miles per gallon would not buy a diesel def fluid is the deal breaker for me I also paid 63.700 for LT premium with equal equipment from an owners perspective.

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

Thanks for watching!@@phototac9287

[@phototac9287]

Also you didn't have the tires at the manufacturer recommend tire pressure also will effect miles per gallon.

[@saxel1989]

For someone who would like some real diesel numbers here you go! 64752 miles Total gallons 2920. Total dollars put in 13641.75 includes def and oil changes and 4 new tires. Cost per mile so far .21 with maintenance. Next on my to do list is diff service and transmission flush. Average mpg 22.3 best 31.5. Worst 8.75 towing max weight in winter.

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

Thank you for that data. Very impressive. Thank you for shairing

[@charlesludwig9173]

My 5.3 delivers 17 to 20 mpg on my city route depending on stop duration and either a light or heavy foot on accelerator pedal. Heavy foot is usually required to maintain speed with flow of traffic.

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

Thank you for watching!

[@HnPrrn]

Agreed. 2.7 turbo I4 makes 47 more ft lbs of torque than 5.3 V8 and at 3,000 rpm, vs 4100 rpm. Dyno tested wide open throttle 'for weeks" straight. Aluminum alloy pistons w/ machined heads and cast iron ring carriers. Diesel grade rings w/ tri-metal rod bearings w/ layer of copper over aluminum w/ steel backing. 10:1 compression w/ boost pressures up to 27 p.s.i. w/ intercooled twin volute turbo. Ford has done a small displacement turbo for nearly a decade (2.7 twin turbo V6). Makes 25 more horse, but 30 ft lbs less than GM turbomax. GM OHV V8 been around since 1949. Time for new blood.

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

Love it! Thanks for watching!!

[@Motinhox]

The 2.7 eco boost is much better than the turbomax overall

[@readyme]

I'd like to see the same comparison with the non lifted truck (RST, LT etc) as I can imagine the offroad capabilities of the TrailBoss work against on road efficiency.

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

i did it with Sierra just not the Silverados! I will try to do this again!

[@readyme]

@@CTECH-REVIEW that's probably close enough. What were your findings?

[@MattN03]

I read a lot of complaints about the GM leather seat comfort in the newer trucks. Are the cloth seats more comfortable?

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

I have read that too...I have driven over a dozen 24 SIerra and Silverado Leather seat trucks now and have not noticed this issue. I think it depends on a lot of things but for me 6'0 tall they dont bother me.

[@gabe9158]

I had a 2021 with leather seats Chevy trucks have the most uncomfortable leather seats out of all three I now have a 2023 I bought 6 months ago I made sure I got cloth much better!

[@TheRelentless817]

⁠@@gabe9158 I also have a 2021 LT TB thinking about getting a 23/24 model. How much you paid for the 23?

[@gabe9158]

64,000

[@iisreset]

Fantastic comparison! good job

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

Glad you enjoyed it, and thanks for watching!

[@melvinjohnson2074]

If it wasn't for the DFM system on the 5.3 that likes to self destruct I would agree with that choice.

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

Great point! Thank you for watching

[@mr.martinezchemistry6471]

You can always turn that off, did that with my C7 corvette.

[@Flyingaceful]

What is DFM?

[@smert_rashistskiy_pederacii]

if I understood correctly, the diesel version has wheels of a smaller diameter than the gasoline version of the pickup? or only the rims and the tires make the wheel size the same? it's just that a diesel engine has more torque and putting bigger wheels makes sense only on it. this makes fuel consumption more and acceleration slower. So if the diesel really has smaller wheels, then the comparison is not entirely correct, although the gasoline version won in price per 1 km, as I see it. Well, if the larger wheels were not on gasoline, but on diesel, then the diesel would lose even more in this test, and so it seems that they tried to make them the same for this reason, or did it just happen?

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

That’s a good point!

[@HnPrrn]

2023 Custom Crew Cab 4wd 2.7 I4 turbo new (w/ 40 miles on it) $50,500 sticker. Incentives, gm card earnings, etc ($6,000 worth was 2.7 turbo vs 5.3) brought down to $36,800 (+ tax). 87 octane gas. A couple mpg better than 5.3. Same tow rating & payload. Why pay additional $6 for potential 5.3 dfm lifter failure?

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

Thanks for watching!

[@7R4dicalized]

really enjoyed the video

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

Thank you for watching!

[@brownlj2013]

Did anyone else notice that he used the trip miles instead of the MPG? The MPG was 18.2 on the 5.3l, and his trip was 21.5 miles so the 3.0 wins cost per mile by far.

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

Yes! I made an error...I fixed thumbnail but couldn't do a post edit unfortunately... I also mentioned this with some other comments also! sorry, and thank you for watching!

[@caseofruns735]

LOVE THIS VIDEO THANK YOU

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

Thanks for watching! Have a great day!

[@jbhampto]

Thanks for doing these tests. Very insightful. In one of your previous videos the ZR2 1500 3.0 diesel mpg was around 18mpg but this Trailboss 3.0 diesel mpg was ~25mpg. I'm surprised at such a big difference but maybe the loop was different or is the ZR2 that less efficient?

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

The previous video of ZR2 1500 I drove that got 18mpg was the 6.2l V8 gas engine...the 5.3l Trailboss Z71 got 18.3MPG

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

Thank you for watching, and your comments! more good stuff to come!

[@jbhampto]

@@CTECH-REVIEW thanks. I got confused:)

[@kristoferfc6525]

@@CTECH-REVIEWthe zr2 also comes with 33's and the TB has 32's as well

[@8bajwa8]

5.3 did 18.3MPG. I guess you misread the miles vs MPG.

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

Thank you for watching...yes dyslexia kicked in...I updated the Thumbnail but couldn't edit video after publishing.

[@JosephHutchison-r4s]

I got the 5.3L and get between 12-16 MPH. Really wish I got the 3.0 Duramax.

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

3.0 is awesome

[@wasuptho]

Nice video. I just bought a diesel high country. I cant believe it gets such better gas mileage than the tundra i had lmao😂

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

Good choice!

[@freidrichnietzsche6643]

Not flaming or trolling here as I'm considering going with this engine in a ZR2, but just wait until that little duramax breaks in a little, the torque converter wears some and loosens up. YMMV but that mileage performance will drop. I haven't seen a video yet with mileage numbers for one of these trucks with over 100k miles... fwiw. My 6.2 L86 (2016 LTZ) had much better mileage new than now @ 163k. Good video and thanks for making!

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

There are a few guys on YT that have posted some 100-150k mile reviews on the LM2 3.0l duramax, but I completely agree with you...when you get some miles on a little duramax you are more likely of having more expensive repairs than a tried and true V8! Thank you for watching, and I am glad you enjoyed! I have a lot of towing comparison videos also you can check out!

[@karlschauff7989]

There are several trucks with over 100k miles on them featured in videos on youtube. Some components wear and decrease efficiency. Other components break in and increase efficiency. It's also up to the owner. Changing diff fluid, having the transmission fluid and filter changed from time to time, servicing the transfer case, etc can maintain fuel economy. Diesel engines also have better cylinder liners and rings than gas engines.

[@inferidii]

Waiting on a 5.3 l custom trail boss , are there still any lifter failures still happening ? Stressing me out a bit

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

My understanding is this is still an issue. I know of 2 people with 2023 trucks that have had this happen.

[@inferidii]

Ah damn well I'll trade it at the dealer when the warranty expires and I'll get the extended one

[@bobeastman6699]

When you looked at the MPG on the 5.3 you said 21.5 mpg but that was the miles on the left and the MPG was 18.3 on the center could you please clarify this or am i missing something. Thank you

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

I know! I made a mistake. I did update the thumbnail! Sorry for the error, thank you for watching!

[@bobeastman6699]

Sorry i did see that after i looked a little harder but i had already sent my question. Over all i like the Duramax but never owned a diesel before but the mileage seems to be really sweet on a daily driver. Wish i knew Thanks for getting back to me. Liked your video Bob@@CTECH-REVIEW

[@major3336]

Does the increase in MPG really minimize the higher price of diesel?

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

That is a great question...it really depends on the cost of fuel for each...I have seen it go both ways! Thanks for watching.

[@BrianIzzo-n7i]

You mentioned the 5.3 being a rock solid engine. But you failed to mention the AFM cause major issues with the Lifters / pushrods /cams. If you don’t deactivate the AFM with a tune, I don’t see that engine getting a 100 miles. With AFM off I would agree that it’s a good motor.

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

Yes good point!

[@Upracefan]

Your math is wrong on the 5.3, it didn’t get 21.5 mpg, it was 18.3, that changes the math significantly.

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

You are right, I apologize for the mistake!

[@OtisFlint]

Diesel is $1.20 more per gallon in my area. Makes no economic sense to buy the diesel. More maintenance costs, more repair costs, no savings at the pump.

[@disneybaker5165]

Say that when your lifter shit the bed

[@coreydickey3657]

​@@disneybaker5165 3k easy replacing mine >

[@sodbuster518able]

I,ll stick with my 2.7L I4 that will out last both with out the $3000.00 repair Bill for rubber band drive belt mandatory @150,000 mi or gamble on engine self destruction into bucket 🪣 of scrap metal.

[@hajjdawood]

If you are getting the 6.2l you need premium which is usually comparable or more expensive then diesel. Also the maintenance is an old wives tale. Oil changes are the same as rhe 5.3. Def costs $10 every 5,000 miles, fuel filters are super cheap and no need to replace spark plugs If you are getting the 5.3 enjoy your lifters lel.

[@AlexanderRamsey]

Love the standard size sunroof way cheaper and more reliable than gigantic Ford pano roof.

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

A lot of truth here!

[@sodbuster518able]

Best engine in GM lineup and best bang for you buck is the 2.7 L Inline 4 .300 hp 430 ft lb torque 21 or greater fuel mileage that cost $1.00 LESS per gallon,no DEF required and no $3000.00 mandatory repair bill to change out a stupid rubber band to drive oil pump.Just another way to get you to spend $80,000 or greatet for your next truck .My 2.7 acts exactly like a Diesel,got a credit for that engine option, more payload capacity.The the 2.7 will out last the 3.0 hands down with proper maintenance and operation of it within it,s means

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

Thanks for watching! The 2.7l is an awesome engine, I agree!

[@TA-co5mv]

I think it's a little early to say the 2.7 will outlast the 3.0. Actually way early. But in 20 years you may actually be right. But doing the math, 30mpg vs 20 mpg will add up, depending on the never ending price disparity between gas and diesel

[@billrosenfelt3827]

doesn't the 2.7 require Super unleaded? that's about the same price as diesel where I live

[@karlschauff7989]

It's silly comparing cost per mile of the diesel vs the 5.3. The Duramax makes 5.9 Cummins level torque. More torque than any other engine you can get in a Silverado 1500. 495 lbft vs the 5.3's 383 lbft. And it isn't shutting off cylinders to get more than 20 mpg.

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

All very true. Just sharing different perspectives

[@esmoglo]

Interesting price for 1/2 ton trucks, with the price of diesel don’t see how it makes sense.

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

Great point! Thanks for watching!

[@tommywaddell8724]

We just gonna ignore he got the mpg of the 5.3 wrong dude said miles drivin instead of mpg of 18.5

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

Yes...I messed up, I changed the thumbnail, and have tried to answer each comment. Sorry for the miss, thanks for watching!

[@rocksjoshua]

With the cost of Diesel, do you actually save money though?

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

Great question I just did a 3 part series discussing this with another truck! Check out this 3 part series (video 1) kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z2aQloeJoZeEipY

[@Motinhox]

Depends where you love. In my area, it's either the same or only .20 -.30 cents more per gallon max

[@disneybaker5165]

Why doesn’t the LT have cup holders in rear? My 2020 trailboss LT has them

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

My understanding is that option comes on the higher trim level LT

[@LowOnCash]

You read it wrong it was 21 miles on the trip - not 21.5 MPG - the MPG was 18 - Mike

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

Thanks for watching , and thanks for the comment Mike!...Dyslexia kicked in! I changed the thumbnail but couldn't change the video!

[@LowOnCash]

LOL hey its fine thanks ffor your efforts the video was fine ride safe Mike

[@aaronscalise7682]

steering wheel is nice and crooked when going straight. ridiculous considering that is fresh off the lot.

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

Not good!

[@hujek111111]

Does 5.3 still has cylinder deactivation system in 2014?

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

It has a newer version that allows the engine to modulate between 1 and 8 cylinders. I believe that started in 2019.

[@inferidii]

Do they have less lifter failure ?

[@joshhartley3287]

The Trail boss has much larger tires and a 2’inch lift so it’s not apples to apples trucks.

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

You are right about that!

[@dlg5485]

This isn't a legit fuel economy test. There's only one way to accurately test fuel mileage: fill up the tank, reset the trip meter, drive your loop, refill, hand calculate using miles driven and refill amount. The on-board mileage meter in most vehicles is utterly useless. Every vehicle I've owned has been 2 mpg optimistic, on average.

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

I agree hand calculated is the best, but this is the best we can get. I have since this video posted done some hand calculations on a few different GM trucks. They were all within .5mpg of the computer. Thanks for watching!

[@stre622]

Better check probably a recall!

[@lazerusmfh]

70k for a half ton not even fully loaded holy shit

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

Thanks for watching!

[@panthermartin7784]

Both of those trucks wouldn't make it through their warranty period without a catastrophic failure. Thats what they have in common.

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

Thanks for watching

[@matthewbradley8226]

The diesel has far more expensive repairs. You have to pay for def fluid. And the maintenance is much more expensive. I’ll take the simple 5.3

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

Good point!

[@Motinhox]

Def is cheap and only about 1ga is needed per 1k. Repairs are debatable since the duramax will outlast the 5.3

[@SacLab]

Gas gets 18.2MPG !!!! NOT 21.5 lol

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

yes! thank you...I had to fix that after posting.

[@Jfin7B]

There is no “z” in Diesel….ugh The plug in the front bumper is for the engine block heater, not the “glow plugs” 🤦‍♂️

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

Thanks for watching

[@TimBer-y3y]

Mr diesel was German, so yeah his name is pronounced diezel. You yanks all sound like fools when you say diesel and pronounce the s

[@timclark7183]

The 5.3 got 18.3 you drove 21.5 miles

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

Yes, Thank you for watching, I ended up having to edit thumbnail! sorry for the confusion.

[@timclark7183]

I wish they did do that well on MPG. Keep up the good reviews!

[@TA-co5mv]

Put a decent sized fuel tank in already GM!!! So I can sell this pos Ecodiesel. Range matters!!!

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

I agree Range is important!!

[@ML-lg4ky]

60k for a light duty FU!

[@Scodel]

Is your mouth directly in the mic? Super piercing dude

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

sorry about that! Does it seem better in other videos?

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

I was getting over covid when I was doing this video so I may have put mic to close to capture my voice.

[@joshtaylor1416]

You don’t buy trucks for mpg. 🤷‍♂️🤦‍♂️

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

Thanks for watching!

[@Motinhox]

Doesn't mean you should be ignorant to the mpg

[@joshtaylor1416]

@@Motinhox again you don’t buy trucks and expect great mpg 🤡🤡

[@Motinhox]

@@joshtaylor1416 Ok dude lmao If there are 2 identical trucks but 1 gets double the mpg, are you going to buy the less efficient one?

[@joshtaylor1416]

@@Motinhox if it has a turbo I’m not buying that one lol

[@dieseldawg7132]

67k for cloth seats 😂😂😂

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

The 'new normal'! Thanks for watching!

[@na4valve]

5.3 with a 3.23 gear. Poor truck.

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

Haha!

[@OscyJack-]

Gas. The fed killed diesels benefit is. And don't get the new pansy trucks, go back and time for a real truck :)

[@johnmorris77]

Not everyone wants to drive 15 year old trucks brother. I know what you mean though

[@OscyJack-]

@@johnmorris77 I know. It's those people I'm calling out really, those who drive the OEMe to make shit, rather than trucks ;)

[@CTECH-REVIEW]

Thanks for watching!