7 Diesel Pickup Problems That Strand Arizona Drivers

Power Stroke, Cummins and Duramax pickups work hard in Arizona. These are the problems we see most often — and how to catch them before you are stranded.

Diesel pickups in Arizona live a hard life: heavy trailers, long climbs out of the Valley and months of extreme heat. Whether you drive a Ford Power Stroke, a Ram with a Cummins or a Chevy or GMC Duramax, these are the problems that most often leave drivers on the side of the road.

1. Emissions derates

A failed DEF heater, a bad NOx sensor or a clogged DPF can put a modern diesel into reduced power or a countdown to a speed limit. The warning usually comes first — a message on the dash or a check-engine light. Getting it diagnosed early is far cheaper than waiting for the derate.

2. A DPF that never gets to clean itself

Lots of short trips around town mean the exhaust never gets hot long enough to burn off soot. Frequent regenerations, worse fuel economy and a "DPF full" message are signs. A good highway run sometimes helps, but repeated problems need a proper diagnosis (DPF repair).

3. Overheating while towing

Pulling a fifth wheel up a long grade in July is the hardest test a cooling system gets. Dirty radiators and coolers, an old thermostat, a weak water pump or a tired fan clutch can all push temperatures up. Watch the gauge and slow down before it climbs too far.

4. Fuel contamination

Water or debris in diesel fuel can damage high-pressure fuel pumps and injectors — some of the most expensive parts on the truck. Change fuel filters on schedule, drain the water separator, and buy fuel from busy stations.

5. Batteries and charging

Heat shortens battery life, and most diesel pickups use two batteries. One weak battery can drag down the other and leave you with a no-start, often at the worst time. A simple load test catches it.

6. Transmission heat

Towing heavy in hot weather is hard on automatic transmissions. Watch the transmission temperature if your truck displays it, use tow/haul mode and keep the fluid serviced (transmission service).

7. Boost leaks and turbo problems

A split intercooler boot or loose clamp can cause sudden loss of power and black smoke. These are often quick fixes if they are caught before they lead to bigger turbo or engine problems.

Get your pickup checked

We repair diesel pickups at our Phoenix shop and on-site with our mobile units. Learn more on our diesel pickup repair page or call us before your next big trip.