In the market, Duramax market actually
 

So I am in the market for a 2500 Chevy/GMC Duramax and was wondering what to look for. I know the group 02-06 is what I am looking at as in terms of affordability and that certain models had certain issues.

I looked at a 01 and 05 today, same color, same style, same price just different years. The 2001 had rust in the wheel wells, a few quarter-sized spots on the hood and the chevy part on the grill was loose. It started well and sounded really good - fairly clean engine compartment. But the rust on the hood and the side panels (the 'bar' that runs down the sides) was kind of rusty too. It has 153k miles on it.

The other one I looked at was a 2005, same style and everything just different years. This one has 205k miles little to no rust in the wheel wells and some sort of bed cover on the back (comes from a metal box) that is where it had some rust spots. Right under where the cover 'box' was set on it. This one also was a one owner truck.

I like the 2005 one because the minimal rust and not a model that is "prone" to injector issues (yes I know it can happen to anyone but still). Thoughts?

The high miles don't really bother me from what I have researched, is it being 1 owner good or bad? I'd prefer that over the 01 based upon the history of the injector issues and cosmetics. But I am not done looking yet!

i would stay away from any LB7s unless the in injectors where replaced not long ago or the price is low enough. the 04.5 and up are a much better option in my opinion.

i would go with the 05 one sounds like a better truck. if i may ask,whats the price of the two?

Thats what I was leaning towards thanks. And the price was $12k, but I would get it for $10k ;)

Looking at a 2003 on Monday, apparently its pretty clean and only 147k and a slight lift too.

do you work on your own truck? i wouldn't hesitate to buy an lb7.. but i work on my own trucks, every vehicle had some kind of a known issue.... its a matter of maintenence. you can buy an 01 maintained like a champ! and a 2008 not maintained at all... and more then likely the 01 will be a better truck to own.