TrucksJuly 5, 2026
Ford and Chevy Trucks: Built Tough, But Not Maintenance-Free
Ford F-Series and Chevy Silverado trucks are the workhorses of Spokane — on job sites, farms, and family driveways everywhere. At All Motors Center we service hundreds of Ford and GM trucks every year, and we know their common failure points as well as any dealership. Here's what to watch for and how to keep your truck on the road.
Common Ford Truck Issues
Ford F-150 (2015+, 3.5L EcoBoost & 5.0L V8)
- Timing chain rattle on startup — The 3.5L EcoBoost can develop a timing chain rattle, especially on trucks that don't get frequent oil changes. Catching it early prevents a $2,000+ repair.
- Cam phaser noise — The 5.0L Coyote V8 is known for cam phaser tick at startup. Ford released updated phasers, and we install them.
- Turbocharger issues (EcoBoost) — Boost leaks, wastegate rattle, and turbo failures occur on higher-mileage EcoBoosts. We diagnose boost leaks with a smoke test.
- Brake shimmy — Front rotors on F-150s tend to warp from heat, especially on trucks that tow. Quality rotors and proper torque on lug nuts help prevent recurrence.
Ford Super Duty (F-250/F-350, 6.7L Powerstroke)
- DEF system issues — DEF heater failures, NOx sensor problems, and SCR catalyst faults are common and expensive at the dealer. We diagnose and repair them for less.
- CP4.2 fuel pump concerns — The high-pressure fuel pump on early 6.7L Powerstrokes can fail catastrophically, contaminating the entire fuel system. We recommend a fuel filter monitoring regimen.
Common Chevy/GMC Truck Issues
Silverado / Sierra (2014+, 5.3L & 6.2L V8)
- AFM/DFM lifter failure — GM's cylinder deactivation system (Active Fuel Management / Dynamic Fuel Management) is the single most common failure on these trucks. Collapsed lifters cause a misfire, rough running, and a check-engine light. The repair involves replacing the lifter set and sometimes the camshaft.
- Transmission shudder (8-speed) — The 8L90 transmission develops a torque converter shudder that feels like driving over rumble strips. A fluid flush with the correct GM-spec fluid usually resolves early cases.
- Brake issues — Rear brake drums (on 1500 models) wear faster than expected, and front rotors warp under towing.
Chevy/GMC HD (2500/3500, 6.6L Duramax)
- Allison transmission service — The Allison 1000 is a great transmission, but it needs regular fluid and filter changes to stay that way. We use Allison-approved fluid.
- Glow plug failures — Especially in Spokane's cold winters, failed glow plugs cause hard starts and white smoke.
Why We're Your Best Option for Ford & Chevy Trucks
Dealership labor rates in Spokane run $160–$200/hour. Our rate is significantly less, and our ASE-certified technicians have the same factory scan tools and training. We stock common parts for Ford and GM trucks to minimize wait times.
Call (509) 655-7715 to schedule your Ford or Chevy truck repair at All Motors Center.