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MNRon's avatar
MNRon
Explorer
Aug 04, 2019

Duramax Turbo

I have a 2013 Duramax with 130k miles. We’re in the middle of a 6k mile trip pulling 15.5klb 5er and I’ve started to get a turbocharger engine code (P2599).

This first happened 3000 miles ago when I went to pass someone, caused the engine to go into limp mode at 30mph. After 20miles the nearest garage cleared the code and had normal operation. 50miles later GM dealer said might need a new turbo ($4k) or might be fine.

After driving fine for 2500miles (traveling Rockies) it threw the same code on an uphill grade, again going into limp mode this time 20mpg. I cleared code myself and took it to Chevy dealer 100miles away. Same story, this time they said if replacing turbo they would recommend some other things as well ($6k). I drove on.

Yesterday after another few hundred miles it threw the P2599 code but didn’t go into limp mode. After a couple engine starts the idiot light has turned itself off. Heading to Tetons tomorrow, still have 2k miles and a month to go on this trip.

How worried should I be? Assuming it continues to behave like this do I need to invest $4-6k and a week+ in the shop? On the road? When I get home? Or do I continue to just clear code if/when happens again and keep driving?

Thanks for your opinions, and better yet similar experiences.
Ron
Tow Vehicles

56 Replies

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  • pinesman's avatar
    pinesman
    Explorer
    Aug 05, 2019
    I had the same issue a few years ago when my turbo actually went out. GM replaced the turbo under warranty but my mileage and power went to pot until i got it fixed even with the code cleared. within the last year, I have gotten the low boost code a few times with no change in driveability. It could be a loose clamp, or even a bad electrical connection causing it to throw that code. I just clear the code and go on
  • jamilbk's avatar
    jamilbk
    Explorer
    Aug 05, 2019
    I had the same exact issue. Problem was a boost leak caused by a loose clamp where the intercooler hose connects to the turbo. Check the nut on that clamp before doing anything else.

    https://www.duramaxforum.com/forum/11978106-post5.html#/topics/909297?page=1
  • ShinerBock's avatar
    ShinerBock
    Explorer
    Aug 05, 2019
    Sounds like your VG actuator is sticking or failing. This is the exact reason why I replaced mine with a fixed geometry turbo. If this is the case, you can keep clearing it and hope it will last until it actually fails without any harm to the rest of the engine. When it actually fails you will notice it because you will have no power.
  • dieseltruckdriv's avatar
    dieseltruckdriv
    Explorer II
    Aug 05, 2019
    I had a friend with a loose clamp on one of the hoses and was losing boost. He described somewhat similar issues. I asked him to pop the hood and all it took was a couple turns and it tightened it enough to get him 350 miles to home.

    That is something easy to check.
  • ksss's avatar
    ksss
    Explorer
    Aug 05, 2019
    There are several good options in Idaho Falls if you need help. Two of them are independent Diesel shops (Adrenaline Diesel and Powerlab Diesel). They both know these GM trucks inside and out. I also have a positive relationship with two Chevy service departments in the area. If you have an issue say something and I can help you out.
  • bob213's avatar
    bob213
    Explorer
    Aug 04, 2019
    I can't answer your question but you might get better help here:
    duramax forum

    Good luck. Hope it's something cheap and simple.

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