TECHNICAL Q&A

ANSWERS TO YOUR DIESEL QUESTIONS

I’ve been talking to an out of state vehicle broker who has a 2010 Chevy LMM Duramax listed in inventory. He knows little about the diesels, but I would like to know whether or not the truck I’m seeing advertised is equipped with a DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) system. The broker isn’t a lot of help because the truck is actually in storage some distance from his office. I’m hoping you can provide some insight. Wayne Conner Fort Wayne, IN Sources inside DMAX told us that during the 2010 model year Chevy and GMC Duramax-equipped trucks sold through at least December 31, 2009, were equipped with essentially the same LMM Duramax 6600 as was available for the 2009 model year—meaning no DEF. The calendar years and model years were somewhat out of sync with regard to EPA emissions certification during that time period for a variety of reasons (EPA saw a big change in leadership, GM financial, and so on). So at least the 2010 model y ear trucks produced during the closing months of calendar year 2009 did not get a DEF system. If your broker’s vehicle inventory sheet includes VIN numbers, you can verify whether the truck has a DEF system or not by looking at the 8th digit of the VIN. The LMM is linked to a VIN code of 6 (non-def), and the LML has a VIN code of 8 (W/DEF). Good luck.