2006 Chevrolet C5500 problems

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The Chevrolet Kodiak and GMC TopKick are a range of medium-duty trucks that were produced by the Chevrolet and GMC divisions of General Motors from 1980 to 2009. Introduced as a variant of the medium-duty C/K truck line, three generations were produced. Slotted between the C/K trucks and the GMC Brigadier Class 8 conventional, the Kodiak/TopKick were developed as a basis for vocationally oriented trucks, including cargo haulers, dump trucks, and similar vehicles; on later generations, both cutaway and cowled-chassis variants were produced for bus use.

Following years of declining market share, General Motors (in line with Ford Motor Company) sought to exit heavy-truck manufacturing. After struggling to enter joint ventures or sell the rights to its product line, the company ended production of the Kodiak and TopKick in 2009. The final medium-duty truck, a GMC TopKick 5500, rolled out of Flint Truck Assembly on July 31, 2009.

For the 2019 model year, after a ten-year hiatus, General Motors re-entered the conventional medium-duty truck segment. Developed in a joint venture with Navistar International, the Chevrolet Silverado 4500/5500 is a Class 4–6 vehicle. Slightly smaller than the Kodiak/Topkick, the Silverado 4500/5500 is marketed exclusively as a Chevrolet (with no GMC counterpart).

2006 Chevrolet C5500

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Common 2006 Chevrolet C5500 problems

Based on the complaints and issues reported by owners of the Chevrolet C5500 2006 model, several common problems have been identified:

  1. Electrical System Issues:
    • Issue Description: Complaints related to the electrical system have been reported, affecting various components.
    • Example Complaint: On 15/02/17 in Deming, NM, an issue with the electrical system was reported at 111,000 miles.
  2. Engine and Engine Cooling Problems:
    • Issue Description: Owners have experienced engine and engine cooling issues, impacting the performance of the vehicle.
    • Example Complaint: On 17/05/12 in Tacoma, WA, an engine problem was reported at 46,043 miles.
  3. Cooling System and Radiator Concerns:
    • Issue Description: Complaints regarding the cooling system and radiator have been highlighted, potentially leading to overheating problems.
    • Example Complaint: On 28/10/15 in Box Elder, SD, a cooling system issue was reported at 65,000 miles.
  4. Diesel Engine Malfunctions:
    • Issue Description: Some owners have reported specific problems related to the diesel engine, impacting the vehicle's performance.
    • Example Complaint: On 05/09/09 in Mission Viejo, CA, an issue with the diesel engine was reported at 23,300 miles.
  5. Exterior Lighting Defects:
    • Issue Description: Complaints have been made regarding issues with the exterior lighting system of the Chevrolet C5500.
    • Example Complaint: On 14/03/07 in New Iberia, LA, an exterior lighting problem was reported at 33,700 miles.
  6. Fuel System Challenges:
    • Issue Description: Concerns related to the fuel system, particularly in diesel models, have been raised by some owners.
    • Example Complaint: On 14/03/07 in New Iberia, LA, a fuel system issue was reported at 33,700 miles.
  7. Braking System Problems:
    • Issue Description: Complaints regarding the service brakes have been documented, affecting the vehicle's braking performance.
    • Example Complaint: On 15/02/17 in Deming, NM, a service brake issue was reported at 111,000 miles.
  8. Suspension Issues:
    • Issue Description: Owners have reported problems with both the front and rear suspension systems of the Chevrolet C5500.
    • Example Complaint: On 14/03/07 in New Iberia, LA, a front suspension issue was reported at 33,700 miles, and on 24/07/09 in Allen Park, MI, a rear suspension issue was reported at 12,600 miles.

These reported problems highlight various areas of concern for Chevrolet C5500 owners, ranging from electrical and engine issues to cooling system malfunctions and suspension challenges. Addressing these issues promptly and with professional assistance is crucial to maintaining the performance and safety of the vehicle.

2006 Chevrolet C5500 engine

What motor is in a 2006 GMC C5500?

MECHANICALC4500 RegularC5500 Regular
Engine - Vortec 8100MD Gasoline V8SS
Engine - Duramax Diesel 6600 V8OO
Engine - Duramax Diesel 6600 V8OO
Engine exhaust brake and restrictor (for diesel engines - requires optional air compressor)OO

What engine is in a C5500?

6.6 V8 Duramax

Specifications for GMC Topkick C5500 Crew Cab 6.6 V8 Duramax Manual, 304hp, 2004.

What is the GVWR of a 2006 Chevy C5500?

Stock No: 427686

VIN:427686
Manufacturer:Chevrolet
Model:C5500
GVWR:19500 lbs
Payload Capacity:19500 lbs

What is the towing capacity of a 2006 GMC TopKick C5500?

The bed payload is 5,000 pounds, more than the towing capacity of most midsize SUVs. At 14,300 pounds, the towing capacity is capable but not earth-shattering. We know it's a big, beefy, capable truck.

What motor is in a 2006 GMC C5500?

MECHANICALC4500 RegularC5500 Regular
Engine - Vortec 8100MD Gasoline V8SS
Engine - Duramax Diesel 6600 V8OO
Engine - Duramax Diesel 6600 V8OO
Engine exhaust brake and restrictor (for diesel engines - requires optional air compressor)OO

What engine is in a C5500?

6.6-liter Duramax V8 diesel

On the GMT560 Kodiak/TopKick, the powertrain configuration was derived from the model specification. On C4500/C5500s, an 8.1-liter V8 was carried over from the previous generation, with a 6.6-liter Duramax V8 diesel replacing the Caterpillar 3116.

What is the GVWR of a 2006 Chevy C5500?

Stock No: 427686

VIN:427686
Manufacturer:Chevrolet
Model:C5500
GVWR:19500 lbs
Payload Capacity:19500 lbs

What is the fuel mileage of a 2005 C5500?

Based on data from 6 vehicles, 297 fuel-ups and 83,372 miles of driving, the 2005 Chevrolet C5500 Kodiak gets a combined Avg MPG of 8.17 with a 0.20 MPG margin of error. Below you can see a distribution of the fuel-ups with 28 outliers (8.62%) removed.

2006 Chevrolet C5500 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Chevrolet C5500 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Suspension problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Service brakes problems
  • Engine problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2006 Chevrolet C5500 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2006 Chevrolet C5500 complaints

The NHTSA has received 8 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2006 Chevrolet C5500.

2017-02-15

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-02-15
  • VIN: 1GBG5U1206F
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 CHEVROLET C5500. WHILE DRIVING DOWN A MOUNTAIN WITH THE AIR BRAKES ENGAGED, THE BRAKE ALARM SOUNDED AND THE CHECK BRAKES WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THERE WAS A SHORT IN THE BRAKE SYSTEM. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 111,000.
2015-11-02

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2015-10-28
  • VIN: 1GBG5U1296F
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 CHEVROLET C5500. WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH, THERE WAS A LOUD NOISE THAT CAME FROM THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT EXITED THE VEHICLE AND OBSERVED THAT THERE WAS RADIATOR FLUID LEAKING FROM THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE FAN BLADE PUNCTURED THE RADIATOR AND THE RADIATOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 65,000.
2012-05-19

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2012-05-17
  • VIN: 1GBG5U12X6F
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: PULLING HARD UP MUDDY PASS WESTBOUND ON HWY 40 IN COLORADO IN MY KODIAK 5500 BASED 2006 JAYCO SENECA AND THE FAN EXPLODED TAKING OUT RADIATOR, SHROUD AND PUTTING A HOLE IN HOOD. DIDN'T SEE ANY DEBRIS BEFORE WHOLE THING LET LOOSE. THANKFULLY WE WERE VERY CLOSE TO TOP NEAR EAST SUMMIT OF RABBIT EARS AND THERE WAS A WIDE PULL OFF TO LEFT AND GOT OFF SAFELY. TOWED INTO STEAMBOAT SPRINGS AND AWAITING PARTS ON MONDAY. THIS IS A KNOWN PROBLEM APPARENTLY. IS GM TAKING CARE OF THIS? IF SO, HOW DO I PROCEED?? ANY AND ALL HELP IS APPRECIATED.[XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
2012-02-01

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2011-12-17
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: 1GBG5U1216F
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 CHEVROLET C5500. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED FOR A LONG PERIOD OF TIME WHEN HE NOTICED SMOKE RISING FROM UNDER THE HOOD. THE CONTACT LIFTED THE HOOD AND A FIRE ERUPTED ON THE ENGINE. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO SUCCESSFULLY EXTINGUISH THE FIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO HAVE THE FAILURE DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 9,900.
2010-09-15

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2009-09-05
  • VIN: 1GBG5U1266F
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: FAN BLADE FAILURE ON A 2006 CHEVY KODIAK BASED JAYCO SENECA 34SS MOTORHOME. THE INCIDENT TOOK PLACE SEPTEMBER 5, 2009. I WAS ON A FREEWAY AT 65 AND STARTED DOWN A LONG HILL WITH THE EXHAUST BRAKE SWITCH ON. WHEN THE EXHAUST BRAKE KICKED IN INSTEAD OF DROPPING DOWN ONE GEAR AND HOLDING THE SPEED STEADY AS I AM USED TO THE TRANSMISSION WENT DOWN TWO GEARS AND THE RPMS INSTANTLY WENT STRAIGHT UP. I HAVE NO IDEA HOW HIGH THE RPMS WENT BECAUSE THAT IS WHEN THE FAN BLADE LET GO AND I WAS TOO BUSY LOOKING AT OTHER THINGS TO NOTICE. THE PIECES WENT STRAIGHT UP PUNCHING 3 HOLES IN THE SHROUD AND DENTING THE HOOD ENOUGH TO CRACK THE PAINT. NO PHOTOS OR PIECES OF EITHER THE FAN OR SHROUD ARE AVAILABLE. WITH HOSES, CABLES AND ELECTRICAL WIRES ALL AROUND THE FAN AREA I AM AMAZED THAT NONE OF THEM WERE DAMAGED AND NO BRAKING, STEERING OR OTHER ENGINE DAMAGE OCCURRED. THE FAN AND SHROUD WERE REPLACED AND THERE HAVE BEEN NO OTHER INCIDENTS. UPDATED IVOQ 09/20/10 *TR
2009-07-26

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2009-07-24
  • VIN: 1GBE5U1206F
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: REAR SPRINGS ON A 2006 GULFSTREAM MOTORHOME WITH A CHEVY C-5500 CHASSIS. REAR SITS LOW AND HAS POOR HANDLING. HAD AT TRUCK SHOP AND SAID SPRINGS ARE UNDERRATED. CALLED GULFSTREAM AND SAID IT'S NOT THEIR PROBLEM. TRUCK SHOP HAD MOTOR HOME WEIGHED AND WAS NOT OVER WEIGHT. RIG HAS 15000 LBS SPRINGS AND SHOULD HAVE 19000 INSTEAD. TALKED TO A JIM CREACH AT 1-800-289-8787 FROM GULFSTREAM. *TR
2007-03-14

SUSPENSION,FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2007-03-14
  • VIN: 1GBE5C1236F
  • Components: SUSPENSION,FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: TL*- THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 CHEVROLET C 5500 WITH A CURRENT ODOMETER READING OF 33700 MILES. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE HAD FRONT END PROBLEMS. WHEN DRIVING AT SPEEDS 50 MPH OF HIGHER THE VEHICLE VIBRATED AND BOUNCED. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER 4 TIMES , AND THE DEALER TOOK THE VEHICLE TO A COMMERCIAL TIRE COMPANY, BUT THAT DID NOT RESOLVE THE CAUSE OF THE PROBLEM. *AK THE CONSUMER STATED THE TIRES WERE ROTATED, INSTALLED CASTER SHIN LEFT AND RIGHT, REPLACED DRAG LINK, DRAG LINKED FAULTY, CUSTOMER REPLACED LEFT FRONT TIRE. CONSUMER STATED VEHICLE ALL OVER THE ROAD CANT KEEP STEADY. THE VEHICLE HAD A KNOCK WITH THE #8 AND #4 CYLINDER. THE DEALER REPLACED THE FUEL INJECTED. CUSTOMER STATES FUEL PUMP HAD LEAK AND THE ENGINE SHUT DOWN. DEALER REPLACED THE INJECTOR PUMP, PUMP GEAR AND PUMP BRACKET. CONSUMER STATES ENGINE LIGHT ON, DEALER REPLACED THE FUEL TANK SENDING UNIT. CONSUMER STATES LEAKING FUEL AT REAR OF ENGINE CAUSED HOSE ON TOP OF PUMP TO COME OFF. DEALER REPLACED CLAMP ON FUEL HOSE. CONSUMER STATES LOWER HEADLINER TO WATER TEST FOUND ALL CAB LIGHTS AND SEALS CRACKED. DEALER REPLACED 5 CAB LIGHTS. CONSUMER STATES RAIN COMING IN AT TOP CENTER BETWEEN SUNVISOR CAUSED LIGHTS TO CRACK. DEALER REPLACED EXTERIOR LENS. UPDATED 04/09*TR
2007-01-05

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2006-07-05
  • VIN: 1GBE5C12X6F
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: TL* - THE CONTACT WAS UNAWARE OF ANY DEFECTS NOR DID HE NOTICE THAT THE VEHICLE DID NOT HAVE ANY SHOCKS UNTIL ALL FOUR REAR TIRES STARTED TO WEAR. THE CONTACT STATED THE TIRES SHOULD NOT HAVE SHOWN SIGNS OF WEAR THE WAY THEY DID AT 31,000 MILES. HE TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER, AND WAS TOLD THAT THE VEHICLE DID NOT HAVE ANY REAR SHOCKS, AND THAT THEY DID NOT KNOW IF THE TRUCK SHOULD HAVE THE SHOCKS. *AK

2006 Chevrolet C5500 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2006 Chevrolet C5500.

2012-12-12
  • Manufacturer: Creative Bus Sales, Inc.
  • Components: EQUIPMENT
  • Summary: Creative Bus Sales, Inc is recalling certain model year 2006-2011 Chevrolet and GMC C5500, and Ford E450, and Econoline 350 vehicles equipped with Braun wheelchair lifts. Over time, or with frequent use, the roll stop latches on the outer barrier of the lifts may become bent or misaligned.
  • Consequence: A wheelchair occupant may defeat or ride over the insufficiently latched roll stop. If this occurs when the lift platform is in an elevated position, the wheelchair's occupant could fall and sustain injury.
  • Remedy: Braun is conducting this recall on behalf of Creative Bus Sales. Braun will notify owners, and dealers will repair the vehicles free of charge. The recall began on November 23, 2012. Owners may contact Creative Bus at 1-888-633-8380 or Braun at 1-800-488-0359.
2008-01-07
  • Manufacturer: INTERMOTIVE VEHICLE CONTROLS
  • Components: EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
  • Summary: CERTAIN INTERMOTIVE WHEELCHAIR LIFT INTERLOCK, P/NO. ILIS605-H3 ILIS ACTIVATION KIT (INTERLOCK OPTION FOR GATEWAY 401) SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET FOR 2005 - 2008 CHEVY 560 (C4500 AND C5500 KODIAK) 6.6L DIESEL VEHICLES WHICH A PROTECTION DIODE WAS USED. THE DIODE CAN BE EXPOSED TO VOLTAGE SPIKES GREATER THAN WHAT IT CAN WITHSTAND. THE DIODE COULD FAIL, WHICH COULD PREVENT VEHICLE INTERLOCK OPERATION WHEN A WHEELCHAIR LIFT IS DEPLOYED.
  • Consequence: SHOULD THE DIODE FAIL, IT WILL BE POSSIBLE TO MOVE THE VEHICLE WITH THE WHEELCHAIR DEPLOYED, WHICH COULD RESULT IN INJURY TO ANYONE USING THE LIFT.
  • Remedy: INTERMOTIVE WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPAIR THE VEHICLES FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 20, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT INTERMOTIVE TOLL-FREE AT 1-800-969-6080. THIS RECALL ONLY PERTAINS TO AFTERMARKET INTERMOTIVE WHEELCHAIR LIFTS AND HAS NO RELATION TO ANY ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT INSTALLED ON CHEVRLOT AND GMC VEHICLES MANUFACTURED BY GENERAL MOTORS.
2007-10-16
  • Manufacturer: LINK MANUFACTURING, LTD
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: CERTAIN LINK ULTRARIDE REAR AIR SUSPENSION SYSTEMS, MODEL 8M000070, SOLD FOR INSTALLATION AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT ON GM CHASSIS MODELS 4500 AND 5500, AMBULANCES AND SHUTTLE BUSES. THE AXLE SIDE LATERAL CONTROL BRACKET OF THE SUSPENSION HAS CRACKED IN SOME CASES.
  • Consequence: IF THE LATERAL CONTROL ROD BRACKET FRACTURES, THE HANDLING OF THE VEHICLE WILL BE ADVERSELY AFFECTED, INCLUDING POSSIBLE LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL.
  • Remedy: LINK WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND PROVIDE REPAIR KITS FREE OF CHARGE AND WILL REIMBURSE FOR LABOR AND INSPECTION COSTS. THE RECALL BEGAN JUNE 7, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT LINK TOLL-FREE AT 1-800-222-6283.
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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2006 Chevrolet C5500 problems:

Common Problems/Issues with c4500/c5500 | Diesel Place
Common Problems/Issues with c4500/c5500 | Diesel Place
https://www.dieselplace.com/threads/common-problems-issues-with-c4500-c5500.444384/

Jan 15, 2012 ... ok maybe a Freightliner Sportchassis LOL . 2007 Chevy Kodiak 4500 with 22.5s :D DECEMBER 2012 DIESEL PLACE TRUCK ...

Q&A: 2006 Chevrolet C5500 Duramax - Common Issues ...
Q&A: 2006 Chevrolet C5500 Duramax - Common Issues ...
https://www.justanswer.com/chevy/hq1a9-ive-2006-chevrolet-c5500-6-6-duramax-feels.html

Sep 17, 2021 ... From what I gather you might have two seperate problems linked to a lack of communication. The transmission is in “limp mode”. Limp mode means ...

What should I look for or avoid in a C4500/C5500? | Diesel Place
What should I look for or avoid in a C4500/C5500? | Diesel Place
https://www.dieselplace.com/threads/what-should-i-look-for-or-avoid-in-a-c4500-c5500.833745/

May 17, 2016 ... Common issues to look for in these trucks? Did these models come with a catalytic converter or other emissions? I would like to find a truck ...

Common Duramax AC Problems on Chevy C5500 | JustAnswer
Common Duramax AC Problems on Chevy C5500 | JustAnswer
https://www.justanswer.com/chevy/f6bjn-chevrolet-c5500-duramax-diesel-ac.html

Sep 27, 2020 ... Got a Chevrolet C5500 with a duramax diesel, and the AC compressor keeps coming on and kicking off. it has a full - Answered by a verified ...

Common Problems/Issues with c4500/c5500 | Page 2 | Diesel Place
Common Problems/Issues with c4500/c5500 | Page 2 | Diesel Place
https://www.dieselplace.com/threads/common-problems-issues-with-c4500-c5500.444384/page-2

2007 Chevy 4500, 4x4, Flat bed, All Stock but not for long :HiHi: HID's!!!

Other years of Chevrolet C5500

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C5500 2007
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C5500 2008
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C5500 2003
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C5500 2004
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chevrolet c5500 2006 photo
C5500 2006
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