Hummer H3 problems
The Hummer H3 is an off-road vehicle that was produced from 2005 to 2010 by General Motors. The smallest model of the Hummer lineup, it was offered as a 5-door SUV or a 4-door pickup truck known as the H3T. Unlike the larger H1 and H2 models, the H3 was not developed by AM General. It was introduced for the 2006 model year, based on a modified GMT355 that underpinned the Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon compact pickup trucks that were also built at GM's Shreveport Operations in Shreveport, Louisiana and the Port Elizabeth plant in South Africa. While mechanically related to the Colorado and Canyon, GM claims they share only 10% of their components, with the chassis modified and reinforced for heavy off-road duties.
Powertrains
The H3 was launched with a 3.5 liter straight-5 cylinder L52 engine that produced 220 hp (160 kW) and 225 lbf⋅ft (305 N⋅m) of torque and was mated to a standard five-speed Aisin AR5 manual transmission or an optional Hydra-Matic 4L60-E four-speed automatic transmission. In 2007 this engine was replaced by the 3.7 liter LLR that produced 242 hp (180 kW) and 242 lbf⋅ft (328 N⋅m) of torque, figures that were revised in 2009 to 239 hp (178 kW) and 241 lbf⋅ft (327 N⋅m). Under revised EPA testing standards when equipped with either transmission this straight-5 engine achieved 14 mpg‑US (17 L/100 km) in the city and 18 mpg‑US (13 L/100 km) on the highway with a combined average of 15 mpg‑US (16 L/100 km).
Available solely with the 4L60-E automatic transmission, a 5.3 liter LH8 V8 engine producing 300 hp (224 kW) and 320 lbf⋅ft (434 N⋅m) of torque was added in 2008 for the Alpha model. The V8 version had lower fuel economy, estimated at 13 mpg‑US (18 L/100 km) in the city, 16 mpg‑US (15 L/100 km) on the highway, with a combined average of 14 mpg‑US (17 L/100 km).
In 2007, a H3X edition was added. It included the luxury package, 18-inch chrome wheels with unique center caps, chrome trim, chrome tube steps, a body-colored grille and a hard tire cover. The H3X also came with exclusive colors of Sonoma Red Metallic or Desert Orange Metallic.
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Hummer H3 model years
Common Hummer H3 problems
Based on the information from the sources provided, here are the common problems with the Hummer H3 cars based on complaints from owners:
- Electrical Problems:
- The Passlock system in the 2006 Hummer H3 caused intermittent starting issues, where the engine would not start for at least ten minutes due to the anti-theft system malfunctioning. This system would activate randomly, leading to engine shutdowns.
- Paint Complaints:
- Water leaks into the cabin causing a foul smell and even sickness for some owners. Water damage inside the vehicle was a significant issue, affecting the interior and causing discomfort for drivers and passengers.
These problems highlight some of the key issues faced by owners of the Hummer H3 cars, ranging from engine troubles to electrical malfunctions and paint-related complaints. Addressing these issues promptly and with the help of skilled auto repair professionals is crucial to maintaining the performance and condition of the Hummer H3.
What years to avoid on Hummer H3?
According to some car complaints, the 2006 H3 was the worst version year in Hummer's 12-year professional life. In this blog, we will discuss some 2006 Hummer H3 owner complaints.
What problems do the Hummer H3 have?
Leaking Valves
Many owners have complained that the valves in their H3's cylinder head started leaking at about 87, 750 miles. Some reported that their engine started to misfire multiple times. Several 2006 Hummer H3 drivers found out that their SUV was burning oil when they brought it to a repair shop.
Do Hummer H3 have transmission problems?
One of the most common Hummer H3 transmission problems is the complete failure of 3rd and/or 4th gear. This happens because one or more of the metal clutch discs inside the 4L60E 3-4 clutch pack can fail prematurely and prevent the transmission from engaging those gears.
What is the life expectancy of a Hummer H3?
300,000 to 500,000 miles
How long does a Hummer H3 engine last? If it is properly maintained, a Hummer will typically last 300,000 to 500,000 miles.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Hummer H3 years
We have researched Hummer problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Hummer H3 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Hummer H3 model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Hummer H3 model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Hummer H3 years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Hummer H3 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Hummer H3 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Electrical system problems
- Engine problems
- Visibility problems
- Structure problems
- Visibility/wiper problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Hummer H3 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by H3 model years
A total of 27 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by H3 model years
There were a total of 56 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by H3 model years
There were a total of 37 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by H3 model years
There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 785 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Hummer H3 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Hummer H3 vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Hummer H3 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-27
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-27
- VIN: 5GTDN136968
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Was heading home from work and the 2006 Hummer H3 shut off while traveling in the middle of traffic was able to cruise in Nuetral until I could stop to start car again started car and yet again I receive a cylinder misfire code which has been repaired on multiple attempts still no success. I am going to end up either crashing or an emergency vehichle will be trying to get by and I can't move because the motor shut down.
Hummer H3 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-23
- VIN: 5GTDN136968
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Sunroof leaking creating water to leak into the driver seat, passenger seat, speakers on the door. Water trickling down from the Onstar system while parked and in motion this is a safety hazard. The only resolution that is given from GM is to blow out the hose to the sunroof, that’s not helping this issue is creating mole into the vehicle and once again it’s hazardous when driving As the water raining inside as well as outside of the vehicle. please help not seeing any recalls for this Manufacturing defect.
Hummer H3 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-22
- VIN: 5GTDN136968
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Engine has very bad rough idle after multiple attempts to repair will get a misfire code often that goes on and comes off engine has rough idle to the point where truck shuts off completely while waiting at traffic light. My safety is at risk as this could happen during driving causing a wreck or during a light change when the emergency vehicles need me to move over and my truck don't run. Vehicle was inspected by multiple mechanic and still has issues. Check engine light comes on at time of motor failure or when rough idle.
Hummer H3 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-29
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-29
- VIN: 5GTEN13E288
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: The last dealership I went to they advised to come th the dealership but when I got there nobody wasn’t trying to work there instead the said that it was going to be hard to work on it cause nobody work on those cars anymore and then they said they were going to order the part but never call me back for it. Call them but gave me the runaround basically.
Hummer H3 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-02
- VIN: 5GTMNLEPXA8
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: My transfer case established a large fluid leak so I inspected it, the findings was a large hole in the main housing on the transfer case fluid was leaking out. The transfer case was removed and disassembled, and found that the 2 screws that hold the chain guide to the housing had backed out or fell out and let the chain guide fall down in to the gear mechanism and ground it up and broke the main case. In result was the quarter size hole in the housing of the transfer case allowing liquid to escape and damage the housing. Leaving me without a vehicle.
Hummer H3 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-29
- Date Complaint: 2024-02-04
- VIN: 5GTEN13E888
- Components: STRUCTURE,WHEELS,ENGINE
- Summary: Engine was replaced at 163,000 miles now at 168,000 miles the frame is rusted beyond repair and is about to give at any moment nothing really left near rear axels. This could have definitely caused a horrible accident to myself or others having a big car just give way and collapse. Took it to mechanic who warned me first then next day took it to body shop that said nothing could be done. Basically both said get rid of it for parts as fast as you can and don’t look back. After the body shop guy actually showed me the rusted out areas i was scared to even drive it like the 10miles back to my house. It sucks after spending all that money on an engine and now having this issue and now having to buy a new car.
Hummer H3 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-01-31
- VIN: 5GTDN13E978
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: The problem was unknown to me and probably would be to any vehicle owner that is not a mechanic. I was driving a death trap and didn't know how easily it could have been a serious problem. The driver side leaf spring bracket had completely broke apart from the frame on the upper drive side corner in an area that without getting underneath the vehicle with a flashlight and specifically looking for would be impossible to see. The only reason I know about it now is because I took it for an inspection and it failed due to this structural defect which the technician informed me was a very common issue with the 2007 H3 vehicles. He said that if I had been on a highway at 65/70 mph and this thing broke completely free the axle would swing out behind the vehicle on the drive side and cause an uncontrollable crash that could lead to severe injury and possibly death
Hummer H3 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-01-17
- VIN: 5GTEN43E988
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: exhaust leaking in cab of the car .Exhaust bolts broke or manifold cracked problem i heard about on line .on a long trip could make you passout with the fumes .please check it out .on most inline 5 cyclinder engines GM makes .Thank you [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Hummer H3 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-22
- Date Complaint: 2023-11-22
- VIN: 5GTDN136468
- Components: POWER TRAIN,WHEELS,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Frame Rust Entire frame needs replaced
Hummer H3 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-05
- Date Complaint: 2023-09-07
- VIN: 5GTDN136668
- Components: VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2006 Hummer H3. The contact stated while driving 75 MPH, the hood louver detached from the vehicle and cracked the front windshield. The contact stated that the crack obstructed his vision while driving. The contact called the dealer and was informed that the vehicle was previously repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 10V179000 (Structure). The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 193,000.
Hummer H3 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-10
- Date Complaint: 2023-07-02
- VIN: 5GTDN136568
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: Complete rust through of frame of my 2006 HUMMER H3.
Hummer H3 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-20
- Date Complaint: 2023-06-23
- VIN: 5GTDN136368
- Components: SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I was driving the vehicle at a normal rate of speed and stopped at a traffic light getting ready to change. I applied the brakes and when doing so, I heard some horrible noises and felt certain that parts had fallen out of the car. I knew something was immediately seriously wrong. I put the car in park (but it was effort and a grinding noise to put it in park) and stepped out to look under the car. No parts were on the ground, but something was leaking out of the bottom of the car. I got back in and put the car in drive to move it from the roadway knowing I was going to need assistance to tow it somewhere. It grinded trying to put it in any gear and only "revved" the engine when I tried to apply gas to drive it. There was absolutely no warning. The tow driver immediately noticed the drive shaft was disconnected and that was the leaking and thus going nowhere. My mechanic said that both leaf springs snapped off and that caused the drive shaft to sever, hitting the gas tank (or strap) and some other things. My concern is that there is a recall on leaf springs for every year Hummer H3 except mine as well as 1995-2015 Chevrolet, GMC, and Hummer leaf springs. I'm having a very difficult time with how both of mine snapped with no warning tearing all of these components out and it is not involved in the recall. It is the same parts on all of these. Also, my vehicle has spent the majority of its life garaged, never driven in the snow or rain, as I have babied this car. I have a car wash membership too and constantly keep this car meticulous. Hummer said that enough people need to complain, but I would not even have thought to complain had BOTH not snapped off simultaneously finding the recall for all other years while researching the cost. Had only 1 broke, I wouldn't have given it any thought. And Hummer said that they wouldn't even talk to me unless my car was at a GM dealership. This should be included in the recall. This is not pure coincidence. They need to fix it.
Hummer H3 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-22
- Date Complaint: 2023-06-22
- VIN: 5GTDN13E178
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Louver hood vent cover flew off on the highway as I was driving.
Hummer H3 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-16
- Date Complaint: 2023-06-16
- VIN: 5GNEN13L898
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: I was having the truck inspected per state yearly requirements and when the shop lifted the truck, the bed bent backward. The frame was rusted out on both sides.
Hummer H3 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-01
- Date Complaint: 2023-05-08
- VIN: 5GTDN136968
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: Frame rot all the way thru from front to back. I am able to poke holes in spots all around it.
Latest 5 recalls Hummer H3
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 12 recalls for different components of the Hummer H3.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Hummer H3 2006
- Report Received Date: 2015-07-01
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:FAN/MOTOR
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2006-2010 Hummer H3 vehicles manufactured February 5, 2005, to May 24, 2010, and 2009-2010 Hummer H3T vehicles manufactured May 21, 2008, to May 24, 2010. In the affected vehicles, the connector module that controls the blower motor speed for the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system may overheat.
- Consequence: If the blower motor connector module overheats, it can increase the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace part of the blower motor connector and harness, free of charge. The recall began February 26, 2016. Owners may contact Hummer customer service at 1-800-732-5493. GM's number for this recall is 15042.
- Model: Hummer H3 2007
- Report Received Date: 2015-07-01
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:FAN/MOTOR
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2006-2010 Hummer H3 vehicles manufactured February 5, 2005, to May 24, 2010, and 2009-2010 Hummer H3T vehicles manufactured May 21, 2008, to May 24, 2010. In the affected vehicles, the connector module that controls the blower motor speed for the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system may overheat.
- Consequence: If the blower motor connector module overheats, it can increase the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace part of the blower motor connector and harness, free of charge. The recall began February 26, 2016. Owners may contact Hummer customer service at 1-800-732-5493. GM's number for this recall is 15042.
- Model: Hummer H3 2010
- Report Received Date: 2015-07-01
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:FAN/MOTOR
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2006-2010 Hummer H3 vehicles manufactured February 5, 2005, to May 24, 2010, and 2009-2010 Hummer H3T vehicles manufactured May 21, 2008, to May 24, 2010. In the affected vehicles, the connector module that controls the blower motor speed for the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system may overheat.
- Consequence: If the blower motor connector module overheats, it can increase the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace part of the blower motor connector and harness, free of charge. The recall began February 26, 2016. Owners may contact Hummer customer service at 1-800-732-5493. GM's number for this recall is 15042.
- Model: Hummer H3 2008
- Report Received Date: 2015-07-01
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:FAN/MOTOR
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2006-2010 Hummer H3 vehicles manufactured February 5, 2005, to May 24, 2010, and 2009-2010 Hummer H3T vehicles manufactured May 21, 2008, to May 24, 2010. In the affected vehicles, the connector module that controls the blower motor speed for the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system may overheat.
- Consequence: If the blower motor connector module overheats, it can increase the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace part of the blower motor connector and harness, free of charge. The recall began February 26, 2016. Owners may contact Hummer customer service at 1-800-732-5493. GM's number for this recall is 15042.
- Model: Hummer H3 2009
- Report Received Date: 2015-07-01
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:FAN/MOTOR
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2006-2010 Hummer H3 vehicles manufactured February 5, 2005, to May 24, 2010, and 2009-2010 Hummer H3T vehicles manufactured May 21, 2008, to May 24, 2010. In the affected vehicles, the connector module that controls the blower motor speed for the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system may overheat.
- Consequence: If the blower motor connector module overheats, it can increase the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace part of the blower motor connector and harness, free of charge. The recall began February 26, 2016. Owners may contact Hummer customer service at 1-800-732-5493. GM's number for this recall is 15042.
Latest negative Hummer H3 car reviews
Latest positive Hummer H3 car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2008
This is such a fun vehicle to own! It handles and runs great. Also, as someone who is over 6 feet tall, I have plenty of room to spare.
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Vehicle year: 2008
Loved my 06 H3 Adventure Package and couldn't pass up to opportunity to move up to a 2008. The improved engine and tranny combo have greatly improved the in town driving experience. I've owned Vettes, a Porsche, muscle cars, an Audi, a Lotus among others and the Hummer is more fun than all of them. Even competes with my GTI as a fun to drive vehicle. GM should keep making Hummers.
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Vehicle year: 2008
Pretty happy so far! It's a bit too early to comment on some things, but I bought and drove back 250 miles home and it was more than pleasant on the highway. The ride was smooth and the Monsoon sound system was fabulous, making it a pleasure to drive home. This will be my wife's car to drive my 2-year-old around, so when mamma is happy, everyone is happy. Sorry enthusiasts, this H3 won't see any more mud than what a local pothole can hold.
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Vehicle year: 2006
Congratulations on your new 2006 H3! It sounds like you're having a blast driving it. The interior is plush and it has all the bells and whistles you could want. The driving is smooth and the engine is peppy, with great brakes. The large side mirrors provide great visibility. It's perfect for around town comfort and has seating for five. As an offroad enthusiast, you'll love all the Hummer qualities it has to offer. We think it's a must-have! If you're interested, we highly recommend taking one out for a test drive to see for yourself. Thank you for sharing your positive experience with us!
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Vehicle year: 2006
I purchased my Hummer H3 after researching various other models in the market, including the FJ. As a mother and someone who has been in a serious car accident before, safety was my top priority. However, I have experienced some issues with my vehicle, such as water getting into the headlight lens even when not off-roading, and a clanking noise in 4 low and 4 high locks after replacing drive seals. Despite replacing the fuel cap, the check engine light remains on. I have also been unsuccessful in finding brighter headlights. Unfortunately, the dealership in my area has not been very helpful, but I am still trying to resolve these issues with the help of Hummer Corp. Despite these challenges, my boys love the car and it is a great vehicle when it is not in the shop.
Are you having problems with your Hummer H3?
Norbert Armstrong 2024-11-25
Vehicle year: 2006
The truck has had some issues. We previously owned a Trailblazer which also had some problems, so we decided to lease an H3 due to Hummer's reputation. Unfortunately, we have had to replace all 5 cylinders and work on the tire pressure monitor. Additionally, we have experienced some trouble with starting the vehicle and the heating and air conditioning system. Despite these setbacks, we still appreciate the unique features of the Hummer. It's disappointing that GM did not put more effort into making it a truly exceptional vehicle.
Jamel Bailey 2024-09-26
Vehicle year: 2006
Two things stood out to me: the lack of power and poor quality control. The Black H3 I drove couldn't get out of its own way and had heavy orange peel all over the body. It looked like the whole vehicle was painted with a roller, similar to what anti-chip coating looks like when applied to lower body panels. Unfortunately, all of the in-stock units had the same problem. Despite this, the dealer didn't seem to acknowledge the issue. Additionally, the versions I looked at had misaligned body and interior panels, reminding me of a Cavalier. It's a shame that such a promising vehicle on paper was executed so poorly. Before making a decision, I would recommend taking a closer look.
Clifford Heaney 2024-09-13
Vehicle year: 2006
The 5-cylinder engine may feel underpowered, especially when passing due to the vehicle's weight of 4700 lbs, which is almost as much as a 2WD Nissan Titan truck. The interior design could use some more personality, and unfortunately, there is no option to shift between 2 and 4WD. The vehicle may feel top-heavy while cornering, but it could still serve as a reliable grocery getter. Don't forget about the Jeep Liberty!
Chester Nolan 2024-09-02
Vehicle year: 2006
I had a really frustrating experience with my Hummer. Unfortunately, it had a lot of electrical problems, from traction control sensors to interior lights illuminating when the brakes were applied. The truck has been towed in to the dealership 5 times because it fails to start. It's been in the shop over 22 days and the dealer can't determine what causes the problem. Even worse, it was in the shop during the first significant snowfall here in NJ. I'm currently in the process of filing for relief under NJ Lemon Law. Overall, I wouldn't recommend this vehicle to anyone, not even my worst enemy.
Quinten Flatley 2024-08-08
Vehicle year: 2006
I recently test drove the H3 and unfortunately found it to be underpowered. As someone who prefers V8 engines, I feel that a truck as heavy as this requires more than a 5 cylinder engine with horsepower and torque in the low 200s. However, I would definitely consider purchasing the vehicle once a more powerful engine is available.