Considering a new ZR2 with 6.2 V8

[AXE]

hey gloomy Gus

I'll tell you what makes me gloomy, my shitty infotainment system cutting out every 30 seconds. I'm heading back to the dealer for round 4. That system is a total POS. I've had 3 updates and none of them work for more than a short while, if at all.

Now another dealer telling me I have to pay to fix my shitty trailer brake/ connection on my 2500HD their simulator says there isn't a problem. I guess $95k doesn't cover warranty. What a POS electric/ software program these dickheads run.

 

[ZR2NYC]

Magnaflow all the way!

my man!!!!!

 

[ZR2NYC]

I'll tell you what makes me gloomy, my shitty infotainment system cutting out every 30 seconds. I'm heading back to the dealer for round 4. That system is a total POS. I've had 3 updates and none of them work for more than a short while, if at all.

Now another dealer telling me I have to pay to fix my shitty trailer brake/ connection on my 2500HD their simulator says there isn't a problem. I guess $95k doesn't cover warranty. What a POS electric/ software program these dickheads run.

that blows bro.

 

[XkenX]

I'll tell you what makes me gloomy, my shitty infotainment system cutting out every 30 seconds. I'm heading back to the dealer for round 4. That system is a total POS. I've had 3 updates and none of them work for more than a short while, if at all.

Now another dealer telling me I have to pay to fix my shitty trailer brake/ connection on my 2500HD their simulator says there isn't a problem. I guess $95k doesn't cover warranty. What a POS electric/ software program these dickheads run.

Some lemon electronic shit there. Spark gremlins are a real pisser. Then they want to charge you On the bright side my dealer forgot to top off my Def tank at oil change time. I gave them a friendly call. Customer mixup. So they drove over and dropped 2 x 2.5 gallon new def containers at my front door.

 

[MO_ZR2]

My advice to the OP would be continue doing research and filter out the emotion, go in with eyes wide open, and have fun with whatever decision.

I’ve personally owned a 22 zr2 with the 6.2 v8 and a 24 zr2 with the 3.0 duramax. I traded the 22 with 12k miles and have 10k miles on the 24. I’ll do my best here to give you honest thoughts overall. In short, both were very solid trucks and I had no problems outside of very few cosmetic issues.

I love the zr2 as much for what it IS and ISN’T. Meaning, it’s a tremendous truck for the things I want to use it for - daily driving, off road on hunting trips while hauling bird dogs and gear, on the farm doing general tasks, family rig, camping, hiking, climbing, etc. I didn’t want a wider platform like the Raptor as trails in the Midwest and mountains, where I find myself, can get tight. I personally didn’t need or want a supercharged v8…hella fun but just too hard to justify. I don’t pull anything with it, have HDs for all hauling needs. There are better half tons if you plan to push max weights towing very often.

So, putting hella fun and bad a$$ aside, I settled on the zr2 that met my actual needs in a truck that’s super capable in those areas. I’ve been extremely happy to date. I personally like the looks, probably wouldn’t be here if ya didn’t.

Both had some cosmetic issues - infotainment isn’t polished yet, they both cut out randomly, had to reboot them occasionally, etc. I like the system in general, cameras are stellar, etc but hoping they get it fine tuned sooner vs later. It’s just a bit annoying at times.

The 24 gallon fuel tank is pretty small by today’s standards vs the competition. The range per tank was ultimately why I traded (and tax reasons). I don’t think I save any money between gas and diesel even with the better mileage but the range is great for me.

I had paint chipping on the 22, dealer warrantied it and got the faux hood scoop / hood repainted. So far so good on the 24 paint wise.

The motors…and here is where folks can get emotional and even butt hurt. I had zero issues or complaints with the 6.2. I knew about the lifter problems going in (and I don’t care how emotional and butt hurt guys want to get here, there is a risk, even if it’s small…GM is replacing motors as they’ve openly stated. It’s not high numbers but it’s a reality, guys on the forum have drawn the short straw…period. So to my point earlier, just be aware and make a decision that works for you…I did and didn’t regret it as have many others.) I wanted an American v8 one last time and I enjoyed the snot out of it. It’s fun, if you have fun it’s gas happy, but the smiles per gallon are worth it. As for the “problematic duramax” per our local anti diesel member, you have to deal with emissions. And sensors go bad, they can plug DPF with short trips and idling (as with all modern diesels), the oil pump belt service interval of 200k, etc, etc…go back to my eyes wide open comment, get what ya want…I am not going to point at something else to justify why my decision is better…again make your decision and let opinions be worth what they cost.

Just get what you want based on what meets your needs and wants. The overall zr2 platform has been a damn fine option for me and my needs - both gas and diesel.

 

[OhThatGuyTX]

My advice to the OP would be continue doing research and filter out the emotion, go in with eyes wide open, and have fun with whatever decision.

I’ve personally owned a 22 zr2 with the 6.2 v8 and a 24 zr2 with the 3.0 duramax. I traded the 22 with 12k miles and have 10k miles on the 24. I’ll do my best here to give you honest thoughts overall. In short, both were very solid trucks and I had no problems outside of very few cosmetic issues.

I love the zr2 as much for what it IS and ISN’T. Meaning, it’s a tremendous truck for the things I want to use it for - daily driving, off road on hunting trips while hauling bird dogs and gear, on the farm doing general tasks, family rig, camping, hiking, climbing, etc. I didn’t want a wider platform like the Raptor as trails in the Midwest and mountains, where I find myself, can get tight. I personally didn’t need or want a supercharged v8…hella fun but just too hard to justify. I don’t pull anything with it, have HDs for all hauling needs. There are better half tons if you plan to push max weights towing very often.

So, putting hella fun and bad a$$ aside, I settled on the zr2 that met my actual needs in a truck that’s super capable in those areas. I’ve been extremely happy to date. I personally like the looks, probably wouldn’t be here if ya didn’t.

Both had some cosmetic issues - infotainment isn’t polished yet, they both cut out randomly, had to reboot them occasionally, etc. I like the system in general, cameras are stellar, etc but hoping they get it fine tuned sooner vs later. It’s just a bit annoying at times.

The 24 gallon fuel tank is pretty small by today’s standards vs the competition. The range per tank was ultimately why I traded (and tax reasons). I don’t think I save any money between gas and diesel even with the better mileage but the range is great for me.

I had paint chipping on the 22, dealer warrantied it and got the faux hood scoop / hood repainted. So far so good on the 24 paint wise.

The motors…and here is where folks can get emotional and even butt hurt. I had zero issues or complaints with the 6.2. I knew about the lifter problems going in (and I don’t care how emotional and butt hurt guys want to get here, there is a risk, even if it’s small…GM is replacing motors as they’ve openly stated. It’s not high numbers but it’s a reality, guys on the forum have drawn the short straw…period. So to my point earlier, just be aware and make a decision that works for you…I did and didn’t regret it as have many others.) I wanted an American v8 one last time and I enjoyed the snot out of it. It’s fun, if you have fun it’s gas happy, but the smiles per gallon are worth it. As for the “problematic duramax” per our local anti diesel member, you have to deal with emissions. And sensors go bad, they can plug DPF with short trips and idling (as with all modern diesels), the oil pump belt service interval of 200k, etc, etc…go back to my eyes wide open comment, get what ya want…I am not going to point at something else to justify why my decision is better…again make your decision and let opinions be worth what they cost.

Just get what you want based on what meets your needs and wants. The overall zr2 platform has been a damn fine option for me and my needs - both gas and diesel.

I appreciate the depth of your post. I'm just trying to make the most informed decision I can before I commit to a purchase. This post (like so many others) has been so valuable and helpful. It's always good to hear from people that have been/are owners. Thanks man!

 

[ZR2BIZON]

We will be monitoring the RAM Forum

 

[‘24 AZ ZR2 Bison]

I'll tell you what makes me gloomy, my shitty infotainment system cutting out every 30 seconds. I'm heading back to the dealer for round 4. That system is a total POS. I've had 3 updates and none of them work for more than a short while, if at all.

Now another dealer telling me I have to pay to fix my shitty trailer brake/ connection on my 2500HD their simulator says there isn't a problem. I guess $95k doesn't cover warranty. What a POS electric/ software program these dickheads run.

That sucks about yours cutting out all the time. That definitely shouldn’t be happening. Something is wrong and GM needs to remedy it. What year is your truck? Just to give you another users experience to help you with either the service dept and/or GM: Mine is a ‘24 with 6k miles. Purchased in May this year. Haven’t had any cutting out issues. About the only issue I’ve experienced is that damn built-in Google Nav gitching out and freezing up from because of loss of satellite connection. Other than that, the infotainment system has been . Good luck and I hope they replace the unit.

 

[MNNJR69]

Howdy y'all! Former Ram 1500 owner (which I loved!) looking into buying a new Silverado ZR2 with the 6.2. Love the truck overall (not a big fan of the Bose stereo. C'mon Chevy, do better!). Hoping to get some experienced thoughts on the truck and engine overall before I make a move. Thanks!

Absolutely love my 22 6.2!
It has had its issues, but not like Ford or Ram. All the main issues I've had have been electronic. (Radio, cameras) Got a new infotainment center and got it squared away.
Had a catalytic change already, but I think it was from putting octane booster that wasn't unleaded friendly in and it fried the sensors. (Didn't tell the dealership that though)
I only use VP Racing Madditive unleaded octane booster now and I use it every tank and haven't had an issue since. Definitely have to use premium fuel!! The 6.2 is a beast on power ( just stomped a Mustang Gt last night by 3 or 4 car lengths)and milage varies as do driving styles. I've gotten low to mid 20's on long trips and average about 10 in the city.

A lot of complaints about the tire size, but I've had zero issues going where I've wanted. A few scrubs in the plates, but that's what they are there for. Anything above 35s then you have to worry about changing gearing and cutting to fit , ect ect. Bumper Mods are coming, but slower that I thought. I really want a winch setup, but got a Hi-lift jack with winch line, straps and a snatch block for a manual powered setup for the meanwhile.

I bought mine off TrueCar, so it was a no haggle purchase. If you go that route, you'll have to work with the TrueCar representative ONLY from the dealership you find. (Nationwide = Road trip) Bought mine from a dealership in California about 300 miles from Vegas. All the other salesmen don't know anything about the TrueCar platform and will try and get their two cents worth and tell you some B.S. TrueCar sells for the price listed, not a penny more!

Change the break-in oil early, within the 1st 1k and every 2k after that. I use fully synthetic with fully synthetic Lucas oil stabilizer every change! Swear by it! Purrs like a lion, at 21k so far. Rotate the tires frequently, change out your filters and the 6.2 will treat you right!

The front locker has saved my butt more than once! It'll go where no RAM will ! Drives like a tank, all locked up in 4LO!

The multimatic suspension is fantastic, but you'll definitely feel the leaf springs without a load, but they are great for the extra weight of hauling and towing. Towing is a little spongy from what I've heard, but I don't tow much. I use a tow hitch storage rack and can feel the difference when loaded down for camping trips, but it's nothing to complain about IMHO. I also have an overland rack and a Decked system which adds a little weight as well, but it carries it very nice!

I bought mine for mixed use. Work, daily, camping , rock crawling and trails rides. Works for all scenarios!

I paid cash for mine so I'm in it for the long haul. I did about 6 to 8 months research before I purchased and in hind sight, I would definitely buy it again! Go drive one and that will help you decide. Like all the fellas here say, shop around to get a good deal! This forum has priceless amounts of info on the ZR2!

Hope you get what you like and welcome!

 

[DaniGirl]

Howdy y'all! Former Ram 1500 owner (which I loved!) looking into buying a new Silverado ZR2 with the 6.2. Love the truck overall (not a big fan of the Bose stereo. C'mon Chevy, do better!). Hoping to get some experienced thoughts on the truck and engine overall before I make a move. Thanks!

I love my truck. It handles off road really well. Great power with the 6.2. I was looking at the AT4X previously but I'm very happy I went Chevy instead. If you are going to test drive, see if they can't find you a spot you can at least feel the suspension!

 

[Sand_duner]

Magnaflow all the way!

Love my Magnaflow

 

[stroller]

Howdy y'all! Former Ram 1500 owner (which I loved!) looking into buying a new Silverado ZR2 with the 6.2. Love the truck overall (not a big fan of the Bose stereo. C'mon Chevy, do better!). Hoping to get some experienced thoughts on the truck and engine overall before I make a move. Thanks!

Well howdy, I’m in Australia, I had an LTZ Z71, loved the truck, moved up to a ZR2 and it blew up the motor, 11 months old, 33,000 ks on it. Threw a rod. Towing 2800 kgs up a decent hill. Bang, game over. Height of totally unimpressed. Bought a 2500 HD 6.6 Diesel 10 speed. All good so far. These things are expensive down here.

 

[XkenX]

Well howdy, I’m in Australia, I had an LTZ Z71, loved the truck, moved up to a ZR2 and it blew up the motor, 11 months old, 33,000 ks on it. Threw a rod. Towing 2800 kgs up a decent hill. Bang, game over. Height of totally unimpressed. Bought a 2500 HD 6.6 Diesel 10 speed. All good so far. These things are expensive down here.

Did they fix your old truck under warranty? I really like my ZR2 hd. Congratulations.

 

[44sixpack]

We will be monitoring the RAM Forum

For what? the V8 is gone for 2025. game over . it's GM or ford if you like their baby V8 in a couple trim levels.

 

[DNZR2]

For what? the V8 is gone for 2025. game over . it's GM or ford if you like their baby V8 in a couple trim

I just read this week that Stellantis is bringing back the hemi fwiw.

 

[44sixpack]

I doubt it. unless the Hurricane engines are a flop they're in too deep to turn back now, they've already retooled and quit the 6.2 and 5.7. the 6.4 remains in the 2500

Ford dealer in town says they're being told the f150 won't have and V8 offerings by 2026.

 

[Keewatin427]

Be ready for a lot of cops to love your truck and to let you off with a warning.

 

[securityguy]

I doubt it. unless the Hurricane engines are a flop they're in too deep to turn back now, they've already retooled and quit the 6.2 and 5.7. the 6.4 remains in the 2500

Ford dealer in town says they're being told the f150 won't have and V8 offerings by 2026.

The Hurricane's been out for 2-3 years now and no issues that I've heard of or read about. As a past 2019 and 2021 RAM Limited 4X4 owner, I would have zero hesitation buying a RAM with the HO I-6.

Not surprised to hear about Ford eliminating their Coyote V8 and if GM does the same in the next few years based on governmental pressures.

 

[Dragon]

I doubt it. unless the Hurricane engines are a flop they're in too deep to turn back now, they've already retooled and quit the 6.2 and 5.7. the 6.4 remains in the 2500

Ford dealer in town says they're being told the f150 won't have and V8 offerings by 2026.

That is interesting.
Will definitely cause an uproar with Ford Loyalists....but they profit off the ecoboosts anyway so I doubt sales will go down that much...
That said, I will NOT buy one.

 

[Dragon]

The Hurricane's been out for 2-3 years now and no issues that I've heard of or read about. As a past 2019 and 2021 RAM Limited 4X4 owner, I would have zero hesitation buying a RAM with the HO I-6.

Not surprised to hear about Ford eliminating their Coyote V8 and if GM does the same in the next few years based on governmental pressures.

I doubt GMC/Chevrolet will eliminate V8s...they have made money for YEARS from Small Block engines.... and these are VERY important to them unlike Ford or even Toyota.
Probably the V8s will be around as hybrids.....