All,
I had the truck at the dealer for a free oil change, check engine light and a odd driveline vibration starting at 1500rpm on up.

Well when they called me they told me I needed a software update for $100. Does anyone know what this update is? They told me that it was recommended and I should get it. What is this update and what does it do for me? The check engine light was for low voltage to the grid heater (second time I have had this problem).

They also told me that I have a bad serpentine belt and I should replace it asap for $125. How hard is it to change the belt and why is it bad after only 44k?

The driveline vibration was a bad u-joint from the “transmission to rear axel” per the invoice. They changed it out for the $100 deductible. Does any one know why a U-Joint would go bad after only 44k?

Any advice or input would be greatly appreciated. I really don’t like the idea of having bad belts and U-joints on such a young truck.

Thanks in advance,
John

 

Do searh under "belt shredding". Many of us with 04.5s and early 05s had our belts shred VERY early (mine went at only 5400 miles). Most of us just had new belts put on - no reason given. However, I would ask him to perform the "belt chirp" TSB (tell him you don't like it!!), where they will put on overrun pulley on the alternator, which will reduce stress on the belt at shutdown, lengthening its life.

 

My front axle u-joints toasted at 42k. The stock joints in these trucks seem terrible. My 1/2 ton 2nd gen did about the same. Throw a good Spicer or Precision greaseable in it and they will last a very long time.

 

I guess I should note I haven't toasted a rear joint yet, but it's not unheard of...

 

Be careful the 'UPDATE' Is NOT the E-17...tell them you DO NOT WANT IT ,if it is if your backing up and open the door to see your horn starts blowing

 

So no one has a clue about what this software upgrade is? ??

I was hoping that some one could shead some light on this issue.

 

sorry, don't know about the software but I can tell you I had to replace both my rear driveline u-joints at about 86k miles. Although, it only cost me $55.00 for both greasable spicer joints installed. I removed the driveshaft (4 bolts) and took it to a driveshaft shop. I have 94k miles on my 2003 now and still running the original serp belt. It seems to be in pretty good condition also.

Chris

 

I had my serpentine belt on my 04.5 go out at 35,000 at 12.30 at night I was mad. I replaced it with a belt from advance for 65.00 and bought a second one off ebay delivered for 25.00.