I can only give you an unqualified opinion since I don't live in Alaska, but here in Western New York State it gets pretty cold in the winter, too. Not as cold as up there, but cold enough.
In an average winter here the light-duty diesel pick-ups start well. However, in my experience when the temperatures dip quite low they are not as good a starter as a gas engine. Diesel fuel is more susceptible to temperature changes and quality differences making them, in my opinion, slightly more troubleprone in colder weather.
I don't think that a diesel engine is more tolerant of long idle periods anymore than a gas engine. I've seen a lot of police engines running quite fine after a 100,000 miles, and they are notorious idlers. The advantage a diesel has, though, is better economy at idle.
The problems with Dodge transmissions is, unfortunately, highly exaggerated. Yes, prior to '99 there was a marginal fluid flow issue with the overdrive unit, punky shift solenoids, a anti-drain back valve issue, and less than reliable electrical connectors that got prematurely corroded.
In newer Dodge trucks a temperature sensor now locks out the transmission's ability to go into overdrive until the transmission fluid reaches a certain temperature. Fluid flows have been increased, and for "extreme service environments," there is a transmission oil cooler bypass installed. The new 545RFE transmission is even more sophisticated.
GM's have had their share of transmission problems, too, and in recent years I'd say much more than Dodge ever did. However, not all GM transmissions are the same. The 4LE series seem to be the most troubleprone. Whether any one of them are more reliable in Alaska, I couldn't say, but around here -- today -- both the problem and failure rates are very close for Chevy, Dodge, and Ford.
Depending on whether you're buying new or used, or trading in after a few years vs. keeping your vehicle for years to come, the pickups on our list can be a bargain or a bust:
MODERATOR /ADMINISTRATOR Find me at kirstie_h@edmunds.com - or send a private message by clicking on my name. 2015 Kia Soul, 2021 Subaru Forester (kirstie_h), 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 (mr. kirstie_h) Review your vehicle
Comments
I can only give you an unqualified opinion since I don't live in Alaska, but here in Western New York State it gets pretty cold in the winter, too. Not as cold as up there, but cold enough.
In an average winter here the light-duty diesel pick-ups start well. However, in my experience when the temperatures dip quite low they are not as good a starter as a gas engine. Diesel fuel is more susceptible to temperature changes and quality differences making them, in my opinion, slightly more troubleprone in colder weather.
I don't think that a diesel engine is more tolerant of long idle periods anymore than a gas engine. I've seen a lot of police engines running quite fine after a 100,000 miles, and they are notorious idlers. The advantage a diesel has, though, is better economy at idle.
The problems with Dodge transmissions is, unfortunately, highly exaggerated. Yes, prior to '99 there was a marginal fluid flow issue with the overdrive unit, punky shift solenoids, a anti-drain back valve issue, and less than reliable electrical connectors that got prematurely corroded.
In newer Dodge trucks a temperature sensor now locks out the transmission's ability to go into overdrive until the transmission fluid reaches a certain temperature. Fluid flows have been increased, and for "extreme service environments," there is a transmission oil cooler bypass installed. The new 545RFE transmission is even more sophisticated.
GM's have had their share of transmission problems, too, and in recent years I'd say much more than Dodge ever did. However, not all GM transmissions are the same. The 4LE series seem to be the most troubleprone. Whether any one of them are more reliable in Alaska, I couldn't say, but around here -- today -- both the problem and failure rates are very close for Chevy, Dodge, and Ford.
Best regards,
Dusty
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kirstie_h
Roving Host & Future Vehicles Host
MODERATOR /ADMINISTRATOR
Find me at kirstie_h@edmunds.com - or send a private message by clicking on my name.
2015 Kia Soul, 2021 Subaru Forester (kirstie_h), 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 (mr. kirstie_h)
Review your vehicle