Hi All,

After test driving a couple H3s I'm seriously considering diving in to the club. I don't know much about them at this point, but I know I really liked the vehicle. Former owner of a LR Discovery, and I really miss the high riding, go anywhere feel, but I was traumatized by the long series of odd (and expensive) repairs which that vehicle needed (culminating in a blown head gasket that came out of nowhere, and a tow to the junk yard).

Anyway...my question is, are the H3s reliable? What are the common issues that I should be aware of when I'm shopping around? Are there any model years or trims that I should avoid? I was thinking that I should definitely avoid the '06 & maybe '07 versions because it was a complete new model line, but is this an unnecessary concern? Finally, do repairs typically come at a premium price? I know it's a domestic make and that should keep the price lower than the LR, but it's also a specialty vehicle that isn't produced any longer...

Thanks in advance for any advice!

-Jason

 

common problems are the radiators crack at the top right, ranges anywhere from 30-60k miles on average, so make sure and find out if it has been replaced yet and if not make sure the warranty will cover you for ease of headache of fighting with GM.

there is also a problem with a resistor pack going bad on the fan blower, it's an easy $65 fix when it does happen.

other common issues depend on the options the hummer has, if a sun roof the drain plugs can become clogged, if roof marker lights they can become loose, a sensor for the stability control sensor acts up on occasion, and there is a recall out to fix the hood luver from the clips breaking and allowing it to come off at highway speed or in the cr wash (the fix is the dealer just puts adhesive on it and glues it to your hood)

 

-The '06's and early '07's had a problem with the valve/head hardening which may need replaced or may have been replaced already. Definately worth checking if you find one of those years.
-Plastic shift forks in the '06-07's had issues as well.
-The 3.5 in the '06 had less power and torque than the newer 3.7's.
-The '08 and up 3.7 had an upgrade to the cpu that provided the best powerband for the I-5's.
-The Alpha came with a 5.3l v-8, so if you can afford another 4-5k dollars, it is a big benefit over the I-5.
-I'd be shopping for an '08 or up if it were me. If you offroad much, then the Adventure package would be a plus as it offers a rear locker and lower TC gears.