2008 Chevrolet Avalanche

The 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche is a unique vehicle, blending the capabilities of a pickup truck with the passenger comfort of an SUV. The 2008 Avalanche came with two engine options: the 5.3L V8, which produced 320 horsepower and 340 lb-ft of torque and the 6.0L V8 producing 367 horsepower and 375 lb-ft of torque. All models were equipped with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners appreciate the Avalanche’s innovative midgate system, which allows the rear of the cab to be opened to the bed, increasing cargo capacity. However, some common complaints include issues with the Active Fuel Management (AFM) system, electrical problems, and concerns about the durability of some interior components.

Engine

5.3L V8

• Active Fuel Management (AFM) Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, rough idling, and potential engine damage due to the AFM system’s cylinder deactivation. The AFM system can cause carbon buildup on the cylinders that are not being used, which can then lead to sticking piston rings. This can then cause oil to leak into the combustion chamber and burn.
  • Solution: Install an AFM disabler device, replace the lifters with non-AFM lifters, and perform a tune to disable the AFM system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Pressure Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erroneous oil pressure readings on the dashboard gauge or a “check engine” light. This can sometimes be caused by a faulty sensor, but can also be an indicator of an oil pump failure.
  • Solution: Replace the oil pressure sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are often found along the valve cover gasket line.
  • Solution: Replacing the valve cover gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.0L V8

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the engine, or oil consumption. The PCV valve is often found to be the root cause of the problem.
  • Solution: Replace the PCV valve with an updated version.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $100+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (4L60E)

• Transmission Slipping/Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping between gears, delayed engagement, or harsh shifts.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at highway speeds, stalling, or complete loss of drive.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Autoride System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The Autoride system uses air shocks and a compressor to automatically adjust the suspension for optimal ride quality. Common issues include leaking air shocks, a failing compressor, and malfunctioning sensors. Symptoms include a rough ride, sagging rear suspension, and error messages on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking air shocks, repair or replace the compressor, or replace the malfunctioning sensors. Conversion to standard shocks is also an option.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,200+ (per shock replacement), $300 - $800+ (compressor replacement), $100-$300+ (Sensor replacement). Converting to standard shocks could be $300-$1000 for a set of four shocks
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Body Control Module (BCM) Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical issues, such as malfunctioning power windows, door locks, or lights.
  • Solution: Diagnose and reprogram or replace the BCM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Panel Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges malfunctioning or not reading correctly. Stepper motors inside the instrument panel can fail.
  • Solution: Replace the stepper motors or the entire instrument panel.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Bed Panel Separation
  • Description/Symptoms: The composite bed panels can separate from the underlying frame.
  • Solution: Reattach the panels or replace them.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Power Seat Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power seats not moving or moving erratically.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the seat motor or switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks forming on the dashboard, particularly in warmer climates
  • Solution: Replace or repair the dashboard
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche can be a versatile vehicle, but potential buyers should be aware of some common issues. Engine issues, particularly related to the AFM system in the 5.3L V8, can be costly to address. Transmission problems and electrical issues can also contribute to the overall cost of ownership. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others can be quite significant, so a thorough inspection before purchase is recommended.