2009 Chevrolet Aveo

The 2009 Chevrolet Aveo is a subcompact car that was known for its affordability and fuel efficiency. It came standard with a 1.6-liter inline-4 cylinder engine producing about 106 horsepower and 105 lb-ft of torque. The Aveo offered either a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission. While the Aveo was inexpensive to buy and operate, it was often criticized for its lackluster performance, unrefined ride quality, and somewhat cheap interior materials. Owners appreciated the low price point and decent fuel economy, but disliked the lack of power and reliability concerns.

Engine

1.6L Inline-4 Cylinder Engine

• Check Engine Light Due to Evaporative Emission (EVAP) System Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light is illuminated. Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to EVAP system leaks are present, such as P0440, P0442, P0455. The vehicle may or may not exhibit any noticeable drivability issues.
  • Solution: Inspect the gas cap for proper sealing. Check the EVAP system components, including the purge valve, vent valve, hoses, and charcoal canister for leaks or damage. Use a smoke machine to pinpoint the location of the leak. Replace faulty components as needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of coolant, overheating, visible coolant leaks, low coolant light is on.
  • Solution: Inspect hoses, water pump, thermostat housing, and radiator for leaks. Replace damaged hoses and gaskets. Replace water pump or thermostat housing if they are the source of the leak.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine Misfires
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine runs rough, Check engine light is on. Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to misfires are present, such as P0300, P0301, P0302, P0303, P0304.
  • Solution: Check the spark plugs, spark plug wires, ignition coil, and fuel injectors. Replace faulty components as needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Erratic Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slips between gears, shifts harshly, or fails to shift altogether. The Check Engine light may illuminate, and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to transmission issues may be present.
  • Solution: Check the transmission fluid level and condition. If the fluid is low or contaminated, perform a transmission fluid flush and filter replacement. If the issue persists, further diagnosis may be required to identify internal transmission damage, such as worn clutches or a faulty valve body. In severe cases, a transmission rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Worn Struts/Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll, noises when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace worn struts/shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Broken or Worn Springs
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sits low, sagging suspension, clunking or squeaking noises
  • Solution: Replace the worn or broken springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows fail to operate or operate intermittently.
  • Solution: Check the power window switch, motor, and wiring. Replace faulty components as needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Interior Lights
  • Description/Symptoms: Interior lights do not turn on or off properly.
  • Solution: Check the bulbs, fuses, and wiring. Replace faulty components as needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $10 - $100+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Car has difficulty starting, especially in cold weather. Battery light on the dash may be illuminated.
  • Solution: Test the battery and charging system. Replace battery if weak, check the alternator and wiring for issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming in wheel wells, door panels and undercarriage of the vehicle
  • Solution: Depends on the severity, but typically requires patching with body filler and repainting. Sometimes components will need to be replaced due to excessive damage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Dashboard cracks and splits, particularly in hotter climates.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or use of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2009 Chevrolet Aveo, while affordable, has several common issues. Engine issues, particularly related to EVAP leaks and coolant leaks, and transmission problems, especially with the automatic transmission, are prevalent. Suspension problems, electrical faults, and interior issues like dashboard cracking are also frequently reported. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others, such as transmission rebuilds or replacements, can be costly. The severity of these issues varies, but they can affect the reliability and overall ownership experience of the Aveo.