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2009 Chevrolet Captiva Sport

The 2009 Chevrolet Captiva Sport was a compact SUV aimed at fleet sales and offered a blend of practicality and affordability. It was primarily available with a 2.4L inline-4 engine producing around 167 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque. This engine was usually paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the Captiva Sport for its fuel economy and comfortable ride. However, some common criticisms include its basic interior, lackluster performance, and reported reliability issues.

Engine

2.4L Inline-4

  • Excessive Oil Consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report higher-than-normal oil consumption between oil changes. This can lead to low oil levels and potential engine damage if not monitored.
    • Solution: Regular oil level checks and more frequent oil changes may mitigate the issue. In severe cases, engine rebuild or replacement might be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (for frequent oil changes) - $3000+ (for engine rebuild or replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Timing Chain Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain can stretch or break, leading to engine misfires, rough running, and potential engine damage.
    • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, tensioner, and guides.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

  • Harsh Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: Reports of harsh or erratic shifting between gears, particularly during acceleration or deceleration.
    • Solution: Fluid change may help. In some cases, valve body issues require repair or replacement. Complete transmission rebuild or replacement may be necessary in some instances.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250 (fluid change), $500 - $1200 (valve body), $2000+ (rebuild or replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Transmission Slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slips in gear or fails to properly engage a gear
    • Solution: Complete transmission rebuild or replacement may be necessary in some instances.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000+ (rebuild or replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Worn Struts and Shocks
    • Description/Symptoms: Bumpy ride, excessive bouncing, poor handling, and clunking noises from the suspension.
    • Solution: Replacement of worn struts and shocks.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (depending on parts and labor)
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Faulty Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor
    • Description/Symptoms: Issues with the MAF sensor can cause a wide variety of symptoms, including poor performance, rough idling, and decreased fuel efficiency.
    • Solution: Replacement of the MAF sensor
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Battery Drain
    • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains while the vehicle is off, leaving the vehicle unable to start.
    • Solution: Diagnosis to find the source of the electrical draw, potentially replacing components such as the alternator, relays, or other electrical components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the complexity of the issue
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • No Issues Found

Interior

  • No Issues Found

Summary

The 2009 Chevrolet Captiva Sport is a budget-friendly SUV that can be susceptible to a range of issues. The most common problems appear to revolve around the engine (excessive oil consumption, timing chain issues) and transmission (harsh shifting). Suspension components are also prone to wear. The severity of these issues varies, but some repairs can be costly, especially those involving engine or transmission rebuilds. Buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle’s maintenance history and be prepared for potential repairs.

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