2009 Chevrolet Cheyenne

The 2009 Chevrolet Cheyenne, also known as the Silverado in the US market, is a full-size pickup truck known for its reliability, versatility, and towing capabilities. Engine options include a 4.3L V6 (195 hp, 260 lb-ft torque), a 4.8L V8 (295 hp, 305 lb-ft torque), a 5.3L V8 (315 hp, 338 lb-ft torque), and a 6.0L V8 (367 hp, 375 lb-ft torque). Transmission options include a 4-speed automatic and a 6-speed automatic depending on the engine and trim level. Owners often appreciate the truck’s comfortable ride and strong performance, especially with the V8 engines. Common complaints often revolve around fuel economy, especially with the larger engines, and some reported issues with specific components as the truck ages.

Engine

4.8L V8

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine consumes an excessive amount of oil between oil changes, often requiring the owner to add oil frequently. Blue smoke from the exhaust can be present.
  • Solution: Replacing the valve seals and/or piston rings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.3L V8 (Specifically, the Active Fuel Management (AFM) version)

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: High oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs. This is often linked to the AFM system. Visible blue smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replacing the valve seals and/or piston rings. AFM delete is also a common solution
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• AFM Lifter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking or knocking noise from the engine, misfires, and reduced performance. Can lead to camshaft damage.
  • Solution: Replacing the failed lifters and potentially the camshaft. AFM delete is a popular option.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.0L V8 No Issues Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (4L60E)

• Slipping or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission slips between gears, shifts harshly, or fails to shift at all.
  • Solution: Rebuilding or replacing the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,800 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations, especially at low speeds. Stalling can also occur.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic (6L80E) No Issues Found

Suspension

• Wear of Front Suspension Components
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the front end, especially when going over bumps. Poor handling and uneven tire wear. Commonly affected components include ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per corner (depending on parts replaced)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges malfunctioning, flickering lights, or complete failure of the instrument cluster.
  • Solution: Replacing or repairing the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks failing to lock or unlock, or making unusual noises.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Rocker Panels and Cab Corners
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust developing on the rocker panels and cab corners, especially in areas with harsh winters or road salt.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the affected panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks developing in the dashboard, especially in sun-exposed areas.
  • Solution: Replacing the dashboard or using a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2009 Chevrolet Cheyenne, while generally reliable, is showing signs of age, particularly with engines equipped with AFM. Issues like excessive oil consumption and AFM lifter failures can be costly. Transmission problems, especially with the 4L60E, are also a potential concern. Electrical issues and rust are common as well. Depending on the severity of the issues, repairs can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. Buyers should thoroughly inspect any used 2009 Cheyenne and be aware of these potential problems.