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2009 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2009 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is a popular full-size pickup truck known for its reliability and versatility, but like any vehicle, it has its share of common issues. The 2009 Silverado 1500 came with a variety of engine options including a 4.3L V6, a 4.8L V8, a 5.3L V8 (with and without Active Fuel Management (AFM)), and a 6.2L V8. The 4.3L V6 produced 195 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. The 4.8L V8 made 295 hp and 305 lb-ft of torque. The 5.3L V8 produced between 315-320 hp and 335-340 lb-ft of torque, depending on the specific configuration. The 6.2L V8 produces 403 hp and 417 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 4-speed automatic and a 6-speed automatic, depending on the engine and trim level. Owners often appreciate the Silverado’s comfortable ride, powerful engine options, and overall dependability. However, common complaints include issues with oil consumption (especially in the 5.3L V8), excessive rust on the lower body, and electrical glitches.

Engine

4.3L V6

  • No Issues Found

4.8L V8

  • No Issues Found

5.3L V8 (Including AFM Versions)

  • Excessive Oil Consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: The engine consumes an excessive amount of oil between oil changes, often exceeding 1 quart per 1,000 miles. Blue smoke may be visible from the exhaust, and the oil level drops rapidly. This is often linked to the Active Fuel Management (AFM) system.
    • Solution: Disabling AFM is a common attempt to resolve this, but it may not completely fix the problem. Replacing the valve cover, PCV valve and related hardware is another common repair. Replacing piston rings, or replacing the entire engine are further options.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $6000+ (depending on the extent of the repair - disabling AFM is much cheaper than an engine rebuild).
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Lifter Failure (Specifically AFM Lifters)
    • Description/Symptoms: A ticking or knocking noise coming from the engine, especially at idle or low speeds. The engine may run rough, misfire, or lose power. Faulty AFM lifters can collapse.
    • Solution: Replace all the AFM lifters with updated parts that are more reliable, or replace all lifters with non-AFM lifters and disable the AFM system.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+ (depending on whether AFM is retained).
    • Recalls: None Found

6.2L V8

  • No Issues Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (4L60E)

  • Delayed or Harsh Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: The transmission hesitates before shifting, or shifts roughly and abruptly. This can be more pronounced when shifting between certain gears.
    • Solution: Replacing the valve body, shift solenoids, or a complete transmission rebuild or replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $3500+ (depending on the extent of the damage).
    • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic (6L80E)

  • No Issues Found

Suspension

  • Clunking or Popping Noises from Front Suspension
    • Description/Symptoms: Noises coming from the front end when driving over bumps or turning. May be caused by worn ball joints, tie rod ends, or sway bar links.
    • Solution: Replacing the worn suspension components (ball joints, tie rod ends, sway bar links).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ (depending on the parts that need replacement and labor).
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Leaf Spring Sagging
    • Description/Symptoms: The rear of the truck sits lower than the front, or sags noticeably when carrying a load. This can be caused by worn or broken leaf springs.
    • Solution: Replacing the leaf springs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1200+ (depending on the springs used and labor).
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Power Window/Door Lock Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of power windows or door locks. May be caused by a faulty switch, wiring harness issue, or a failing door lock actuator.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty switch, repairing the wiring harness, or replacing the door lock actuator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ (per window/door).
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Instrument Panel Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Gauges stop working, flicker, or display incorrect readings. This can be caused by a faulty stepper motor in the instrument cluster.
    • Solution: Replacing the stepper motors in the instrument cluster or replacing the entire instrument cluster.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Excessive Rust, Especially Rocker Panels and Cab Corners
    • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the rocker panels, cab corners, and other lower body panels. This is a common issue in areas where salt is used on roads during the winter.
    • Solution: Cutting out the rusted metal and welding in new panels, or using rust repair patches. This can be a costly repair if the rust is extensive.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+ (depending on the extent of the rust).
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Cracked Dashboard
    • Description/Symptoms: Cracks forming on the dashboard, especially in areas exposed to sunlight.
    • Solution: Replacing the dashboard or installing a dashboard cover.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ (depending on the option chosen).
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2009 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 has several common issues, with the most significant ones being excessive oil consumption in the 5.3L V8 engines and rust on the body. These issues can range in severity and cost, with engine repairs potentially costing thousands of dollars and rust repair also being a significant expense. Electrical issues and suspension problems, while less severe, can also contribute to the overall cost of ownership. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and inspect the vehicle thoroughly before purchasing.

Chevrolet, Silverado 1500
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 2009
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