2009 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD

The 2009 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD is a heavy-duty pickup truck known for its towing and hauling capabilities. Engine options included a 6.0L Vortec V8 (353 hp, 373 lb-ft of torque), a 6.0L Vortec V8 CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) (301 hp, 333 lb-ft of torque), and a 6.6L Duramax Turbo Diesel V8 (365 hp, 660 lb-ft of torque). Transmission options included a 6-speed Allison automatic transmission paired with the diesel engine and a 6-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission paired with the gas engine options. Owners often appreciate the Silverado 3500 HD for its robust build, towing capacity, and comfortable ride (for a heavy-duty truck). Common dislikes include fuel economy, especially with the gasoline engines, and occasional reports of electrical issues.

Engine

6.0L Vortec V8

• Active Fuel Management (AFM) Lifter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise from the engine, misfires, and reduced power. This is due to the AFM lifters collapsing and failing to properly open and close the valves.
  • Solution: Replace the failed lifters, and potentially the camshaft if damaged. Some owners choose to delete the AFM system entirely.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, often noticed between oil changes. Can be caused by worn valve seals or piston rings.
  • Solution: Repair or replace valve seals or piston rings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.0L Vortec V8 CNG

• No Issues Found

6.6L Duramax Turbo Diesel V8 (LMM)

• Fuel Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough running engine, white smoke from the exhaust, and decreased fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty fuel injector(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ per injector
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Lack of power, black smoke from the exhaust, and turbocharger whine.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Cooler Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: White smoke from the exhaust, coolant loss, and overheating.
  • Solution: Replace the EGR Cooler.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Hydra-Matic (Gas Engines)

• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration felt during light acceleration at highway speeds.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Allison Automatic (Diesel Engines)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, slipping between gears, or failure to shift.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Internal Leakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission overheating, slipping, and fluid leaks.
  • Solution: Rebuild the transmission with new seals and gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front End Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose steering, uneven tire wear, and clunking noises from the front end. Common culprits are ball joints, tie rod ends, and idler arms.
  • Solution: Replace worn suspension components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Instrument Panel Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges malfunctioning, flickering lights, or complete failure of the instrument panel.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument panel cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Body Control Module (BCM) Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical issues, such as power windows not working, door locks malfunctioning, or issues with the radio.
  • Solution: Reprogram or replace the BCM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Rocker Panels and Cab Corners
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust developing on the lower body panels, particularly the rocker panels and cab corners.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the affected panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ per panel
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard, especially in hot climates.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard or use a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

In summary, the 2009 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD can be a reliable workhorse, but potential buyers should be aware of common issues, especially those related to the AFM system in the 6.0L Vortec, fuel injectors and turbos in the 6.6L Duramax, and electrical gremlins. The severity of these issues ranges from relatively minor fixes to more expensive repairs. Addressing these concerns proactively can help ensure a positive ownership experience.