2009 Chevrolet T8500

The 2009 Chevrolet T8500 is a medium-duty truck designed for commercial applications. Engine options include the Duramax diesel. Since specific horsepower and torque figures vary depending on exact engine configuration and calibration, consulting the original vehicle specifications is recommended. Owners generally appreciate the T8500 for its robust build and towing capabilities, but some common complaints include the cost of maintenance and repairs, as well as the truck’s fuel economy.

Engine

Duramax Diesel (Specific variant details needed for precise sub-categorization)

• Fuel Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, decreased fuel economy, black smoke from exhaust, engine misfires.
  • Solution: Replace faulty fuel injectors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800 per injector (parts and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive black smoke, whining or screeching noise from the turbocharger.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3500 (parts and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Cooler Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant loss, white smoke from the exhaust, rough running engine, potential for head gasket damage.
  • Solution: Replace the EGR cooler.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1800 (parts and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

No Engine or Transmission options were provided for this category

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Sagging/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle leaning to one side, rough ride, decreased load capacity, visible cracks or breaks in the leaf springs.
  • Solution: Replace the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500 per side (parts and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Shocks/Struts
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll during turns.
  • Solution: Replace the shocks/struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600 per axle (parts and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Wiring Harness Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, such as lights flickering, gauges malfunctioning, or starting problems.
  • Solution: Inspect and repair or replace damaged wiring harnesses.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ (depending on the severity and location of the damage)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery light on the dashboard, dimming headlights, difficulty starting the engine.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700 (parts and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on various areas of the vehicle, especially around the wheel wells, rocker panels, and undercarriage.
  • Solution: Repair/replace the rusted parts, and apply rust proofing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on severity (parts and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: No air blowing from the vents, weak airflow, or unusual noises from the blower motor area.
  • Solution: Replace the blower motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 (parts and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary: The 2009 Chevrolet T8500 is a workhorse of a truck, but owners should be aware of potential issues. The most common and costly issues revolve around the Duramax diesel engine (fuel injectors, turbocharger, EGR cooler), and the suspension. Electrical issues and rust are also common. Repair costs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor fixes to several thousand dollars for major engine or transmission work. Severity ranges from minor annoyances to significant drivability problems.