2009 Chevrolet Uplander

The 2009 Chevrolet Uplander is a minivan that aimed to provide family-friendly transportation. It was available with a 3.9L LZ9 V6 engine producing 240 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 4T65E 4-speed automatic transmission. People often appreciate the Uplander for its spacious interior and relatively affordable price point. However, common complaints include its uninspired styling, dated interior, and some reliability concerns.

Engine

3.9L LZ9 V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine may run rough, misfire, or have a vacuum leak. Coolant may leak externally.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine consumes oil at a high rate, leading to low oil levels and potential engine damage if not monitored.
  • Solution: There is no permanent fix, but switching to a higher viscosity oil or replacing valve seals and piston rings can help reduce consumption. In severe cases, engine replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4T65E 4-Speed Automatic

• Hard Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission hesitates or harshly shifts between gears. The transmission may slip when accelerating.
  • Solution: Replace valve body, rebuild the transmission, or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at highway speeds, poor fuel economy, and eventually complete transmission failure.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter. In some cases, a complete transmission rebuild or replacement is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the front strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Leaf Spring Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear of the vehicle sits lower than normal, especially when loaded.
  • Solution: Replace the rear leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power door locks stop working, or only work intermittently.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found
• ABS Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: ABS light illuminates on the dashboard. Loss of ABS function.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty ABS sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sliding Door Cable Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The power sliding door stops working, or struggles to open and close.
  • Solution: Replace the sliding door cable.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Blower Motor Resistor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The blower motor only works on certain speeds, or not at all.
  • Solution: Replace the blower motor resistor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seatbelt Retractor Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Seatbelts don’t retract properly.
  • Solution: Replace the seatbelt assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$500+
  • Recalls: Some recalls existed for seatbelt cables

Summary

The 2009 Chevrolet Uplander, while spacious and affordable, does have its share of common issues. Engine issues like intake manifold gasket leaks and oil consumption can be costly to repair, and transmission problems can be quite expensive. Suspension and electrical issues are also prevalent. Overall, while some fixes are relatively inexpensive, many of the Uplander’s common problems can lead to significant repair bills. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues and have the vehicle thoroughly inspected before purchasing.