2009 Chrysler Aspen

The 2009 Chrysler Aspen is a full-size SUV that aimed to blend truck-like capability with some level of luxury. Engine options included a 4.7L V8 producing 303 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque, and a 5.7L Hemi V8 producing 355 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciated the Aspen’s towing capacity and spacious interior, but disliked its fuel economy and some aspects of its reliability.

Engine

4.7L V8

• Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, rough idling, poor acceleration, and a check engine light illuminating. Trouble code P0107 or P0108 may be present.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty MAP sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, stalling, poor acceleration, and a check engine light. Diagnostic trouble codes related to EGR flow may be present.
  • Solution: Replace the EGR valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.7L Hemi V8

• Hemi Tick (Lifter/Roller Failure)
  • Description/Symptoms: A ticking or tapping noise coming from the engine, most noticeable at idle and low speeds. This can be caused by a failing lifter or roller on the camshaft.
  • Solution: Requires replacement of the affected lifters, rollers, and potentially the camshaft if damaged.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine consumes an excessive amount of oil between oil changes.
  • Solution: Often requires piston ring replacement or, in severe cases, engine replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $5000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

• Transmission Slipping/Hard Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission slips between gears, shifts harshly, or fails to shift properly. This can be due to worn clutches, valve body issues, or low fluid.
  • Solution: Requires transmission rebuild, replacement of the valve body, or fluid flush.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at highway speeds, especially under light acceleration. May also cause stalling when coming to a stop.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Suspension Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps or turning. Loose steering and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the worn ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Air Suspension Issues (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear of the vehicle sags, the air compressor runs constantly, or the suspension fails to level.
  • Solution: Replace the air springs, compressor, or ride height sensors as needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ per component
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Random electrical problems, including but not limited to: fuel pump relay failure (leading to stalling), power window malfunction, headlight issues, and difficulty starting.
  • Solution: Replacement of the TIPM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks fail to lock or unlock properly, or make a grinding noise.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Lower Body Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming along the rocker panels, wheel wells, and lower doors.
  • Solution: Rust repair and repainting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Blend Door Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: One side of the vehicle blows hot air while the other blows cold, or the temperature control is erratic. A clicking noise behind the dashboard may be present.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty blend door actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2009 Chrysler Aspen, while offering good towing capacity and interior space, is prone to a variety of issues. Engine problems, especially the “Hemi tick” and oil consumption in the 5.7L, can be expensive to fix. Electrical issues with the TIPM can cause a multitude of problems. Suspension and transmission problems are also relatively common. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor in repair costs when considering purchasing a 2009 Aspen. The severity ranges from minor electrical glitches to major engine and transmission repairs, with costs ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.