2009 GMC Savana 1500

The 2009 GMC Savana 1500 is a full-size van known for its practicality and cargo capacity. Engine options include a 4.3L V6 (200 hp, 260 lb-ft of torque), a 5.3L V8 (310 hp, 338 lb-ft of torque), and a 6.0L V8 (300 hp, 360 lb-ft of torque). The transmissions available are a 4-speed automatic and a 6-speed automatic. Owners appreciate the Savana’s robust build and utility, but some dislike its dated interior and fuel economy. Common complaints often revolve around mechanical issues due to the van’s frequent use and age.

Engine

4.3L V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, rough idle, engine misfire, and potential overheating.
  • Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.3L V8

• Active Fuel Management (AFM) Lifter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, ticking or knocking noises from the engine, and reduced power. This is most prominent in V8 engines with AFM systems.
  • Solution: Replacement of the failed lifters and potentially the camshaft. AFM disable kits are also sometimes installed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, often requiring frequent topping off of oil levels. Blue smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Potential causes include worn valve seals, piston rings, or issues with the AFM system. Repairs can range from valve seal replacement to engine rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.0L V8

• No Issues Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (4L60E)

• Slipping or Erratic Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping between gears, harsh or delayed shifting, and potential loss of drive.
  • Solution: Could be due to worn clutches, valve body issues, or low fluid levels. Repair options range from fluid flush and filter change to complete transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, stalling, or poor fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic (6L80E)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky shifts between gears, particularly noticeable during acceleration or deceleration.
  • Solution: Could be due to valve body issues or worn internal components. Repair options include valve body replacement or transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Ball Joints
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, uneven tire wear, and loose steering.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Shocks/Struts
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll, and poor handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn shocks and/or struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ for all four
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Door Lock Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of the power door locks.
  • Solution: Replacement of the door lock actuators or repair of wiring issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found
• Blower Motor Resistor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of blower motor function on certain fan speeds, or complete loss of blower motor function.
  • Solution: Replacement of the blower motor resistor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust Issues (Especially around wheel wells and rocker panels)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust forming on the body panels, especially in areas prone to moisture and road salt exposure.
  • Solution: Rust repair, which may involve sanding, patching, and repainting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ per area depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The headliner fabric detaches from the backing and sags down.
  • Solution: Replacement or re-glue the headliner fabric.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2009 GMC Savana 1500, while a dependable work van, has some common issues related to engine, transmission, and suspension wear. The 5.3L V8 engine is prone to AFM lifter failure and oil consumption, which can be costly to fix. Transmission issues, particularly with the 4L60E, can also be expensive. Suspension components like ball joints and shocks tend to wear out, requiring replacement. Electrical and interior issues like power door locks and headliner sagging are less severe but still common. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these potential maintenance needs, especially given the age of the vehicle.