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2009 GMC Savana 2500

Introduction:

The 2009 GMC Savana 2500 is a full-size cargo van offered with various engine and transmission options. It is known for its spacious interior and powerful drivetrains but has encountered some issues that are worth noting.

Engine

6.0L Vortec V8

  • Lifter Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Tapping or ticking noises from the engine, reduced power, and potential engine damage.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty lifters and inspect the camshaft and valve train for wear.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Intake Manifold Gasket Leak:
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking from the intake manifold area, overheating, and potential engine damage.
    • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket and inspect for any other leaks.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Exhaust Manifold Bolt Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Exhaust leak, rattling noises, and reduced engine performance.
    • Solution: Replace the broken bolts and inspect the exhaust system for any other damage.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

5.3L Vortec V8

  • Timing Chain Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noises from the engine, reduced power, and potential engine damage.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty timing chain and inspect the gears for any damage.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4L60E Automatic Transmission

  • Slippage Between Gears:
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping or hesitating during gear changes, increased transmission temperature.
    • Solution: Inspect the transmission fluid for contamination, replace worn clutches and bands, or rebuild the transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque Converter Shudder:
    • Description/Symptoms: Vibrations or shuddering during acceleration or gear changes.
    • Solution: Replace the torque converter or repair the transmission fluid pump.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

Front Suspension:

  • Ball Joint Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Knocking or clunking noises from the front end, uneven tire wear, and reduced steering control.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty ball joints and inspect other suspension components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per side
    • Recalls: None Found

Rear Suspension:

  • Leaf Spring Breakage:
    • Description/Symptoms: Sagging or uneven ride height, reduced load capacity, and potential axle damage.
    • Solution: Replace the broken leaf springs and inspect the suspension for any other damage.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ per side
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Battery Drain:
    • Description/Symptoms: Battery losing charge quickly, electrical system malfunctioning.
    • Solution: Inspect the battery for damage, replace the battery, or diagnose and repair any electrical shorts or parasitic drains.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Alternator Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Dim or flickering headlights, reduced electrical power, or battery not charging.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty alternator and inspect the charging system for any other issues.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Door Handle Breakage:
    • Description/Symptoms: Door handles becoming loose or breaking, making it difficult to open the doors.
    • Solution: Replace the broken door handles and inspect other handles for any potential issues.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ per handle
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • HVAC System Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Air conditioning or heating not working properly, reduced airflow, or strange noises from the HVAC system.
    • Solution: Diagnose and repair the faulty component, such as the compressor, blower motor, or control module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

While the 2009 GMC Savana 2500 offers power and space, it has encountered some issues that can be costly to repair. The most severe issues include engine lifter failure, timing chain failure, and transmission slippage. The less severe issues include electrical problems, exterior handle breakage, and HVAC system failures. Overall, the cost of repairs can vary significantly depending on the severity of the issue. It is important to consider these potential problems when deciding whether to purchase or own this vehicle.

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