2009 GMC Savana 2500

The 2009 GMC Savana 2500 is a full-size van known for its cargo capacity and utility. Available engines include a 4.8L V8 (280 hp, 295 lb-ft of torque), a 5.3L V8 (310 hp, 338 lb-ft of torque), and a 6.0L V8 (323 hp, 373 lb-ft of torque). Transmission options include a 4-speed automatic (4L60E) and a 6-speed automatic (6L80E, specific to the 6.0L V8). Owners often appreciate the Savana’s spacious interior and robust towing capabilities, but cite concerns about fuel economy and aging components.

Engine

4.8L V8

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Can lead to fouled spark plugs and catalytic converter issues.
  • Solution: Monitoring oil levels frequently, using a thicker oil, or eventually replacing piston rings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.3L V8

• Active Fuel Management (AFM) Lifter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking or knocking noise from the engine, rough idle, misfires, and potential engine damage. This is related to the AFM system that deactivates cylinders to improve fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replacing the failed lifters, disabling the AFM system, or a complete engine rebuild in severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Can lead to fouled spark plugs and catalytic converter issues.
  • Solution: Monitoring oil levels frequently, using a thicker oil, or eventually replacing piston rings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.0L V8

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Can lead to fouled spark plugs and catalytic converter issues.
  • Solution: Monitoring oil levels frequently, using a thicker oil, or eventually replacing piston rings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4L60E (4-Speed Automatic)

• Slipping and Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping between gears, delayed engagement, and harsh or erratic shifting. Often accompanied by whining noises.
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement, potentially including a new torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,800 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, stalling, or complete loss of transmission function.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

6L80E (6-Speed Automatic)

• Harsh Shifting and Delayed Engagement
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifts, especially between 1st and 2nd gear. Delayed engagement when shifting into Drive or Reverse.
  • Solution: Valve body replacement or repair, TCM reprogramming, or complete transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Leaf Springs
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear suspension, especially when loaded, resulting in poor ride quality and reduced load capacity.
  • Solution: Leaf spring replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Ball Joints and Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, loose steering, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of ball joints and/or control arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window/Door Lock Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of power windows and door locks.
  • Solution: Replacing faulty window motors, door lock actuators, or wiring repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per component
  • Recalls: None Found
• ABS Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: ABS light illumination, loss of ABS functionality, and potential brake performance issues.
  • Solution: ABS sensor replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Lower Body Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust developing on rocker panels, wheel wells, and around door seams.
  • Solution: Rust repair and repainting, or panel replacement in severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ per area
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard, particularly in warmer climates, due to UV exposure and material degradation.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or installation of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The headliner fabric detaching and sagging.
  • Solution: Headliner replacement or re-gluing of the existing fabric.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2009 GMC Savana 2500, while a capable work van, is prone to certain common issues due to its age and high mileage. Engine problems such as oil consumption and AFM lifter failures (specifically in the 5.3L) can be costly to repair. Transmission issues, particularly with the 4L60E and 6L80E, are also prevalent and can range from moderate to expensive repairs. Suspension components wear and rust are other factors to consider. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and factor in potential repair costs when evaluating a used 2009 GMC Savana 2500.