2009 GMC Sierra

The 2009 GMC Sierra 1500 is a full-size pickup truck known for its robust capabilities and comfortable ride. Available engine options include a 4.3L V6 (195 hp, 260 lb-ft of torque), a 4.8L V8 (295 hp, 305 lb-ft of torque), a 5.3L V8 (315 hp, 338 lb-ft of torque, or 326 hp, 348 lb-ft of torque with aluminum block), and a 6.2L V8 (403 hp, 417 lb-ft of torque). Transmission options include a 4-speed automatic (4L60E) and a 6-speed automatic (6L80E). Owners generally appreciate the Sierra’s strong engine performance, towing capacity, and relatively refined interior for its class. Common complaints include issues with fuel economy and some reported reliability concerns.

Body

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust appears on the rocker panels and lower portions of the doors.
  • Solution: Removal of rust and body repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+

Electrical

• Door Lock Actuators Failing
  • Description/Symptoms: Door lock actuators may fail, preventing the doors from locking or unlocking properly. This can affect one or more doors.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350 per door
  • Recalls: None Found
• 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: $50 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Engine

4.8L V8

• No Issues Found

5.3L V8 (Aluminum Block w/ Active Fuel Management)

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: The 5.3L V8 with Active Fuel Management (AFM), also known as Displacement on Demand, can experience excessive oil consumption. This is often due to the AFM system causing issues with the piston rings. Symptoms include the need to frequently add oil, blue smoke from the exhaust, and fouled spark plugs.
  • Solution: Options include replacing the piston rings, disabling the AFM system (using a tuner or AFM disabler device), or engine replacement in severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (AFM Disabler) - $4000+ (Engine Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

6.2L V8

• No Issues Found

Transmission

4L60E (4-Speed Automatic)

• Harsh Shifts/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, slipping between gears, or failure to shift are symptoms of problems with the 4L60E transmission. This can be due to worn clutches, valve body issues, or solenoid failure.
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,800 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

6L80E (6-Speed Automatic)

• Harsh Shifts/Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported harsh shifting, particularly between 1st and 2nd gear. Torque converter issues and valve body issues can also occur.
  • Solution: Transmission flush, valve body repair or replacement, or torque converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (flush) - $2500+ (valve body repair/replacement, torque converter)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard can crack, particularly in warmer climates.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or installation of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $30 (dashboard cover) - $1000+ (dashboard replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Steering Wheel Audio Control Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The steering wheel audio control buttons may stop functioning.
  • Solution: Replacement of the switch or the clock spring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Clunking Noise From Front End
  • Description/Symptoms: A clunking or popping noise from the front suspension, especially when turning or going over bumps. This is often caused by worn ball joints, tie rod ends, or sway bar end links.
  • Solution: Replace the worn suspension components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500 per component, depending on labor and parts.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2009 GMC Sierra 1500 can have several common issues. The most significant potential problems are related to excessive oil consumption in the 5.3L V8 engine with Active Fuel Management, and transmission issues in both the 4L60E and 6L80E transmissions. Electrical problems such as failing door lock actuators and blower motor resistors, along with interior issues like cracked dashboards, are also frequently reported. While some fixes are relatively inexpensive, more serious problems can result in costs ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars. Potential buyers should thoroughly inspect the vehicle, check service records, and be aware of the potential for these common issues.