2009 GMC T7500
The 2009 GMC T7500 is a medium-duty truck designed for commercial applications. It offers versatility for various tasks, including hauling, delivery, and construction. While known for its robust build and utility, owners have reported certain common issues. Available engine options included the Duramax 6.6L diesel and the Vortec 8.1L gas engine. The Duramax 6.6L produces around 330 horsepower and 620 lb-ft of torque. The Vortec 8.1L produces around 325 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque. Transmissions include the Allison 1000 series automatic. Owners appreciate the T7500’s hauling capacity and reliability for demanding work, but some dislike its fuel economy and rough ride.
Engine
Duramax 6.6L Diesel
- Fuel Injector Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, misfires, black smoke, decreased fuel economy.
- Solution: Replace faulty fuel injectors. Ensure proper fuel filtration to prevent recurrence.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1200+ (depending on the number of injectors needing replacement and shop rates)
- Recalls: None Found
- EGR Cooler Failure
- Description/Symptoms: White smoke from the exhaust, coolant loss, overheating.
- Solution: Replace the EGR cooler. Inspect the EGR valve for proper function and clean or replace as necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
Vortec 8.1L Gas
- Intake Manifold Gasket Leak
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, rough idle, possible misfires.
- Solution: Replace the intake manifold gaskets. Ensure the intake manifold surface is properly cleaned before installation.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
Allison 1000 Series Automatic
- Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during TCC lockup, transmission slipping, diagnostic trouble codes related to TCC performance.
- Solution: Replace the torque converter. Flush the transmission cooler lines and replace the transmission fluid and filter.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Shift Solenoid Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, failure to shift into certain gears, transmission slipping.
- Solution: Replace the faulty shift solenoid(s). Inspect the transmission wiring harness for damage.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Leaf Spring Sagging/Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one side, poor ride quality, leaf spring cracking/breaking.
- Solution: Replace the leaf springs. Consider upgrading to heavier-duty springs if the truck is frequently used for heavy loads.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ (depending on the number of springs and whether you replace with OEM or aftermarket)
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Wiring Harness Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, such as lights not working, gauges malfunctioning, or starting issues. Often caused by corrosion or damage from road debris.
- Solution: Inspect and repair damaged wiring harnesses. Use dielectric grease on electrical connections to prevent corrosion.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the severity and location of the damage)
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Corrosion
- Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the body panels, frame, and undercarriage. Especially prevalent in areas with road salt.
- Solution: Remove the corrosion and repair the affected areas. Apply rust protection coating.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+ (depending on the severity of the rust)
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- HVAC Blower Motor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Blower motor not working, or only working on certain speeds.
- Solution: Replace the blower motor. Inspect the blower motor resistor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2009 GMC T7500, while a capable medium-duty truck, is prone to some common issues, particularly related to its diesel engine’s fuel system and EGR components, the transmission’s torque converter, and the suspension’s leaf springs. Electrical and corrosion issues are also common concerns. Depending on the severity, these issues can range from relatively inexpensive fixes to more substantial repairs. Buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle for these potential problems before purchase.