2009 GMC W4500 Forward

Introduction:

The 2009 GMC W4500 Forward is a heavy-duty pickup truck offered with a variety of engine and transmission configurations. The 6.6L Duramax diesel V8 produces 360 horsepower and 800 lb-ft of torque. The gasoline engine option is a 6.0L Vortec V8 generating 352 horsepower and 373 lb-ft of torque. Transmission choices include a 6-speed Allison automatic and a manual 5-speed manual transmission. Drivers appreciate the vehicle’s powerful performance and robust build quality. However, there have been some reported issues across various components.

Engine

• 6.6L Duramax Diesel V8

• Fuel Injector Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting, reduced engine power, black smoke from the exhaust
  • Solution: Replace faulty fuel injectors
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: NHTSA 17V-392, 22V-154
• Turbocharger Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling noises, oil leaks
  • Solution: Replace turbocharger
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

• 6.0L Vortec V8

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, reduced engine power
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• Allison 6-Speed Automatic:

• Torque Converter Shudder:
  • Description/Symptoms: Vibration or shuddering during acceleration
  • Solution: Replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

• Manual 5-Speed Manual:

• Difficulty Shifting:
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard or impossible to shift gears
  • Solution: Inspect and repair or replace clutch, linkage, or other components as necessary
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Breakage:
  • Description/Symptoms: Suspension sag, clunking or banging noises
  • Solution: Replace broken leaf springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Shock Absorber Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced ride quality, bouncing or excessive body roll
  • Solution: Replace shock absorbers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery goes dead after long periods of inactivity
  • Solution: Inspect and repair or replace faulty electrical components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Charging system warning light illuminates, flickering lights
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Fender Rust:
  • Description/Symptoms: Corrosion and rust on metal fenders
  • Solution: Replace fenders
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Bedliner Cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks or tears in the bedliner
  • Solution: Replace bedliner
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Radio Malfunction:
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete radio failure
  • Solution: Replace radio
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Conditioning Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced or no airflow from vents, squealing noises
  • Solution: Inspect and repair or replace faulty components (e.g., compressor, condenser)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2009 GMC W4500 Forward has a reputation for durability and performance, but it has been reported to experience some issues. The most common concerns include injector and turbocharger problems with the 6.6L Duramax diesel engine, transmission issues, rust on the fenders, and various interior and electrical malfunctions. The severity and cost of these issues can vary depending on the specific problem and the necessary repairs. Regular maintenance and proper usage can help mitigate some of these issues, but some may require professional attention and substantial expenses to resolve.