2009 GMC W5500 Forward

Introduction:

The 2009 GMC W5500 Forward is a heavy-duty pickup truck with various engine and transmission options. It offers a powerful 6.6L Duramax diesel V8 engine paired with a 6-speed Allison automatic transmission. The W5500 Forward is known for its robust construction, towing capacity, and advanced features. However, owners have reported specific issues with certain components of the vehicle.

Engine

6.6L Duramax Diesel V8

• Turbocharger Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive smoke, loud whistling noise from the engine bay
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger assembly
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Issues:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, reduced engine performance, increased fuel consumption
  • Solution: Replace or clean the fuel injectors
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Allison Automatic

• Torque Converter Shudder:
  • Description/Symptoms: Vibration or shuddering felt when accelerating or shifting gears
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter assembly
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Fluid Leaks:
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking fluid from the transmission pan or lines
  • Solution: Replace the faulty seals or lines
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Broken or sagging leaf springs, causing uneven ride height or difficulty handling
  • Solution: Replace the leaf spring assembly
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+ per leaf spring
  • Recalls: None Found
• Shock Absorber Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced ride quality, excessive body roll, or unusual bouncing
  • Solution: Replace the shock absorbers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ per pair
  • Recalls: 19V646 for 2009 model year

Electrical

• Battery Drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery draining quickly, especially when parked
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair any faulty electrical components causing the drain
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the source of the drain
• Faulty Headlights:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dim or flickering headlights, premature bulb failure
  • Solution: Replace the faulty headlight bulbs or wiring components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per headlight
  • Recalls: 14V681 for improper headlamp aiming

Exterior

• Rust Issues:
  • Description/Symptoms: Corrosion forming on the frame, body panels, or other components
  • Solution: Application of rust-resistant coatings or replacement of affected parts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the extent of rust damage
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Hinge Issues:
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors sagging or not opening or closing properly
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door hinges
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate Control Issues:
  • Description/Symptoms: Inconsistent or malfunctioning temperature control, noisy blower motor
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the faulty climate control components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the specific issue
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Crack:
  • Description/Symptoms: Crack or split appearing on the dashboard
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2009 GMC W5500 Forward is a capable heavy-duty pickup truck with some common issues to be aware of. The engine and transmission issues can be expensive to repair, but most other components have relatively lower repair costs. Owners should regularly maintain and inspect their vehicles to address these issues promptly and minimize their impact on safety and reliability.