2009 Chevrolet Express problems
The Chevrolet Express (also known as the GMC Savana) is a series of full-size vans produced by General Motors since 1996. The successor to the Chevrolet G-series van, the Express is produced in passenger and cargo variants. Alongside the standard van body, the line is offered as a cutaway van chassis; the latter vehicle is a chassis cab variant developed for commercial-grade applications, including ambulances, buses, motorhomes, and small trucks.
In production for a single generation since 1995, over 2.5 million examples of the Express and the Savana have been produced. One of the longest-produced designs in American automotive history, the Express/Savana are rivaled only by the Jeep Wagoneer and Dodge Ram Van for longevity.
Since 1995, General Motors has assembled the Express and Savana at its Wentzville Assembly facility (Wentzville, Missouri). Also, since 2017, GM has sourced commercial cutaway-chassis production from Navistar through its Springfield Assembly Plant (Springfield, Ohio).
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Common 2009 Chevrolet Express problems
Based on complaints from owners of the Chevrolet Express 2009, several common problems have been reported:
- Coolant Leak and Engine Overheating:
- Another prevalent problem with the Chevrolet Express 2009 is coolant leaks leading to engine overheating. This issue is often caused by a faulty water pump. Repairing this can cost between $300 to $550.
- Intake Manifold Gasket Leak:
- Owners have reported leaks in the intake manifold gasket, resulting in coolant or engine oil leaks. In some cases, this can lead to coolant mixing with engine oil, potentially causing engine damage. The repair for this issue typically costs around $500.
- Front Electrical Components Damage:
- Excessive water usage when cleaning the rear cargo mat can lead to damage to various electrical components under the front carpet or rubber mat. This problem highlights the importance of proper maintenance to prevent costly repairs.
- Rear Lights Malfunction:
- Owners have experienced issues with one or more rear lights not working due to wear and tear from using the cargo space of the van. This problem can be resolved by replacing the tail light harness and bulbs, with costs averaging around $30 for the harness and $3 per bulb replaced.
These common problems reported by owners of the Chevrolet Express 2009 highlight the importance of regular maintenance and prompt repairs to ensure the vehicle's optimal performance and longevity.
Is the Chevrolet Express a reliable van?
The Chevrolet Express 1500 Reliability Rating is 3.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 9th out of 21 for commercial vans. The average annual repair cost is $963 which means it has poor ownership costs.
How long do Chevy Express engines last?
If you have a 4.3 V6 250,000 miles would be good. If you have a 4.8L, 5.3L or 6.0L V8 all are LS based engines. Those engines if cared for properly 300,000 is not uncommon. If you drive it like you stole it all the time you will be lucky to make 150,000 miles.
How many miles does a Chevy Express get?
Gas Mileage 7/10 – Fuel economy is okay at up to 20 MPG, offering 620 miles of range out of the 31 gallon tank. Gas costs are similar to other vans, at $369 per month. Value 8/10 – The 2019 Chevrolet Express is cheaper than a lot of other full size vans with reasonable depreciation rates, making it an attractive value.
What is the recall on the Chevy Express van?
Recall # N202325160 Date: 03/18/2021 Recall: General Motors, LLC is recalling certain 2021 Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana vehicles equipped with 6.6L gasoline engines. The positive battery cable terminals may contact a fuse block assembly attachment post and cause an electrical short circuit.
Is the Chevy Express reliable?
The Chevrolet Express 3500 Reliability Rating is 2.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 13th out of 21 for commercial vans. The average annual repair cost is $1,013 which means it has poor ownership costs. The frequency of repairs is average, but when issues do arise, they are more likely to be severe than with other models.
How long do Chevy Express engines last?
If you have a 4.3 V6 250,000 miles would be good. If you have a 4.8L, 5.3L or 6.0L V8 all are LS based engines. Those engines if cared for properly 300,000 is not uncommon. If you drive it like you stole it all the time you will be lucky to make 150,000 miles.
What engines are in the Chevy Express?
6.6L V8. Max trailering weight of up to 9,600 lbs.
When did they stop making Chevy Express?
2025
The Chevrolet Express will Be No More in 2026
GM is considering electrifying the future of its commercial fleet, so the last Chevrolet Express will stop being manufactured after 2025.
2009 Chevrolet Express complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2009 Chevrolet Express.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
2009 Chevrolet Express recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 7 recalls for different components of the 2009 Chevrolet Express.
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2009-2014 Chevrolet Silverado HD and GMC Sierra HD, 2009 GMC Topkick 5000, 6000, 7000 and 8000 Series and Isuzu F Series, and 2009-2018 Chevrolet Express, and GMC Savana vehicles, equipped with certain Plastic-Handle Fire Extinguishers or Push Button 'Pindicator' Fire Extinguishers. These extinguishers may become clogged, preventing the extinguisher from discharging as expected or requiring excessive force to activate the extinguisher. Additionally, in certain models, the nozzle may detach from the valve assembly with enough force that it could cause injury and also render the product inoperable. For a full list of the affected fire extinguisher models visit: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RMISC-17E062-5427.pdf
- Consequence: In the event of a fire, if the fire extinguisher does not function properly, it can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, instructing them to contact Kidde to get a replacement fire extinguisher, free of charge. The recall began June 11, 2018. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782, and Isuzu customer service at 1-866-441-9638. GM's number for this recall is 18146.
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2009-2014 Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana vans manufactured January 27, 2009, through March 7, 2014 with a gross vehicle weight rating of 10,000 pounds and less and equipped with front passenger air bags. In the affected vehicles, during a frontal impact below the air bag deployment threshold, if an unbelted front passenger's head hits the instrument panel above where the passenger air bag is located, the panel may not sufficiently absorb the impact. As such, these vehicles fail to meet the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 201, "Occupant Protection in Interior Impact."
- Consequence: In the event of a crash below the air bag deployment threshold, an unbelted front passenger seat occupant has an increased risk of injury.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will modify the passenger instrument panel free of charge. Notices to the owners of the heavy duty vans were mailed on April 28, 2014. The recall began on May 19, 2014. Chevrolet owners may call 1-800-630-2438. GMC owners may call 1-866-996-9463. GM's number for this recall is 14082.
- Manufacturer: MAIN MOBILITY, INC.
- Components: EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
- Summary: MAIN MOBILITY IS RECALLING CERTAIN CONVERSION VANS BUILT ON MODEL YEAR 2008-2010 CHEVROLET EXPRESS, 2009 GMC SAVANA, AND 2010 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT CHASSIS, AND FITTED WITH CERTAIN BRAUN WHEELCHAIR LIFTS. OVER TIME AND WITH FREQUENT USE, THE ROLL STOP LATCHES ON THE WHEELCHAIR LIFTS OUTER BARRIER MAY BECOME BENT OR MISALIGNED.
- Consequence: A WHEELCHAIR OCCUPANT MAY DEFEAT OR RIDE OVER THE INSUFFICIENTLY LATCHED ROLL STOP. IF THIS OCCURS WHEN THE LIFT PLATFORM IS IN AN ELEVATED POSITION, THE WHEELCHAIRS OCCUPANT COULD FALL AND SUSTAIN INJURY.
- Remedy: MAIN MOBILITY IS WORKING WITH BRAUN TO NOTIFY OWNERS, AND BRAUN DEALERS WILL REPAIR THE VEHICLES, FREE OF CHARGE. MAIN MOBILITY HAS NOT PROVIDED A NOTIFICATION SCHEDULE. OWNERS MAY CONTACT MAIN MOBILITY AT 1-716-759-6811.
- Manufacturer: MAIN MOBILITY, INC.
- Components: EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
- Summary: MAIN MOBILITY IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008 AND 2009 CONVERSION VANS BUILT ON CHEVROLET EXPRESS AND GMC SAVANA CHASSIS FROM OCTOBER 2007 THROUGH MAY 2010 AND FITTED WITH CERTAIN RICON S SERIES AND K SERIES L-MODEL WHEELCHAIR LIFTS. DUE TO A PROBLEM IN THE SOFTWARE THAT CONTROLS THE LIFT'S "UP" FUNCTION, SHOULD THE "UP" BUTTON BE RELEASED BEFORE THE FLOOR LEVEL LIMIT SWITCH IS ACTIVATED, THE LIFT MAY CONTINUE ITS UPWARD TRAVEL AND MAY OVERRUN THE FLOOR LEVEL CUT OFF POINT.
- Consequence: WHEN THE PLATFORM OVERRUNS THE VEHICLE FLOOR LEVEL AND STOPS AT AN ANGLE FROM 15-20 DEGREES, IT IS POSSIBLE FOR A PERSON IN A WHEELCHAIR TO TIP OVER AND FOR SOMEONE STANDING ON THE PLATFORM TO FALL, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN INJURIES.
- Remedy: MAIN MOBILITY WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND THE REPAIRS WILL BE PERFORMED BY AUTHORIZED RICON DEALERS FREE OF CHARGE. A SOFTWARE SOLUTION FOR THIS SAFETY DEFECT IS UNDER INVESTIGATION. UNTIL THE SOFTWARE SOLUTION IS AVAILABLE, RICON WILL PROVIDE OWNERS WITH A BULLETIN OUTLINING PROPER WHEELCHAIR LIFT OPERATION AND WILL SHIP OWNERS A DVD-BASED TRAINING AID TO PROMOTE PROPER LIFT OPERATION AT NO COST. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 27, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT RICON AT 1-818-267-3000 OR MAIN MOBILITY AT 1-716-759-6811.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM
- Summary: GENERAL MOTORS IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2009-2010 CHEVROLET EXPRESS AND GMC SAVANA VEHICLES FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 103, "WINDSHIELD WIPING AND WASHING SYSTEMS." THESE VEHICLES WERE BUILT WITH HEATING, VENTILATION, AND AIR CONDITIONING (HVAC) CONTROL KNOBS THAT MAY FRACTURE AND SPIN ON THE CONTROL SHAFT. THE DRIVER MAY NO LONGER BE ABLE TO CONTROL THE HEATING, COOLING, AND VENTILATION FOR THE VEHICLE.
- Consequence: IF THIS CONDITION AFFECTS THE DEFROST SYSTEM WHEN IT IS REQUIRED, IT MAY DECREASE THE DRIVER'S VISIBILITY, AND COULD POSSIBLY RESULT IN A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE ALL HVAC CONTROL KNOBS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 11, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438 AND GMC AT 1-866-996-9463 OR AT THE OWNER CENTER AT WWW.GMOWNERCENTER.COM.
- Manufacturer: MAIN MOBILITY, INC.
- Components: EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
- Summary: MAIN MOBILITY IS RECALLING 185 MODEL YEAR 2005 THROUGH 2009 CHEVROLET EXPRESS AND GMC SAVANA VANS MANUFACTURED BETWEEN APRIL 1, 2005 AND JUNE 25, 2009, EQUIPPED WITH RICON PLATFORM STYLE WHEELCHAIR LIFTS. THESE VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 403, "PLATFORM LIFT INSTALLATIONS IN MOTOR VEHICLES." THE ANTI-STOW INTERLOCK MAY NOT DETECT THE PRESENCE OF A WHEELCHAIR OR MOBILITY AID USER. THE PRESSURE SENSING SWITCH THAT DETECTS THE PRESENCE OF WEIGHT ON THE PLATFORM WAS NOT ADJUSTED TO THE NECESSARY SENSITIVITY LEVEL. THE LIFT COULD STOW EVEN THOUGH SOMEONE OR SOMETHING IS STILL ON THE LIFT.
- Consequence: THE USER OF THE LIFT COULD BE INJURED SHOULD THE LIFT MOVE UNINTENTIONALLY.
- Remedy: MAIN MOBILITY IS WORKING WITH RICON TO CORRECT THE WHEELCHAIR LIFTS FREE OF CHARGE (PLEASE SEE 07E097). OWNERS MAY CONTACT RICON AT 1-818-267-3000 OR MAIN MOBILITY AT 1-716-759-6811.
- Manufacturer: MAIN MOBILITY, INC.
- Components: EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
- Summary: MAIN MOBILITY IS RECALLING 185 MODEL YEAR 2005 THROUGH 2009 CHEVROLET EXPRESS AND GMC SAVANA VANS MANUFACTURED BETWEEN APRIL 1, 2005 AND JUNE 25, 2009, EQUIPPED WITH RICON PLATFORM STYLE WHEELCHAIR LIFTS. THESE VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 404, "PLATFORM LIFT INSTALLATIONS IN MOTOR VEHICLES." THE THRESHOLD WARNING SYSTEM MAY NOT DETECT THE PRESENCE OF A WHEELCHAIR OR MOBILITY AID USER IN A CERTAIN SPOT WITHIN THE DEFINED THRESHOLD AREA.
- Consequence: THE USER OF THE LIFT COULD BE INJURED SHOULD THE LIFT MOVE UNINTENTIONALLY.
- Remedy: MAIN MOBILITY IS WORKING WITH RICON TO CORRECT THE WHEELCHAIR LIFTS FREE OF CHARGE (PLEASE SEE 07E095). OWNERS MAY CONTACT RICON AT 1-818-267-3000 OR MAIN MOBILITY AT 1-716-759-6811.
Negative 2009 Chevrolet Express car reviews
Positive 2009 Chevrolet Express car reviews
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Buying a 2004 Chevy Express 3500 Extended Van was an easy decision for us. We needed a vehicle that could accommodate 11 people and our belongings, and we found the perfect fit. Despite its size, the Express 3500 is surprisingly fuel-efficient, consuming about the same amount of gas as two compact cars. We love the adventurous styling and all the interior appointments, including the AM/FM/CD changer Sound Sys, cruise control, All Power, 6way pwr. driver seat, factory tint, OnStar, and more. Our family is extremely satisfied with our new 2004 Express 3500, and we have no complaints whatsoever!
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What a fantastic vehicle! It's huge, making it easy to see and navigate. The Vortec V8 is incredibly powerful and reliable, just like the Vortec V6 in my previous Chevy Astro. Even though I bought the base model, it still came with power windows and locks, cruise control, and a CD player. I found it on Ebay from an owner in Las Vegas and flew from Atlanta to buy it. I then drove it 2,150 miles back home, and it drove like a dream - just like a Cadillac! While it may not be the most economical vehicle, I still managed to get about 15.5 mpg while averaging 75 mph for 80% of the trip. I receive so many compliments on this van, and the cargo space is enormous, especially when you remove the 2 bench seats. Overall, I am extremely pleased with this truck (van). Chevrolet really hit the nail on the head with this one!
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This is actually my second Express van and I must say, I'm really happy with it. I have the 12 passenger van, which is just the right size for me. The 08 model has been given many upgrades over older models, which is great. The seats can easily be removed, and you can almost put your whole house in there! My previous Express van was trouble free, and I'm happy to say that my 08 came with no defects, so it's off to a good start.
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This is a great vehicle for families and offers good value when compared to a Suburban. Even with the 4.3L V6, it performs well, although the available V8 would probably be even better. The locking rear axle makes winter driving very manageable, and the optional 4-wheel disk brakes are a welcome addition to stop this 5300lb truck.
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I hope you're doing well! I just wanted to share that I bought this van used for my plumbing business and I'm really happy with it. The AWD is incredible in the snow, even better than any of the 4x4 trucks I've had in the past. It rides great, gets decent gas mileage at 14-15 MPG, and drives really nicely. The only thing I wish is that it came in an extended version. Thanks for listening!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2009 Chevrolet Express problems:
2009 Chevrolet Express 2500 Problems and Complaints - 10 Issues
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2009 Chevrolet Express 3500 Problems and Complaints - 9 Issues
Problem with your 2009 Chevrolet Express 3500? Our list of 9 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2009 Chevrolet Express 3500.
Q&A: Common Problems with 2004 Chevy Express 2500 Van
May 6, 2012 ... My 2004 chevy 2500 express van has a ground problem. When I turn the key nothing happens. Sometimes if I hold the key in - Answered by a ...
Other years of Chevrolet Express
Are you having problems with your 2009 Chevrolet Express?
Kurt Walsh 2024-10-27
It seems like GM could improve their MPG ratings. I've been getting around 15 MPG with no cargo and 12 MPG with 8000 GVW. Additionally, the split outside mirrors can be quite bothersome and take some getting used to. The plastic door panels clip in place and can sometimes pop out, causing the clips to break off. However, I have found that at times it can be difficult to see the driver info display due to the steering wheel. Overall, it's important to keep these things in mind when driving this vehicle.
Darian Stamm 2024-08-19
Our family van is our second express. The first one was a 1999 12-passenger van, and the current one is a 2011 15-passenger van. We have no reason to sell it other than the fact that it's a little old to take on cross-country trips. It's great for local trips to Lowe's with the seats out or for family events with all or some of the seats back in. We drive it every day, but we don't want to pay the sticker price of a new one since they really haven't changed much over the years.
Layne Fritsch 2024-08-13
We bought the van because we outgrew our Grand Caravan, and we absolutely love the fact that we can tow anything we want. I've only owned it for three months, but I already love the room and power it provides.
Reinhold Jones 2024-08-10
While the engine and transmission of these vehicles are superior to those of Fords, the rest of the vehicle falls short. The old 1975-1992 Econoline has more room, feels better, drives better, handles better, and has a more solid body. The interior of the Express is uncomfortable and made of hard plastic that creaks and feels like it could break at any moment. The front seating is cramped and less roomy than Ford. The ride is not very smooth and can be a bit rough. The sliding door rattles and shakes when closed gently. All doors, controls, seats, and dash feel cheap compared to Ford. However, we understand that everyone has different preferences and priorities when it comes to choosing a vehicle.
Paris Hane 2024-07-13
Hi there! I borrowed this vehicle for my growing family and unfortunately, it didn't quite meet our needs. Within just 5 minutes, we noticed that the kids had to duck under seat belts to get to the 3rd row and there were no headrests for the back rows. Additionally, we felt every bump in the road. It's a shame that the engineers didn't think this through more thoroughly. We're now saving up for a Mercedes Benz Sprinter which we hope will be a better fit for us!