2009 Gmc Savana 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 Gmc Savana problems
The GMC Savana 2009, like any other vehicle, has its share of common problems reported by its owners. This article will explore these issues in detail to help potential buyers and current owners make informed decisions.
- Excessive Oil Consumption: This problem is related to the Vortec engine, which is known to consume excessive oil. While this issue is more prevalent in earlier models, it is still worth noting, as it can lead to increased maintenance costs and potential engine damage if not addressed promptly.
- Leaking Coolant from a Cracked Intake Manifold: This issue is another common problem reported by GMC Savana owners. The intake manifold, which is responsible for distributing the air-fuel mixture to the engine's cylinders, can crack and cause coolant to leak. This problem can lead to overheating and potential engine damage if not addressed promptly.
- Faulty Speed Sensor: This problem is specific to the 2009 GMC Savana 2500 Cargo. A faulty speed sensor can cause various issues, including incorrect speed readings, erratic shifting, and even total brake failure. It is essential to address this issue promptly, as it can lead to safety concerns and increased repair costs.
- Low Brake Fluid: This problem is also specific to the 2009 GMC Savana 2500 Cargo. Low brake fluid can cause various issues, including a spongy brake pedal, reduced braking performance, and even total brake failure. It is essential to address this issue promptly, as it can lead to safety concerns and increased repair costs.
- Worn Valve Seats May Cause Engine Misfire: This problem is one of the most commonly reported issues for the GMC Savana 2500, including the 2009 model. Worn valve seats can cause the engine to misfire, leading to reduced performance, increased fuel consumption, and potential engine damage if not addressed promptly.
In conclusion, while the GMC Savana 2009 has its share of common problems, it is essential to note that many of these issues can be addressed with prompt maintenance and repair. Potential buyers and current owners should be aware of these issues and take appropriate action to ensure the safe and reliable operation of their vehicles.
Are GMC Savana vans reliable?
The GMC Savana 2500 Reliability Rating is 3.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 11th out of 21 for commercial vans.
How long do GMC Savana last?
If you keep up with the maintenance schedule of your Savana, it can last long term, whether you use it each day or a few times a week. The longevity of a GMC Savana is around 20 years at its maximum life span.
What engine is in a 2009 GMC Savana?
A 4.3-liter V6, a 5.3-liter V8 and an E85 FlexFuel 5.3-liter V8. All of the engines are teamed with a four-speed automatic transmission. The Savana 1500 passenger and cargo vans come with a 135-inch wheelbase.
How many miles per gallon does a 2009 GMC Savana 2500 get?
Based on data from 3 vehicles, 539 fuel-ups and 157,362 miles of driving, the 2009 GMC Savana 2500 gets a combined Avg MPG of 11.76 with a 0.17 MPG margin of error.
Are GMC Savana vans reliable?
The GMC Savana 2500 Reliability Rating is 3.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 11th out of 21 for commercial vans.
What engine is in a 2009 GMC Savana?
A 4.3-liter V6, a 5.3-liter V8 and an E85 FlexFuel 5.3-liter V8. All of the engines are teamed with a four-speed automatic transmission. The Savana 1500 passenger and cargo vans come with a 135-inch wheelbase.
How long do GMC Savana last?
If you keep up with the maintenance schedule of your Savana, it can last long term, whether you use it each day or a few times a week. The longevity of a GMC Savana is around 20 years at its maximum life span.
What is the gas mileage on a 2009 GMC Savana?
The 2009 Savana 1500 Cargo gets 17 MPG overall, with 15 MPG in the city and 20 MPG on the highway. For a complete list of all the 2009 Savana 1500 Cargo specs, features and options check out Kelley Blue Book's 2009 GMC Savana 1500 Cargo specs page.
2009 Gmc Savana complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2009 Gmc Savana.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
2009 Gmc Savana recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 8 recalls for different components of the 2009 Gmc Savana.
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2003-2023 Chevrolet Express Cutaway and GMC Savana Cutaway incomplete vehicles equipped with wiring for an optional rear heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) system. When the HVAC blower motor circuit is left unused with exposed connectors and wiring, the circuit can corrode and overheat.
- Consequence: An overheated electrical circuit increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Dealers will properly seal the rear HVAC blower motor circuits at the left side B-pillar, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 2, 2023. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GMC's number for this recall is N222386050.
- 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 Gmc Savana car reviews
Positive 2009 Gmc Savana car reviews
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In November 2021, I purchased a 1998 GMC 2500 Savana with the 5.7 motor. The seller mentioned that a company had taken care of it and that the motor had been rebuilt with only 90,000 miles on it. Although I wasn't given any information about what was done to the motor, it runs great and has power. The van was previously used as a cargo van/food truck and has no major dents, but the sliding side door handle and lock were missing and the back driver's side door needs to be lifted up a touch to latch properly. Despite these minor issues, it starts up every time and goes down the highway great. The gas gauge works and there is no 'Service Engine Soon' light. I did notice a slight play in the steering when going down the highway, but it stays straight and doesn't pull from side to side. Currently, the biggest issue is a ticking sound every revolution of the engine, which is hard to locate. However, I've driven the van around 1,300 miles with the ticking sound and it hasn't gotten better or worse. I've been trying to find the culprit and have checked the flywheel for cracks, the tightness of the flywheel bolts, and even removed the left valve cover to inspect the rockers. I made a YouTube video to show the process: see this: https://youtu.be/GUGiHv2Fk3U. The rockers on the left side looked really clean and there was no gunk around the cover and on the bottom.First, I will adjust my rocker bolts and then change the oil again to check for metal shavings. While the oil pan is off, I will use a small ball peen and tap the bottom of each rod to listen for any unusual sounds. This will help me identify any problems with the bearings. In the worst-case scenario, I may have to pull the engine and check everything or replace it altogether. However, sometimes it's best to leave things as they are if they're not causing any issues. I have read about some owners who have a tick/knock and continue to drive their vehicle without any problems. If you have a 1998 GMC with a ticking noise, please let me know your situation. All in all, I love the way the van drives and it's worth it to me to repair it. The body and suspension seem to still be in great shape, as well as the brakes. I hope my review has been helpful. Take care!
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I hope you're doing well! I just wanted to let you know that I've owned this from when it was new and I really like everything about it.
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Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share a bit about our van. We bought it way back in 2004 and it's been through a lot with us. On our very first trip, it got hit by Hurricane Charley! Despite all that, it's still going strong and gets around 14 mpg in the city and 16 mpg on the highway. The 5.3 liter engine can go from 0 to 60 in about 8 seconds, and even though it's only RWD, it handles rain, snow, and ice like a champ. Plus, it's just really fun to drive! All in all, we've had such a great experience with this van that we're definitely considering buying another one in the future.
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I bought this van used from the previous owner who had a Cadillac Escalade. When I bought it, it had only 90,000 original miles and some aftermarket parts. It has no rust, no engine or transmission issues, and rides great!
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I've been working since I was young, and GMC is the only work truck for me. If I had used an extended van, I wouldn't have been able to park it in the warm garage away from the birds we feed.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2009 Gmc Savana problems:
Q&A: GMC Savana Fuse Box Location, Diagram & Turn Signal ...
Sep 24, 2011 ... 2009 GMC 2500 Savanah. Right side ... This is a very common problem causing this concern. ... 2004 gmc savana 3500 box van, no signals, 4 ways, rear.
GMC Savana 1500 Problems and Complaints - 21 Issues
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Q&A: Common Problems with 1997 GMC Savana 1500 & 3500 ...
Dec 20, 2011 ... My 1997 gmc savana 1500 with 5.7 vortec engine stalls,while driving,just cuts off,no check engine light,i replaced fuel - Answered by a ...
GMC Savana 3500 Problems and Complaints - 22 Issues
Problem with your GMC Savana 3500? Our list of 22 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your GMC Savana 3500.
GMC Savana Paint Peeling (White) | GM Inside News Forum
Jul 21, 2017 ... It's a known problem with the 2009-2012 Savanna and Express. That's probably why they are offering to help cover some of the costs. That's ...
Other years of Gmc Savana
Are you having problems with your 2009 Gmc Savana?
Solon Oberbrunner 2024-10-20
Although I have always been a GM guy, this particular van has been a disappointment. The windshield cracked on the first day off the lot due to small stones, which is indicative of poor quality glass. Additionally, the AC failed within 6 months of purchase. The fuel efficiency is also subpar, as we struggle to get 10mpg in the city or on the highway, with only one instance of achieving 12mpg on the highway. When towing my trailer, the fuel efficiency was even worse, with only 6mpg. Overall, I would not consider purchasing this van again.
Hans Cummerata 2024-08-12
Great van! It's amazing how much power and fuel mileage it provides for such a large vehicle. I'm really looking forward to purchasing the new GM Diesel van. We use it to tow the US Bobsled to shows and take it to a lot of Nascar Races. We're very active in racing, selling our products to several teams and sponsoring others. It's not uncommon to see Nascar drivers catching a ride in our van, which can seat up to 15 people. All in all, we're extremely satisfied with it.
Norwood Koch 2024-07-02
I hope you're doing well! I wanted to share my experience with my Exployer conversion. While the interior looks great, I did notice that the ride quality is only fair. Additionally, at highway speeds, there is quite a bit of wind noise which can make it difficult to hold a conversation.
Carlo Veum 2024-04-08
I hope you're doing well! I noticed that you mentioned using your van to pull your fishing boat to the ocean. That sounds like a lot of fun! I was thinking that it might be helpful to have side mirrors that extend out for better visibility when backing up in tight spaces. I've seen some really nice ones on Ford pickups that might work well for your van. Some of them even retract and fold against the truck when not in use. I know you love your van, and I think this could be a great addition to make your fishing trips even more enjoyable. It's great that you have holders for all your fishing gear, too. Just lock up the van and you're ready for your next adventure!
Chelsey Lemke 2024-02-26
When my diesel van was new, it had some engine problems, transmission issues, alternator malfunctions, sliding door troubles, and a few other problems. However, they were eventually fixed. Now, it is pretty reliable, except for the alternator belt that has flown off 3 times. Despite the issues I've had, I absolutely love my van! It tows great and I have no problems passing any other truck type vehicles on any mountain passes. My husband agrees that it outperforms his 1997 4x4 dually Chevy diesel truck, except for the lack of 4-wheel drive. I can honestly say that this vehicle has enhanced my life because of its towing abilities and the spacious interior it provides. Although the interior may be cheap, I have learned to live with it. I would definitely buy this vehicle again, especially with 4-wheel drive.