2009 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Review: An Affordable and Reliable Half Ton Truck

Average priced compared to other full size trucks ranging from $13,688 to $24,369, the 2009 model is good with fewer complaints than previous years. No serious mechanical problems, and a dependable powertrain help the truck last over 250,000 miles.

2009 Chevrolet Silverado 1500: Quick Overview

• We rate the reliability as very good, which is in line with J.D. Power’s great rating from when the truck was new. There are a couple of engine problems, but most of them are easy to prevent with proper maintenance.
• Five engine choices are available. One is a relatively weak V6 built for efficiency, and there are four V8s with more power for towing.
• Fuel economy is great for a full size truck from 2009 with a combined rating of up to 17 miles per gallon.
• Safety ratings are excellent for the class, with a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests.
• The 2009 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 series ranks 7^th out of 13 full size trucks based on owner reviews. A combination of a comfortable interior, and fewer problems than other large trucks help the Silverado stand out as a good choice for the 2009 model year.

What Problems Does the 2009 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Have?

The 2009 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 series has an average number of problems compared to other full size trucks including the F-150 and Ram 1500 series. There are fewer complaints than with the older 2008 model, making 2009 a good year.

Excessive oil consumption is the number one issue, happening frequently around 75,000 miles. There are a few ways to handle excessive oil consumption. The most budget-friendly is checking the oil regularly to make sure it’s topped off. Some owners choose to replace the pistons and rings, for about $2,000. Low oil can damage the engine, and a full replacement costs over $4,000.

A cracked dashboard is another frequent problem, with the 2009 model year, happening in less than 70,000 miles. Excessive sun exposure wears out the dash, leading to cracks. Owners can either install a dash cover for under $100, or replace the dash for around $1,000.

Dash lights coming on suddenly is another complaint from owners, happening around 80,000 miles. The stabilitrak and other warning lights will turn on suddenly. Usually the problem is either with the computer, or a loose ground. Repair costs vary since the source of the issue is different in each case.

There are 3 recalls, which is fewer than other full size trucks from 2009. All of the recalls are for  air bag inflators. Replacing the inflators is important to prevent injury to passengers in the event of an accident, and once they’ve been replaced, at no cost to the owner, are not much of a concern.

How Much is the 2009 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Worth?

Ranging in price from $13,688 to $24,369, depending on mileage and model, the 2009 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 series is average priced. When new, prices were $19,375 to $41,355. Full size trucks in good condition depreciate very slowly, and in some cases will only drop about 5% in current value per year.

What Are the Models & Specs?

Work Truck is focused on fleet customers with:

• 17-inch Steel Wheels
• Vinyl Bench Seating
• OnStar Communications
• Air Conditioning
• 4-Speaker Stereo System with AM/FM/CD playback and AUX

LS is a step up commonly bought as an entry-level retail version offering:

• Cloth Seating
• Power Mirrors
• Power Door Locks
• Keyless Entry
• Cruise Control

LT is next in the lineup, offering good value for the money adding:

• 17-Inch Alloy Wheels
• Premium Cloth Seating
• Dual-Zone Climate Control
• Auto Dimming Rearview Mirror

LTZ is the flagship luxurious model and features:

• 17-Inch Chrome Alloy Wheels
• Leather Seats
• Heated Front Seats
• Power Adjustable Front Seats
• Bluetooth
• Remote Engine Start

How Long Will the 2009 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Last?

With proper care, a 2009 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 series will last over 250,000 miles, which is average for a full size truck. Repair Pal estimates regular annual maintenance costs to be about $100 lower than the offerings from F-150 and Ram, at $658 per year.

As the 2009 Silverado 1500 series ages and passes 100,000 miles, there are some larger repairs owners should prepare for. They include transmission cooler lines for $300, new engine mounts costing $500, and a throttle position sensor for about $200.

What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?

Technology is not a strong point in the 2009 Silverado, but similar to other full size trucks from the same year.

• Standard technology includes an AM/FM/CD stereo system with a 3.5mm AUX jack, and 4 speakers.
• Optional upgrades include 6-speaker, and 8-speaker stereo systems, CD changer, and a 7-inch touchscreen navigation system.
• For safety there are standard air bags and antilock brakes. Stability control with roll mitigation is available on the V8 models.

What Engine Options are Available?

Performance is good in the 2009 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 series, taking 7.1 seconds to go from 0 to 60 miles per hour with the most powerful engine. The towing capacity is adequate, but not class leading at 10,700 pounds.

• The base engine is a 4.3L V6 with 195 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque.
• A step up is the 4.8L V8, which has 295 horsepower and 305 lb.-ft. of torque.
• The next engine is the 5.3L V8, which produces 315 horsepower and 338 lb.-ft. of torque.
• A larger choice is the 6.0L V8, with 367 horsepower and 375 lb.-ft. of torque.
• The flagship engine is the 6.2L V8, which has 403 horsepower and 417 lb.-ft. of torque.

What Color Options are Available?

How Big is the Silverado 1500?

The 2009 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 series is a large half-ton truck, similar in size to the Ram 1500 series and Ford F-150. There are three cabin choices available including a 2-door standard cab, 4-door extended cab, and larger 4-door crew cab. The crew cab offers excellent passenger room, whereas the extended cab is more cramped.

Three beds are also available, including 5-foot-8-inch, 6-foot-6-inch, and 8-foot lengths.

How Does the 2009 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Compare to Other Trucks?

Ranking 7^th out of 13 full size trucks, based on owner reviews, the 2009 Chevy Silverado is near the middle of the class.

The highest rated half-ton truck from 2009 is the more expensive Toyota Tundra. Where the Tundra wins out is with more power from the standard V8 engines, and better technology options. On the other hand, the Silverado has a higher towing capacity, and nicer interior materials. Overall, both are good trucks for the 2009 model year, but the Tundra is a longer-lasting choice going over 350,000 miles.

Another close competitor is the more affordable Ford F-150. The F-150 offers a higher maximum towing capacity, and more customization options available for shoppers. Where the Silverado comes out ahead is with fewer complaints from owners, and better interior materials on comparably priced trucks. Between the two trucks there is no clear winner since both are good half-ton options for the year.

Final Verdict: Is the 2009 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 a Good Truck?

Yes, the 2009 Chevrolet Silverado is a good truck. Getting a 4.4/5 rating based on 134 verified owner reviews. Some positives include a higher-quality interior than most rivals, as well as a comfortable suspension. Downsides are a weak base V6 engine, and lower towing capacity than other half-ton trucks. Overall, 2009 is a good year for the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 series, easily earning our recommendation.