The 2009 GMC Savana is a full-size van, primarily designed for commercial use and passenger transport. Its body style is a traditional van, available in various lengths and configurations. While the Savana model line spans many years, the 2009 edition offered practical functionality. Key trims included the base model and the LS. Pricing varied depending on configuration and condition. Its popularity stems from its robust build, ample cargo space, and suitability for diverse business needs. It's a workhorse, plain and simple.
The Good
The 2009 GMC Savana offers dependable performance and notable reliability, appealing to practical buyers. While not luxurious, it provides adequate comfort for its intended purpose. Its straightforward design emphasizes functionality. Emotionally, owners appreciate its dependability and the ability to handle tough tasks, adding to a feeling of accomplishment.
The Bad
The 2009 GMC Savana's weaknesses include relatively poor fuel economy compared to modern vehicles. Some owners report issues with transmission longevity and electrical system glitches. Rust can also be a concern, particularly in areas with harsh winters. Watch out for worn suspension components due to the vehicle's heavy-duty nature.
2009 GMC Savana: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 4.3L V6: Approximately 195 hp
- 4.8L V8: Approximately 280 hp
- 5.3L V8: Approximately 301 hp
- 6.0L V8: Approximately 323 hp
- Horsepower: Ranging from 195 to 323 hp, depending on the engine.
- Fuel Economy: Varies significantly based on engine and usage. Expect around 13-15 mpg city and 17-20 mpg highway for V8 models. V6 models may offer slightly better economy.
- 0-60 Times: Not a primary performance metric for this vehicle. Expect relatively slow acceleration, likely in the 9-12 second range depending on the engine.
- Towing Capacity: Substantial towing capacity depending on configuration, ranging from approximately 6,000 to 10,000 lbs when properly equipped.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base: Typically includes basic features like vinyl seating, standard audio system, and limited power options.
- LS: Adds features like cloth seating, upgraded audio, and more available power options. Passenger versions often have more comfortable seating and interior trim.
- Other Key Specs:
- Rear-wheel drive is standard.
- Automatic transmission.
- Available in different wheelbase lengths.
2009 GMC Savana Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2009 |
| Make | GMC |
| Model | Savana |
| Trim | - |
| Style | Cargo |
| Type | Cargo |
| Category | Cargo Van |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | WENTZVILLE |
Dimensions
| Doors | 3-Door |
| Curb Weight | 5338 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 8600 pounds |
| Overall Height | 81.60 inches |
| Overall Length | 224.10 inches |
| Overall Width | 79.40 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 135.00 inches |
| Standard Seating | 2 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 6.0-L V-8 |
| Engine Size | 6L |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Recirculating |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $25,235 |
| Invoice Price | $23,342 |
| Delivery Charges | $980 |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
Specifications
Specifications
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History
All History
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Events
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Past Sale
Listings
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Recalls
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Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2009 GMC Savana Have?
Frequently reported problems for the 2009 GMC Savana often revolve around transmission issues, particularly with higher mileage vehicles. Some owners have reported premature transmission failure or rough shifting. Electrical problems, such as issues with the door locks, power windows, and instrument panel, are also fairly common. Rust, especially in areas that use road salt, is a significant long-term concern, affecting body panels and undercarriage components. The 2009 model year, and those surrounding it, have experienced recalls related to safety issues such as faulty airbags or brake system components. Check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website for the most up-to-date recall information. Long-term reliability concerns center on the durability of the transmission and the potential for rust. Regular maintenance, particularly fluid changes and rust prevention measures, is crucial to mitigating these issues. Engine issues, while less frequent than transmission problems, can also occur, particularly with the higher-mileage V8 engines, so regular oil changes are essential. Some owners have also reported issues with the air conditioning system.
How long will the 2009 GMC Savana last?
The 2009 GMC Savana, with proper maintenance, can often reach 200,000 miles or more and provide 15-20 years of service. However, longevity heavily depends on maintenance habits. Neglecting fluid changes, especially transmission fluid, significantly shortens its lifespan. Regular servicing, addressing rust promptly, and replacing worn parts proactively are essential. Long-term durability is generally good for the engine itself, but the transmission remains a potential weak point. Suspension components and brakes may require more frequent replacement due to the vehicle's weight and typical usage. Rust proofing is also highly recommended to maximize life.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2009 GMC Savana's built-in tech and entertainment features are relatively basic compared to modern vehicles. Standard equipment typically included an AM/FM radio with a CD player. Optional features might have included upgraded audio systems or rear-seat entertainment systems for passenger configurations. Driver-assistance features were minimal, primarily consisting of standard braking systems and basic traction control.
Safety features included standard airbags (driver and passenger), anti-lock brakes (ABS), and available traction control. Electronic Stability Control (StabiliTrak) was often an optional feature.
Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) should be checked for specific configurations. These ratings can vary depending on the model year and testing methodology. The available safety features aimed to provide basic protection, but advanced driver-assistance systems like blind-spot monitoring or lane departure warning were not available. The focus remained on providing a safe and functional vehicle for commercial or passenger transport rather than incorporating cutting-edge technology. Keep in mind that the technology available on this vehicle is minimal by today's standards. Optional features were few and far between, and mainly consisted of entertainment upgrades rather than driver aids or safety.
Safety features included standard airbags (driver and passenger), anti-lock brakes (ABS), and available traction control. Electronic Stability Control (StabiliTrak) was often an optional feature.
Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) should be checked for specific configurations. These ratings can vary depending on the model year and testing methodology. The available safety features aimed to provide basic protection, but advanced driver-assistance systems like blind-spot monitoring or lane departure warning were not available. The focus remained on providing a safe and functional vehicle for commercial or passenger transport rather than incorporating cutting-edge technology. Keep in mind that the technology available on this vehicle is minimal by today's standards. Optional features were few and far between, and mainly consisted of entertainment upgrades rather than driver aids or safety.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Summit White
Onyx Black
Silver Birch Metallic
Stealth Gray Metallic
Imperial Blue Metallic
Dark Cherry Metallic
Sandstone Metallic
Interior Colors
Medium Pewter
Neutral
2009 GMC Savana Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2009 GMC Savana had a base price ranging from approximately $25,000 to $35,000, depending on the trim, engine, and options. Current used market prices vary widely based on condition, mileage, and location, typically ranging from $5,000 to $15,000. Depreciation is significant over time, but the Savana holds some resale value due to its utility and demand in the commercial market. Factors affecting resale value include overall condition, mileage, maintenance records, and whether it's a cargo or passenger van. A well-maintained Savana with lower mileage will command a higher price.
2009 GMC Savana Cost of Ownership
The 2009 GMC Savana is generally considered moderately costly to own long-term. Insurance costs are typically moderate, but fuel costs can be high due to its poor fuel economy. Maintenance costs are average, but repairs, especially transmission-related, can be expensive. Regular maintenance is crucial to prevent costly breakdowns. Due to its heavy-duty nature, components such as brakes and suspension may require more frequent attention, impacting overall ownership costs. Fuel is probably the biggest factor impacting ownership costs.
2009 GMC Savana Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
31.00 gallons
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
2009 GMC Savana Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2009 GMC Savana Recalls & Defects
Equipment Adaptive/Mobility
Recall date
2009-07-06
Recall no.
09v272000
Source
NHTSA
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.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Equipment Adaptive/Mobility
Recall date
2009-07-06
Recall no.
09v270000
Source
NHTSA
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.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Visibility:defroster/Defogger/Hvac System
Recall date
2010-03-12
Recall no.
10v096000
Source
NHTSA
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.
Notes
GM Recall NO. 10012.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Equipment Adaptive/Mobility
Recall date
2010-05-13
Recall no.
10v205000
Source
NHTSA
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.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Vehicles Altered BY Main Mobility and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Vehicles Manufactured BY General Motors.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Equipment Adaptive/Mobility
Recall date
2012-04-17
Recall no.
12v169000
Source
NHTSA
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 Lift?s 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 Wheelchair?s 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.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Vehicles Altered BY Main Mobility and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Vehicles Manufactured BY General Motors or Ford.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration?s Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal
Recall date
2014-03-17
Recall no.
14v117000
Source
NHTSA
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.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Equipment
Recall date
2018-04-26
Recall no.
18v267000
Source
NHTSA
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.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Electrical System:wiring
Recall date
2023-04-06
Recall no.
23v247000
Source
NHTSA
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.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
2009 GMC Savana Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
60 months / 100,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
72 months / 100,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
2009 GMC Savana Insurance
Insurance for a 2009 GMC Savana is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Cargo with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2009 GMC Savana Compare to Other Cargo?
The 2009 GMC Savana's key rivals include the Ford E-Series (Econoline/Club Wagon) and the Chevrolet Express (essentially its twin). In terms of performance, the Savana offers comparable engine options and towing capacity to its rivals. Features are generally similar across the board, with basic amenities and limited advanced technology. Reliability is a mixed bag; the Savana is generally considered reliable, but transmission issues can be a concern, similar to the E-Series. Price-wise, the Savana and Express are often competitively priced, while the E-Series may offer slightly different trim levels or options.
Alternatives to consider depend on specific needs. For purely commercial use, the Nissan NV (later NV200) might be considered for better fuel economy, though it's smaller. For passenger transport, minivans like the Honda Odyssey or Toyota Sienna offer superior fuel economy, comfort, and safety features, though with less cargo capacity. The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter offers more modern features and higher payload capacities but comes at a higher price point. Overall, if you need a full-size van for heavy-duty work and are comfortable with its older technology, the Savana is a viable option, but carefully consider your needs and budget when comparing it to alternatives. Consider the Ford Transit as a slightly more modern option, however.
Alternatives to consider depend on specific needs. For purely commercial use, the Nissan NV (later NV200) might be considered for better fuel economy, though it's smaller. For passenger transport, minivans like the Honda Odyssey or Toyota Sienna offer superior fuel economy, comfort, and safety features, though with less cargo capacity. The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter offers more modern features and higher payload capacities but comes at a higher price point. Overall, if you need a full-size van for heavy-duty work and are comfortable with its older technology, the Savana is a viable option, but carefully consider your needs and budget when comparing it to alternatives. Consider the Ford Transit as a slightly more modern option, however.
Ranks #406 Truck
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Tundra | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2022 Honda Ridgeline | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Ford E-Transit Chassis | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Cab Chassis | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD | (0.0★) |
| 6 | 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz | (5.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Nissan Frontier | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Ram 4500 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2022 Jeep Gladiator | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2012 Suzuki Equator | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2009 Mitsubishi Raider | (5.0★) |
| 406 | 2009 GMC Savana | (0.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2009 GMC Savana a Good Cargo?
The 2009 GMC Savana is ideal for businesses or individuals needing a robust, full-size van for cargo or passenger transport, where practicality outweighs modern amenities. Whether it's worth buying depends on the price and condition. A well-maintained, lower-mileage example can be a good value. Avoid models with known transmission issues or excessive rust. The LS trim offers slightly more comfort, but the base model is sufficient for basic needs. It's best suited for used purchase, as new models are significantly more advanced and costly. Consider a thorough inspection before buying, especially regarding the transmission and potential rust.
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.