AI-generated · grounded in NHTSA data
Reliability & 5-year cost of ownership — 2009 Gmc Sierra 1500
Overall rating NHTSA-grounded
Below average
Estimated 5-year repair + maintenance cost: $6,500–$14,500
The 2009 GMC Sierra 1500 faces significant airbag recalls and numerous airbag-related complaints, impacting its safety reputation, alongside issues in electrical and engine systems.
Most-common failures
| Part | Typical mileage | Cost range | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| airbags | 60,000–90,000 miles | $400–$1,200 | very common |
| electrical system | 70,000–100,000 miles | $300–$1,000 | common |
| engine | 80,000–110,000 miles | $1,500–$3,500 | common |
| vehicle speed control | 90,000–120,000 miles | $200–$800 | occasional |
| fuel system | 100,000–130,000 miles | $500–$2,000 | occasional |
Scheduled maintenance to budget
Routine items every owner should plan for.
- Oil change every 5,000 miles
- Brake fluid replacement every 30,000 miles
- Transmission fluid change every 50,000 miles
- Coolant change every 5 years
- Tire rotation every 10,000 miles
Warning signs to watch for
Symptoms that signal a major upcoming repair.
- Airbag warning light
- Electrical system malfunctions
- Engine knocking sounds
- Unresponsive accelerator pedal
- Poor fuel efficiency
Generated by gpt-4o on 8/24/2026. Cost ranges are conservative estimates that account for typical regional variation.