Pre-Owned 2009 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 2WD LT Crew Cab in Dallas, TX

2009 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (5.3L V8) - Owner/Expert Review

Overall Rating: ????? (4/5)

Performance (?????)

The 2009 Silverado 1500 equipped with the 5.3L V8 engine is a solid performer. This engine delivers around 315 horsepower and 338 lb-ft of torque, offering plenty of power for daily driving, towing, and hauling. It strikes a good balance between capability and smoothness, and when paired with the 6-speed automatic transmission (available on some trims), it shifts cleanly and efficiently.

Towing capacity ranges from 7,000 to over 10,000 pounds, depending on the configuration, which is impressive for its class and year.

Pros:

• Strong acceleration and towing capacity

• Smooth and refined V8 performance

• Optional Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation for fuel savings)

Cons:

• Fuel economy is decent for a V8, but still hovers around 14-20 mpg

• Some early models had issues with AFM-related oil consumption

Ride & Handling (?????)

The Silverado’s suspension is tuned for comfort more than sportiness, which is ideal for a full-size truck. It handles well for its size, with decent steering feel and minimal body roll. The ride is especially smooth on the highway.

However, the rear suspension can feel stiff when the bed is empty-a common trait in pickup trucks.

Interior & Comfort (?????)

The cabin of the 2009 Silverado is functional but a bit dated by today’s standards. Higher trims like LTZ come with leather, dual-zone climate control, and premium audio. Lower trims are basic but durable.

Highlights:

• Quiet cabin with good insulation

• Comfortable front seats, especially in extended or crew cab models

• Simple, easy-to-use controls

Lowlights:

• Dated dash and instrument cluster

• Rear seats in extended cab are cramped

• Some interior plastics feel cheap

Reliability & Maintenance (?????)

The 5.3L V8 is generally known for longevity when well-maintained, but 2007-2011 models, including the 2009, can experience oil consumption issues, often tied to the Active Fuel Management (AFM) system. Many owners opt to disable AFM through a tune or aftermarket modification.

Common Issues to Watch For:

• Excessive oil usage (AFM-related)

• Failing knock sensors

• Rust (especially in northern climates)

Regular maintenance, including oil changes with high-quality synthetic oil, helps mitigate many issues.

Value & Ownership (?????)

As a used truck, the 2009 Silverado 1500 with the 5.3L V8 remains a strong value, particularly if it has low mileage and service records. It’s versatile enough for work and family use, and aftermarket parts are widely available.

Verdict:

If you’re in the market for a dependable, capable full-size truck with a proven V8, the 2009 Silverado 5.3L is worth considering. Be sure to check for oil consumption history and