2009 GMC Sierra 3500HD Review
2009 GMC Sierra 3500HD Review
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GMC Sierra 3500HD model years
GMC Sierra 3500HD types
- Extended Cab
- Crew Cab
- Regular Cab
See Edmunds pricing data
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Prodigious towing and hauling capacities, smooth ride for a big truck, respectable build and materials quality, accurate steering, pleasant seats.
Cons
- No side airbags available.
What’s new
The 2009 GMC Sierra 3500HD receives the latest version of OnStar, which includes turn-by-turn navigation. There's also available Bluetooth phone connectivity, and the optional navigation system offers an available real-time traffic feature. Additionally, a backup camera is now optional on extended and crew cabs.
Edmunds says
The 2009 GMC Sierra 3500HD has all the workhorse basics covered, and its refined character makes it stand out in this utilitarian segment.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2009 GMC Sierra 3500HD Work Truck 2dr Regular Cab LB (6.0L 8cyl 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of N/A undefined in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
Not EPA tested for Sierra 3500HD Work Truck
Sierra 3500HD Work Truck
vs
$257/mo
Avg. Large Truck
Vehicle overview
For a small subset of truck shoppers, regular heavy-duty pickups just won't do the job. These folks need maximal capability, often in "dually" dual-rear-wheel form -- and for them, there are true beasts like the 2009 GMC Sierra 3500HD. Having received the most recent redesign in its class, the Sierra 3500HD is an up-to-date truck, and its superior driving dynamics and extraordinary interior quality nicely complement its expected hauling and towing talents.
The '09 Sierra 3500 receives a handful of useful upgrades, including a new version of OnStar and Bluetooth connectivity. The rest of the truck remains unchanged from its complete overhaul two years ago, which brought fresh styling, a dramatically improved interior, better handling, a more powerful engine lineup, a stronger frame and higher payload and towing capacities. As ever, this is a truck that will get the job done. Thanks to these changes, it will also keep you comfortable while doing it.
Whether you opt for the Sierra 3500HD or its Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD twin, you can't go wrong with these well-mannered brutes. The aging Dodge Ram 3500 offers similar ride comfort and towing capacity, but its interior quality is subpar, and it's due to replaced by an all-new model. The Ford F-350 is the Sierra 3500HD's closest competitor, but the GMC offers a bit more in the way of hauling and towing capacities, and its interior is arguably a cut above, particularly in SLT trim. Ford trumps everyone with the F-450, which will tow an ungodly 24,500 pounds. However, as long as you don't regularly tow the Queen Elizabeth 2 out of the water, the 2009 GMC Sierra 3500 is an excellent choice for your heavy-duty needs.
Performance & mpg
A 6.0-liter V8 generating 353 horsepower and 373 pound-feet of torque is standard on all Sierra 3500HD trucks, as is a six-speed automatic transmission. Optional is the burly "Duramax" 6.6-liter turbodiesel V8, which boasts 365 hp and a space-time-continuum-wrenching 660 lb-ft of torque. The turbodiesel comes paired with an Allison six-speed automatic. Properly equipped, the 3500HD can haul up to 5,300 pounds and tow up to 13,000 pounds.
Buyers have a choice of either rear- or four-wheel drive. The Work Truck with 4WD has a traditional floor-mounted selector for the transfer case. All other 4WD trims have Autotrac, which features an automatic setting that shifts into 4WD when wheel slippage is detected.
Safety
Antilock disc brakes are standard, but stability control, front side and side curtain airbags are not available.
Driving
Compared with the heavy-duty trucks from Ford and Dodge, the 2009 GMC Sierra 3500HD distinguishes itself with well-weighted steering that gives the driver a greater sense of vehicle control. Heavy-duty pickups are never going to ride like luxury sedans, but the 3500 is surprisingly quiet and comfortable over long distances. Both engines are strong, but if you can swing the price premium, the brawny performance and decent fuel economy of the Duramax diesel make it a tempting choice.
Interior
The 2009 GMC Sierra 3500HD features two different interior designs depending on trim level. The Work Truck and SLE sport a traditionally plain but functional dash design with an open lower center portion to accommodate the standard three-person front bench (a center console is added with the optional bucket seats). Conversely, the top-of-the-line SLT gets the same layout as the GMC Yukon SLT SUV, which lends the Sierra's cabin a classier feel thanks to its luxury car-like center-stack design, high-quality materials and wood and metallic accents. Either way, controls are straightforward and relatively easy to reach, though the available dual-zone climate controls are small and difficult to operate with gloves.
The front seats are quite comfy, though some editors found that the pedals were placed too far apart for comfort. Moreover, the tilt-only steering wheel is located too close to the dash for longer-legged operators. Space in the crew cab's backseat is very spacious, while most average adults should find the extended cab's backseat acceptable. A welcome addition for 2009 is the optional rearview camera for extended- and crew-cab models, which makes parking easier and also streamlines the process of hitching up a trailer.
2009 GMC Sierra 3500HD models
The 2009 GMC Sierra 3500HD full-size heavy duty pickup is available in three body styles and two rear-axle designs: regular cab, extended cab and crew cab, with a choice of single or dual rear wheels (2WD regular cabs are available only with single rear wheels). All 3500HD models receive a "long" eight-foot cargo bed. Regular cabs are offered in base Work Truck or midlevel SLE trims; extended and crew cabs can also be had in plush SLT form.
The Work Truck trim comes with a solid roster of standard equipment, including air-conditioning (optional with regular cab), a trip computer, a CD audio system with satellite radio, OnStar with turn-by-turn navigation, vinyl seating, a 40/20/40-split front bench seat and a tilt steering wheel.
The SLE trim adds deep-tinted windows, chrome-styled steel wheels, cruise control, full power accessories, heated exterior mirrors, dual-zone automatic climate control, cloth seating, keyless entry and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
The top-of-the-line SLT is only available with the extended and crew cabs. It adds a locking rear differential, a heavy-duty trailering package (with an integrated trailer brake controller), remote engine start, an upgraded dash design, a Bose audio system (with a six-disc CD changer and rear audio controls), 12-way power-adjustable heated front bucket seats and leather upholstery.
Options, depending on truck configuration, include a backup camera, power-sliding rear window, a navigation system with available real-time traffic, a rear-seat DVD entertainment system, rear park assist, a sunroof, camper-style side mirrors, the Z71 Off-Road package (including skid plates, off-road suspension and locking rear differential), the safety package (including power-adjustable pedals and park assist), a cargo management system and an "EZ-lift" tailgate.
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Also Consider
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Pro and SLE
Starting MSRP$42,000
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GMC.com
*The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price excludes destination freight charge, tax, title, license, dealer fees, and optional equipment. Dealer sets final price. Click here to see all GMC vehicles’ destination freight charges.
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Build Your 2024 Sierra HD
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*The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price excludes destination freight charge, tax, title, license, dealer fees, and optional equipment. Dealer sets final price. Click here to see all GMC vehicles’ destination freight charges.
Reliability Ratings by RepairPal
3 out of 5 stars3/5Average
#14 out of 19 among Fullsize Trucks
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the GMC Sierra 3500HD from 2008-2022.$1,061/yr
vs. $752/yr
for Average Fullsize Truck
for Average Fullsize Truck
Frequency
The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).0.83x/yr
vs. 0.98x/yr
for Average Fullsize Truck
for Average Fullsize Truck
Severity
The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).24.7%
vs. 19.9%
for Average Fullsize Truck
for Average Fullsize Truck
powered by RepairPal Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2009 GMC Sierra 3500HD.
5 star(100%)
4 star(0%)
3 star(0%)
2 star(0%)
1 star(0%)
4 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4.63 out of 5 stars
The new diesel is "wow"
Brian, 10/17/2007
2008 GMC Sierra 3500HD Work Truck 2dr Regular Cab 4WD LB DRW (6.0L 8cyl 6A)
This non dually 3500 with the new diesel is a blast and very man like. I just purchased a 2006 3500 dump for my construction business. I love the fuel economy and the way it pulls my big trailers I didn't care for the new body style so I found a new 06. I added a pickup this month and all they had were 07 & 08. I bought the 08. Holy cow is the power different. This truck is sharp and … can pull a trailer. It gets worked on job sites and I pile the mile on. Good fuel economy and pretty comfortable for a 3500. I will buy more as I update my fleet from Ford to GMC.
4.88 out of 5 stars
New 2007 3500 HD
8CarFan, 08/15/2007
2007 GMC Sierra 3500HD SLT 4dr Crew Cab 4WD LB (6.0L 8cyl 6A)
I bought the top model, 3500 HD, crew cab, 4wd, dually with all options. The Duramax is strong and the Allison tranny shifts smooth. Great power with acceptable mileage. The interior is a complete overhaul from the Classic models. The navigation system is addictive and the integrated brake controller is a step in the right direction. Very quiet and great driving. I rate overall a 9 out … of 10. No one is perfect.
4.88 out of 5 stars
GMC Sierra
Jack, 12/31/2007
2008 GMC Sierra 3500HD SLE1 4dr Extended Cab LB (6.0L 8cyl 6A)
The GMC truck is a great truck to own. I've had it for a few months now and so far it's been a good experience. It's the first time I've had a truck with four-wheel drive and with the winter we've had, I don't know how I managed without it! The handling is excellent for a vehicle its size. Gas mileage is acceptable for this type of vehicle (3500 HD). I would certainly buy another GMC … vehicle again and recommend it highly.
5 out of 5 stars
Perfect
Big_jleal , 05/29/2022
2008 GMC Sierra 3500HD Work Truck 4dr Crew Cab 4WD LB DRW (6.0L 8cyl 6A)
The truck met all of our needs!
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2009 GMC Sierra 3500HD, so we've included reviews for other years of the Sierra 3500HD since its last redesign.
2009 Sierra 3500HD Highlights
Extended Cab
Work Truck
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $30,975 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Seating | 6 seats |
Drivetrain | rear wheel drive |
Max Towing Capacity | 13,000 lbs. |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the Sierra 3500HD include:
- Alarm
- Post-collision safety system
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