🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chevrolet

Model:

Avalanche

Year:

2009

Body Style:

Full-size SUV/Pickup Truck Crossover

Product Type:

Owner User Manual

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Full-size SUV/pickup hybrid, targeting consumers needing versatility for passengers and cargo, often with a focus on towing and hauling capability.

Key Competitors:

Ford Explorer Sport Trac, Toyota FJ Cruiser (though less direct), potentially some crossover SUVs depending on buyer priorities.

Midgate System:

The signature feature, allowing the rear bulkhead to fold down, extending the cargo bed from the cabin.

Versatility:

Combines SUV comfort and passenger space with pickup truck utility.

Platform:

Built on the GMT900 platform, shared with other GM full-size trucks and SUVs like the Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, Chevrolet Tahoe, and GMC Yukon.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Coverage Scope:

Model-specific for 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 400-500 pages (typical for a full owner's manual)

Manual Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine And Powertrain:

Operation, basic maintenance, troubleshooting, engine components, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, exhaust system.

Transmission:

Operation, fluid checks, basic maintenance, troubleshooting for automatic transmission.

Brakes:

Operation, ABS, parking brake, brake fluid checks.

Steering And Suspension:

Power steering system, suspension components, tire care and inflation.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system, lighting, fuses, relays, power outlets.

Climate Control:

HVAC system operation, air conditioning, heating, ventilation, cabin air filter replacement.

Infotainment And Navigation:

Audio system operation, radio, CD player, optional navigation system usage, Bluetooth connectivity.

Safety Systems:

Airbags, seat belts, child restraint systems (LATCH), tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), traction control, stability control (StabiliTrak).

Body And Interior:

Doors, windows, locks, seats, mirrors, interior lighting, cargo management (Midgate system), exterior features.

Instrumentation And Controls:

Instrument cluster, gauges, warning lights, driver information center, steering wheel controls, dashboard layout.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin), fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, wiper blade replacement.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Diagnosis of common warning lights, minor operational issues, and system malfunctions.

Emergency Procedures:

Jump starting, tire changing, safe driving in adverse conditions.

Vehicle Operation:

Starting the engine, driving, parking, using specific features like cruise control, remote start (if equipped).

Accessory Operation:

Operation of power windows, locks, mirrors, sunroof, trailer towing information.

Depth Of Information:

Comprehensive owner-level information, including how to operate and maintain the vehicle. Does not include in-depth diagnostic or repair procedures typically found in a service manual.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format Details:

High-resolution PDF, ensuring clear text and diagrams. Searchable text for easy navigation.

Print Quality Notes:

Optimized for printing, allowing users to print specific sections or the entire manual. Professional layout and clarity.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type 1:

5.3L V8 SFI FlexFuel (Vortec 5300)

Engine Displacement 1:

5.3 Liters (325 cubic inches)

Horsepower 1:

315 hp @ 5200 rpm

Torque 1:

335 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel Type 1:

FlexFuel (Unleaded gasoline or E85)

Engine Type 2:

6.0L V8 SFI (Vortec 6000) - Optional on some trims

Engine Displacement 2:

6.0 Liters (364 cubic inches)

Horsepower 2:

366 hp @ 5400 rpm

Torque 2:

376 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel Injection:

Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI)

Emission Control:

Catalytic converter, On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

4-speed automatic overdrive (4L60-E or similar variant for 5.3L)

Transmission Type Optional:

4-speed automatic overdrive with heavy-duty towing package (potentially for 6.0L, or enhanced version of the 4L60-E)

Transmission Features:

Electronically controlled, Tow/Haul mode, Grade Logic Control.

Drivetrain:

Available in 2WD (RWD) and 4WD (Full-time automatic or part-time selectable, depending on configuration).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 223.0 inches

Width:

Approximately 79.1 inches

Height:

Approximately 77.7 inches

Wheelbase:

Approximately 130.0 inches

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

Approximately 53.9 cubic feet (with Midgate up)

Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:

Approximately 137.4 cubic feet (with Midgate down)

Curb Weight 2Wd:

Approximately 5,500 - 5,700 lbs

Curb Weight 4Wd:

Approximately 5,700 - 5,900 lbs

Towing Capacity:

Up to 8,200 lbs (with proper equipment and configuration)

Payload Capacity:

Approximately 1,200 - 1,500 lbs

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Driver:

5 Stars

NHTSA Frontal Crash Passenger:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:

4 Stars

NHTSA Rollover Resistance:

3 Stars (for 2WD and 4WD configurations)

Stability Control:

StabiliTrak (Electronic Stability Control)

Traction Control:

All-Speed Traction Control

ABS:

4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Tpms:

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags, front side-impact airbags, roof-mounted side-curtain airbags for all rows.

Seat Belts:

3-point seat belts in all seating positions, front seat belt pretensioners.

Child Seats:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system for rear seats.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM/CD stereo with auxiliary input. Optional Bose premium audio system, in-dash 6-disc CD changer, and rearview camera system.

Navigation System:

Optional touchscreen navigation system with integrated audio controls.

Parking Assist:

Optional rear parking assist sensors.

Bluetooth:

Optional Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming.

Remote Start:

Optional factory-installed remote start system.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic oil. Check manual for specific oil life monitoring system recommendations.

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 7,500 miles or with every oil change.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (or approximately every 30,000-45,000 miles depending on driving conditions).

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (or approximately every 15,000-20,000 miles depending on conditions).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Check condition regularly, replace as per vehicle's oil life monitor or at longer intervals like 100,000 miles, especially with towing. Refer to manual for specific procedure.

Coolant Flush:

Initial change at 150,000 miles, then every 75,000 miles thereafter (for Dex-Cool coolant).

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 5W-30, meeting GM specification GM6094M (Dexos1 Gen2 not applicable for this year, but 5W-30 is standard).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 6.0 quarts (with filter) for 5.3L V8.

Coolant Type:

GM P/N 12346290 or equivalent (Orange extended-life coolant, Dex-Cool compatible).

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron VI Automatic Transmission Fluid.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3.

Common Issues Potential:

Active Fuel Management (AFM) lifter issues (can cause misfires and ticking noises), fuel pump failures, transmission solenoid issues, power steering pump leaks, potential for catalytic converter issues.

Climate Control Issues:

Dual-zone climate control actuators can fail, leading to uneven temperature distribution.

Electrical Issues:

Window motor failures, power lock actuator issues, and infotainment system glitches can occur.

📚 Vehicle History

Chevrolet Legacy:

Chevrolet, founded in 1911, is one of America's most iconic automotive brands, known for a wide range of vehicles from trucks and SUVs to passenger cars.

Avalanche First Gen:

The Chevrolet Avalanche was introduced for the 2002 model year, based on the Silverado pickup truck platform. It featured the unique Midgate system, allowing the rear bulkhead to fold down, connecting the cabin to the truck bed.

Avalanche Second Gen:

The second generation, including the 2009 model, debuted for the 2007 model year. It adopted the GMT900 platform, sharing its underpinnings with the redesigned Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban and GMC Yukon/Yukon XL. Exterior styling was significantly updated, and interior quality improved.

Production Location:

Silao, Guanajuato, Mexico (for North American market)

Production End Year:

Production of the Chevrolet Avalanche concluded after the 2013 model year.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Previous Generation Accolades:

While the 2009 model is part of the second generation, the Avalanche lineage (particularly the first generation) was recognized for its innovative design and utility, often appearing on 'best of' lists for SUVs and trucks of its era.

Fuel Economy Ratings:

EPA estimated MPG: 13 city / 19 highway (5.3L 2WD), 12 city / 18 highway (5.3L 4WD). Note: These figures are for gasoline; E85 MPG will be lower.