Au7o mascotAu7o
Known IssuesTest Hub demo
  1. Au7o
  2. /
  3. Known Issues
  4. /
  5. Chrysler
  6. /
  7. Aspen
Chrysler · Known Issues

2009 Chrysler Aspen Problems: 5 Known Issues

2009 model year · 280+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

Share:@au7o.io

2009 · All trims · All engines

Choose the year and equipment for your written issues and visual request.

No email neededHow interest is saved

Interest applies to the selected vehicle and configuration; it is not a reservation. Voting stores a first-party identifier for up to 180 days to prevent repeat votes. No account or email is needed. Clearing cookies or using another device may count separately. Privacy

Visual coming soon

Your interest helps us choose what to build next.

Visual Known Issues · Coming soon

$4.99/month plus taxes at launch · No payment today

Preview the XT6 example
Known IssuesMotorcycle IssuesDTC LookupDrivePricingAboutTermsPrivacyCookiesConsentData rightsCopyrightFeedback
Share:@au7o.io

Vehicle data and repair guidance on this site are compiled with AI assistance and may contain errors. Always verify with your service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data protection representation

DataRep representative in the United KingdomDataRep representative in the European Union
Au7o · 2026
Built for DIY mechanics. Privacy-first.
Explore free Hub demo
Issue summary

According to Au7o's analysis of 280+ owner reports, the 2009 Chrysler Aspen has 5 documented known issues, with 3 rated critical. The most serious are Rear Differential Pinion Nut Loosening - Safety Recall ($0-$1,200 repair), 5.7L HEMI MDS Lifter Tick and Camshaft Failure ($2,000-$6,000 repair) and TIPM Electrical Module Failure ($200-$1,500 repair). Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $200 to $6,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • Aspen Drivetrain1
  • Aspen Engine1
  • Aspen Electrical1
  • Aspen Suspension1
  • Aspen Exhaust1
  • Recalls6
  • FAQ
Get Started
Back to top

In This Article

  • Drivetrain1
  • Engine1
  • Electrical1
  • Suspension1
  • Exhaust1
  • Recalls6
  • FAQ

All 5 Known Issues

Filter:
ALL YEARS200920082007
Community reported
100 owners

On the 2007-2009 Chrysler Aspen, the rear axle pinion nut can loosen due to undersized pinion spline that allows relative motion between the nut and companion flange. If the nut loosens, the rear axle can lock up without warning, causing loss of vehicle control. Official recall issued for pinion nut retainer installation.

Common Symptoms

  • Humming noise from rear differential
  • Clunking sound when accelerating or decelerating
  • Vibration at highway speeds
  • In worst case, sudden rear axle lockup

How to Fix

Contact Chrysler dealer immediately for recall completion - free installation of pinion nut retainer. Have differential fluid checked and changed. Inspect pinion seal for leaks. TSB 18-006-10 REV. B addresses driveline clunking.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $1,200

Research This Issue

Based on 100 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence100 owner reportsLast reported by owners Sep 2023Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
100 owners

On the 2007-2009 Chrysler Aspen 5.7L HEMI V8, same HEMI 5.7L lifter/camshaft failure issue affecting all MDS-equipped engines. The MDS lifters have undersized needle bearings that fail from oil starvation at idle, causing catastrophic camshaft wear. Persistent ticking that worsens over time indicates lifter failure in progress.

This issue also affects: Chrysler 300, Chrysler Cirrus, Chrysler Concorde

Common Symptoms

  • Persistent ticking noise at idle
  • Ticking worsens over time
  • Check engine light with misfire codes
  • Metal shavings in oil

How to Fix

Replace all lifters, camshaft, and rocker arms. Consider Hellcat non-MDS lifter upgrade (8784AD) for MDS delete. Use Melling high-volume oil pump M10452HV (2009+). Maintain strict 3,000-5,000 mile oil change intervals with synthetic oil.

Typical repair cost:$2,000 - $6,000

Research This Issue

Based on 100 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence100 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
80 owners

On the 2007-2009 Chrysler Aspen, the Aspen shares the TIPM electrical module design with other Chrysler products. Fuel pump relay failure, random electrical activation, and battery drain are common. Same fundamental TIPM design flaw as Town & Country and 300.

This issue also affects: Alfa Romeo Giulia, Alfa Romeo Stelvio, Chrysler 300

Common Symptoms

  • Vehicle won't start
  • Fuel pump runs continuously with key off
  • Random electrical malfunctions
  • Battery drain overnight

How to Fix

TIPM rebuild service (UpFix, Circuit Board Medics, MAKS TIPM) at $200-$400 is most cost-effective. New TIPM from dealer $800-$1,500 + programming. External fuel pump bypass cable available for fuel pump relay only.

Typical repair cost:$200 - $1,500

Research This Issue

Based on 80 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence80 owner reportsLast reported by owners Nov 2023Reviewed Feb 2026

On the 2007-2009 Chrysler Aspen, the front lower control arm bushings wear out prematurely, causing clunking over bumps and imprecise steering. The Aspen shares its platform with the Dodge Durango and has the same front suspension weakness.

This issue also affects: Chrysler Sebring, Dodge Nitro, Dodge Durango

Common Symptoms

  • Clunking over bumps
  • Steering wander
  • Uneven front tire wear
  • Vibration at highway speed

How to Fix

Replace lower control arms with new bushings (complete arm replacement is easier than pressing new bushings). Moog RK620900 is a quality replacement. Alignment required after replacement.

Typical repair cost:$250 - $600

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium Confidence

On the 2007-2009 Chrysler Aspen 5.7 HEMI, exhaust manifold bolts break from thermal cycling, causing an exhaust leak that sounds like a ticking noise on cold start. The passenger side is most commonly affected. Ticking diminishes as the manifold expands when warm.

This issue also affects: Chrysler 300, Dodge Ram 1500

Common Symptoms

  • Ticking on cold start
  • Exhaust smell
  • Tick goes away when warm
  • Visible soot near exhaust manifold

How to Fix

Extract broken bolts and replace. If bolts break flush, drilling and easy-out extraction is required. Upgrade to stainless steel studs with copper locking nuts. Replace exhaust manifold gaskets during repair.

Typical repair cost:$200 - $700

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium Confidence
NHTSA Recalls6 recalls

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) expanded the affected population to include 73,712 2005-2009 RAM 2500 trucks produced at the St. Louis North Assembly Plant. With this change, Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2004-2008 RAM 1500, 2005-2009 RAM 2500, 2006-2009 RAM 3500, 2007-2010 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, 2008-2010 RAM 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis, 2004-2009 Dodge Durango, 2007-2009 Chrysler Aspen, 2007-2012 Jeep Wrangler, 2008-2012 Dodge Challenger, 2005-2008 Dodge Magnum, 2005-2012 Chrysler 300, 2006-2012 Dodge Charger, 2005-2011 Dodge Dakota, and 2006-2009 Mitsubishi Raider vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in AL, CA, FL, GA, HI, LA, MS, SC, TX, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" above, Chrysler is also recalling 2004-2008 RAM 1500, 2005-2009 RAM 2500, 2006-2009 RAM 3500, 2007-2009 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, 2008-2009 RAM 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis, 2004-2009 Dodge Durango, 2007-2009 Chrysler Aspen, 2007-2009 Jeep Wrangler, 2008-2009 Dodge Challenger, 2005-2008 Dodge Magnum, 2005-2009 Chrysler 300, 2006-2009 Dodge Charger, 2005-2009 Dodge Dakota and 2006-2009 Mitsubishi Raider vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in AZ, AR, DE, Washington D.C., IL, IN, KS, KY, MD, MO, NE, NV, NJ, NM, NC, OH, OK, PA, TN, VA, and WV, or "Zone B." Lastly, unless included in "Zone A" or "Zone B" above, Chrysler is recalling certain 2005-2008 RAM 2500, 2006-2008 RAM 3500, 2007-2008 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, 2008 RAM 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis, 2004-2008 Dodge Durango, 2007-2008 Chrysler Aspen, 2007-2008 Jeep Wrangler, 2008 Dodge Challenger, 2005-2008 Dodge Magnum, 2005-2008 Chrysler 300, 2006-2008 Dodge Charger, 2005-2008 Dodge Dakota, and 2006-2008 Mitsubishi Raider vehicles originally sold, or registered, in AK, CO, CT, ID, IA, ME, MA, MI, MN, MT, NH, NY, ND, OR, RI, SD, UT, VT, WA, WI, and WY.

🔧
A mechanic who knows YOUR exact car
Answers tuned to your year, make, model & trim — not generic advice. Save your garage so it always has the right context.
Get ahead of Chrysler Aspen problems — free
Leave your email and we'll alert you the moment there's a new recall or known issue for your Chrysler Aspen. Free, no account needed.

Don't see your problem? Describe your symptoms to get a diagnosis, or get a full repair guide.

Other Chrysler Models

Chrysler Pacifica23Chrysler 30023Chrysler Voyager20Chrysler Town & Country18Chrysler LeBaron17Chrysler 20016

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Chrysler Aspen problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 280+ owner reports, the 2009 Chrysler Aspen has 5 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Rear Differential Pinion Nut Loosening - Safety Recall, 5.7L HEMI MDS Lifter Tick and Camshaft Failure, TIPM Electrical Module Failure. Of these, 3 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Chrysler Aspen reliable?

The 2009 Chrysler Aspen has 5 known issues documented across 280+ owner reports. 3 issues are rated critical: Rear Differential Pinion Nut Loosening - Safety Recall and 5.7L HEMI MDS Lifter Tick and Camshaft Failure and TIPM Electrical Module Failure. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Chrysler Aspen problems?

Repair costs for known Chrysler Aspen issues range from $0 to $6,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Rear Differential Pinion Nut Loosening - Safety Recall, typically costs $0-$1,200 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2007-2009 Chrysler Aspen Rear Differential Pinion Nut Loosening - Safety Recall?

The rear axle pinion nut can loosen due to undersized pinion spline that allows relative motion between the nut and companion flange. If the nut loosens, the rear axle can lock up without warning, causing loss of vehicle control. Official recall issued for pinion nut retainer ins… Repairs typically run $0-$1,200. Severity: high.

What is the 2007-2009 Chrysler Aspen 5.7L HEMI MDS Lifter Tick and Camshaft Failure?

Same HEMI 5.7L lifter/camshaft failure issue affecting all MDS-equipped engines. The MDS lifters have undersized needle bearings that fail from oil starvation at idle, causing catastrophic camshaft wear. Persistent ticking that worsens over time indicates lifter failure in progre… Repairs typically run $2,000-$6,000. Severity: high.

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data sourced from 280+ owner reports, NHTSA recalls, TSBs, and automotive forums.

Campaign #16V35200024/05/2016

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2005-2009 Dodge Ram 2500, 2004-2008 Dodge Ram 1500 and Durango, 2006-2009 Dodge Ram 3500, 2008-2010 Dodge Ram 4500 and 5500, 2007-2008 Chrysler Aspen, 2005-2010 Chrysler 300, 300C, 300S, and SRT8, 2006-2010 Dodge Charger, 2005-2008 Magnum, 2005-2011 Dodge Dakota, and 2006-2009 Mitsubishi Raider vehicles. The affected vehicles are equipped with a dual-stage driver frontal air bag that may be susceptible to moisture intrusion which, over time, could cause the inflator to rupture.

Campaign #15V31300027/05/2015

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2009 Dodge Durango and Chrysler Aspen vehicles manufactured January 17, 2007, to December 18, 2008, and 2010 RAM 3500 cab chassis manufactured September 25, 2009, to February 1, 2010. The affected vehicles are equipped with a dual-stage driver frontal air bag that may be susceptible to moisture intrusion which, over time, could cause the inflator to rupture.

Campaign #16V94700022/12/2016

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Jeep Wrangler, Chrysler 300, Dodge Challenger and Dodge Charger vehicles, and 2009-2011 Dodge Dakota vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." Additionally, Chrysler is recalling certain 2009-2010 RAM 4500 Cab Chassis, RAM 5500 Cab Chassis, RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Wrangler, Chrysler 300, Dodge Dakota, Dodge Challenger, and Dodge Charger vehicles ever registered in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." Chrysler is also recalling certain 2009 RAM 3500, RAM 2500, RAM 4500 Cab Chassis, RAM 5500 Cab Chassis, Dodge Durango, Chrysler Aspen, RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Wrangler, Chrysler 300, Dodge Dakota, Dodge Challenger, and Dodge Charger vehicles ever registered in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these passenger air bag inflator may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.

Campaign #18V02100009/01/2018

POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DIFFERENTIAL UNIT

Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2009-2012 Ram 1500 trucks manufactured from February 27, 2008, through June 30, 2009, and from December 1, 2009, through October 20, 2011; model year 2009-2011 Dodge Dakota trucks manufactured from February 27, 2007, through June 30, 2009, and from December 1, 2009, through September 30, 2011; model year 2009 Chrysler Aspen trucks manufactured from January 3, 2008, through December 18, 2008; and model year 2009 Dodge Durango trucks manufactured from January 3, 2008, through December 18, 2008. The rear axle pinion nut may loosen due to an undersized pinion spline that can allow relative motion between the nut and companion flange.

Campaign #13V03800006/02/2013

+ 1 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov

Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

What is the 2007-2009 Chrysler Aspen TIPM Electrical Module Failure?

The Aspen shares the TIPM electrical module design with other Chrysler products. Fuel pump relay failure, random electrical activation, and battery drain are common. Same fundamental TIPM design flaw as Town & Country and 300. Repairs typically run $200-$1,500. Severity: high.

What is the 2007-2009 Chrysler Aspen Front Lower Control Arm Bushing Failure?

The front lower control arm bushings wear out prematurely, causing clunking over bumps and imprecise steering. The Aspen shares its platform with the Dodge Durango and has the same front suspension weakness. Repairs typically run $250-$600. Severity: medium.

What is the 2007-2009 Chrysler Aspen 5.7L Hemi Exhaust Manifold Bolt Breakage?

Exhaust manifold bolts break from thermal cycling, causing an exhaust leak that sounds like a ticking noise on cold start. The passenger side is most commonly affected. Ticking diminishes as the manifold expands when warm. Repairs typically run $200-$700. Severity: medium.