The Chevrolet Suburban is a large truck-based SUV that debuted as a 1990 model year.
It has massive cargo space, powerful engine options, and a huge interior.
In this article, we’ll be taking a look at all of the best and worst model years of the Suburban.
Table of Contents
Here’s The Short Answer To What The Best And Worst Years For The Chevrolet Suburban Are:
The best Chevrolet Suburban model years are 2024, 2023, 2022, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2014, and 2006. The worst model years of the Suburban are 1996 to 2005, 2007 to 2011, 2015 to 2017 and 2021. This is based on auto industry reviews, NHTSA statistics, reported problems, and consumer feedback.
What Are The Best Years For The Chevrolet Suburban?
2024 and 2023 Chevrolet Suburban
The 2024 and 2023 Suburban’s are the most advanced models to date and have been commended for their confident road manners, spacious cabins, and solid tow capability.
The 2024 model benefits from some exterior and interior styling updates and revisions to the infotainment system although these models are largely the same.
There are a total of 7 trim levels: Fleet, LS, LT, RST, Z71, Premier, and High Country.
Base prices for various trims range from $57,000 to $79,000.
The most popular variant is the Premier trim, which has a base MSRP of $72,195.
2024 Suburban:
- Edmunds: NA
- Kelley Blue Book: NA
- JD Power: NA
2023 Suburban:
- Edmunds: 3.2 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6 / 5.0
- JD Power: 80 / 100
2023 Suburban, Edmunds review:
“The Suburban is everything we wanted out of a vehicle for our growing family. We love the new independent suspension and the over all look and feel of the Suburban…”
2022 Chevrolet Suburban
If you need a large SUV that excels at pulling trailers as well as hauling people and all their cargo, the 2022 Suburban is a compelling choice. It has a massive interior and powerful engine options.
Available engines include a 5.3-liter V8 engine (355 horsepower), a 6.2-liter V8 engine (420 horsepower), or a 3-liter 6-cylinder diesel engine (277 horsepower).
There is also a plethora of available technology and it is equipped with a multi-link rear suspension which debuted for 2021.
- Edmunds: 3.1 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6 / 5.0
- JD Power: 80 / 100
2022 Suburban, Edmunds review:
“We purchased a 2022 Diesel Suburban; it’s been everything we expected and more. Very roomy, comfortable, yet handles more like a midsize SUV instead of the large BEAST it is. Diesel is the way to go too; great mileage, we’re getting around 22 – 25 in mixed town driving, and closer to 30 on the freeway at about 75 MPH…”
2020, 2019, and 2018 Chevrolet Suburban
The 2020, 2019, and 2018 Suburban’s are the final 3 installments of the 11th generation are all virtually identical. These models have received strong reviews and despite being somewhat outdated in comparison to their immediate successor, the 2021 model, they are undoubtedly more reliable.
They can seat up to nine passengers, tow more than 8,000 pounds and have plenty of features to choose from such as an adaptive suspension, ventilated front seats and various safety tech.
According to owners’ reviews, noteworthy highlights include: interior, comfort, spaciousness, seats, transmission, infotainment system, value for money, and technology.
Our favorite safety and driver assistance features are OnStar, Forward Collision Alert, and Lane Departure Warning.
2020 Suburban:
- Edmunds: 4.0 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.2 / 5.0
- JD Power: 82 / 100
2019 Suburban:
- Edmunds: 4.0 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.2 / 5.0
- JD Power: 80 / 100
2018 Suburban:
- Edmunds: 3.9 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.2 / 5.0
- JD Power: 82 / 100
2018 Suburban, Edmunds review:
“We went back and forth between a Toyota Sienna and Chevy Suburban for a year and a half. We had driven a Sienna and were so close, like driving to purchase, before I actually test drove the 2018 Suburban. One mile into the test drive, I was in love!! I was sure I would not be able to comfortably park this huge vehicle, but I pulled in between two cars as well as our Trailblazer. This thing lets me know if something is close by vibrating my chair on the side of the hazard…”
2014 Chevrolet Suburban
The 2014 Suburban is a 10th-gen model that is praised for its generous seating for up to nine people, class-leading cargo capacity, and multiple standard and optional features.
There are 3 available trim levels: LS, LT, and LTZ.
The base LS comes standard with 17-inch alloy wheels, rear privacy glass, automatic headlights, and cruise control.
The midrange LT adds fog lights, locking rear differential, heated mirrors, and roof rack crossbars.
The top-of-the-line LTZ comes with 20-inch polished alloy wheels, a power liftgate, power-folding mirrors, and an adaptive suspension with automatic load leveling.
- Edmunds: 4.5 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.5 / 5.0
- JD Power: 7.6 / 100
2014 Suburban, Edmunds review:
“Great for long distance traveling. During summer we drove about 600 miles comfortably over Donner Pass and the Grapevine (both ways) without stopping for gasoline or needing a break…”
2006 Chevrolet Suburban
The 2006 Suburban is a 9th-gen model that offers a choice of powerful V8 engines, massive cargo and passenger space, and a competent suspension system.
There are 4 trims to pick from: LS, Z71, LT, and LTZ.
All variants feature a 5.3-liter V8 engine (295 horsepower) mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission.
For those that need a bit more oomph, a 6-liter V8 engine (355 horsepower) or an 8.1-liter V8 engine (325 horsepower) are also available too.
According to reviews, owners like this model year for the following: interior, comfort, seats, reliability, manufacturing quality, and ride quality.
- Edmunds: 4.6 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7 / 5.0
- JD Power: NA
2006 Suburban, Edmunds review:
“Suburbans are the best full size suv for the money. Have only had to replace the transmission at 160k and it is running strong at 210k. Bought brand new…”
Consumer Scores For Best Chevrolet Suburban Years
| Model Year | Edmunds Consumer Rating | Kelley Blue Book Consumer Rating | JD Power Consumer Rating |
| 2024 Chevrolet Suburban | NA | NA | NA |
| 2023 Chevrolet Suburban | 3.2 / 5.0 | 4.6 / 5.0 | 80 / 100 |
| 2022 Chevrolet Suburban | 3.1 / 5.0 | 4.6 / 5.0 | 80 / 100 |
| 2020 Chevrolet Suburban | 4.0 / 5.0 | 4.2 / 5.0 | 82 / 100 |
| 2019 Chevrolet Suburban | 4.0 / 5.0 | 4.2 / 5.0 | 80 / 100 |
| 2018 Chevrolet Suburban | 3.9 / 5.0 | 4.2 / 5.0 | 82 / 100 |
| 2014 Chevrolet Suburban | 4.5 / 5.0 | 4.5 / 5.0 | 76 / 100 |
| 2006 Chevrolet Suburban | 4.6 / 5.0 | 4.7 / 5.0 | NA |
Related: How Long Do Chevrolet Suburban Last? (Solved and Explained)
What Are The Worst Years For The Chevrolet Suburban?
1996 to 2005 Chevrolet Suburban
The 1996 to 2006 Suburban models are the most problematic batch of Suburban vehicles ever produced. Some of the models were more problematic than others, however they all suffered from brake-related issues.
Commonly reported problems were brakes not working properly, brakes pads needing to be replaced every 3-4 months, vibrations/squealing from the brakes and that the anti-lock braking system (ABS) would activate by itself.
Here are some reports filed on the NHTSA website:
“When driving at any speed and applying the brakes, they freeze up. Brake pedal is barely touched and brakes lock instantly causing occupants to jolt forward. A vehicle close behind may not have time to stop to crash. ABS is working intermittently.”
“While driving the brakes aren’t working because the front brakes are not strong to stop the truck,this also causes extended stopping distance.”
“At any speed and intermittently when depressing brakes, vehicle goes into extended stopping distance traveling to the left or right.”
Rusting of the brake lines is another commonly reported problem on these models which put many drivers in danger as the brakes failed whilst driving.
“Steel brake lines along rear differential corroded and failed resulting in loss of brake fluid and braking actions.”
“Brakes failed completely. . . . Brake pedal went all the way to the floor after pulling into a parking lot and trying to slow down to pull into a spot. Attempted to pump brakes but the pedal did not come back up. Hit curb at approximately 10 mph. “
- The 1996 Suburban had a total of 6 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 372 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 1997 Suburban had a total of 10 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 432 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 1998 Suburban had a total of 6 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 219 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 1999 Suburban had a total of 62 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 732 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2000 Suburban had a total of 6 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 361 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2001 Suburban had a total of 45 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 582 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2002 Suburban had a total of 44 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 472 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2003 Suburban had a total of 75 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 534 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2004 Suburban had a total of 135 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 451 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2005 Suburban had a total of 57 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 260 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Common problems:
- Intake manifold gasket failure
- Leaking coolant
- Towing issues
- Interior lighting stays on
- Transmission failure
- ABS failed
- Fan not working properly
- Premature electric fuel pump failure
- Lights not working properly
- Engine turns over but will not start
- Stalls when idling
- Heated seat stopped working
- Rear tire well leaking water into interior
- Power steering pump stops working
- Windshield wiper motor issues
- Knocking noise when starting in cold weather
- Fuel pump failure
- Compressor failure
- Corrosion of brake lines
- Brake fluid leakage
- Speedometer stops working
- Air conditioning blows hot air on passenger side
- Instrument cluster malfunctioning
2007 to 2011 Chevrolet Suburban
The 2007 Suburban was labeled “Beware of the Clunker” by CarComplaints.com due to its aluminum block engines with Active Fuel Management (AFM) consuming oil at an alarming rate.
These issues were also widely reported on the 2008 models and to a much lesser extent the 2010 and 2011 models.
“Excessive oil consumption. Vehicle use 2 quarts of oil every 3000 miles. This is a known manufacturer defect but yet they are making me pay for the repairs.”
“The vehicle has had numerous engine issues and abnormal oil consumption. The engine has failed at 149,000 miles and follows the pattern of numerous other complaints.”
The most common problem shared by all of these models was the notorious Takata airbag recall.
These models were equipped with faulty airbags that were prone to exploding with potentially fatal consequences.
Due to the slow response of the manufacturer to address the recalls, a huge number of complaints were filed.
- The 2007 Suburban had a total of 354 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 553 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2008 Suburban had a total of 83 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 393 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2009 Suburban had a total of 47 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 195 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2010 Suburban had a total of 9 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 224 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2011 Suburban had a total of 26 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 306 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Common problems:
- Transmission stopped working
- Engine failure
- Engine shut down
- Excessive oil consumption
- Engine suddenly lost oil pressure
- Check engine light on
- Active fuel management malfunction
- Cracked dashboard
- Air conditioning leaks
- Runs rough, low idle
- Low oil pressure
- Lifters failed
- Not shifting properly
2015, 2016, and 2017 Chevrolet Suburban
The 2015, 2016, and 2017 Suburban models all shared brake-related issues.
Specifically, owners experienced non-responsive brakes at low speeds, difficulty in depressing the brake pedal, and varying brake pressure requirements to trigger sufficient brake force.
“When trying to brake while parking in a parking spot at low speeds, or stop and go traffic my wife and I experience an extremely hard brake pedal that creeps to a stop, almost hitting others and structures.”
“I noticed when driving in parking lots or at low speeds the brakes seem like you have to put more force to get the vehicle to stop.”
Owners also widely reported that the “service trailer braking system” message would continually pop up.
“My vehicle started to alert me over and over again about my trailer brake system. It just keeps popping up over and over again and beeps every single time. A lot of GMC and chevy are having this issue.”
“The trailer breaking system keeps coming on constantly. It comes on randomly while sitting or driving then will keep doing it over and over. It’s very distracting and I don’t want it to hurt us if it fails etc.”
- The 2015 Suburban had a total of 120 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 514 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2016 Suburban had a total of 48 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 222 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2017 Suburban had a total of 5 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 126 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Common problems:
- Air conditioning stopped working
- Brakes stopped working
- Paint on hood and roof is cracking, defective
- Transmission failure
- Air conditioning condenser failure
- Jerks when shifting
- Air conditioning blowing hot air
- Loss of power while driving
- Paint has gone gray
2017 Chevrolet Suburban
Related: Chevrolet Suburban Alarm Going Off? (12 Common Causes)
2021 Chevrolet Suburban
The 2021 Chevy Suburban makes our worst list due to the dismal owner reviews it has received, securing a 2.5/5.0 on Edmunds.
It is the first model year of the revamped 12th Generation and there have already been numerous reports of breakdowns.
“Broke down on a road trip out of town, undrivable, on a Saturday I made it to a dealer but no mechanic on that day, no rental cars available so stuck at a hotel till Monday with my dog.”
“My husband and I were our way to my surgery and check engine light came on and the SUV started shaking and making weird noises on the freeway. Get home the next day (Friday) and didn’t feel comfortable driving it.. take it into Chevy that Tuesday and the whole engine failed and needed to be replaced”
“Purchased a 2021 Suburban in December My pushrods and lifters on the left side of the engine has to be replaced after 6k miles!”
- The 2021 Suburban had a total of 1 complaint according to CarComplaints.com and 51 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Common problems:
- Car broken down
- Engine issues
- Rattling noise in cabin
What Years Have The Most Complaints?
| Model Year | Complaints (CarComplaints.com) | Problems (CarProblemZoo.com) | Recalls (NHTSA.gov) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 Chevrolet Suburban | – | – | – |
| 2023 Chevrolet Suburban | 0 | 10 | 1 |
| 2022 Chevrolet Suburban | 0 | 15 | 2 |
| 2021 Chevrolet Suburban | 1 | 52 | 10 |
| 2020 Chevrolet Suburban | 0 | 19 | 3 |
| 2019 Chevrolet Suburban | 1 | 42 | 2 |
| 2018 Chevrolet Suburban | 11 | 67 | 3 |
| 2017 Chevrolet Suburban | 5 | 126 | 4 |
| 2016 Chevrolet Suburban | 48 | 222 | 6 |
| 2015 Chevrolet Suburban | 120 | 514 | 10 |
| 2014 Chevrolet Suburban | 16 | 71 | 3 |
| 2013 Chevrolet Suburban | 14 | 156 | 4 |
| 2012 Chevrolet Suburban | 28 | 135 | 4 |
| 2011 Chevrolet Suburban | 26 | 306 | 5 |
| 2010 Chevrolet Suburban | 9 | 224 | 4 |
| 2009 Chevrolet Suburban | 47 | 195 | 5 |
| 2008 Chevrolet Suburban | 83 | 393 | 4 |
| 2007 Chevrolet Suburban | 354 | 553 | 4 |
| 2006 Chevrolet Suburban | 4 | 68 | 3 |
| 2005 Chevrolet Suburban | 57 | 260 | 8 |
| 2004 Chevrolet Suburban | 135 | 451 | 7 |
| 2003 Chevrolet Suburban | 75 | 534 | 8 |
| 2002 Chevrolet Suburban | 44 | 472 | 5 |
| 2001 Chevrolet Suburban | 45 | 582 | 9 |
| 2000 Chevrolet Suburban | 6 | 361 | 12 |
| 1999 Chevrolet Suburban | 62 | 732 | 2 |
| 1998 Chevrolet Suburban | 6 | 219 | 3 |
| 1997 Chevrolet Suburban | 10 | 432 | 3 |
| 1996 Chevrolet Suburban | 6 | 372 | 4 |
What Problems Do Chevrolet Suburbans Have?
- Excessive oil consumption
- Air conditioning stopped working
- Brakes stopped working
- Paint on hood and roof is cracking, defective
- Transmission failure
- Engine shut down
- Knocking with the turn of steering wheel
- Speedometer stops working intermittently
- Air conditioner blows hot air on passenger side
What Are The Best Alternatives To The Chevrolet Suburban?
| Make & Model | Score | MSRP | Fuel Economy (MPG) |
| Jeep Wagoneer | 8.5 | $58,995 – $77,220 | City: 15 – 16 /Highway: 20 – 22 |
| Chevrolet Suburban | 8.2 | $55,500 – $79,100 | City: 14 – 21 /Highway: 19 – 27 |
| Chevrolet Tahoe | 8.2 | $54,200 – $77,400 | City: 14 – 21 /Highway: 19 – 28 |
| Ford Expedition | 8.2 | $52,905 – $84,670 | City: NA /Highway: NA |
| GMC Yukon | 8.1 | $57,400 – $97,255 | City: 14 – 21 /Highway: 18 – 27 |
| Toyota Grand Highlander | 7.8 | $43,070 – $53,545 | City: NA /Highway: NA |
| Toyota Sequoia | 7.2 | $58,365 – $78,365 | City: 19 – 21 /Highway: 22 – 24 |
| Nissan Armada | 6.6 | $50,400 – $69,720 | City: 13 – 14 /Highway: 18 – 19 |
Source: cars.usnews.com, edmunds.com
Related: Chevrolet Suburban Beeping (9 Causes & Solutions)
References
https://www.caranddriver.com/chevrolet/suburban
https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/chevrolet/suburban
https://www.edmunds.com/chevrolet/suburban/
https://www.kbb.com/chevrolet/suburban/
https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2023/chevrolet/suburban
https://www.carcomplaints.com/Chevrolet/Suburban/
https://www.carproblemzoo.com/chevrolet/suburban/
https://www.cars.com/research/chevrolet-suburban/recalls/
