1986 Chevrolet Suburban problems

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The Chevrolet Suburban is a series of SUVs built by Chevrolet since the 1935 model year. The longest-used automobile nameplate in the world, the Chevrolet Suburban is currently in its twelfth generation, introduced for 2021. Beginning life as one of the first metal-bodied station wagons, the Suburban is the progenitor of the modern full-size SUV, combining a wagon-style body with the chassis and powertrain of a pickup truck. Alongside its Advance Design, Task Force, and C/K predecessors, the Chevrolet Silverado currently shares chassis and mechanical commonality with the Suburban and other trucks.

Traditionally one of the most profitable vehicles sold by General Motors, the Suburban has been marketed through both Chevrolet and GMC for nearly its entire production. Along sharing the Suburban name with Chevrolet, GMC has used several nameplates for the model line; since 2000, the division has marketed it as the GMC Yukon XL. Since 2003, Cadillac has marketed the Suburban as the Cadillac Escalade ESV. During the 1990s, GM Australia marketed right-hand drive Suburbans under the Holden brand.

.The Suburban is sold in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Central America, Chile, Dominican Republic, Bolivia, Peru, Philippines, and the Middle East (except Israel), while the Yukon XL is sold only in North America (exclusive to the United States, Canada, and Mexico) and the Middle East territories (except Israel).

A 2018 iSeeCars.com study identified the Chevrolet Suburban as the car that is driven the most each year. A 2019 iSeeCars.com study named the Chevrolet Suburban the second-ranked longest-lasting vehicle. In December 2019, the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce unveiled a Hollywood Walk of Fame star for the Suburban, noting that the Suburban had been in "1,750 films and TV shows since 1952."

1986 Chevrolet Suburban

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Common 1986 Chevrolet Suburban problems

The 1986 Chevrolet Suburban is known for several common problems based on complaints from owners. The most frequently reported issue is related to the suspension, with a single complaint about leans to the side. This problem can affect the stability and handling of the vehicle, potentially leading to a more dangerous driving experience.

Another area of concern for the 1986 Suburban is the engine. According to the 7th Generation Suburban Problems page, engine problems are the most common issue, with four out of six complaints related to engine issues. These issues include stalling when put into gear, difficulties starting, and the engine not turning over. These problems can impact the overall reliability and performance of the vehicle, potentially leading to more significant repair costs.

Electrical issues are also a common problem for the 1986 Suburban, as evidenced by a post on the CarGurus forum discussing an electrical issue with a 2003 Suburban. The owner reports that the truck occasionally shuts off while under load, such as when the headlights and blower are on. Despite replacing several electrical components, the problem persists, suggesting that there may be a more significant electrical issue at play.

While the 1986 Suburban is generally considered to be a reliable vehicle, there are still potential issues to be aware of. Pre-'89 Suburbans, including the 1986 model, did not use galvanized steel and were prone to rust issues. However, if the vehicle has been well-maintained and kept in good condition, these issues may not be as significant.

In summary, the 1986 Chevrolet Suburban has several common problems related to the suspension, engine, and electrical systems. These issues can impact the reliability and performance of the vehicle, potentially leading to more significant repair costs. However, if the vehicle has been well-maintained and kept in good condition, these issues may not be as significant. It is always recommended to have any potential used vehicle inspected by a trusted mechanic before making a purchase.

1986 Chevrolet Suburban engine

What is the most common problem with the Chevy Suburban?

Common Chevrolet Suburban Problems

Excessive oil consumption: Several suburban models have struggled with excessive oil consumption. Many owners have reported that their Suburban consumed abnormal amounts of oil. For the 2010-2013 Suburban, the culprit was determined to be the change to the Vortec 5300 engine.

What year is the best year Suburban to buy?

These are the most reliable years to consider:

  • 1998 Chevrolet Suburban.
  • 1999 Chevrolet Suburban.
  • 2006 Chevrolet Suburban.
  • 2010 Chevrolet Suburban.
  • 2013 Chevrolet Suburban.
  • 2017 Chevrolet Suburban.
  • 2018 Chevrolet Suburban.
  • 2019 Chevrolet Suburban.

What is the gas mileage in a 1986 Chevy Suburban?

1986 Chevrolet Suburban

EPA MPGOwner MPG Estimates
1986 Chevrolet Suburban C10 2WD 8 cyl, 5.0 L, Automatic 4-spd
Regular GasolineView Estimates How can I share my MPG?
13 combined city/highway MPG 11 city 16 highway 7.7 gals/ 100 miles
1986 Chevrolet Suburban C10 2WD 8 cyl, 6.2 L, Automatic 4-spd

Is a Chevy Suburban a reliable car?

For many SUV owners, much of the appeal comes from the safety and reliability of a larger vehicle. That's especially true when it comes to the Chevrolet Suburban, which routinely ranks high in reliability and safety. In fact, if you're searching for a used Suburban, you'll often find several over the 100,000 mile mark.

What is the most common problem with the Chevy Suburban?

Common Chevrolet Suburban Problems

Excessive oil consumption: Several suburban models have struggled with excessive oil consumption. Many owners have reported that their Suburban consumed abnormal amounts of oil. For the 2010-2013 Suburban, the culprit was determined to be the change to the Vortec 5300 engine.

What year is the best year Suburban to buy?

These are the most reliable years to consider:

  • 1998 Chevrolet Suburban.
  • 1999 Chevrolet Suburban.
  • 2006 Chevrolet Suburban.
  • 2010 Chevrolet Suburban.
  • 2013 Chevrolet Suburban.
  • 2017 Chevrolet Suburban.
  • 2018 Chevrolet Suburban.
  • 2019 Chevrolet Suburban.

Is a Chevy Suburban a reliable car?

For many SUV owners, much of the appeal comes from the safety and reliability of a larger vehicle. That's especially true when it comes to the Chevrolet Suburban, which routinely ranks high in reliability and safety. In fact, if you're searching for a used Suburban, you'll often find several over the 100,000 mile mark.

How long do Suburban engines last?

How Long will a Chevy Suburban Last? Expect 125,000 to 150,000 Miles Minimum, or Roughly 10-12.5 Years when Serviced Regularly.

1986 Chevrolet Suburban car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Chevrolet Suburban problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Tires problems
  • Fuel system problems
  • Other problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Child seat problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1986 Chevrolet Suburban vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1986 Chevrolet Suburban complaints

The NHTSA has received 7 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1986 Chevrolet Suburban.

2004-10-05

FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2004-10-04
  • VIN: 1G8EC16L8GF
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
  • Summary: PLEASE INVESTIGATE THE POTENTIAL OF FIRE/EXPLOSION CONCERNING THE FUEL TANK SENDING UNIT (IN OLDER MODEL G.M. VEHICLES) AND THE POSSIBILITY OF A "DIRECT SHORT" TO IT'S WIRING. I BELIEVE THIS COULD BE A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE. *AK
2004-09-28

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2004-09-28
  • VIN: 1G8EC16L8GF
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: THE LOCATION OF THE WIRING HARNESS, IN GENERAL, AND ITS LOCATION TO THE FUEL TANK IN A REAR END ACCIDENT WOULD MASH THE HARNESS BETWEEN THE BUMPER AND THE FUEL TANK. IF RUPTURE OCCURS THEN THE IGNITION SOURCE WOULD BE PRESENT, RESULTING INTO AN EXPLOSION. *AK
2002-01-07

CHILD SEAT PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2002-01-01
  • VIN: 1G8GC26W6GF
  • Components: CHILD SEAT
  • Summary: I HAVE A COMPLAINT REGARDING BOOSTER SEATS AND THE INABILITY TO PROPERLY SECURE MY 50 LB FOUR YEAR OLD. SHE IS TOO BIG FOR A 5 POINT HARNESS CAR SEAT (40 LBS) AND THERE ARE NO SHOULDER BELTS IN MY 1986 SUBURBAN TO USE A HIGH BACK BOOSTER SEAT. I CAN NOT COMPLY WITH THE NEW CALIFORNIA LAW AND AS A LOW INCOME FAMILY WE CANNOT AFFORD A NEW SUBURBAN FOR OUR 5 CHILDREN! WHAT ARE WE SUPPOSED TO DO????
2000-12-16

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 1GCGK24M2GJ
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: THE TIRES WERE PURCHASED NEW. THEY HAVE 30,000 MILES ON THEM. IN THE RECENT MONTHS ONE OF THE THEM HAS DEVELOPED A BULGE IN THE TREAD. ANOTHER IS OUT OF ROUND AND THERE IS AN AWFUL BOUNCE AT 45 MPH. THERE IS LEFT A LOT OF TREAD AND SHOWS NO REAL SIGNS OF WEAR. I AM WORRIED ABOUT TREAD SEPERATION. (DOT NUMBER: VDOR1WT145 TIRESIZE: 235 85RX16)
2000-11-20

TIRES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-08-05
  • VIN: 1GAGC26W2GF
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: TRAVELING 65MPH AND TIRE BLEWOUT. MADE A LOUD HUMMING NOISE, STARTED TO SLOW DOWN & PULL TO SIDE. STEEL BELT STICKING OUT OF RIGHT REAR. ALSO, TRAVELING 45MPH & VEHICLE WAS WOBBLING & ROCKING. SLOWED DOWN & PULLED TO SIDE, AND NOTICED TREAD SEPARATED FROM RIGHT REAR & THEN IT BLEWOUT. STEEL BELT WAS ALSO SHOWING. SPARE TIRE BLEWOUT WHILE IN VEHICLE. STEEL BELT & PIECES OF RUBBER INSIDE OF VEHICLE. TIRE ON 1987, CHEVROLET, SUBURBAN, FIRESTONE STEEL TEX RTS, LT235/85R16 WITH 21,000 & 23,000 MILES RESPECTIVELY ON 8/5/96 & 7/10/97 & 8/10/99(SPARE TIRE).*AK *SLC
2000-08-21

TIRES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2000-08-18
  • VIN: 1G8GC26W4GF
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: BRIDGESTONE DUELER APT TREAD SEPARATED ON DRY ROAD, LIGHT LOAD, 60 MPH. TIRE HAD LESS THAN 6000 MILES ON IT. THIS TIRE WAS A REPLACEMENT FOR ANOTHER SAME MAKE/MODEL THAT EXPLODED AND DID FENDER AND TAILPIPE DAMAGE.( DOT NUMBER: TIRE SIZE: LT235/85R1 )
1996-10-17

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: CONSUMER WAS DRIVING AND THE STEERING WHEEL FELL OFF . PLEASE DESCRIBE . *AK
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