1997 Chevrolet Suburban problems
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."
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Common 1997 Chevrolet Suburban problems
The 1997 Chevrolet Suburban is a popular choice for those seeking a spacious and reliable vehicle. However, like any other vehicle, it has its share of common problems that owners have reported over the years.
One of the most common problems reported by owners of the 1997 Chevrolet Suburban is transmission failure.
Another common issue reported by owners is the failure of the fuel pump. This can result in the vehicle suddenly losing power and stopping, which can be dangerous if it happens while driving. Replacing the fuel pump can be costly, but it is necessary to get the vehicle back on the road.
The door handles of the 1997 Chevrolet Suburban are also known to break easily. This can be frustrating for drivers, especially if they are in a hurry. Replacing the door handle assembly can be expensive, but it is necessary to ensure that the doors can be opened and closed properly.
The 1997 Chevrolet Suburban's engine is known to have issues with headgaskets, spider injector assembly, and intake manifold gasket. These problems can result in decreased performance and fuel efficiency, as well as increased emissions. Regular maintenance and inspections can help identify these issues before they become major problems.
The braking power of the 1997 Chevrolet Suburban has also been criticized by some owners. The pedal feels squishy and it doesn't stop as quickly as newer models, which can be a safety concern. Upgrading the braking system can improve the vehicle's stopping power, but it can also be expensive.
The air conditioning system of the 1997 Chevrolet Suburban is also known to have issues. Some owners have reported that the air conditioning doesn't work consistently, which can be uncomfortable during hot weather. Repairing the air conditioning system can be costly, but it is necessary to ensure that the vehicle's interior remains cool and comfortable.
In summary, the 1997 Chevrolet Suburban is a reliable and spacious vehicle, but it does have its share of common problems. Transmission failure, fuel pump failure, broken door handles, engine issues, braking power, and air conditioning problems are some of the most commonly reported issues by owners. Regular maintenance and inspections can help identify these issues before they become major problems, but repairs can be costly.
Is a 97 Suburban a good car?
While the interior is a little outdated by 2018 standards the 1997 Suburban is still a very comfortable place to spend time. I'm looking forward to moving cross country with this vehicle next year. 5.7L V8 has plenty of power available at expense of fuel economy.
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.
Is a 97 Suburban a good car?
While the interior is a little outdated by 2018 standards the 1997 Suburban is still a very comfortable place to spend time. I'm looking forward to moving cross country with this vehicle next year. 5.7L V8 has plenty of power available at expense of fuel economy.
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 is the mileage on a 1997 Chevy Suburban?
MPG RATING: 12 city, 16 hwy.
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.
1997 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:
- Steering problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Power train problems
- Fuel system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Chevrolet Suburban vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1997 Chevrolet Suburban
The NHTSA has received 438 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Chevrolet Suburban. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1997 Chevrolet Suburban vehicles.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-10-05
- VIN: 1GNGK26J1VJ
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: THE PREVIOUS OWNER SAID THE BRAKES WORE QUICKLY BUT WE DIDN'T REALIZE HOW QUICKLY UNTIL WE HAD ISSUES AND GOT THE REPAIR INFORMATION. NEW BRAKES ABOUT EVERY 4 MONTHS ARE NEEDED. ONCE THEY START WEARING THE PADS AND ROTORS ARE GONE WITHIN A DAY. THIS TIME I NEARLY RAN INTO SOMEONE THEY DETERIORATED SO FAST. I'VE READ THIS SEEMS TO BE A PROBLEM WITH MANY MORE OF THE SAME VEHICLES
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-11-28
- VIN: 1GNEC16R0VJ
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I STOPPED TO GET GAS ANC CUT MY TRUCK OFF. I GOT BACK IN IT AND CUT IT ON AN DROVE ABOUT 30 YARDS I NOTICED A SMELL LIKE BURNING WIRES. SO I CUT IT OFF GOT OUT CHECKED THE OUTSIDE THE SMELL IS ONLY ON THE INSIDE. THEN I POPPED THE HOOD AN SMELLED THE SAME SMELL. I PUSHED IT AND PARKED IT. MY CLICKER IS NOT WORKING TO UNLOCK OR LOCK IT, THE LIGHTS WILL NOT GO OFF AND IT MAKES THE RINGING SOUND AS IF THE DRIVER DOOR IS OPEN EVEN WHEN IT'S NOT. I TOOK THE BATTERY OUT TO SEE IF IT WAS THAT BUT ITS FULLY CHARGED.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-10-02
- VIN: 1GNGK2652VJ
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: MY 1997 CHEVROLET SUBURBAN C-2500 IS LEAKING OIL FROM UNDERNEATH THE ENGINE AND MAKING ENGINE VERY "HOT". THIS HAPPENS WHEN I'M DRIVING THIS VEHICLE.I TOUCH THE ENGINE HOOD AND FEEL THAT IT'S VERY, VERY HOT. I JUST WENT HOME TO PREVENT ANY FIRE OR ACCIDENT. MY MECHANIC SAID IT'S NOT ORDINARY FOR THIS HEAVY DUTY TRUCK TO LEAK OIL WITH ONLY 77,000 MILES. I NEED YOU TO INVESTIGATE MY PROBLEM AND CONTACT GM. YOU CAN EMAIL ME AT [XXX] FOR AN UPDATES REGARDING THIS PROBLEMS. LOOKING FORWARD TO HEAR FROM YOU SOON. THANKS. INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
SERVICE BRAKES,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-07-15
- VIN: 3 3GNFK16R8
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: DECEMBER 2009, REPLACED RUPTURED BRAKE LINES ABOVE THE REAR DIFFERENTIAL. SEVERELY RUSTED. JULY 15, 2012, RUPTURED BRAKE LINE BY THE DRIVER SIDE FLOOR BOARD AND FIRE WALL. SEVERELY RUSTED. FUEL LINES UNDER THE VEHICLE IS ALSO SEVERELY RUSTED. LEAK CAN CAUSE FIRE. BRAKE FAILURE OCCURRED DURING DRIVING ON ROAD. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-11-21
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1GNFK16R6VJ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE AIRBAG DIDN'T DEPLOYED AM VEER DISAPPOINTED MY SON WAS INJURED. *TR
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-09-23
- VIN: 1GNFK16RXVJ
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 CHEVROLET SUBURBAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS AND WASHERS FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACT AND CONFIRMED THAT REMEDY REPAIRS WERE PERFORMED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER:03V159000(VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER) PRIOR TO THE FAILURE. THE VHEICLE WAS NOT FURTHER REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 99,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 99,200.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-08-09
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1GBFK16R3VJ
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: ERRATIC POWER STEERING ASSIST WHILE DRIVING RESULTING IN ERRATIC CONTROL AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. STARTED IN 2006 AND ENDED IN 2009. VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO DEALER NUMEROUS TIMES TO NO AVAIL. *TR
STEERING,SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-06-22
- VIN: 3GNEC16R5VG
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 CHEVROLET SUBURBAN. WHEN THE VEHICLE IS FULLY LOADED, THE CONTACT NOTICES THAT THE VEHICLE BECOMES DIFFICULT TO STEER. HE HAS TAKEN THE VEHICLE TO A MECHANIC 15 TIMES AND THEY HAVE MADE NUMEROUS REPAIRS, INCLUDING VARIOUS COMPONENTS OF THE STEERING UNIT, STEERING SENSORS, ACTUATOR, AND ALSO ADDITIONS TO THE SPRINGS OF THE SUSPENSION SYSTEM. ALL OF THE REPAIRS HAVE NOT ADEQUATELY REPAIRED THE FAILURES. THE CONTACT CALLED THE MANUFACTURER AND WAS REFERRED BACK TO THE DEALER. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 8,464 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 86,000. UPDATED 10/08/08. *LJ UPDATED 10/10/08. *JB
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-08-16
- VIN: 1GNFK16RXVJ
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: HOOD LATCH ON 1997 CHEVY SUBURBAN KEEP FAILING, HOOD FLIES UP WHILE DRIVING. HAS HAPPENED 3 TIMES IN TWO YEARS. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-07-11
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1GNEC16R2VJ
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE CAR WAS PARKED IN THE DRIVEWAY. IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT IT BURST INTO FLAMES. OUR DOGS WOKE US UP. THE FIRE STARTED IN THE FRONT PASSENGER COMPARTMENT. BY THE TIME THE FIRE DEPARTMENT ARRIVED 7 MINUTES LATER THERE WAS NOTHING LEFT TO THE INTERIOR OF THE CAR. THE ENGINE AND UNDERSIDE OF THE CAR WERE UNDAMAGED BY THE FIRE. A TREE NEAR THE CAR ALSO CAUGHT FIRE. CHEVROLET SAID THERE WERE NO RECALLS ON OUR CAR. THEY DO NOT SEEM INTERESTED IN EXAMINING THE CAR SINCE WE SETTLED WITH OUR INSURANCE COMPANY. NEITHER THE FIRE DEPARTMENT NOR THE POLICE SUSPECT ARSON. IT WOULD APPEAR TO BE ELECTRICAL. IF THE CAR HAD BEEN PARKED IN OUR GARAGE WE WOULD HAVE LOST OUR HOUSE. *TR
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-07-20
- VIN: 3GNEC16R7VG
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: WINDSHIELD WIPER FAILURE ON RAINY INTERSTATE HIGHWAY. 1997 CHEVROLET SUBURBAN. *TR
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-12-01
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 CHEVROLET SUBURBAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DELAY FEATURE ON THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS WORKED SPORADICALLY. SHE RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 03V159000 (VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER) AND GM RECALL NUMBER 03023 IN FEBRUARY OF 2002. THE RECALL WORK WAS PERFORMED; HOWEVER, THE FAILURE STILL PERSISTS. THE CONTACT WANTED TO NOTIFY NHTSA, BEFORE NOTIFYING THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER. THE VIN, ENGINE SIZE, AND NUMBER OF CYLINDERS WERE UNKNOWN. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 220,000 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 219,990.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-07-15
- VIN: 1GNEC16R2VJ
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 CHEVROLET SUBURBAN. WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED IN THE RAIN, THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS WOULD NOT ACTIVATE. THE CONTACT TOOK HER VEHICLE TO THE DEALER AND THEY STATED THAT HER VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 03V159000 (VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER). A COMPLAINT WITH THE MANUFACTURER WAS FILED. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 130,000 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 125,000.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-07-15
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 3GNEC16RXVG
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 CHEVROLET SUBURBAN. WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, THE CONTACT HEARD A LOUD NOISE AND LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. HE CRASHED THE VEHICLE INTO A WALL. THE DRIVER SIDE REAR B.F. GOODRICH TIRE TREAD SEPARATED AND CAUSED THE FAILURE. THE ROAD CONDITIONS WERE DRY. THE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE WAS DAMAGED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED. THE CONTACT STILL HAS THE TIRE AND THE TREAD. THE DOT NUMBER WAS UNKNOWN. THE TIRE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 45,000 AND THE VEHICLE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 132,000.
STEERING,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-03-04
- VIN: 1GNGC26F1VJ
- Components: STEERING,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: I HAVE LOST STEERING AND BRAKING ON 1996 6.5 TURBO DIESEL SUBURBAN THREE TIMES NOW I DRIVE NORMALLY. I AM 42 AND HAVE A FAMILY OF SEVEN. WHEN BRAKING THE POWER BOOSTER HAS ZERO PRESSURE AND IT IS VERY HARD TO STOP AND AT THE VERY SAME TIME ALL POWER STEERING IS LOST. I THOUGHT THE POWER STEERING PUMP FAILED, SO I REPLACED IT, NO CHANGE. STILL NO POWER BRAKES OR STEERING. I REPLACED HYDROBOOST UNIT BRAKING AND STEERING RETURNED. I HAVE HAD TO REPLACE HYDROBOOST THREE TIMES IN 8 MONTHS. I COMPLETELY REMOVED THE SOLENOID MAGNET FROM THE POWER STEERING PUMP TO TEST IF THE POWER STEERING PUMP CAUSES THE HYDRO BOOST UNIT TO FAIL, I DID THIS BETWEEN HYDRO UNIT 1 AN 2, I REINSTALLED MAGNET BETWEEN UNIT 2 AND 3 THE FIRST TIME I LOST BRAKING AND STEERING THERE WAS NO WARNING, I WENT TO STOP AND HAD HARD, NON POWER BRAKES AND NO POWER STEERING. THE SECOND, THIRD TIME I KNEW TO REPLACE THE HYDROBOOST UNIT, WHEN BRAKING AND TURNING THE STEERING GETS HARD OR THE BRAKES GET HARD, THEN I REPLACE THE HYDROBOOST UNIT, BRAKE AND STEERING RETURN TO NORMAL I COMPLETELY FLUSHED THE POWER STEERING FLUID EACH TIME INTO A CLEAN BUCKET, NO BIG PARTICLES OR HOSE MATERIAL. THIS BRAKING SYSTEM IS DANGEROUS, IMAGINE DRIVING DOWN A WINDING TWO LANE STEEP DOWNHILL MOUNTAIN ROAD, WITH A HEAVY SUBURBAN AND YOU LOOSE STEERING AND BRAKES I TURNED IN THE ORIGINAL PARTS AS CORES TO GET MY MONEY BACK. *NM
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-05-30
- VIN: 1GNEC16R6VJ
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: 1997 CHEVEROLET C1500 SUBURBAN INTERMITTENT WIPER MOTOR FAILURE TO WORK PROPERLY. CAUSES LACK OF VISIBILITY DURING INCLEMENT WEATHER CONDITIONS OR DURING WINDSHIELD CLEANING OPERATIONS. WIPERS WILL CEASE TO WORK CONTINUOUS AND PROBLEM IS SPORADIC. *JB
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-03-24
- VIN: 1GNGK26J0VJ
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: I HAVE A 1997 CHEVY SUBURBAN WITH A 7.4 ENGINE. FOR THE MOST PART ITS BEEN A GOOD VEHICLE, BUT THE BRAKES ARE ANOTHER STORY. THE SUBURBAN HAS BEEN THROUGH 2 SETS OF FRONT BRAKES, AND NONE IN THE REAR. BEING CONCERNED, THE 3RD MECHANIC TO REALLY SPEND TIME FIGURING OUT THE PROBLEM, FOUND OUT THE BRAKE PRESSURE MODULATOR VALVE HAS MALFUNCTIONED. $800 FOR REPLACEMENT. DOING A LITTLE RESEARCH, GM HAD RECALLED THIS PART ON SEVERAL OF THERE 2000 SUV MODELS. CONTACTED THE GM CUSTOMER SERVICE LINE, AND THEY TOLD ME THAT IT IS AN "OLD VEHICLE" AND GM WILL NOT DO ANYTHING ABOUT IT. SO I GUESS GM'S SAFETY SYSTEMS ARE ONLY GOOD FOR 10 YEARS. THIS WILL BE MY LAST GM VEHICLE I WILL EVER OWN. *JB
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-08-31
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1GNFK16R2VJ
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: 1997 CHEVY SUBURBAN IN-TANK FUEL SENDING UNIT FIRE: BOUGHT VEHICLE USED WITH 88000 MILES. EVENTS LEADING UP TO THE FAILURE / BURN UP OF THE UNIT INCLUDED INTERMITTENT FUEL PUMP AND FUEL GAUGE FAILURE, HAD PUMP REPLACED BY PATRICK GMC, PROBLEM PERSISTED, HAD DEALER WOLF CHEVROLET CHECK FUEL PRESSURE THROUGHOUT SYSTEM (OK). ALSO NOTICED AN INTERMITTENT BURNING SMELL. I THEN PURCHASED FROM THE DEALER A REPLACEMENT SENDING UNIT AND ANOTHER FUEL PUMP, AS SOON AS I TOOK THE SENDER OUT OF THE TANK IT WAS OBVIOUSLY CHARRED AND THE MODULAR CONNECTOR BURNT TO A CRISP, WIRES COMPLETELY EXPOSED WITH THE INSULATION GONE PARTIALLY DISINTEGRATED THE ABS PLUG. THIS THING GOT REALLY HOT REPEATEDLY. THE LOWER EXPLOSIVE LIMIT WAS LUCKILY NEVER REACHED WITHIN THE TANK OR THERE COULD HAVE BEEN A SPONTANEOUS EXPLOSION, ESPECIALLY IF THE TANK LOST ITS SEAL AND ALLOWED OUTSIDE AIR INSIDE, (SUCH AS WHEN THE TANK IS EMPTY AND IS PULLING VACUUM), FOR INSTANCE UNSCREWING THE GAS CAP IN IDEAL CONDITIONS NEXT TO A GAS PUMP WITH A 44 GALLON TANK VOID SUCKING IN AS MUCH OXYGEN IN AS THE FILLER TUBE WILL ALLOW, AND HITTING THAT GLOWING RED HOT SENDING UNIT. OLD PART IS IN MY POSSESSION AND IS THE ORIGINAL FACTORY SENDER. INCIDENT DATE IS APPROX. WHEN I PERFORMED THE REPAIR AND DISCOVERED THE BURNED UP SENDER. *NM
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-01-01
- VIN: 3GNFK16R6VG
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE WAS HAVING ABS PROBLEMS. WHILE APPLYING THE BRAKE PEDAL TO STOP AT SLOWER SPEEDS THE ABS ACTIVATED CAUSING GREATER STOPPING DISTANCES. THERE IS A NHTSA RECALL, # 05V379000, REGARDING THE ABS. THE VEHICLE HAS THE SAME PROBLEMS AS INDICATED IN THE RECALL; HOWEVER IT IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL DUE TO THE YEAR OF THE VEHICLE. REPAIRS HAVE BEEN MADE AND THE MANUFACTURER HAS BEEN ALERTED.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1901-01-01
- VIN: 1GNFK16R8VJ
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: CONSUMER COMPLAINT REGARDING 1997 SUBURBAN BRAKING MALFUNCTIONS. *TS THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHO DETERMINED THAT TWO SENSORS WERE NEEDED BECAUSE THE CURRENT ONES WERE CORRODED. THE CONSUMER EXPERIENCED THE SAME SYMPTOM AS DESCRIBED IN THE RECALL FOR THE 1998-2002 VEHICLES. *NM
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-07-15
- VIN: 3GNFK16R1VG
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: IN JULY/AUGUST 2005 I BEGAN EXPERIENCING ACTIVATION OF THE ABS AT VERY LOW SPEEDS OF 5-10 MPH IN 1997 CHEVROLET SUBURBAN. I TOOK THE CAR TO REPAIR SHOP AND FOUND OUT THAT THE FRONT BRAKE UNITS, CALIPERS, ETC., WERE CORRODED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. I DID THIS. ALSO ,FOUND OUT THAT THE ABS UNITS WERE NOT READING THE SPEED CORRECTLY AND THIS WAS CAUSING THE ABS BUMPING AT LOW SPEEDS. ADVISED THEY SHOULD BE REPLACED AT COST OF $1200! IN JANUARY 2006 I READ ABOUT THE SUBURBAN RECALL FOR MALFUNCTIONING ABS AND UNUSUAL CORROSION OF BRAKES. UNFORTUNATELY, THE RECALL STARTED FOR 1999 MODELS. I BELIEVE MY 1997 VEHICLE HAS THE SAME PROBLEM. I CONTACTED THE LOCAL CHEVROLET DEALER WHERE I BOUGHT THE VEHICLE, BUT WAS TOLD IT WAS NOT COVERED BY THE RECALL AND THEY RECOMMENDED THE ABS UNITS BE CLEANED AND THAT THEY WILL FUNCTION PROPERLY. THE OTHER REPAIR SHOP (WHO DID THE BRAKE REPAIRS) RECOMMENDED AGAINST CLEANING"AND SAID IN THEIR EXPERIENCE THIS DOESN'T WORK. SUBURBAN HAS ONLY 61,000 MILES, SO IT HAS NOT BEEN OVER USED. I PUT ABOUT 6,000 MILES A YEAR ON IT, MOSTLY FOR PULLING A HORSE TRAILER AND FOR THIS I AM VERY CONCERNED ABOUT SAFE BRAKING. I BELIEVE THAT THIS 1997 SUBURBAN HAS THE SAME PROBLEM AS THE 199S. I'VE SPENT ABOUT $500 ON THE BRAKE REPAIRS SO FAR AND THE ABS WILL COST ME ANOTHER $1200. FOR A VEHICLE THAT GETS SO LITTLE USE BY ME, THIS IS A LOT OF MONEY. I WOULD LIKE THE 1997 TO BE INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. I AM UPSET BY THE EXPENSE OF REPAIRING THESE APPARENT MANUFACTURING FLAWS. *AK
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-12-15
- VIN: 1GNFK16R0VJ
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: DT: THE CONTACT STATES THERE IS A NHTSA RECALL CAMPAIGN 03V159000 CONCERNING THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS. THIS VEHICLE HAS THE SAME PROBLEMS AS INDICATED IN THE RECALL, BUT IT IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL DUE TO VIN. THE CONTACT WAS HAVING THE VEHICLE REPAIRED AT HER OWN EXPENSE.*AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-11-18
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1GNFK16RXVJ
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: DT: THE CONTACT STATES THERE IS NHTSA RECALL CAMPAIGN 05V379000 CONCERNING THE ANTI- LOCK BRAKES. THIS VEHICLE HAS THE SAME PROBLEMS AS INDICATED IN THE RECALL, BUT IT IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL DUE TO VIN. THE CONTACT REPAIRED THE VEHICLE AT HIS OWN EXPENSE. *AK THE CONSUMER STATED DUE TO THE DEFECTIVE PART, HE CRASHED INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE. UPDATED 11/29/05. *JB
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-09-08
- VIN: 1GNEC1653VJ
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: DT: THE CONTACT STATES THERE IS A NHTSA RECALL CAMPAIGN 03V159000 CONCERNING THE WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER MOTOR. THIS VEHICLE EXPERIENCED THE SAME PROBLEMS AS INDICATED IN THE RECALL, BUT IT IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL DUE TO VIN. NO REPAIRS WERE DONE . *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-10-01
- VIN: 1GNFK16R1VJ
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: DT: THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 CHEVROLET SUBURBAN. SHE RECEIVED RECALL 05V379000 NOTICE FOR A 2001 CHEVROLET SILVERADO REGARDING THE ABS SYSTEM. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE 1997 CHEVROLET SUBURBAN IS EXPERIENCED THE SAME ABS BRAKE PROBLEM AS INDICATED IN THE RECALL. WHEN THE BRAKES WERE APPLIED IT SEEMED AS IF THE ABS SYSTEM WAS KICKING IN, AND THERE WAS EXTENDED STOPPING DISTANCE. IT DID NOT MATTER WHAT THE ROAD CONDITIONS WERE THIS WOULD HAPPEN EVEN ON DRY ROADS. THE SERVICE DEALER DID STATED THAT THE SENSOR IN THE VEHICLE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER HAS NOT BEEN CONTACTED.*AK
1997 Chevrolet Suburban recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1997 Chevrolet Suburban.
- Manufacturer: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL, INC.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 18, 2005, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2006, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE AND ON CERTAIN SCHOOL BUSES. (TO SEE THE SCHOOL BUS ENGINE SIZES, CLICK ON "DOCUMENT SEARCH" AND THEN "BUS APPLICATIONS"). THE CONNECTOR ON THE FUEL FILTER WAS NOT MANUFACTURED TO HONEYWELL'S SPECIFICATION. AS A RESULT, THE O-RING MAY NOT SEAT CORRECTLY ON THE FUEL LINE.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE AN INADEQUATE SEAL AT THE CONNECTION, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO A FUEL LEAK. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
- Remedy: HONEYWELL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-890-2075 (OPTION 1).
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER
- Summary: ON CERTAIN MINIVANS, PICKUP TRUCKS, AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES WITH CERTAIN MODEL-ENGINE COMBINATIONS, THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR MAY FAIL DUE TO CRACKED SOLDER JOINTS ON THE CONTROLLER CIRCUIT BOARD. THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS COULD WORK INTERMITTENTLY OR NOT AT ALL.
- Consequence: IF THIS WERE TO OCCUR DURING BAD WEATHER, DRIVER VISIBILITY WOULD BE REDUCED, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE WIPER MOTOR CIRCUIT BOARD AND COVER. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON JUNE 19, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-222-1020, GMC AT 1-800-462-8782, OR OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-442-6537.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: VISIBILITY:REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES:EXTERIOR
- Summary: CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, MINI VANS, AND PICKUP TRUCKS MAY DEVELOP A SHORT CIRCUIT IN THE ELECTRIC OUTSIDE REARVIEW MIRROR SWITCH.
- Consequence: IF THIS WERE TO HAPPEN, IT COULD RESULT IN AN INOPERATIVE SWITCH, HEAT DAMAGE TO THE DRIVER'S DOOR, AND/OR IGNITION OF COMPONENTS IN THE DRIVER'S DOOR AND A SUBSEQUENT VEHICLE FIRE WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A FUSED JUMPER HARNESS TO THE ELECTRIC OUTSIDE REARVIEW MIRROR SWITCH. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON APRIL 24, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-222-1020 OR GMC AT 1-800-462-8782.
Negative 1997 Chevrolet Suburban car reviews
Positive 1997 Chevrolet Suburban car reviews
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After 20 months and 24,000 miles, it's clear that this truck is a great fit for families due to its overall capability and family friendliness. It gets 18mpg @ 75 mph cruising, and 15mpg in strictly around-town driving. The 6.5L turbodiesel is a remarkable powerplant for a full-size SUV, and the 4L-80E transmission is simply outstanding in every way. Additionally, it's surprisingly good at handling for such a huge rig, although it will never fool a driver into thinking that it's a sports car!
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I fell in love with this car at first sight. It has been a reliable vehicle for me and my dad, who was the first owner, with no issues. While I can drive it with a bit of a heavy foot, it handles well and I have never experienced any rollovers. While it may not seem fuel efficient at first glance, it can hold up to 8 people, which means that if each person were driving their own car, each car would have to get 105 mpg to use as little gas as the Suburban. Additionally, the towing capability is superb, which is not something you can find in a fuel efficient car. I highly recommend this vehicle to anyone in the market for a new car.
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The Suburban is the best vehicle I've ever owned. I'm excited to save enough money to get a new one!
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I purchased this vehicle for one purpose: my family. They have thoroughly enjoyed traveling around the US with it. Although I have experienced some electrical problems with this Suburban, it has performed wonderfully for me. With 116,000 miles on it, it is still running well. In fact, I just traveled 7,000 miles this July and my family was extremely comfortable riding in it.
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We chose the Suburban for several reasons. Firstly, it comfortably accommodates my wife, our three children, and me, while also providing a third row seat and ample cargo space. Secondly, it is a very safe vehicle. Thirdly, it can easily transport our family, camping gear, and pop-up camper. This is the primary reason we opted for the Suburban instead of a minivan. Fourthly, the powertrain is reliable. The entire truck has been dependable since we purchased it. We decided to buy a used truck because, like many vehicles, the Suburban depreciates too quickly to justify buying a new one. We found a four-year-old truck in excellent condition and purchased it for approximately 45% of the cost of a new one.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Chevrolet Suburban problems:
1997 Chevrolet C1500 Suburban Problems and Complaints - 26 ...
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Are you having problems with your 1997 Chevrolet Suburban?
Weston Bins 2024-11-10
My 1997 Suburban has been a beautiful truck, but it has been nothing but problems since day one. Despite investing twice its value in the past five years just to keep it running, it has been a timed obsolescence disaster. However, I do not believe that Chevy engineered this vehicle to breakdown intentionally. While I would not buy another one knowing what I know now, I am confident in my ability to make informed decisions about future purchases.
Merle Murphy 2024-10-29
I have experienced multiple malfunctions, including a faulty water pump, three alternators, an exhaust pipe issue, a universal joint problem, a malfunctioning power seat, a blower motor failure, a fuel pump issue, a malfunctioning a/c compressor, a wiper switch problem, and a coolant leak on the intake manifold. These issues occurred after the warranty period, despite the vehicle only having 70K miles. This experience has led me to believe that the vehicle is of poor quality.
Douglas Stamm 2024-09-29
This vehicle has had a number of issues, including inadequate brakes for its weight, frequent rotor failures, and multiple replacements of the transmission, fuel pump, universal joint, alternator, starter, water pump, heater control valve, a/c evaporator, battery post, and fusible link. Despite these challenges, the vehicle has accumulated 146,000 miles over almost three years of ownership. While I have spent approximately $9,000 on repairs, I remain confident in the vehicle's overall performance. If you own one of these vehicles, I recommend joining AAA for peace of mind. Overall, I have had a positive experience with my 86 K1500 truck and believe that my particular vehicle may have been subject to a less-than-ideal build on a Friday or Monday.
Mark McGlynn 2024-08-10
Over the last 12 months of ownership, my vehicle has unfortunately experienced several issues, including two transmission failures, alternator failure, brake issues, ignition problems, fuel injection malfunction, water pump failure, rear axle bearing issues, and air conditioning problems. Despite these challenges, I have invested $6800 in repairs to ensure that my vehicle is in top condition. The current mileage is 74000.
Zechariah Christiansen 2024-08-05
Although my experience with this vehicle has been less than satisfactory, I can confidently say that it is not a reliable option for long-term use. The frequent breakdowns and unscheduled repairs have cost me a significant amount of money each year. In fact, the transmission recently failed completely. As a result, I have decided to purchase a new vehicle that I can rely on.