2018 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 2018 Chevrolet Suburban problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 2018 Chevrolet Suburban, common problems with this vehicle include:
- Maintenance Costs: Older models, especially those from 2015 or earlier, can be expensive to maintain, with costs averaging around $1,500 per year for 5 years.
- Severity of Repair: The Suburban has a higher likelihood of needing severe repairs compared to other vehicles, with a 15% score, indicating potential for more extensive maintenance.
- Engine Problems: Some 2009 Suburbans have been reported to consume oil at a high rate, leading to maintenance concerns and costs.
- Costly Insurance: Insuring a Chevy Suburban can be pricier than other SUVs, with an average annual cost of $1,800.
- Depreciation: The Suburban depreciates at about 7% per year, losing around 35% of its value in 5 years, making it important to consider when purchasing new.
- Transmission Issues: Earlier models faced transmission problems related to torque converter clutch issues, while later models experienced diagnostic code problems requiring specific fixes.
- Electrical Problems: Owners have reported various electrical issues, such as power loss, Wi-Fi malfunctions, and door locking problems, which can be safety concerns.
- Brake Problems: Some complaints include issues with brakes, such as sudden shaking and alerts indicating urgent service requirements.
- Noises and Leaks: Owners have reported noises, leaks, and other issues related to the climate system, exhaust, brakes, engine, and steering and suspension components.
These problems highlight the importance of thorough research and consideration before purchasing a 2018 Chevrolet Suburban, as they can impact the vehicle's performance, maintenance costs, and overall ownership experience.
How reliable is a 2018 Suburban?
The 2018 Chevrolet Suburban has a below-average predicted reliability rating of 2.5 out of five from J.D. Power.
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.
How many miles will a 2018 Suburban last?
How Long Will the 2018 Chevrolet Suburban Last? A well-maintained 2018 Chevy Suburban can last around 250,000 miles, which is only slightly shorter than the long-lasting Toyota Sequoia. Regular annual maintenance costs are similar to other full size SUVs, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $690 per year.
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.
How reliable is a 2018 Suburban?
The 2018 Chevrolet Suburban has a below-average predicted reliability rating of 2.5 out of five from J.D. Power.
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.
How many miles will a 2018 Suburban last?
How Long Will the 2018 Chevrolet Suburban Last? A well-maintained 2018 Chevy Suburban can last around 250,000 miles, which is only slightly shorter than the long-lasting Toyota Sequoia. Regular annual maintenance costs are similar to other full size SUVs, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $690 per year.
Is a Chevy Suburban reliable?
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.
2018 Chevrolet Suburban complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2018 Chevrolet Suburban.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
2018 Chevrolet Suburban recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2018 Chevrolet Suburban.
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:WHEEL SPEED SENSOR
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2015-2020 Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe, and GMC Yukon, and 2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 vehicles equipped with a 5.3-liter engine, a 3.08-ratio rear axle and four-wheel drive. If a wheel-speed sensor fails, while the vehicle is traveling between 41 and 60 mph in four-wheel or automatic mode, the Electronic-Brake Control Module (EBCM) software may activate the driveline-protection system.
- Consequence: Unintended activation of the driveline-protection system will cause unintended braking on the wheel on the opposite side of the failed sensor, causing the vehicle to pull to one side unexpectedly, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the EBCM, free of charge. The recall began December 11, 2019. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-630-2438 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N192261050.
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:VACUUM
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2015-2017 Cadillac Escalade, 2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, 2015-2018 Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Yukon vehicles. The amount of vacuum created by the vacuum pump may decrease over time.
- Consequence: As the vacuum level drops, the brake assist decreases, increasing braking effort, extending the distance required to stop the vehicle, thereby increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the Electronic Brake Control Module, free of charge. The recall began October 8, 2019. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-630-2438, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N192268490.
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Cadillac CT6, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban, Volt, and GMC Yukon XL vehicles. Certain second-row or third-row rear seatbelts retractor assemblies may not automatically lock when the seatbelt is fully pulled out of the retractor, possibly preventing a child seat from being properly secured. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
- Consequence: If the child seat is not properly secured in the event of a crash, it can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the rear seatbelt retractors and replace them if necessary, free of charge. The recall began November 7, 2018. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is 18315.
Negative 2018 Chevrolet Suburban car reviews
Positive 2018 Chevrolet Suburban car reviews
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The rear cargo area was a bit of a challenge for me! I have an electric scooter and with the rear 'trunk', it is too high. I never noticed this with my 2015 model. To make matters worse, all the groceries roll downhill towards the back door and when you open it, everything rolls out onto the driveway! However, I found a local guy who does custom car interiors and he did a great job for me. I showed him a video of a guy on the internet with step-by-step instructions to remove the 3rd seat and the trunk (held in with 2 plastic wingnuts). I hired him to take out the rear storage 'trunk' and the 3rd seat and install a carpeted board so the floor is flat! It looks nice and the groceries stay in the truck until we remove them. My scooter now clears the ceiling like my old suburban! I saw the review by Labrador on 12/10/2017 above. He didn't have to buy a smaller dog crate if he was willing to remove the trunk! I don't know why they did this when most Suburban owners want cargo area for hauling stuff. It seems like a silly idea.
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We recently purchased the 2018 Suburban Premier to replace my 2005 LT Chevrolet Silverado 2500 Duramax, which I had owned since it was new. Although I was initially hesitant to put quick mileage on a new vehicle, the Suburban has exceeded our expectations. As owners of a 31' Airstream trailer, we have owned four previous tow vehicles, three of which were Suburbans, one was a 1996 GMC, and the other two were a Duramax and a 2002 2500 Avalanche (8.1). All of these vehicles had over 150,000 miles on them, with the Silverado reaching 225,000 miles. The 2018 Suburban is one of the safest vehicles we have ever driven, with sensors and alerts, LED lights, and automatic wipers that make highway driving a breeze. The vehicle's ability to sit high and away from any impact is especially valuable given the prevalence of distracted drivers on the road today. With WiFi, Onstar, and comfortable seating, the Suburban is like a portable office, making it perfect for long commutes or road trips. The vehicle's mileage is also impressive, easily reaching 22-24 miles per gallon on the road, and with a range of almost 725 miles to the tank when driving at 65-70 MPH. If you plan on keeping a vehicle for 10 plus years, putting over 200k in mileage on it, or even passing it off to the next generation, the Suburban is well worth the investment. Although the Mercedes-Benz and Toyota Sequoia are also great vehicles, finding a dealer that consistently provides quality care can be a challenge. Overall, the Suburban is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable, safe, and comfortable vehicle that can handle anything life throws their way.The Update-Suburban is an amazing vehicle! Although I have had to travel long distances for my daily commute and trips to Tampa and Baltimore, I am so grateful to have the Suburban to drive. On the highway, we have been able to average 23 MPG, with a range of over 700 miles to the tank. This fuel range is fantastic, especially when sitting in traffic or needing to fuel up at a full service center. The storage space for luggage is incredibly convenient, as we are able to load multiple suitcases and coolers with ease. The dealer support is excellent, with a wide range of accessories available to make traveling even more comfortable. I have no regrets about purchasing this great vehicle and would definitely consider buying another one in the future!
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All the comfort of a luxury car and then some. Rides like a dream and has room to spare. The technology is above most vehicles that I have seen. I'm so glad you love this suburban!
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Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with my 4th Suburban in the last 10 years. I tend to trade in every 3 years and I currently have the LT Signature edition. Last November, my family and I took a 2800 mile trip to the Smoky Mountains and we were thrilled to average 20.1 mpg, even with a lot of mountain and curve driving at 75 mph. This is a 2.5 mpg increase over my '14 Suburban that I traded in with 55,000 miles and absolutely no problems. I love the classy and attractive cocoa/dune interior, but the sloping rear floor has caused a couple of items to roll out the back when the door was opened. I hope this issue is addressed in the next version. Overall, the ride is wonderful and this vehicle is perfect for long trips. As of January 21, I still have my '17 Suburban and only drove it 42,500 miles in 2020 due to the pandemic. I had one problem with the electric button on the tailgate, but it was fixed for $500 with labor. I'm excited to see that the '21 has a level rear floor and I'm considering getting one next fall. As of January 22, I still have my '17 Suburban and have had no problems in the past year. I ordered a new '21, but due to supply issues, it looks like I'm getting a '22. I couldn't believe the trade-in value I received on the '17, it was amazing!
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This is a really well put together SUV. The interior is quiet and spacious, with well laid out instrumentation. The steering wheel controls for Bluetooth, as well as voice recognition, are a great touch. The exterior is beautifully designed with tight paint and trim. Overall, it's a superior ride compared to other full-size SUVs I've rented or test driven.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2018 Chevrolet Suburban problems:
2018 Chevrolet Suburban Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...
Jul 28, 2023 ... It takes a lot of gas . And if you are not a big truck driver this is not the vehicle for you. Chevy is a very independent ,reliability, vehicle ...
2018 Chevrolet Suburban Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2018 Chevrolet Suburban? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 ...
2018 Chevrolet Suburban Reliability - Consumer Reports
Owner Reported Trouble Spots · Noises And Leaks · Climate System · Exhaust · Brakes · Engine Major · Engine Electrical · Drive System · Steering And Suspension.
Looking to purchase a 2015-2019 Suburban LTZ what problems ...
Oct 7, 2019 ... The "shadow lined" you mentioned may have been a later Gen 4 option or a special order, black was in the grille only with Chevy models below LTZ ...
2018 Chevrolet Suburban Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
2018 Chevrolet Suburban vehicles have 3 known recalls. The most common recall is: Engine Vacuum Pump Fails Reducing Power Braking Assist. Driveline Protection ...
Other years of Chevrolet Suburban
Are you having problems with your 2018 Chevrolet Suburban?
Armani Cartwright 2025-05-11
In November 2018, I traded in my beloved Hyundai Santa Fe for a 2017 Chevrolet Suburban in a beautiful Charcoal Gray. I thought it would be the perfect vehicle for me and my family, but unfortunately, I've had to take it back to the dealer constantly for various issues. Despite these setbacks, the dealer has been very helpful and accommodating throughout the process. Although it has been frustrating, I am confident that they will fix all the issues and make sure that my Suburban is running smoothly. This is actually my second Suburban, as we had a 2009 model that we absolutely loved. I'm looking forward to enjoying my new Suburban once all the issues have been resolved.I'm ready to turn it back in to them.
Ervin Barrows 2024-11-17
This 2017 make and model may not be the best choice for those considering a suburban vehicle from the 16-17-18 model years. There have been reports of major issues, including brake and engine failures, as well as sensor malfunctions that have been recalled. This has been the experience of many Uber and limo companies with this particular make and model.
Lamont Bradtke 2024-11-01
At 18, I got my very first tattoo - a Chevy bow tie on my left arm. Since then, I have always driven Chevy vehicles and have never been disappointed. However, my recent purchase of a 2018 Suburban LT with 54k miles has left me feeling underwhelmed. Despite having every single option available, the car struggled to tow a tandem axel trailer and lacked the power I needed for my family's needs. Although the dealer assured me that the transmission and transfer case were fine, I am not convinced. As a loyal Chevy customer, I am disappointed that the direction they took was to add fancy buttons and take away the power to the motor. I am now considering trading it in for a Ford F-350, which is something I never thought I'd consider.
Eriberto Walter 2024-09-13
Hey there! Just wanted to give you a heads up about my experience with a used 2018 Suburban. Unfortunately, I had some trouble with the transmission and ended up having to replace it for $6,000.00. I was pretty disappointed, especially since the vehicle had just under 100K miles and had never pulled a trailer. I was even stranded 300 miles from home with no warning! On Star didn't even catch it until it had already broken down. I had to pay an additional $500 for transportation to return the vehicle to my hometown and was without the SUV for 30 days. From what I've seen online, it seems like these issues are pretty common with the Suburban, Tahoe, Silverado 1500, Yukon, Yukon XL and Sierra 1500. Just thought I'd share my experience with you so you can make an informed decision. Take care!
Oscar Yost 2024-06-01
Overall, I love my new Suburban! It gets 20 to 26 mpg when not towing and 10 to 15 mpg when towing. However, I have had some trouble with the navigation system. The Dodge system is much better in my opinion. The Chevy navigation is only available through your smartphone and has no standalone features. To use it, you have to pull up the map on your phone, select directions, and hit start before hooking up the USB port to the Chevy screen. Then, you have to go into Chevy's program to activate the map on the screen. Unfortunately, you can't change to a new place or directions until you go back and disconnect your USB and go through all the steps again. You can't do it through the touch screen, and because Chevy takes over your phone, you can't make changes to your phone while connected via USB. Additionally, if you don't have an unlimited data phone plan, you may use up your data on long trips. Also, be careful as your phone may get hot if used for too long. I hope this feedback helps improve the navigation system.