Gmc C1500 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."

photo of Gmc C1500 suburban car production

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Gmc C1500 suburban model years

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C1500 suburban 1999
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Common Gmc C1500 suburban problems

The 1997 GMC C1500 Suburban is a popular full-size SUV that has been known for some common problems based on complaints from owners. While the specific issues may vary depending on the model year, some of the most common problems include the following:

  • Maintenance Costs: Chevy Suburbans, including the 1997 model, can be expensive to maintain. The average cost per year for 5 years is about $800 for 2019 or newer models, and about $1,500 for 2015 or later models. Older models can cost over $2,000 per year.
  • Severity of Repair Score: The Chevrolet Suburban has a higher "Severity of Repair" score of 15% compared to an average of 12% for all vehicle models. This means that it is more likely to need severe repairs than most other vehicles.
  • Engine Problems: The 2009 model year, in particular, has been reported to have engine problems, with many owners complaining about high oil consumption rates.
  • Insurance Costs: The average cost of car insurance for a Chevy Suburban is $1,800 per year, which is more than 10% of what other SUVs cost.
  • Depreciation: The Chevy Suburban depreciates at about 7% per year, or 35% in 5 years. This means that if you purchase a new Chevy Suburban today for around $60,000, it will be worth almost half that amount when you go to sell it five years from now.
  • Transmission Problems: Earlier models of the Chevrolet Suburban, including the 1997 model, have been reported to have transmission issues. The torque converter clutch would apply during the shift from first to second gear, causing harsh shifts and engine bogging. The wiring needs to be redone to resolve this problem permanently.
  • Diagnostic Codes: Later models of the Chevrolet Suburban, including the 1997 model, have been reported to have diagnostic codes like P0776 and P0796, often caused by a pressure leak at the end of the clutch regulating valve. To fix this problem, you'll need a new bore plug or will need to buy an updated version from Chevrolet.

In conclusion, the 1997 GMC C1500 Suburban, like many other vehicles, has its share of common problems based on complaints from owners. These issues can range from relatively minor problems like A/C system issues to more significant problems like engine and transmission issues. It is essential to research and consider these common problems before purchasing a vehicle, especially if it is a used vehicle.

Gmc C1500 suburban

What is the most common problem with the Chevy Suburban?

Common Chevrolet Suburban Problems

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. Faulty A/C: Owners of the Suburban 2014-2017 complained about their vehicle's faulty A/C system.

What is the most reliable year Chevy Suburban?

2006 Chevrolet Suburban

This model has been hailed as one of the most reliable Suburbans due to its strong engine, durable build, and high overall quality. The 2006 Chevrolet Suburban is a full-size SUV known for its reliability, spaciousness, and powerful performance.

Are Chevy Suburbans good cars?

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban has a predicted reliability score of 78 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.

What was the GMC version of the Suburban?

Yukon XL

These vehicles were also known as the "Suburban Carryall" until GM shortened the name to simply "Suburban." GMC's equivalent to the Chevrolet model was originally named "Suburban" as well, until being rebranded as "Yukon XL" for the 2000 model year.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Gmc C1500 suburban years

We have researched Gmc problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Gmc C1500 suburban cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Gmc C1500 suburban model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Gmc C1500 suburban model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Gmc C1500 suburban years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Gmc C1500 suburban car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Gmc C1500 suburban , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Service brakes problems
  • Hydraulic problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Visibility problems
  • Steering problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Gmc C1500 suburban vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by C1500 suburban model years

There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 21 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Gmc C1500 suburban . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Gmc C1500 suburban vehicles.

List of Gmc C1500 suburban complaints

Gmc C1500 suburban 1999
  • Date Of Incident: 2017-01-04
  • Date Complaint: 2017-01-04
  • VIN: 1GKFK16R6XJ
  • Components: SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: TRANSFER CASE PINHOLE DO TO PUMP IN TRANSFER CASE COMMON PROBLEM
Gmc C1500 suburban 1999
  • Date Of Incident: 2015-03-10
  • Date Complaint: 2015-04-28
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: 3GKFK16R5XG
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 GMC C1500 SUBURBAN. WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 65 MPH, THE OIL FIELD EXPLODED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE FIELD FRACTURED AND CAUSED OIL TO SEEP INTO THE ENGINE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 126,000.
Gmc C1500 suburban 1999
  • Date Of Incident: 2014-07-01
  • Date Complaint: 2014-08-14
  • VIN: 3GKEC16R2XG
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: AIRBAG LIGHT IS ON. NEEDS NEW MODULE AND THE PART IS "CURRENTLY UNAVAILABLE" FROM GMC. REPAIR SHOP WILL NOT GUARANTEE WORK ON INSTALLATION OF A THIRD PARTY PART. I HAVE SPOKEN EXTENSIVELY WITH GMC CORPORATE AND THEY CONTINUE TO DELEGATE THIS ISSUE TO THE DEALERSHIP LEVEL. IMO, THE DEALERSHIP (THORSON MOTOR CENTER, PASADENA, CA) HAS DONE ALL THEY CAN BY ORDERING THE PART FOR ME. IF THE PART IS UNAVAILABLE, THAT IS NOT THE DEALERSHIP'S FAULT. FURTHER, THERE IS NO ESTIMATED TIME OF ARRIVAL EVEN THOUGH THE ORDER HAS BEEN EXPEDITED. GMC CORPORATE SHOULD MAKE SURE THEY HAVE SUFFICIENT MANUFACTURERS WHO CAN PRODUCE PARTS IN A TIMELY MANNER. IN THE MEANTIME, MY CAR HAS A SAFETY ISSUE THAT IS UNRESOLVED. THIS PROBLEM HAS BEEN GOING ON FOR OVER SIX WEEKS NOW. *TR
Gmc C1500 suburban 1998
  • Date Of Incident: 2014-06-29
  • Date Complaint: 2014-07-03
  • VIN: 1GKFK16R9WJ
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: EXCESSIVE BRAKE TRAVEL WITHOUT WARNING. BRAKE LIGHT THEN CAME ON BRIEFLY THEN WENT OFF. BRAKE PRESSURE RETURNED. GOT HOME AND LOSING BRAKE FLUID FROM IN FRONT OF LEFT REAR TIRE. ADDED FLUID AND DROVE TO MECHANIC. BRAKE LINE HAD TO BE REBUILT. COST TO REPAIR $412.00. *TR
Gmc C1500 suburban 1999
  • Date Of Incident: 2011-06-19
  • Date Complaint: 2014-06-19
  • VIN: 3GKFK16R6XG
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES,EQUIPMENT
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 GMC SUBURBAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE BRAKES WERE WEARING PREMATURELY. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER, WHO STATED THAT THE BRAKE LINES, HARDWARE, BRAKE CYLINDER AND CALIPERS NEEDED TO BE REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 99,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 137,960. ALSO, THE A/C WAS REPAIRED SEVERAL TIMES, AS IT WAS BLOWING OUT HOT AIR, THE REAR PASSENGER DOOR WAS INOPERATIVE, THE STARTER WAS REPLACED, THE RADIATOR WAS LEAKING. UPDATED 07/30/14
Gmc C1500 suburban 1999
  • Date Of Incident: 2006-06-07
  • Date Complaint: 2014-03-11
  • VIN: 3GKEC16R6XG
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: CAR SHUT OFF WHILE DRIVING ON HIGHWAY. *TR
Gmc C1500 suburban 1999
  • Date Of Incident: 2000-03-14
  • Date Complaint: 2014-03-11
  • VIN: 3GKEC16R6XG
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: CAR SHUT OFF IN THE MIDDLE OF DRIVING, THIS HAPPEN ONCE OR TWICE A YEAR OVER A 12 YEAR PERIOD, DEALER KEEP SAYING IT WAS SWITCH OR FUEL PUMP, THEY KEPT CHARGING ME EVERYTIME... *TR
Gmc C1500 suburban 1999
  • Date Of Incident: 2011-10-25
  • Date Complaint: 2014-03-11
  • VIN: 3GKEC16R6XG
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: CAR SHUT OFF WHILE DRIVING, MECHANIC SAID IT WAS ABS COMPUTER, CHARGED ME $1000 TO REPLACE. *TR
Gmc C1500 suburban 1997
  • Date Of Incident: 2013-05-01
  • Date Complaint: 2013-05-11
  • VIN: 1GDEC16RXVJ
  • Components: STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: TRAVELING AT 40 MPH THE VEHICLE HAS FAILED TO COME TO COMPLETE STOP AND KEEPS SKIDDING.TRUCK STARTED TO SKID SIDE WAYS,BRAKES GAVE OUT AND WOULD NOT FUNCTION PROPERLY.TRUCK KEPT SKIDDING FOR ABOUT HALF MILE BEFORE BRAKES WORKED AND WAS ABLE TO CONTROL THE SUBURBAN.THE BRAKE PEDAL WENT ALL THE WAY DOWN AND PUMPED IT SEVERAL TIMES BUT WOULD NOT WORK.SEEMS LIKE ABS MODULE,BRAKES ARE GOOD.JUST ABS HAS FAILED AT DIFFERENT TIMES.SUBURBAN JUMPS AND KEEPS GOING WHEN STOPPED.FAILS TO MAKE COMPLETE STOP EVEN AT LOW SPEEDS. *TR
Gmc C1500 suburban 1999
  • Date Of Incident: 2012-07-04
  • Date Complaint: 2012-08-29
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: WITHIN SEVERAL MONTHS BOTH FRONT DOORS - DRIVERS AND PASSENGERS HANDLES STOPPED WORKING. WITHOUT POWER TO LOWER THE WINDOW AND OPEN THE DOOR FROM THE OUTSIDE, THE OCCUPANTS ARE LOCKED INSIDE. WHEN REPLACING THE PARTS AND INVESTIGATING THE PROBLEM, IT WAS APPARENT THAT BOTH HANDLES BROKE AT THE SAME PLACE AND THE PART MAY BE FAULTY OR NOT SUFFICIENTLY STRENGTHENED TO SUPPORT EXITING THE VEHICLES - ESPECIALLY IN AN EMERGENCY. WE BELIEVE THAT ONLY THE ACTUAL HANDLE IS THE CONCERN AND NOT THE FULL ASSEMBLY. *TR
Gmc C1500 suburban 1994
  • Date Of Incident: 2002-12-19
  • Date Complaint: 2011-12-14
  • VIN: 1GKFK16K1RJ
  • Components: VISIBILITY
  • Summary: WIPERS WILL NOT WORK ALL THE TIME. SOMETIMES THEY WILL JUST START WHEN YOU HIT A BUMP. MOST OF THE TIME THEY JUST WON'T COME ON WHEN YOU NEED THEM. *TR
Gmc C1500 suburban 1999
  • Date Of Incident: 2011-09-10
  • Date Complaint: 2011-09-12
  • VIN: 3GKFK16R1XG
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 GMC C1500 SUBURBAN. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 15 MPH WHEN THE BRAKED WERE APPLIED AND THE PEDAL TRAVELED TO THE FLOOR ABNORMALLY. THE VEHICLE FAILED TO STOP AND THE CONTACT IMMEDIATELY ENGAGED THE EMERGENCY BRAKE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACTS RESIDENCE WHERE THE CONTACT DETECTED BRAKE FLUID LEAKING AND BELIEVED THAT THE FAILURE WAS RELATED TO A FAULTY BRAKE LINE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE PROBLEM. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 135,000.
Gmc C1500 suburban 1999
  • Date Of Incident: 2011-08-11
  • Date Complaint: 2011-09-04
  • VIN: 3GKGK16F6XG
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: I HAVE PURCHASED 2 GMC SUBURBANS OVER THE LAST 13 YEARS. I'M A DIVORCED MOM OF 7 CHILDREN. I WAS DRIVING MY SUBURBAN ALONG WITH MY CHILDREN AND THE VEHICLE STALLED IN THE MIDDLE OF RUSH HOUR TRAFFIC IN BOSTON. *TR I WAS ALMOST HIT FROM BEHIND AND FROM THE RIGHT HAND LANE AS I DESPERATELY TRIED TO STEER THE CAR INTO THE BREAK DOWN LANE. I TURNED MY HAZARDS ON, BUT DURING THIS TIME IN BOSTON, EVERYONE DRIVES OVER THE SPEED LIMIT. IT HAPPENED REPEATEDLY OVER THE NEXT FEW WEEKS. I CONTACTED GMC, IN WHICH I SPOKE TO A REPRESENTATIVE, WHO INFORMED ME I WAS OVER THE RECALL DATE. WHAT???? I EXPLAINED OVER AND OVER HOW DANGEROUS IT WAS FOR ME TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE WITH MY CHILDREN. TO NO AVAIL, I WAS TOLD, MY SUBURBAN MISSED THE RECALL DATES. SORRY, GM COULD NOT STAND BEHIND A LOYAL CUSTOMER. I DO NOT HAVE 2000.00 TO REPLACE THIS PART.
Gmc C1500 suburban 1999
  • Date Of Incident: 2006-03-06
  • Date Complaint: 2011-03-07
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: GMC SUBURBAN 1999 STEERING SPEED SENSOR FAILS CAUSING THE STEERING TO SUDDENLY JERK WHILE TURNING UNDER SPEED. IT FEELS LIKE THE FRONT WHEELS HIT "SLIPPERY ICE". *TR
Gmc C1500 suburban 1994
  • Date Of Incident: 2010-07-14
  • Date Complaint: 2010-07-15
  • VIN: 1GKEC16K5RJ
  • Components: VISIBILITY
  • Summary: WINDSHIELD WIPERS FAIL TO OPERATE DURING RAINY WEATHER. WIPERS WILL SOMETIMES OPERATE AFTER BEING ASSISTED MANUALLY. FAULTY WIPERS WILL CAUSE WEATHER TO IMPAIR THE DRIVER'S VISION DURING RAINY OR FOGGY CONDITIONS RESULTING IN THE LIKELY POTENTIAL FOR A VEHICLE ACCIDENT. OTHER VEHICLES OF THIS SAME YEAR HAVE A RECALL FOR THIS ISSUE WITH WIPERS BUT GM DEALERSHIP'S MAINTENANCE DEPARTMENT STATED THIS VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED ON THE RECALL. PROBLEM IS STILL EXISTING AND NO PARTS HAVE BEEN REPLACED OR REPAIRED FOR THIS ISSUE. THIS ISSUE HAS BEEN EXISTING YEARS PRIOR TO THIS REPORT. *TR

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