In order to help you avoid picking the worst Chevrolet Suburban years on the market, we’ve ranked every Suburban model for every generation.
Throughout this guide, I’ll highlight the best and worst Chevrolet Suburban years, including the best years to buy.
By combining owner feedback, recalls, and expert reviews, I’ve compiled a detailed analysis, guided by research from trusted sources, including NHTSA, Consumer Reports, and industry evaluations.
Taking a closer look at the performance of each generation of Chevy Suburban will help you better understand what makes it tick – from common transmission issues to robust engine options.
Let’s get started.
Chevrolet Suburban Generations
It was 1935 when the Chevrolet Suburban was launched, making it one of the world’s longest-running auto names. As a station wagon-bodied version of Chevrolet truck chassis, this large SUV was introduced in its inaugural form as a full-size SUV.
An overview of the Chevrolet Suburban’s generations from 2000 to the present is shown in the table below:
| Generation | Years |
| 9th generation (GMT800) | 2000-2006 |
| 10th generation (GMT900) | 2007-2014 |
| 11th generation (GMTK2YC/G) | 2015-2020 |
| 12th generation (GMT1YC) | 2021-Present |
Considering Chevrolet Suburban models, it is important to recognize generational changes that could influence your decision.
Chevrolet Suburban Best, Neutral, and Worst Years
In constructing our rankings and categorizing the best, neutral, and worst Chevrolet Suburban years, we take a number of factors into consideration, including, but not limited to:
A graph representing the combined ratings from all the sources listed above will appear shortly.
According to our extensive research, we have categorized all Chevy Suburban model years into best, neutral, and worst years.
| Generation | Best Years | Neutral Years | Worst Years |
| 9th generation (GMT800) | 2006 | 2005 | 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 |
| 10th generation (GMT900) | 2010 2012 2013 2014 | N/A | 2007 2008 2009 2011 |
| 11th generation (GMTK2YC/G) | 2018 2019 2020 | 2017 | 2015 2016 |
| 12th generation (GMT1YC) | 2022 2023 | N/A | 2021 |
A neutral year refers to a model year in which performance, reliability, or defects are neither exceptional nor significant.
In general, the greater the number of complaints and recalls registered with the NHTSA, the less reliable that vehicle is considered to be.
Here are the specs for the best, neutral, and worst years of the Chevrolet Suburban.
Best & Worst Years for Chevrolet Suburban 9th Generation (2000-2006)
With the 9th Generation Chevrolet Suburban’s enhanced performance, safety, and technological features, the brand took a significant leap forward in 2000. However, their recurring and severe problems made them less desirable during these years, even if they pioneered new features and improvements in SUV design.
NHTSA recalls and owner complaints are significantly lower in 2006 than in 2000 to 2004, with 2006 being the best year for the Chevy Suburban in this generation. 1999 and 2000 are the worst years for the Chevy Suburban in the current generation.
The Best Years: 2006
In the 9th generation Chevy Suburban, 2006 is undeniably the best year.
The Vortec 5300 V8 engine was featured on this year’s model. With the base LS and premium LTZ trim levels, the Suburban offers a variety of trim levels alongside a robust powertrain.
It includes advanced technological features, including an enhanced airbag system and stability control, along with an upgraded infotainment system.
Despite its many positive attributes, there were some minor problems with the 2006 model.
Transmission hesitations were reported occasionally by owners, and fuel efficiency was murmured as being around 9 mpg in city driving and 19 mpg on the highway.
The Neutral Years: 2005
There were some positives and some negatives to the 2005 Chevrolet Suburban.
In addition to its upgraded and new features from its 2004 predecessor, such as the multiflex seating system and optional DVD rear entertainment system, it also carried some of the problems from the previous model.
As in previous years, the 4800, 5300, and 6000 V8 engines remained available, and the transmission was the well-respected 4-speed automatic.
In spite of this, there were a few issues with the 2005 model.
Though not rampant, there were some concerns about power steering assist loss and brake problems that were noticeable.
The Worst Years: 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004
There are more recalls and owner complaints about serious problems in 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, and 2004 for the Chevy Suburban, so these years should be avoided.
There have been reports of power steering assist loss, stalling engines due to fuel system problems, rusty suspensions, and brake issues with previous 2001 Chevy Suburban models.
A number of recalls related to issues like overheating fuel pump wires and chafing brake lines further compounded these problems.
Despite a similar story in 2001, a new crankshaft position sensor recall caused stalls and engine failures in the Suburban.
A recall was issued over the prior brake problems in the 2002 Chevy Suburban because there was an alarming wheel separation issue.
As a result of the emerging instrument panel failures in the 2003 Suburban, a number of preexisting problems were further aggravating.
There have been a number of recalls on the 2004 Chevrolet Suburban, including hydraulic brake recalls and brake valve recalls, as well as ongoing instrument cluster issues.
A list of Chevrolet Suburban recalls and complaints as of 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, and 2004 can be found on the NHTSA website.
Best & Worst Years for Chevrolet Suburban 10th Generation (2007-2014)
A slew of technological innovations were incorporated into the 10th Generation Chevrolet Suburban debuted in 2007 as a symbol of Chevrolet’s commitment to deliver enhanced comfort, performance, and safety.
As far as Chevy Suburbans go, the second half of the generation (1910, 2012, 2013, and 2014) stands as the best, while the first half (1907, 2008, 2009, and 2011) is to be avoided.
The Best Years: 2010, 2012, 2013, 2014
This generation’s best Chevy Suburban years are 2010, 2012, 2013, and 2014, which have outstanding ratings from J.D Power and Edmunds.
An automatic transmission and Vortec 5.3L V8 provide power for the 2010 Chevy Suburban.
The revised navigation radio with a backup camera and Bluetooth hands-free connectivity were now standard features in higher trim levels.
There was a Vortec 6.0L V8 engine available in the 2012 Chevrolet Suburban.
There is an option for a blind-spot warning system this year with an improved interior with higher-quality materials.
As an example of a standout feature, the Z71 off-road appearance package was introduced, transforming the Suburban from a luxury SUV to a rugged off-roader.
A number of safety features were improved in the 2013 Suburban, such as the side blind zone alert, and hill start assist was introduced for a greater sense of confidence during hill starts.
Among the features offered on the new Chevrolet Suburban are Active Fuel Management, heated and cooled front seats, side blind zone alert, and chrome details.
Chevy Suburbans were not without problems even in their best years. There have been some complaints about oil consumption from owners.
The Worst Years: 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011
The Chevrolet Suburban is categorized as a model to avoid based on several owner-reported problems and NHTSA recalls in 2007, 2008, 2009, and 2011.
There were a number of recalls on the 2007 and 2008 Chevy Suburbans. One of the greatest concerns was the safety of Takata airbags, which are notorious for posing a safety risk.
Several owners complained about excessive oil consumption, loud engine noise, and stalling engines.
A wire harness issue caused electrical problems that caused glitches in the instrument panel and drained the battery.
In order to prevent short circuits and other electrical anomalies, GM recalled its heated wiper washer system.
A recall has been issued for the 2009 Chevy Suburban models due to a short circuit in the fuel system control module. As a result of this potentially hazardous flaw, the engine might stall and not be able to start, posing an increased risk of an accident.
A number of recalls were associated with the 2011 Suburban, including one that involved ignition lock actuators that could bind and cause it to stall. There was also a risk associated with the rear axle cross pin, as it might fracture, thereby posing an accident risk.
Listed below are recalls and complaints related to the Chevrolet Suburban from 2007-2011, according to the NHTSA.
Best & Worst Years for Chevrolet Suburban 11th Generation (2015-2020)
A more modernized Chevrolet Suburban entered its 11th generation combining the brand’s trusted capabilities with contemporary design, technological advancements, and improved performance.
There is no Chevy Suburban year in this generation that you should “avoid like the plague”. There can be no doubt that 2018 and 2019 are the best years for the Chevy Suburban in this generation.
The Best Years: 2018, 2019, 2020
Based on J.D Power, VehicleHistory, and Cars.com ratings, 2018 through 2020 seem to be the best years for the Chevy Suburban of this generation.
With a 6-speed automatic transmission and a 5.3L V8 engine, the 2018 Chevy Suburban was primarily driven by three-cylinder engines.
Its infotainment system, which combines an 8-inch touchscreen with Chevrolet MyLink, offers intuitive navigation solutions and entertainment options.
A sportier look for the Suburban was also added this year with the RST (Rally Sport Truck) package and 22-inch wheels.
Among the many safety features coming standard across the 2019 Suburban are forward collision warnings, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warnings.
There was also a special edition Premier Plus with 6.2L V8 engine. In addition to a head-up display and enhanced speaker systems, the vehicle is equipped with a number of luxurious features.
There are more USB ports, a power-sliding center console, and an advanced infotainment system on the 2020 Suburban.
A rear pedestrian alert and HD surround vision further enhance safety.
The Neutral Years: 2017
Although the 2017 Chevy Suburban combined the strength of its predecessors with a spacious interior and a powerful V8 engine, it also came with some lingering issues.
There were several new features that parents appreciated, including the Teen Driver mode, which provides parents with more control over their children’s driving habits.
The company’s reputation has been tarnished by some issues from 2015 and 2016, especially those that involve the powertrain.
Yet, the 2017 model did not suffer from dramatic flaws, making it a reasonably reliable option for luxury and performance lovers.
The Worst Years: 2015, 2016
According to my previous comments, the 2015 Chevy Suburban is the least reliable model in this generation. It is the Chevy Suburban year to avoid in 2015 and 2016 when Edmunds and J.D. Power score it lowest and when NHSTA recalls are at their highest.
Transmission and brake problems were widespread, with many owners lamenting the condition of their powertrains.
Several recalls were issued by GM, including two concerning transmission failures — one related to a transmission oil cooler leak, which could lead to smoke and fire, and one related to the transfer case shifting to neutral without the driver’s command.
One of the major recalls involved a temporary loss of power steering assist.
There were some problems with the transmission of the 2016 Chevy Suburban.
Recalls and complaints for 2015, 2016, and 2017 Chevrolet Suburbans can be found on the NHTSA website.
Best & Worst Years for Chevrolet Suburban 12th Generation (2021-2023)
As the Chevrolet Suburban entered its 12th generation, it featured a wide array of noteworthy enhancements and refinements, solidifying its reputation as one of the most iconic American SUVs of all time.
There were many Chevy Suburban recalls in 2021, making it the Chevrolet Suburban year to avoid. In contrast, 2022 and 2023 were the most reliable years of this generation.
The Best Years: 2022, 2023
In the 2022 Chevy Suburban, dependable engines like the 5.3L V8 and 6.2L V8 were available, along with the 3.0L Duramax Turbodiesel for those who wanted an eco-conscious vehicle.
Several interior changes have been made, including increased legroom and cargo space, which will make the ride for passengers more comfortable and provide more space for luggage.
There was even more technological advancement with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration on the infotainment system.
The drive became safer and more intuitive with advanced safety features such as automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist.
The Worst Years: 2021
According to Edmunds, J.D Power, and Cars.com, 2021 is probably the worst year in this generation to purchase a Chevy Suburban.
This year was particularly problematic, with recalls involving everything from exterior lighting issues to fuel pump issues caused by faulty power control modules.
Power steering assistance was also lost as a result of another concerning recall.
There were also numerous issues with the seatbelts, raising safety concerns.
Despite its fuel efficiency figures not showing significant improvement, the vehicle averaged 11 mpg for city driving and 22 mpg for highway driving, adding to its woes.
Chevrolet Suburban recalls and complaints for 2021 can be found at NHTSA.
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Conclusion
With the storied history of the Chevrolet Suburban in our hands, it’s clear that the best years to purchase a Suburban are 2010-2014, 2018-2020, and newer.
Is there a year that you remember as the best or worst you ever owned a Chevy Suburban?
Comment below if you have any experiences or insights to share!