1990 Chevrolet Suburban

1990 Chevrolet Suburban

The 1990 Chevrolet Suburban is a full-size SUV that was available with a variety of engine and transmission options. The base engine was a 5.7-liter V8 that produced 210 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. A 7.4-liter V8 was also available, which produced 230 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 4-speed automatic and a 5-speed manual.

People like the Suburban for its spacious interior, powerful engines, and towing capabilities. However, some common issues have been reported with the vehicle.

Engine

5.7L V8

• Intake manifold gasket failure: The intake manifold gasket can fail, causing coolant and oil leaks. Symptoms include overheating, reduced engine performance, and a check engine light. The solution is to replace the intake manifold gasket. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000.
• Head gasket failure: The head gasket can fail, causing coolant and oil leaks. Symptoms include overheating, reduced engine performance, and a check engine light. The solution is to replace the head gasket. Estimated cost to fix: $1,000 - $2,000.

7.4L V8

• Valve stem seal failure: The valve stem seals can fail, causing oil to leak into the combustion chambers. Symptoms include excessive oil consumption and blue smoke from the exhaust. The solution is to replace the valve stem seals. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000.

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Transmission slipping: The transmission may slip when shifting gears. Symptoms include difficulty accelerating and a check engine light. The solution is to rebuild or replace the transmission. Estimated cost to fix: $1,500 - $3,000.
• Converter clutch failure: The converter clutch can fail, causing the transmission to overheat and shudder. Symptoms include a burning smell, reduced engine performance, and a check engine light. The solution is to replace the converter clutch. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000.

5-Speed Manual

• Clutch failure: The clutch can fail, making it difficult to shift gears. Symptoms include a slipping clutch, difficulty engaging gears, and a burning smell. The solution is to replace the clutch. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000.
• Synchronizer failure: The synchronizers can fail, making it difficult to shift gears. Symptoms include grinding noises when shifting, difficulty engaging gears, and a check engine light. The solution is to replace the synchronizers. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000.

Suspension

• Ball joint failure: The ball joints can fail, causing the suspension to become loose and unstable. Symptoms include clunking noises, vibration when driving, and uneven tire wear. The solution is to replace the ball joints. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000.
• Leaf spring failure: The leaf springs can fail, causing the suspension to sag and become unstable. Symptoms include a sagging rear end, reduced ride comfort, and uneven tire wear. The solution is to replace the leaf springs. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000.

Electrical

• Alternator failure: The alternator can fail, causing the battery to discharge and the vehicle to lose power. Symptoms include dim headlights, difficulty starting the vehicle, and a check engine light. The solution is to replace the alternator. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000.
• Starter failure: The starter can fail, making it difficult to start the vehicle. Symptoms include a clicking noise when starting the vehicle, difficulty starting the vehicle, and a check engine light. The solution is to replace the starter. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000.

Exterior

• Rust: The body of the Suburban can rust, especially in areas where the paint has been damaged. Symptoms include bubbling paint, rust spots, and holes in the body. The solution is to repair the rust and repaint the affected areas. Estimated cost to fix: Varies depending on the severity of the rust.
• Tailgate failure: The tailgate can fail to open or close properly. Symptoms include a jammed tailgate, difficulty opening or closing the tailgate, and a check engine light. The solution is to repair or replace the tailgate. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000.

Interior

• Dashboard cracks: The dashboard can crack, especially in areas exposed to sunlight. Symptoms include cracks in the dashboard, peeling paint, and a rattling noise. The solution is to repair or replace the dashboard. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000.
• Power window failure: The power windows can fail to operate properly. Symptoms include windows that do not open or close properly, a clicking noise when operating the windows, and a check engine light. The solution is to repair or replace the power window motors or switches. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000.

Summary

The 1990 Chevrolet Suburban is a reliable and capable SUV, but it is not without its problems. Some of the most common issues include engine and transmission problems, suspension problems, electrical problems, and interior problems. The severity and cost of these issues vary depending on the specific issue and the condition of the vehicle.