2007 Chevrolet Suburban 1500

The 2007 Chevrolet Suburban 1500 is a full-size SUV known for its spaciousness, towing capability, and comfortable ride. Engine options for this year included a 5.3L V8 Vortec engine (producing around 320 hp and 340 lb-ft of torque) and a 6.0L V8. These were all paired with a 4L60-E or a 4L70-E four-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciate the Suburban’s ability to haul large families and cargo, but some complaints revolve around fuel economy and the age-related issues that commonly arise in older vehicles.

Engine

5.3L V8 Vortec (LM7, L33, LMG, LY5)

• Active Fuel Management (AFM) Lifter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise, rough idling, misfires. Can lead to engine damage if not addressed. Happens when AFM is enabled.
  • Solution: Replace failed lifters. Disable AFM with a tuner or replace with non-AFM lifters.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ depending on if the engine has been damaged
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from exhaust.
  • Solution: Replace valve seals, piston rings, or engine replacement if severe.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5,000+ depending on the level of repair needed
  • Recalls: None Found

6.0L V8 (L76, L92)

• Oil Pressure Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erroneous oil pressure readings on the dashboard gauge. Can illuminate the check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the oil pressure sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Active Fuel Management (AFM) Lifter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise, rough idling, misfires. Can lead to engine damage if not addressed. Happens when AFM is enabled.
  • Solution: Replace failed lifters. Disable AFM with a tuner or replace with non-AFM lifters.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ depending on if the engine has been damaged
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4L60-E/4L70-E Four-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, slipping between gears.
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement. Solenoid replacement, valve body repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $3,000+ depending on the level of repair needed
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at highway speeds, especially when accelerating. Can cause transmission overheating.
  • Solution: Replace torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Autoride Air Suspension Compressor Failure (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear suspension, compressor not activating, “Service Ride Control” message on the dash.
  • Solution: Replace the air compressor, air shocks, and check for leaks in the air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,200+ depending on what needs replaced
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Out Shocks/Struts
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll.
  • Solution: Replace shocks and struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Instrument Panel Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges malfunctioning or not working properly, dim or flickering lighting.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument panel cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors not locking or unlocking with the key fob or door switch.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Rocker Panels and Wheel Wells
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust on the lower body panels.
  • Solution: Rust repair or panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+ depending on severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clicking noise behind the dashboard, inconsistent temperature from vents.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty HVAC actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, especially in warmer climates.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard or use a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+ depending on if the dashboard is replaced
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2007 Chevrolet Suburban 1500, while a capable and spacious vehicle, is prone to several common issues related to its age and design. Engine problems like AFM lifter failure and oil consumption can be costly to repair, especially on the 5.3L and 6.0L V8 engines. The 4L60-E/4L70-E transmission can also experience issues with harsh shifting and torque converter failure, potentially requiring a rebuild or replacement. Other problems include suspension issues (especially with the Autoride system), electrical issues, rust, and interior wear. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these issues and factor in potential repair costs when considering purchasing a 2007 Suburban 1500. The severity and cost of these repairs can vary widely, making a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic highly recommended.