2014 Chevrolet Suburban

The 2014 Chevrolet Suburban is a full-size SUV known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and towing capabilities. It was offered with two engine options: a 5.3L EcoTec3 V8, producing 320 horsepower and 335 lb-ft of torque, and a 6.0L Vortec V8, producing 352 horsepower and 382 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission (Hydra-Matic 6L80). People generally like the Suburban for its roominess, especially for large families and cargo, as well as its durability and towing capacity. Common dislikes include its size (making it difficult to maneuver and park) and fuel economy.

Engine

5.3L EcoTec3 V8 (L83)

• Active Fuel Management (AFM) Lifter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The AFM system deactivates cylinders to improve fuel economy, but the lifters can fail, leading to misfires, rough running, and a ticking noise from the engine.
  • Solution: Replace the failed lifters, often replacing all lifters on the affected bank to prevent future failures. Some owners choose to delete the AFM system altogether to avoid future issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption can occur, often related to the AFM system or PCV valve issues.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the PCV valve. In more severe cases, engine repairs or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 (PCV valve), $3,000+ (engine repairs/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

6.0L Vortec V8 (L94)

• Active Fuel Management (AFM) Lifter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Similar to the 5.3L engine, the AFM lifters can fail, leading to misfires, rough running, and ticking noises.
  • Solution: Replace the failed lifters, often with AFM delete kits or upgraded lifters.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the PCV valve. In more severe cases, engine repairs or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 (PCV valve), $3,000+ (engine repairs/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Hydra-Matic 6L80 (6-Speed Automatic)

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission can exhibit harsh or erratic shifting, slipping between gears, or hesitation.
  • Solution: Often requires a transmission rebuild or replacement. Valve body issues are also common.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800 (Valve body repair), $3,000 - $5,000+ (Rebuild or Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Compressor Failure (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension compressor can fail, resulting in the rear of the vehicle sagging or not maintaining proper ride height.
  • Solution: Replace the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Autoride Shock Failure (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Autoride shocks can leak or lose their damping ability, resulting in a bouncy or unstable ride.
  • Solution: Replace the Autoride shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ per shock
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially when the vehicle is not in use for extended periods. Could be caused by the radio system.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic drain. This can involve testing various electrical components and circuits. Some owners have identified faulty door lock actuators or radio systems.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation/Radio Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation or radio system may freeze, fail to respond to inputs, or exhibit other malfunctions.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 (Software update), $500 - $1,500+ (Head unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Power Liftgate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The power liftgate may fail to open or close properly.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the liftgate motor, struts, or latch mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard can develop cracks, particularly in warmer climates due to sun exposure.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or the use of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ (Dashboard replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2014 Chevrolet Suburban has some common issues, with the most prevalent being related to the Active Fuel Management system in the engine and transmission issues. Suspension problems, particularly with air suspension and Autoride systems, and electrical issues like battery drain and infotainment system malfunctions are also reported. The severity of these issues ranges from relatively minor to potentially very costly engine or transmission repairs. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and have the vehicle inspected thoroughly before purchase.