2015 Chevrolet Suburban

The 2015 Chevrolet Suburban is a full-size SUV known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and impressive towing capacity. It offers seating for up to nine passengers and ample cargo space, making it a popular choice for families and those who need to haul large items. Engine options include a 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 engine producing 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Some of the things people like about the 2015 Suburban are its spaciousness, comfortable ride, and towing capability. Common dislikes include the large size making it difficult to park and maneuver in tight spaces, and fuel economy.

Engine

5.3L EcoTec3 V8

• Active Fuel Management (AFM) Lifter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking or knocking noise from the engine, misfires, reduced power, and the check engine light may illuminate. The AFM lifters can collapse, causing damage to the camshaft and other engine components.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected lifters, camshaft, and potentially other damaged components. Some owners opt to delete the AFM system altogether to prevent future issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Low oil level requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes, blue smoke from the exhaust, and potential engine damage due to oil starvation. The issue is often related to the AFM system and PCV valve issues.
  • Solution: Replacement of the PCV valve, piston rings, or complete engine overhaul, depending on the severity.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Check Engine Light
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light is on. Error code P0420 catalytic converter issue.
  • Solution: Replacement of the catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6L80 6-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky shifts between gears, slipping during acceleration, and delayed engagement of gears. This issue can stem from worn valve body components or internal clutch wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve body, clutch packs, or complete transmission rebuild. A transmission flush and filter change may resolve minor instances of harsh shifting, but more severe cases require mechanical repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (flush) - $4,000+ (rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Compressor Failure (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear of the vehicle sagging, especially overnight, and the air suspension compressor running constantly or failing to engage. This is caused by a leak in the system, sometimes in the lines or in the airbags themselves, causing the compressor to burn itself out trying to keep the system inflated.
  • Solution: Replacing the air suspension compressor, locating and repairing any leaks in the lines, and replacing any leaking air springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Magnetic Ride Control Failure (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or bouncy ride, reduced handling performance, and error messages related to the suspension system. The magnetic ride shocks can leak fluid and lose their damping capabilities.
  • Solution: Replacement of the magnetic ride shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle battery draining overnight or after short periods of inactivity. This issue can be caused by a parasitic drain from a faulty module, accessory, or wiring harness.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the source of the parasitic draw, which may involve replacing a faulty module, accessory, or repairing a damaged wiring harness.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, Crashing, Blank Screen, or other problems with the MyLink infotainment system.
  • Solution: Often, a software update can fix the issue, but sometimes requires replacement of the entire unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100(Software Update) - $1,200+(Replacement Unit)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Liftgate Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The power liftgate not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, or making unusual noises. The motor or struts are the most likely cause.
  • Solution: Replacement of the liftgate motor, struts, or associated sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, particularly in warmer climates.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard or installation of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (cover) - $1,500+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2015 Chevrolet Suburban can be a reliable vehicle, but it’s essential to be aware of the common issues. The most significant concerns revolve around the 5.3L engine’s AFM lifter failure and excessive oil consumption, which can lead to costly repairs. Electrical gremlins, suspension issues, and interior trim problems are also worth considering. If purchasing a used 2015 Suburban, a thorough inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended to assess the condition of the engine, transmission, and suspension.