2019 Chevrolet Suburban
The 2019 Chevrolet Suburban is a full-size SUV appreciated for its spaciousness, comfortable ride, and strong towing capability. It comes with three engine options: a 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 producing 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque, a 6.2L EcoTec3 V8 producing 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0L Duramax Turbo Diesel I6 producing 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. The 5.3L engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, while the 6.2L and the 3.0L Duramax Turbo Diesel are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. While owners generally like the Suburban’s size and comfort, common complaints often revolve around reliability issues, particularly with the transmission and some electrical components. Some people dislike its large size, which makes it difficult to park and maneuver in tight spaces, while others dislike its relatively poor fuel economy.
Engine
5.3L EcoTec3 V8
- Active Fuel Management (AFM)/Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM) Lifter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The AFM/DFM system deactivates cylinders to improve fuel economy. Lifter failure can cause misfires, rough running, and potentially significant engine damage. This is often accompanied by a check engine light and specific trouble codes.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty lifters, often requiring removal of the cylinder head. Some owners choose to delete the AFM/DFM system entirely.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Oil Consumption
- Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption can occur, sometimes related to the AFM system.
- Solution: In some cases, a redesigned valve cover can help. Other cases may require piston ring replacement, or complete engine replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $8,000+ depending on the severity.
- Recalls: None Found
6.2L EcoTec3 V8
- Active Fuel Management (AFM)/Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM) Lifter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The AFM/DFM system deactivates cylinders to improve fuel economy. Lifter failure can cause misfires, rough running, and potentially significant engine damage. This is often accompanied by a check engine light and specific trouble codes.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty lifters, often requiring removal of the cylinder head. Some owners choose to delete the AFM/DFM system entirely.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Oil Consumption
- Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption can occur, sometimes related to the AFM system.
- Solution: In some cases, a redesigned valve cover can help. Other cases may require piston ring replacement, or complete engine replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $8,000+ depending on the severity.
- Recalls: None Found
3.0L Duramax Turbo Diesel I6
- EGR Cooler Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Failure of the EGR cooler can lead to coolant loss, overheating, and potential engine damage.
- Solution: Replacement of the EGR cooler.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
6-Speed Automatic (Paired with 5.3L V8)
- Harsh Shifting/Slipping
- Description/Symptoms: Rough or delayed shifts between gears. Slipping during acceleration.
- Solution: Could require a transmission fluid flush, valve body repair, or complete transmission replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid flush) - $4,000+ (replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
10-Speed Automatic (Paired with 6.2L V8 and 3.0L Duramax Turbo Diesel I6)
- Harsh Shifting/Slipping/Clunking
- Description/Symptoms: Abrupt shifts, hesitation, and a noticeable clunking sound, especially during low-speed maneuvers.
- Solution: Some issues can be resolved with a software update/reprogram of the TCM (Transmission Control Module). Other repairs could include replacing valve body components, or complete transmission replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (reprogram) - $5,000+ (replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Air Suspension Compressor Failure (if equipped)
- Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging, ride height issues, inability to adjust suspension settings.
- Solution: Replacement of the air suspension compressor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Magnetic Ride Control (if equipped) Sensor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Faulty sensors cause system malfunction, leading to a degraded ride. Warning lights appear.
- Solution: Replacement of faulty sensors.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Infotainment System Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Freezing, Crashing, Unresponsive Touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity problems, and navigation malfunctions.
- Solution: Software updates, replacement of the infotainment screen, or replacement of the infotainment unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1,500+ (replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: Premature battery failure or the battery draining overnight.
- Solution: Identifying and repairing the parasitic drain. Common culprits include faulty modules or accessories.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the source of the drain.
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- No Issues Found
Interior
- Seat Heater Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters not working.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of the heating element or control module.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
- Power Window Regulator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Window not going up or down.
- Solution: Repair or Replacement of power window regulator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2019 Chevrolet Suburban, while praised for its space and comfort, does have some recurring issues. The most concerning are related to the engine’s AFM/DFM system, leading to potential lifter failure and oil consumption. The 10-speed automatic transmission can also exhibit harsh shifting and clunking. Electrical problems, especially with the infotainment system, are also relatively common. Repair costs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor fixes to several thousand dollars for major engine or transmission work. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and consider a thorough inspection before purchasing.