Our ranking of every Chevy Suburban model for every generation will help you avoid picking the worst Suburban year.
Throughout the guide, I’ll tell you which years are the best and worst for Chevrolet Suburbans.
Based on analysis guided by trusted sources, including NHTSA, Consumer Reports, and industry evaluations, I’ve assembled a detailed analysis based on owner feedback, recalls, and expert reviews.
Knowing what makes each generation of Chevy Suburban tick – from transmission problems to robust engine options – will give you a better understanding of why it succeeds.
It’s time to get started.
Generations of Chevrolet Suburban
In 1935, Chevy launched the Suburban, establishing it as one of the most respected auto brands in the world. Originally introduced as a full-size SUV, this station wagon-based SUV was based on Chevrolet truck chassis.
Below is a summary of the generational changes of the Chevy Suburban from 2000 to the present:
| Generation | Years |
| 9th generation (GMT800) | 2000-2006 |
| 10th generation (GMT900) | 2007-2014 |
| 11th generation (GMTK2YC/G) | 2015-2020 |
| 12th generation (GMT1YC) | 2021-Present |
It is important to consider generational changes when choosing Chevrolet Suburban models.
Best, Neutral, and Worst Years of the Chevrolet Suburban
The following factors are taken into account when constructing our rankings and determining which Chevrolet Suburban years are the best, neutral, and worst:
- As reported by owners (surveys)
- Maintenance costs per year
- System of safety ratings
- Consumer Reports reliability scores
- Consumer Reports’ ratings of owner satisfaction
- NHTSA investigations, recalls, and complaints
- Owner ratings on Edmunds
- JD Power owner ratings
- The Kelley Blue Book’s owner ratings
- VehicleHistory owner ratings
- Cars.com owner ratings
The combined ratings from each of the sources mentioned above will be presented in a graph in the near future.
The following is a list of the best, neutral, and worst Chevy Suburban model years based on our extensive research.
| Generation | Best Years | Neutral Years | Worst Years |
| 9th generation (GMT800) | 2006 | 2005 | 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 |
| 10th generation (GMT900) | 2010 2012 2013 2014 | N/A | 2007 2008 2009 2011 |
| 11th generation (GMTK2YC/G) | 2018 2019 2020 | 2017 | 2015 2016 |
| 12th generation (GMT1YC) | 2022 2023 | N/A | 2021 |
When performance, reliability, or defects are neither exceptional nor significant in a model year, that year is referred to as a neutral year.
There is a general consensus that a vehicle with a large number of complaints and recalls is not reliable.
Here’s what the Chevy Suburban was like when it was good, neutral, and bad.
Chevy Suburban 9th Generation Best & Worst Years (2000-2006)
Chevy’s 9th Generation Suburban took a significant leap forward in 2000 with its enhanced performance, safety, and technological features. Although they pioneered new features and improved SUV design during this period, their persistent and severe problems made them less desirable.
2006 was the best year for the Chevy Suburban in this generation, with NHTSA recalls and owner complaints down significantly from 2000 to 2004. Among the current generation of Chevy Suburban’s, 1999 and 2000 are the worst years.
Year 2006: The Best Year
It’s undeniable that 2006 was the best year in the 9th generation of Chevy Suburbans.
The 2018 model was powered by the Vortec 5300 V8 engine. There are a variety of trim levels available with the Suburban, including the base LS and premium LTZ models.
The car has advanced technology, including airbags, stability control, and a new infotainment system.
A 2006 model was not without its minor flaws, despite many positive characteristics.
There was occasional transmission hesitation reported by owners, and fuel economy in the city was estimated at 9 miles per gallon and on the highway at 19 miles per gallon.
2005: The Neutral Years
In terms of the 2005 Chevrolet Suburban, there were some pluses and minuses.
This model continued to carry some of the problems of its 2004 predecessor along with its upgraded features and new features. It featured a multiflex seating system and an optional DVD rear entertainment system.
This year’s models included V8 engines with 4800, 5300, and 6000 displacements and the well-known automatic transmission.
However, the 2005 model had some issues.
It is important to note that no widespread power steering assist or brake problems were observed, but a few problems were observed.
Yearly Worsts 2000-2004:
2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, and 2004 are the years when there are the most recalls and owner complaints about serious problems. It is best to avoid these years.
Reports have indicated that earlier models of the 2001 Chevrolet Suburban suffered from power steering assist issues, stalling engines caused by problems with the fuel system, rusted suspensions, and problems with the brakes.
These problems were further compounded by recalls related to fuel pump wires overheating and brake lines chafing.
The Suburban experienced stalls and engine failures because of a recall of its crankshaft position sensor in 2001.
The 2002 Chevy Suburban had an alarming wheel separation issue that warranted a recall over the previously reported brake problems.
Multiple preexisting problems were further aggravated by the 2003 Suburban’s instrument panel failures.
In addition to recalls involving hydraulic brakes and brake valves, there are also ongoing issues with the instrument cluster on the 2004 Chevrolet Suburban.
In 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, and 2004, the NHTSA website listed recalls and complaints regarding the Chevrolet Suburban.
Chevrolet Suburban 10th Generation Best and Worst Years (2007-2014)
Chevrolet’s commitment to providing enhanced comfort, performance, and safety is reflected in the features incorporated into the 10th Generation Chevrolet Suburban.
Among Chevy Suburbans, one should avoid the first half of the generation (1907, 2008, 2009, and 2011), while the second half (1910, 2012, 2013 and 2014) stands out as the best.
Years to remember: 2010, 2012, 2013, 2014
Based on the J.D Power and Edmunds ratings, 2010 is the best Chevrolet Suburban year of this generation, followed by 2012, 2013, and 2014.
The 2010 Chevy Suburban is powered by a 5.3L Vortec V8 and an automatic transmission.
New navigation radios equipped with backup cameras and Bluetooth hands-free communication are now standard on higher trim levels.
During the 2012 Chevrolet Suburban model year, a Vortec 6.0L V8 engine was available.
With an improved interior and higher-quality materials, this year’s car features a blind-spot warning system.
The Z71 off-road appearance package is an example of a standout feature, rendering the Suburban a rugged off-road vehicle rather than a luxury SUV.
For 2013, the Suburban has been equipped with a number of new safety features, including side blind zone alerts as well as hill start assist that will help motorists to feel more confident during hill starts.
Chevy Suburban comes with a lot of cool features, like Active Fuel Management, heated and cooled front seats, and side blind zone alerts.
Even in their best years, Chevy Suburbans had their share of problems. The oil consumption of some owners has been a source of complaints.
These are the worst years: 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011
Several owners reported problems with the Chevrolet Suburban, and the NHTSA issued recalls in 2007, 2008, 2009, and 2011. These conditions make this model a model to avoid.
2007 and 2008 Chevy Suburbans were recalled for a number of reasons. Takata airbags are notorious for posing a safety risk, which was one of the greatest concerns.
It has been reported by several owners that their engines stall frequently, consumed excessive oil, and generated loud engine noises.
The instrument panel was affected by electrical issues caused by a wire harness problem.
The heated wiper washer system on GM vehicles has been recalled because of the possibility of short circuits and other electrical anomalies.
A short circuit in the fuel system control module has been identified as a cause of the recall for the 2009 Chevy Suburban models. In the event that the engine stalls or does not start due to this potentially hazardous flaw, there is a potential for an accident to occur.
It was recalled for a number of reasons, including a problem with ignition lock actuators that could stick and cause the vehicle to stall. As well as the cross pin on the rear axle, there was a risk of fracture, thereby increasing the risk of an accident.
According to the NHTSA, the Chevrolet Suburban was the subject of recalls and complaints from 2007 to 2011.
Chevy Suburban 11th Generation Best and Worst Year Chart (2015-2020)
Chevrolet Suburban’s 11th generation features a more modern design, technological advancements, and increased performance, making the brand’s trusted features even more appealing.
This generation of Chevy Suburbans does not contain a model year that should be avoided “like the plague ”. It is undeniable that the Chevy Suburban in this generation is at its best in 2018 and 2019.
2018-2020: The Best Years
The Chevy Suburban of this generation seems to be at its best from 2018 through 2020 according to J.D Power, VehicleHistory, and Cars.com ratings.
It was mainly driven by three-cylinder engines under the hood of the 2018 Chevy Suburban, equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission and 5.3L V8.
In addition to navigation and entertainment options, Chevrolet MyLink provides an 8-inch touchscreen for infotainment.
Additionally, 22-inch wheels and a RST (Rally Sport Truck) package were added to the Suburban.
Forward collision warnings, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warnings are among the many safety features available in the 2019 Suburban.
Premier Plus had a 6.2L V8 engine as well. This vehicle comes equipped with a number of luxurious features, including a head-up display and enhanced speakers.
Additionally, the 2020 Suburban includes power-sliding center console, an enhanced infotainment system, and additional USB ports.
HD surround vision and rear pedestrian alerts make safety even better.
2017: Neutral Year
A spacious interior and a powerful V8 engine added strength to the 2017 Chevy Suburban, but the car also had some lingering problems.
The Teen Driver mode is one of several new features appreciated by parents. As a result, parents can make better decisions about how their children drive.
A number of issues involving the powertrain from 2015 and 2016 have tarnished the company’s reputation.
The 2017 model, however, was not plagued with significant issues, making it an ideal choice for luxury enthusiasts and those looking for performance.
Year 2015 and Year 2016: the worst
Chevrolet Suburban 2015 is the least reliable Suburban compared to the previous generations. 2015 and 2016 are the Chevy Suburban years to avoid since Edmunds and J.D. Power give it a low score and it’s more prone to recalls.
Owners lamented the condition of their powertrains, with many experiencing transmission and brake issues.
Among General Motors’ recalls, two of them are related to transmission problems – one pertaining to a leak in the transmission oil cooler, potentially causing an explosion, and the other referring to the transfer case shifting to neutral without the driver’s instructions.
Power steering assistance was temporarily lost as a result of one of the major recalls.
In the 2016 Chevy Suburban, there were some transmission problems.
Check out the NHTSA website for recalls and complaints about Chevrolet Suburbans.
Chevy Suburban 12th Generation Best and Worst Years (2021-2023)
Chevrolet Suburban became one of the most iconic American SUVs as it entered its 12th generation with a variety of notable enhancements and refinements.
It was the Chevrolet Suburban year to avoid in 2021 because there was a lot of recalls on the model. This generation’s most reliable years were 2022 and 2023.
Years to watch: 2022 and 2023
There were a variety of engines available in the 2022 Chevy Suburban, including a powerful and efficient 5.3L V8 and 6.2L V8, and a powerful and efficient 3.0L Duramax Turbodiesel engine.
Adding extra legroom and cargo space increases passenger comfort and luggage space, so passengers will have a more spacious luggage compartment.
A new infotainment system was also introduced, which included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
By incorporating advanced safety features such as automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assistance, the driving experience has become more intuitive and safer.
2021: Worst Year
It is estimated that the worst year to purchase a Chevy Suburban is 2021, based on Edmunds, J.D Power, and Cars.com.
A number of recalls were made this year, covering everything from faulty power control modules to exterior lighting issues.
As a result of another concern recall, power steering assistance was also lost.
The seatbelts were also found to have numerous issues, raising concerns about their safety.
The vehicle’s fuel efficiency numbers did not improve significantly, averaging 11 miles per gallon in the city and 22 miles per gallon on the highway.
In 2021, the NHTSA is tracking Chevrolet Suburban recalls and complaints.
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Conclusion
In light of Chevrolet’s storied history, it can be said that 2010-2014, 2018-2020, and newer are the most suitable years for purchasing a Suburban.
Have you ever owned a Chevy Suburban in a year that was great or bad?
