2003 Chevrolet Suburban Review: Maybe the Best Full-Size SUV From 2003, But a Bit Pricey

Gilbert Smith
Jan 16, 2023

The 2003 Chevrolet Suburban is arguably the most comfortable, most capable, most versatile, and most reliable full-size SUV released in North America in 2003. But it beats the competition by a relatively thin margin considering the price difference, usually selling for two or three thousand dollars above the comparable Ford Expedition.

Front angle view.
likeFilled The Good
The most comfortable and capable full-size SUV released in the 2003 model year. The Z71 off-road package turns the Suburban into an all-terrain beast.
dislikeFilled The Bad
Even if it didn’t sell for nearly twice as much as a comparable Expedition, fuel and maintenance costs would make the Suburban the pricier option anyway.

Is the 2003 Chevrolet Suburban a Good Used SUV?

  • Overall Rating 8/10 – The 2003 Chevrolet Suburban is arguably the best full-size SUV released in that model year.
  • Interior, Comfort & Cargo 9/10 – The only reason it doesn’t get a 10/10 is that it’s not a luxury RV. You’re not getting a better ride than this unless you’re borrowing a movie star’s trailer.
  • Reliability 8/10 – Older Suburbans have held up very well to decades of use as a family car.
  • Safety 7/10 – Crash test results were underwhelming and safety tech is outdated. But the hefty frame of the vehicle will have you feeling safe enough regardless.
  • Gas Mileage 6/10 – The LS does 14/18 miles to the gallon, city/highway, so it’s certainly a gas guzzler, but flex-fuel capability takes some of the sting off.
  • Value 7/10 – At current Kelley Blue Book averages, it’s not a great deal, and it’s not a terrible deal. It’s priced fairly for the value you’re getting. Which is why you’ll probably want to go with a Ford Expedition, which is almost as good at roughly half the price.

Positive Owner Reviews

accountCircle Tiffany S
Incredible vehicle that never disappoints and is quite comfortable.
The leather is still gorgeous, and the carpet is in pristine condition. It's a 4x4 with a tow package and 9 pages of service records with no accidents. It is all tricked out with a few things that were cutting edge in 2003. I'm happy with this vehicle and, it does everything I want it to.
accountCircle Sam Z
Will run for a very long time
Lots of room. Great reliability. Very comfortable and 4 wheel drive for winter driving
accountCircle Meghan R
Perfect Size Family Vehicle
2003 Chevy Suburban; roomy and comfortable for my family of five, plus two dogs! Separate controls for front and rear ac/heat. Also rear radio controls with audio jack for headphones on rear radio. Third row seat that folds down to accommodate extra cargo. Perfect family vehicle.
accountCircle Breyn P
It's great for large families who are on the go. We have a family of 6 and can fit all of us plus any extra gear for sports or activities.
I love how much space it has. It drives smooth and comfortable for long road trips. Holds gear and people. Great for snow and ice in the winter.
accountCircle Samantha Z
The Suburban Car for the Suburban Family
For the many years this car has been in my family it has lasted through several accidents, road trips, and all that a car full of kids could possibly manage. It has been great for road trips, safety, and comfort. The seats are very comfortable and there is plenty of leg room and storage with a large trunk. The only problem has been gas mileage which is to be expected in an older big car.
accountCircle Edward H
My suburban is blank and beautiful. I would rather drive it than any other vehicle I have owned.
My suburban has an 8.1 liter engine in it so it uses only non-ethanol gasoline and doesn't get that great of gas mileage. Currently am having trouble with the instrument panel. Some of the gauges stopped working and at times none of them work. When none of them work I have to hit the dash above or to the side of the instrument panel. Other than that, it has great pickup and can pull everything I have tried towing.
accountCircle Nicole P
My truck is over 10 years old and still runs great with the general required care.
I absolutely love my truck! It is extremely roomy and great for families. Car rides and long road trips are comfortable and relaxing.
accountCircle Thelma T
The front seat converts into a 3 seater.
No engine problems. . . Great performance. I bought used and have had no issues. . . Other than just wear and tear. I just remembered, the only big issue the truck has given me, the fuel pump. It has been changed every 3 to 4 yrs. Transmission and engine, great performance and no issues.

Negative Owner Reviews

accountCircle Jennifer F
Crappy suburban I want to replace if I had the money to.
My vehicle at this moment has brake issues, performs horrible as it has issues with the engine. The comfort is great because it is very spacious. It features power windows as well as four wheel drive and as far as reliability it has stalled a lot of times. I have had to have it towed numerous times. Th spark plugs and coils constantly have to be replaced. The coils constantly have to be replaced. The air conditioner is constantly not working and it usually happens right around the end of June.
accountCircle Kevin P
My truck is very spacious.
Truck has engine problems. Trucks over 170000 miles. Truck leaks engine coolant. My truck needs new brakes. Just recently had new tires put on. My truck has had the alternator replaced. The trucks suspension needs replacement. Truck need work on 4x4 system.
accountCircle Tom S
That it can carry over 4,000 lbs behind it is a favorite.
The biggest problem is the brakes, and rotors are not lasting. Also, the gas gauge and starter have to be reset sometimes. The car is also very big, so if you have a lot to move that helps! We use it for everything from camping to lugging junk from a rental property that we own.
accountCircle Leslie G
It has 9 seats, but electronics stink.
Sometimes, it loses engine power. The middle glove box broke. The air does not work right. Electrical problems. Rusty frame. It seats 9, which is great for a large family. . It has 4wd. Power locks are broke. It has a decent sized trunk. I wish newer vehicles had better car jacks.
accountCircle Chad L
Poop, our suburban needs all new pieces
With the motor having 300,000 miles everything is breaking down. We just spent all our tax return replacing the fuel pump, tires and brakes. The interior is comfortable save for the worn down front seats. Parts and labor are expensive so try to do as much as you can yourself
accountCircle Erin M
Review of my old suburban
It's not running right. It has too many miles on the motor and it's falling apart. Plus electrical problems
accountCircle Alicia R
My suburban has third row seating.
My vehicle has rust, coolant issues, high mileage, DVD player doesn't work, and could use new tires.
accountCircle Japhrone C
It is dependable and last a long time with proper maintenance
It has been reliable.good for trips with the family,it has a lot of space, only problem uses a lot of gas

What Do Critics Say About the 2003 Chevrolet Suburban?

Consumer Reports were impressed with the interior space of the “Texas-size wagon,” calling it a home on wheels for long road trips. They found the handling improved over previous generations, but admit that it’s tough to park and not the most fuel-efficient vehicle on the road.

Kelley Blue Book reviewers love the durability and power of the Suburban, as well as the comfortable interior. They note that it’s not the best thing to be driving when gas prices are high.

Edmunds liked the powerful V8 engines and the four wheel drive handling, but the enormous size of the vehicle makes it tricky to steer in the city and some of the interior materials feel a bit flimsy.

What Common Problems Does the 2003 Chevrolet Suburban Have?

A handful of drivers have reported varying degrees of brake failure. One report dated December, 2020 sees the driver left with “zero percent” of their braking power, with the brake fluid having leaked out in a matter of seconds. There are 63 complaints on file with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration under service brakes, and another 26 for hydraulic brakes.

Electrical complaints take the lead on the NHTSA page at 88 reports, with a handful of drivers reporting ignition switch failure. Mileage has been reported as high as 225,000, so this may be down to wear and tear more than any potential defects inherent to the Suburban itself.

Powertrain complaints are fairly scarce, although there are a few reports of the transmission completely failing at under 50,000 miles. You probably won’t have to worry about that by now. If the powertrain has already made it past 50,000, it’ll probably make it well past 200,000.

In total, the 2003 Suburban has just 7 recalls and 325 complaints on file with the NHTSA, which is pretty good for a twenty year old SUV.

How Long Will the 2003 Chevrolet Suburban Last?

Drivers have reported mileage as high as 300,000 before it’s time to retire the Suburban to the scrapyard. That’s a realistic number if you bought it fresh off the lot, brand new. Buying used, knowing that these SUVs are popular among busy parents who don’t always have time for fastidious maintenance, 250,000 miles is more likely.

Maintenance costs are a bit high, but nowhere near what you might spend keeping, say, a luxury car running An older Suburban should cost around $654 a year in maintenance, according to RepairPal. The most expensive common repair is a new air conditioner evaporator, starting at around $1,310.

accountCircle Brooke F

Starting to need more than regular maintenance but 250000 miles down and many more to come. Needs a lot of preventative maintenance as well but that is due to the age

accountCircle Julie H

Yes, we haven't had any major issues with it since we bought it. We've done the basic upkeep. Tune up, oil change, tires, etc.

accountCircle Rebecca M

Yes very reliable. I would definitely buy another one. I have not had any major problems with it. Just normal wear and tire. That parts aren't very expensive either.

How Is the Technology?

Entertainment technology is pretty good by 2003 standards. Even the entry level LS comes with a CD player, which usually cost extra back then. Some models even come with a DVD player in the back.

Safety technology is up to par for the model year. Four wheel anti-lock brakes and full airbags are standard. Crash test results were underwhelming, but the SUV is safe enough that you won’t feel anxious carrying the family around.

Is the 2003 Chevrolet Suburban a Good Value?

The 2003 Chevrolet Suburban is a fair value for the price. With entry level Suburbans typically listing at around $6,663 with 150,000 miles on the odometer, it’s hardly a steal, but it’s not highway robbery, either. Considering that you’ll probably hit 250,000 on the odometer, the SUV is priced accurately.

Costs do add up when you put fuel and maintenance into the equation. But if we’re just talking sticker price, the Suburban’s cost does reflect the value you’re getting.

What are the Different Models of the 2003 Chevrolet Suburban?

Not counting the Commercial model, which is sold as a delivery van to businesses, the 2003 Chevy Suburban is available in three trims, with an entry level LS, a luxurious LT, and an off-road oriented Z71.

The starter-trim LS, features:

  • Tri-zone air conditioning
  • Remote keyless entry
  • Fog lights
  • Heated exterior mirrors
  • Premium cloth seating
  • CD and cassette player
  • TheftLock
  • Cruise Control

The high-end LT adds:

  • Leather seating for the first two rows, vinyl in the back
  • Steering wheel mounted audio and driver info controls
  • Extra sound system in the back with headphone jack

With the off-road Z71 you’re getting:

  • Skid plates and undercarriage shielding
  • Tubular assist steps
  • Round fog lamps
  • Luggage rack
  • Bose sound system with nine speakers

What Engines Come In the 2003 Chevrolet Suburban?

  • The base engine in the Suburban is a 5.3L V8 delivering 283 horsepower and 325 lb.-ft. of torque. This is paired to a 4-speed automatic, and is available in all trims.
  • Next up is a 6.0L V8 delivering 320 horsepower and 360 lb.-ft. of torque. Again, this is paired to a 4-speed automatic, and available in all trim levels.
  • Finally you have a whopping 8.1L Vortec V8. Flex-fuel capable, delivering 340 horsepower and an incredible 455 lb.-ft. of torque, this is the engine you want if you’re looking for an off-road beast. Available in all trim levels, and paired to a 4-speed automatic transmission.

What Colors Does the 2003 Chevrolet Suburban Come In?

How Comfortable Is the 2003 Chevrolet Suburban?

This is as comfortable as it gets outside of the RV market. The back row offers 61.6 inches of hip room, which is wide enough for most passengers to lay down almost totally flat and catch some shuteye. Chevrolet say the SUV has seating for up to nine people, and they mean it.

The suspension has held up well over the years, with very few complaints on file with the NHTSA in this category. So the ride should still be as smooth now as it was in 2003.

How Much Storage Space Does the 2003 Chevrolet Suburban Have?

If you want to pull the back seats out, you can use the 2003 Suburban as a moving van. You’ve got 45.7 cubic feet with the seats up, and 131.6 with the seats down. There are pickup trucks that can’t match that.

We could tell you how many suitcases it will fit, but let’s put it this way: If it doesn’t fit in the 2003 Suburban, you’ll probably have to rent a U-Haul. You’ve got more storage space here than you’re going to need on a regular basis.

Centered wide dash shot

What Are the Differences Between Years?

The 2003 was the fourth model year of the 9th Generation, running from the 2000 edition to the 2006 model.

2000: For 2000, Chevrolet rung in the new millennium with a new look and an overhauled engine lineup, dropping the previous V8s and Diesels for a 5.3L Vortec for the 1500, and a Vortec 6.0L for the 2500.

2001: Some performance tweaks boosted the 2500 Suburbans by 20 horsepower. The Z71 package makes its debut for 2001.

2002: A whole bunch of optional features, like fog lights, power windows, and tri-zone air conditioning, were made standard for 2002.

2003: The 2003 Suburban got some interior upgrades to bring the SUV up to date, with Bose audio and XM satellite options. Onboard DVD systems debuted this year.

2004: 1500s received Hydroboost brakes for 2004, a feature exclusive to 2500s in earlier years.

2005: Side-hinged doors were swapped out for liftgates, and electric-cooling systems were added to the engines.

2006: A special all-wheel drive LTZ package was offered for the 9th gen’s retirement year.

How Does the 2003 Chevrolet Suburban Compare to the Competition?

A Ford Expedition is comparable to a Suburban in more ways than not. But, the fair market pricing is around half the cost. Interior features are a bit more generous in the Suburban, and it may be the more likely of the two to pass 250,000 miles on the odometer. The Suburban is ultimately the superior SUV, but is it three thousand dollars better? Maybe not.

The 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee is typically priced in the $3,500 range with the Expedition. It outclasses both SUVs on rugged all-terrain performance, and it’s absolutely the worst choice of the three if you’re looking for a roomy, comfortable family car. It’s built for camping trips and not a whole lot else.

If you’re after a used full-size SUV from the 2003 model year, the Suburban is arguably the best of the bunch, but it costs nearly twice as much as an Expedition, which is as good, or almost as good, in every way that matters.

Ranks #5 Full Size SUV by Owners

1
car
4.47
2
car
4.37
5
car
4.22

Do Owners Recommend the 2003 Chevrolet Suburban?

accountCircle Brandy Y

I believe it is for the age and reliability. It was probably ahead of its time with the interior design when released.

accountCircle Jessica W

Yes! It’s a roomy, comfy, family truck! The seats are like sitting on your couch. Roomy and comfy. It’s got lots of cargo space for all your needs.

accountCircle Kylie G

Yes, it is one of the most reliable trucks I've ever owned! It’s perfect for a large family. It’s very comfortable when drive for long distances

Owner Reviews

accountCircle Ande on July 12, 2023
It's a beast
Got my 03 in 2021 with 265000 miles on it. Today it has 290,000 miles. Had to do breaks, getting new tires as I write this. Needs a oil pressure sensor witch is not uncommon. Mine is lt with flex fuel. I normally only run flex fuel. In a level 3 snow storm here in Ohio I have never had an issue getting to work. I've never used my 4x4 never needed to. For hauling the family wife and 4 kids it's a dream. Gas mileage kinda sucks but it's a full sizeV8 4x4 not a kia. And as someone who is 6ft 3 and 350 pounds it's the most comfortable vehicle I've ever owne. My wife is 5ft 2 and loves the power adjustable pedals. She can actually get away from the stearing wheel on the occasion I let her drive beast.
accountCircle Maria N on March 21, 2021
My car runs many miles even though it is shown that there is barely any gas.
My suburban has been to the mechanic and it's always a different problem and it's not really accurately described to me. I fix the car from one problem and then I have to go and ask what the problem is again because it is hard to determine what is wrong with the car.
accountCircle Heather M on March 9, 2021
Most reliable vehicle with the most minimal upkeep.
The most reliable vehicle I have ever owned. It has 29000 miles on it and it still runs like a champ. The oil gets changed regularly every 3500 miles. No major repairs have ever been done just the normal, tires, brakes. The biggest expense has been to replace the air conditioning system.
accountCircle shanon r on March 1, 2021
Comfortable and roomy, with space for you, your kids and all of their stuff and yours too!
Love how roomy it is. Very comfortable for multiple people and items. Hard to navigate tight spaces and uses a lot of gas.
accountCircle Mary P on February 19, 2021
8 passenger comfortable ride
I love my suburban. Repairs can be costly. So far I've had to replace several parts, but I've also had it for 8 years. Very comfortable and seats up to 8 people. Has been very dependable. Lots of room and space. Gas usage is not bad at about 20 miles a gallon.
accountCircle Larry D on February 6, 2021
It is very nice blue has good speakers and it rides good.
It drives great and it fits my family comfortable. It gets up and goes there no problems with it. It works great in the snow it has good sounding speaker in it.
accountCircle Cassandra P on February 3, 2021
It is too big for everyday use unless you are transporting a huge family back and forth.
It is too big. I also own a Landrover Discovery which is a more manageable size. The Suburban is too large to park in regular sized parking places and it take a lot of gas to drive.
accountCircle Fernando R on January 30, 2021
The most important thing that people should know is that even though there is enough room for 9 people the back storage is also big enough to fit in any groceries.
I like that it has plenty of room for up to 9 people to travel with and it is very comfy. What I dislike is the amount of gasoline that it uses up because it feels like on almost every trip I make I have to put some gasoline in it. Overall I say that it is definitely for big families because it isn't necessary if it is just one or two people.
accountCircle Andrea K on January 12, 2021
The most important thing others should know about our car is that it has over 153 thousand miles on it, and it still works great!
My family and I have owned our Suburban for over 10 years and I couldn't imagine life without it. We have had to do some routine maintenance on it as the mileage is getting up there, but considering we bought it used, it has been amazing. We are just now beginning to see some rust spots but are treating them accordingly. Those really depend on where you live and how the roads are treated in the winter. I highly recommend the 2003 Chevy Suburban to any family.
accountCircle Romeo M on December 23, 2020
The one important thing to know is that it has seat warmers.
For starters, I like the fact that it has a lot of space to work with, it has three rows of seats, and a huge trunk. What I do not like about it, is that it wastes a good amount of gas.
accountCircle George F on December 16, 2020
An awesome family vehicle!
I purchased my suburban about 6 months ago and I love it! Its roomy and comfortable. Runs and rides great. It is idea if you are a family with multiple children. This is by far the best vehicle I have ever had. I had a Ford expedition before and I like this way better.
accountCircle Hannah N on December 11, 2020
My truck has a lot of room inside for my family so I love it !
My Chevrolet suburban is a great vehicle . I've had a few problems here n there but nothing major, always fixable and very affordable . Live so far had to replace my throttle body and that cost me just a few hundred bucks, been running great ever since. Pricey for gas though, just saying !
accountCircle Tracy S on December 9, 2020
The important thing about this car is it still available.
Runs like new and has a great paint job it also is a great family vehicle and will take you just about anywhere.
accountCircle Sam M on December 4, 2020
15 years, 250000 miles and the vehicle is still going strong.
This suburban has 250000 miles on it and we have not had any major problems. The normal wear items brakes tires battery etc. Worse issue has been replacing valve cover. It is big enough for our family of six. Very spacious and comfortable. Four wheel drive ensures we can handle almost all conditions.
accountCircle Norene D on December 1, 2020
You can put a lot of miles on a suburban and still drives brand new.
It drives very good and handles the snow and ice good. I also love the fact I can haul tings when I need to. It easy for shopping to.
accountCircle Kevin W on November 28, 2020
The features everything you can imagine.
I love my car it's a Chevrolet 2003 and runs well. Easy to maintain has a great handle to it. I feel safe driving my car. My has given any major problems, just normal wear and tear. I change the oil on a regular basis. So with that being said the car is reliable. The performance is out of this world. When I brought this car I made sure of the safety of the car. Test drive the car to see how it handles. Power seats and windows. Ac front back of car. Stereo system that beats no other. 8 speakers surround sound TV beautiful.
accountCircle Daryl F on November 26, 2020
Chevy suburban very reliable.
Vehicle very comfortable four-wheel drive is good in the snow bad on gas engine will last up to 200 to 300 thousand miles transmissions in the Chevy suburban are weak and usually have to be replaced before the engine a used vehicle for family trips camping fishing hunting driving through the snow.
accountCircle Thomas A. T on November 18, 2020
Suburban, takes a licking and keeps on ticking.
My suburban has almost 300,000 miles and runs like a champ. I call it the living room on wheels. I prefer a full size truck because I feel safer and me and my quests enjoy the roomy interior. I suppose the only drawback to owning a Chevy suburban would be the gas mileage. The 5.3 liter v-8 w/ 300,000 mi and a lil over 10 years old is the 14 MPG. It also burns about a quart of oil a month.
accountCircle Shannon M on November 15, 2020
Gas mileage is awesome very cost friendly.
Love: horsepower, off road capability, creature comforts, heated seats, moon/sun roof.. Dislike: gas mileage,.
accountCircle Kristin D on November 6, 2020
The big green bean family truck :)
The truck is very reliable. I haven't had very many problems. The biggest issue was the alternator went out and I couldn't fix it right away. All the other problems I would say it's normal wear and tear. It's one of the most comfortable trucks I've ever had. The seats are very roomy. I have the LT model so I have leather. The only thing about the features I have it's the ac knobs, they kind of get stuck.
accountCircle Athena K on October 29, 2020
Not many problems, except past engine problems.
I have had problems with the engine overheating, but other than that I haven't really had any other problems. The driver and passenger seats have a heated warmer. The reliability of my car is high because it gets me from point A to point B without too many problems.
accountCircle Meghan R on October 24, 2020
Perfect Size Family Vehicle
2003 Chevy Suburban; roomy and comfortable for my family of five, plus two dogs! Separate controls for front and rear ac/heat. Also rear radio controls with audio jack for headphones on rear radio. Third row seat that folds down to accommodate extra cargo. Perfect family vehicle.
accountCircle Hannah M on October 21, 2020
This is one durable vehicle.
This suburban has lasted us for a very long time in good condition. It has about 250,000 miles on it and is just starting to get a little bit of rust around the tires. It has needed repairs, but the engine has needed minimal work. This vehicle has driven a family of six to Canada and back without having any issues. I highly recommend this brand for it's durability and comfort for six adults to travel in.
accountCircle Natalie M on October 16, 2020
It is an extremely reliable vehicle that has lasted our family a long time.
Our suburban has lasted us so many years and had very minimal issues. It is a reliable vehicle that we enjoy and feel comfortable taking on long trips. We have had to replace the breaks once and there was an issue with the check engine light coming on, but those have been fixed and we haven't had any issues since.
accountCircle Darren S on October 10, 2020
It is reliable. Seats eight people comfortably.
I like the size and seating capacity. Gas mileage is horrible. I have replaced the transmission, all air conditioner components, and brakes twice in the last year. Not real happy with its performance.
accountCircle Page C on October 1, 2020
Very roomy, 8 seater suburban
I love the room my suburban provides for our family of six. It's extremely roomy so the kids have their own space. The gas mileage is a downfall but that is what comes with a bigger vehicle. My suburban has quite a bit of rust unfortunately. The only mechanical issue I've had with it in the two years that I have had the vehicle is the air conditioning does not work.
accountCircle Richard S on September 29, 2020
Rust everywhere. Chevrolet dealer would not warranty.
Rust within 3 months after buying vehicle. Chevrolet would not warranty. Terrible customer service. Very poor service.
accountCircle Bonnie J on September 18, 2020
Suburbans are meant to be driven lots of miles! They are comfortable, reliable and durable!
It drives and rides like a dream and only seems to get better with time!!
accountCircle Steph G on September 16, 2020
It is gets really bad fuel mileage.
It is large and fits a crowd. It gets bad fuel mileage. It has rear air. It drives well. It pulls trailers.
accountCircle holly w on September 10, 2020
Space. My Chevy Suburban is awesome when it comes to space for passengers and storage.
My Chevy Suburban is one of the better vehicles I have owned. It's been fairly reliable, gets decent gas mileage, and most importantly it seats 8 people with room for luggage/groceries in the back. I need plenty of seating and storage space in any vehicle I purchase.
accountCircle Brian W on September 4, 2020
All trucks should last this long.
My truck has over 300, 000 miles on it. I have replaced the transmission (at about 210, 000) but have had no other issues except regular maintenance. The truck sits outside 24 hours a day and is beginning to show some issues with the paint with some peeling of the clear coat. While this is a bummer, I have to say that it has been nearly unbelievable as far as dependability.
accountCircle Dawna H on August 18, 2020
It is roomy with lots of storage space and being an SUV very road durable.
My vehicle is older so things are wearing down. Parts need to be replaced. I also do not like the low gas mileage. It rides and drives very comfortably.
accountCircle Chelsea M on July 26, 2020
The gas mileage on the interstate is unbelievable! I also have a DVD player
I love my suburban BUT I can say most of them have the 4l60e transmission and they don't last long. And I have noticed with my car and others the lifters in the motor make noise. But aside from that it's great to have. It fits my family of five comfortably and it's great for trips and general use.
accountCircle Alicia R on July 21, 2020
My suburban has third row seating.
My vehicle has rust, coolant issues, high mileage, DVD player doesn't work, and could use new tires.
accountCircle Kim S on July 20, 2020
It is very spacious and comfortable, which makes it great for families.
I love how roomy the suburban is. I also love how easy it is to drive. One of my favorite features besides the room is dual heat/cool controls.
accountCircle Alicia S on July 14, 2020
Chevy suburban is the way to go.
Best reliable truck I've ever had. Good on gas, especially highway miles and is able to fit my large family. Makes it easier to go places and better for shopping. There is enough space that everyone doesn't feel cramped in it either. Wouldn't trade this truck for anything.
accountCircle Joshua S on July 12, 2020
It is quite spacious and comfortable for large numbers of people and gear for road trips
I love my suburban its large enough for my whole family and all our gear for road trips. It's 4 wheel drive so I can get to my favorite hunting and fishing spots. I can pull a boat or rv. Has a large tank but gets poor mileage is the trade off.
accountCircle Lisa B on July 8, 2020
Love that it can fit all my kids and friends and family and everyone has room.
Its great. I love Chevy and no problems but the brake line rusted and lil things like that. My knock sensor 1 and 2 went out. Seat buttons went out. But other then them things I love my Chevy. We have 3 TV in it so the kids and big people like that. I love my sunroof. I love to look at the sky and see the stars.
accountCircle Susie E on July 2, 2020
Chevy Suburban-Awesome family car for a reasonable price!
This car's large engine has a lot of get-up-and-go. It has required minimal repairs, despite its age and high mileage. The heated seats are a nice touch and 4WD features essential for winter driving. We have loved the towing capacity of this vehicle and its high clearance for driving in rural areas/dirt roads for camping. Feels like we can tackle just about anything. Our family of seven fits nicely in this large SUV, with plenty of cargo space to accommodate our stuff. We feel we've definitely gotten plenty of bang for our buck in the purchase of our Suburban.
accountCircle Dawn L on June 21, 2020
How comfortable it is and how good it handles driving
The big size of the vehicle. How comfortable the seats are to travel. The fact is has dual A/C.
accountCircle Ashley D on June 19, 2020
Excellent large family Truck
I love it! It's very roomy and comfy! The seats feel like you're sitting on your couch. There is soo much cargo space! I love how you can fold down the back seat or take it completely out to make more space! I wish that the thrillers row seating had the option to fold 1/3 down or 2/3 down at a time instead it being a bench seat but I've only REALLY needed that option a few times in the 1.5 years I've owned it so there is that.. I love that I have controls upfront for the back heating/cooling with the option to have it controlled in the back. We have four kids and the only downfall I have found is that there is only one tether hook in each row.. Overall, I am very pleased with our purchase! I'd recommend it for large families!
accountCircle Megan F on June 17, 2020
If you have large families a seven seater vehicle is a must.
The Chevrolet Suburban is a seven seater making it a perfect family car, it has a 30 Gallon gas tank so I only gas up twice a month.
accountCircle Bob w on June 1, 2020
Good and reliable
Had me 03 z71 suburban 5.3L for 8 months payed $3500 178000 mil besides tuneup oil change and transmission fluid and filter I've only had to fix knok sense. I recommend this to anyone with a good size family.
accountCircle Leslie G on May 28, 2020
It has 9 seats, but electronics stink.
Sometimes, it loses engine power. The middle glove box broke. The air does not work right. Electrical problems. Rusty frame. It seats 9, which is great for a large family. . It has 4wd. Power locks are broke. It has a decent sized trunk. I wish newer vehicles had better car jacks.
accountCircle Ron H on May 22, 2020
It has low mileage for a 2003 model with no mechanical problems.
There haven't been any problems with performance or reliability. It is very comfortable. Everything works good. New tires.
accountCircle Tom S on May 20, 2020
That it can carry over 4,000 lbs behind it is a favorite.
The biggest problem is the brakes, and rotors are not lasting. Also, the gas gauge and starter have to be reset sometimes. The car is also very big, so if you have a lot to move that helps! We use it for everything from camping to lugging junk from a rental property that we own.
accountCircle Jeff H on May 12, 2020
Regardless of the little problems that my vehicle may have, it starts every day and gets me where I need to go safely
I love the size, comfort, and towing capabilities of my suburban but lately i've been having to do a lot of repairs and it has bad mileage per gallon of gasoline
accountCircle jose p on May 9, 2020
It is capable of taking in many passengers and pull heavy loads
The comfort reliable. The durability and room for storage
accountCircle Mark T on April 23, 2020
7 passengers can sit next to each other comfortably.
The ride is really smooth. If maintained the sound of the vehicle is really quiet. Everything is put in good reach of the driver. It has many storage areas around the driver and throughout the vehicle to keep items you would need on a normal basis. Plenty of room for 7 large adults not just for the smaller frame person.
accountCircle Tom H on April 18, 2020
The size is nice and the ride is smooth. The engine lasts for a very long time.
I like everything about my sub. No dislikes and no complaints.
accountCircle Jeff k on April 5, 2020
It starts every time and gets me where I need to go
My suburban is very comfortable. My suburban is large enough to carry lumber and large stuff like that. I can also tow fairly well with my suburban. Although I don't really like the horrible gas mileage of my suburban.
avatar Gilbert Smith
Gilbert Smith is a New Mexico-based automotive journalist who enjoys writing about cars, trucks, and SUVs. He is a longtime contributor to Vehicle History and a member of the site's original content team when it launched.