2003 Chevrolet Suburban
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Chevrolet › Suburban › 2003
These records cover every 2003 Chevrolet Suburban. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
7 recalls name the 2003 Chevrolet Suburban. Newest first.
Certain replacement fuel filters, fram brand name p/n g3727, with date codes x52911 through x60801 sequentially or x600141 and a mexico country or origin marking on the fuel filter housing manufactured from october 18, 2005, through march 21, 2006, sold for use on the vehicles listed above and on certain school buses. (to see the school bus engine sizes…
Risk and remedy
Risk
This condition may cause an inadequate seal at the connection, potentially leading to a fuel leak. In the presence of an ignition source, a fire could occur.
Remedy
Honeywell will notify owners and replace the fuel filters free of charge. the recall began on october 18, 2006. owners may contact fram customer service at 1-800-890-2075 (option 1).
Certain pro-a motors corner lamps, turn signals, and headlights sold as replacement lamps for use on certain passenger vehicles listed above. some combination lamps that are not equipped with amber side reflectors fail to conform to federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 108, lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment.
Risk and remedy
Risk
Without the amber reflectors, the vehicle will be poorly illuminated, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash without warning.
Remedy
Pro-a motors will notify owners and offer to repurchase the lamps. the recall began on april 3, 2006. owners may contact pro-a motors at 323-838-2988.
On certain crew cab pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles, the 2ND row center occupant seat belt routing may make it difficult to position the lap portion of the safety belt low around the hips of occupants, especially smaller occupants, seated in this position. appropriate use of a child seat or booster seat, as recommended for small children, does…
Risk and remedy
Risk
A lap portion of the seat belt routing that IS not low and snug on the hips can allow the lap belt to ride up on an occupant's abdomen instead of fitting low around their hipbones, and therefore, can expose them to more risk of abdominal and internal organ injury.
Remedy
Dealers will cut open the guide loop, remove a portion of the loop, and then the remaining two sides should be folded over and secured with a retainer free of charge. the recall began on july 21, 2005. owners may contact cadillac at 1-866-982-2339, chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438, GMC at 1-866-996-9463, or hummer at 1-800-732-5493.
Certain sport utility vehicles, pickup trucks, and passenger vans fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 135, ?passenger car brake systems.? some of these vehicles were produced with an out-of-specification brake hydro-boost housing relief valve bore.
Risk and remedy
Risk
Consequently, the valve o-ring seal may fracture. steering efforts may be slightly increased while braking or parking. under certain driving conditions, a fractured seal may require a slight increase in the applied brake pedal effort to achieve the same vehicle deceleration rate as prior to the seat fracture.
Remedy
Dealers are to replace the hydro-boost relief valve. the recall began on june 18, 2004. owners should contact cadillac at 1-866-982-2339; chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438; GMC at 1-866-996-9463; or hummer at 1-866-486-6376.
Certain pickup truck, van, and MINI van conversions equipped with southern comfort built running boards that contain certain courtesy lights manufactured by american technology components, inc. these units contain a courtesy light or lights that might overheat when the wire harness IS exposed to excessive moisture and road salt.
Risk and remedy
Risk
This overheating condition can cause the running board to melt or cause a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the wiring harness on these running boards. owner notification began march 7, 2003. owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact southern comfort at 1-800-745-6096.
Certain sport utility vehicles fail to comply with requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 214, "side impact protection." these vehicles are built with four welds on the rear door upper hinge. on some of these vehicles, one or two of the welds may not be to specification.
Risk and remedy
Risk
As a result, the door strength may be degraded during a side impact vehicle crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the welds on the left rear door upper hinge. if a weld IS found out-of-specification, a bolt will be installed to secure the hinge. owner notification began february 17, 2003. owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact cadillac at 1-800-458-8006, chevrolet at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC at 1-800-462-8782.
On certain pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles, vehicles, during a 30 degree left angle frontal impact of sufficient severity, a tear could develop in the mid-frame cross member at its attachment to the left frame rail. if the mid-frame cross member tears during frontal impact and produces a sharp edge, contact of the sharp edge with the fuel tank…
Risk and remedy
Risk
Fuel leakage, in the presence of an ignition source, could result in a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will install a fuel tank shield. owner notification began february 20, 2003. owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact chevrolet at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC at 1-800-462-8782.
Owner complaints
301 complaints23 involved a crash4 involved a fire30 injuries1 deaths
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Electrical system › Instrument panel › Speedometer/odometer
Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2003 Chevrolet Suburban. It was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a dealer sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 291,000 and at the time of inspection, it was discovered that the odometer was tampered with, and without disclosure of these modifications.
- Trailer hitches
The contact owns a 2003 Chevrolet Suburban. The contact stated that while driving at 40 MPH, the contact noticed the trailer attached was moving from left to right independently, and the trailer detached from his vehicle. The contact mentioned that he lost control of the vehicle into a parallel…
The contact owns a 2003 Chevrolet Suburban. The contact stated that while driving at 40 MPH, the contact noticed the trailer attached was moving from left to right independently, and the trailer detached from his vehicle. The contact mentioned that he lost control of the vehicle into a parallel position when another vehicle collided with his vehicle on the front left driver side, causing the contact to get T-Boned. The contact stated that he sustained three fracture injuries to his spine, three fractured ribs, bruise on his kidney. Medical attention was required. The contact stated that a police report was filed. The contact stated that the failure was not diagnosed by a dealer or independent mechanic. The contact mentioned that both the trailer and vehicle were towed to a lot. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 150,000.
- Electrical system
The cluster of the speedometer
- Forward collision avoidance › Automatic emergency braking · Service brakes
I was driving on the freeway and all of a sudden I had 0% of my brakes and all the brake fluid was gone my emergency brake also failed prior to this I put in brake fluid and it all leaked out within a matter of moments
- Air bags · Structure › Body
TL* the contact owned a 2003 chevrolet suburban. The contact stated that while towing his daughter's vehicle at about 60 mph, another vehicle crashed into the vehicle being towed. The air bags did not deploy. The contact sustained a head and lower back injury. The front passenger (his daughter)…
TL* the contact owned a 2003 chevrolet suburban. The contact stated that while towing his daughter's vehicle at about 60 mph, another vehicle crashed into the vehicle being towed. The air bags did not deploy. The contact sustained a head and lower back injury. The front passenger (his daughter) sustained a back injury. The two went to the doctor three days later. There was no police report. The vehicle being towed was damaged and was driven to the daughter's dorm where it was totaled by the insurance company. The dealer and the manufacturer were not contacted. The contact stated that the other driver's insurance denied any compensation to the contact, stating that the contact's vehicle (the vehicle towing the damaged vehicle) was not hit. The contact stated that after the accident, a loud noise was heard whenever the vehicle was turned on. The contact also stated that the dashboard was cracked. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 173,000.
- Service brakes
Lost all brake fluid in the reservoir, brake line leaked all of the fluid out, I did not have any breaks, awful time trying to stop. The mechanic informed, it happens a lot with suburbans
- Service brakes
TL* the contact owns a 2003 chevrolet suburban. The contact stated that while depressing the brake pedal, excessive force had to be apply to the brake pedal to bring the vehicle to a complete stop. The brake warning light illuminated along with an indication to reduce brake power. The contact…
TL* the contact owns a 2003 chevrolet suburban. The contact stated that while depressing the brake pedal, excessive force had to be apply to the brake pedal to bring the vehicle to a complete stop. The brake warning light illuminated along with an indication to reduce brake power. The contact stated that when depressing the brake pedal, she could hear the air and a humming noise. the vehicle was not taken to a dealer nor the manufacturer made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
- Visibility › Windshield
TL* the contact owns a 2003 chevrolet suburban. The contact stated while driving 70 mph, the rear windshield detached completely from the vehicle. The contact stated he continued to drive the vehicle to his residence. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired as of yet. A dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer had not been informed of failure. The failure mileage was 388,000.
- Air bags
Service air bag popped up on display. No damage had been done and it showed up one day but then it would go off after I started driving through the neighborhood at low speeds. Next time I turned it on it wasn't on the dash at all. It came back the next day and then it has not turned off at all…
Service air bag popped up on display. No damage had been done and it showed up one day but then it would go off after I started driving through the neighborhood at low speeds. Next time I turned it on it wasn't on the dash at all. It came back the next day and then it has not turned off at all while the car IS on. Was not sure if there were any recalls on it but none were found. In the past both of my subarus has this same service sign pop up and both were recalled. *tr
- Service brakes
I purchased this vehicle used in october 2019. It has 180,000 miles but IS in good overall condition. The problem IS not exclusive to this vehicle or even this type of vehicle. The issue IS rusty hydraulic brake lines. This problem has plagued older vehicle owners, especially in the rust belt…
I purchased this vehicle used in october 2019. It has 180,000 miles but IS in good overall condition. The problem IS not exclusive to this vehicle or even this type of vehicle. The issue IS rusty hydraulic brake lines. This problem has plagued older vehicle owners, especially in the rust belt midwest, since hydraulic brakes were invented. Some conscientious manufacturers such as volvo, have switched to a brake line material called cunifer or nicopp, a copper nickel alloy c70600. This material performs like conventional steel lines but without the corrosion problem. I am a ase certified technician,and have been repairing vehicles as well as restoring cars as a hobby for well over 50 years. Over this time period I have blown many brake lines. I have been lucky in that it never happened to me in an emergency stop where damage and or serious injury could have occurred. This latest incident occurred early in the morning at a stop sign in my residential area. There were no other cars or people around. I applied the brakes the vehicle continued moving as the brake pedal went to the floor. Luckily I was able to slow down turn around and slowly move back into my driveway. Since modern vehicles are lasting longer and do to new vehicle costs motorists are keeping their cars longer. The basic american vehicles brake lines have not changed much in the last 50 years,other than some cheap attempts at external coatings. Why not mandate all manufacturers use the vastly better copper nickel lines. It would definitely save lives and injuries not to mention costly vehicle damage.
- Air bags
Service airbag light IS on.i just purchased the suburban.
- Service brakes
While sitting at the mailbox checking mail and pressing on the brakes firmly, the brake pedal suddenly went to the floor and the warning lights flashed red repeatedly saying to check the brake system. The brake fluid was leaking all over the place. Fortunately there was enough braking ability left to park the vehicle in the driveway. Also, I am thankful this did not happen on the highway.
- Service brakes
Re: "g.m. Resists recalling trucks over brake lines", ny times, july 7, 2014 in spite of my 2003 chevy suburban passing new hampshire's mandatory safety inspection in may of 2018, in august of 2018 a brake line burst, resulting in loss of brake function. The line burst at a point below the…
Re: "g.m. Resists recalling trucks over brake lines", ny times, july 7, 2014 in spite of my 2003 chevy suburban passing new hampshire's mandatory safety inspection in may of 2018, in august of 2018 a brake line burst, resulting in loss of brake function. The line burst at a point below the driver's door and just forward of the ABS modulator, where the lines cross over the top of the frame and are exposed to wheel spray. At the point of failure, the lines are overlaid and obscured by a large bundle of electric wires. The attached photo shows the failure point, with the sheathed wire bundle moved up out of the way. The mileage at the time was approximately 167500. with regard to the nhtsa determination not to recall "almost 1.8 million full-size pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles from the 1999 to 2003 model years for corrosion-related brake failures", as summarized in the 7/7/14 ny times article, does nhtsa's decision to absolve gm of responsibility on this issue also absolve nhtsa and/or gm of responsibility to notify owners that they are in grave danger if they are still operating their vehicles with the original brake lines? Nhtsa should know from their own records that a large number of these vehicles are still on the road. I know because I see them every day. as for gm's excuses: '"g.m. Has resisted recalling the pickups and sport utility vehicles, telling regulators that rusted brake lines are a routine maintenance issue." obrake lines are not a moving part. How are they "maintained"? I have more to say, but you are limiting me. *tr
- Service brakes
My complaint IS that gm used substandard materials in of all things the brake lines! I lost all braking ability when one of my brake lines blew due to rust. How does this happen? I should have had at least partial braking ability due to the front and rear lines being separate. Luckily for me this…
My complaint IS that gm used substandard materials in of all things the brake lines! I lost all braking ability when one of my brake lines blew due to rust. How does this happen? I should have had at least partial braking ability due to the front and rear lines being separate. Luckily for me this happened right before my families thanksgiving trip, or else we would have been doing 70 on the interstate when this happened! Please don't let gm get away with this!
- Service brakes
Brake lines rusted and leaking. brake line to the rear brakes leaking on drivers side about as far back as rear door latch, about half way back of the gas tank. Brake pedal will go to the floor with minimal stopping ability and brake fluid leaks.
- Service brakes
This truck IS equipped with a supplimental vacuum pump on the brake booster, when it fails braking IS reduced by 50%. The part has been discontinued by chevy with no plans for a replacement. I have had the vehicle in 3 shops complaining of poor brakes, and finally theres a solution. What am I…
This truck IS equipped with a supplimental vacuum pump on the brake booster, when it fails braking IS reduced by 50%. The part has been discontinued by chevy with no plans for a replacement. I have had the vehicle in 3 shops complaining of poor brakes, and finally theres a solution. What am I suppose to do, scrap out a $10,000 vehicle ? Im sure this hidden problem has caused a many accidents that could of been avoided.
- Service brakes
I have a very hard time stopping the vehicle suddenly. Pedal will go all the way to the floor. ABS never activates because wheels will not even attempt to lock up. (Except in snow or ice) when sitting still pedal will push entirely to the floor. Have replaced all brakes and rotors and front…
I have a very hard time stopping the vehicle suddenly. Pedal will go all the way to the floor. ABS never activates because wheels will not even attempt to lock up. (Except in snow or ice) when sitting still pedal will push entirely to the floor. Have replaced all brakes and rotors and front calipers and master cylinder. Seems to have all the symtoms of campaign number 04v045000, but when I enter my vin number, that recall does not come up. I rearended someone about a year ago ( no damage) since then I make sure to leave about 150 feet between me and the car in front of me.
- Electrical system
TL* the contact owns a 2003 chevrolet suburban. At various times, the ignition switch failed and all the warning indicators illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 225,000.
- Electrical system › Instrument cluster/panel
TL* the contact owns a 2003 chevrolet suburban. The contact stated the instrument cluster inadvertently disabled. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the instrument cluster needed to be replaced, but was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure the…
TL* the contact owns a 2003 chevrolet suburban. The contact stated the instrument cluster inadvertently disabled. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the instrument cluster needed to be replaced, but was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure the failure mileage was 85,000. updated 02/14/17*lj consumer stated techometer, oil pressure gauge. Gear indicator lights offer lights stopped working. Updated 7/16/18*jb
- Electrical system
Saturday, I was driving approximately 45 to 50 mph on a split two lane road to pick up my grandchildren and all of a sudden my instrument panel stopped working. all gauges went to 0. there was no digital readings either. it just went dead. pulled over and turned the vehicle off and back on…
Saturday, I was driving approximately 45 to 50 mph on a split two lane road to pick up my grandchildren and all of a sudden my instrument panel stopped working. all gauges went to 0. there was no digital readings either. it just went dead. pulled over and turned the vehicle off and back on, nothing changed. plugged my garmin gps in for my speed guide and filled my gas tank so I knew that it was full. called mechanic to bring vehicle in for him to check out on tuesday. tuesday, (today) on my way to work, driving on 4 lane interstate, 60 to 70 mph, all of a sudden, all of the gauges and digital readings came on and began working correctly. I still took my vehicle to the mechanic, he stated that he will look at it and call me later. I depend on my car, just like everyone else. I can not just go out and buy a new one every time something goes wrong. I pray that this does not cause an accident. I transport my grandchildren and worry about their safety. I am a safety director and safety IS very passionate to me. There must be something that can be done about this issue. I love my suburban and plan on purchasing another one some day. It has always been a very dependable vehicle but this issue has me spooked. *tr
- Service brakes
While slowing from 55mph to make a turn off of state highway, brake system failed at approximately 35mph due to ruptured steel line. pedal went fully to floor, brakes released and turn off was missed. thankful nobody was in the way! shocked that this IS apparently a common issue with this vehicle at just 13yrs and 150K miles!!
- Electrical system · Engine
Vehicle suddenly started going into reduced power mode and providing an error code indicating a problem with the throttle control sensor. From the hundreds of online posts (some by gm mechanics) this IS an ongoing problem with many 2003-2008 trucks and suvs made by gm. When I began trying to repair…
Vehicle suddenly started going into reduced power mode and providing an error code indicating a problem with the throttle control sensor. From the hundreds of online posts (some by gm mechanics) this IS an ongoing problem with many 2003-2008 trucks and suvs made by gm. When I began trying to repair this problem myself, I found out from my local chevy parts department that "they can not keep these throttle control assemblies in stock because we are replacing so many of them..." there seems to be a know problem that gm IS not adequately being proactive about. This happens while driving highway, local streets and at startup. This becomes a serious safety issue when the vehicle goes into reduced power mode while the vehicle IS in traffic.
- Service brakes
While driving with my two daughters and husband, we attempted to come to a stop and brake pedal went all the way to the floor, truck would not stop. luckily we were not going that fast just 20 mph. husband diagnosed the problem, no brake fluid. drove very slowly to local auto store, filled up…
While driving with my two daughters and husband, we attempted to come to a stop and brake pedal went all the way to the floor, truck would not stop. luckily we were not going that fast just 20 mph. husband diagnosed the problem, no brake fluid. drove very slowly to local auto store, filled up brake fluid. no change in brakes. was able to drive slowly home with hazards on. took to local mechanic, upon inspection, brakes lines completely rusted out! entire brake line to be replaced, over 2000.00 job!
- Service brakes
While applying my brakes on highway rout 87, near albany ny, the pedal went to the floor and we crashed into the car in front of us. After being towed to a aaa repair facility they told us that the brakes were fine but the steel brake line had blown out and the fluid had leaked causing loss of…
While applying my brakes on highway rout 87, near albany ny, the pedal went to the floor and we crashed into the car in front of us. After being towed to a aaa repair facility they told us that the brakes were fine but the steel brake line had blown out and the fluid had leaked causing loss of stoping power without any warning... We spent $890.00 plus a hotel room for one night as we waited for them to make a repair to one brake line. I recently found out all the brake lines are rotted out and need to be replaced. This makes no sense.....there IS a clear safety issue here. please reopen the case and advise a recall before a big SUV like ours hurts someone in a small car because there brake lines failed. They won't know until its to late!!!
- Engine
TL* the contact owns a 2003 chevrolet suburban. While driving at 60 mph, the vehicle stalled. The contact was able to restart the vehicle. The failure recurred on numerous occasions. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic but was unable to diagnose or repair the vehicle. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 101,000.
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Brake line corrosion failure
On January 11, 2011, ODI opened EA11-001 to investigate allegations of premature brake line corrosion failure in model year (MY) 1999 through 2003 General Motors (GM) full-size pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles sold or registered in the following region of the United States that NHTSA has viewed as salt states…
On January 11, 2011, ODI opened EA11-001 to investigate allegations of premature brake line corrosion failure in model year (MY) 1999 through 2003 General Motors (GM) full-size pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles sold or registered in the following region of the United States that NHTSA has viewed as salt states for investigations of corrosion related issues:Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia and Wisconsin.The subject vehicles represent the first five MY's of GM's GMT800 platform production, of which approximately 2,038,504 vehicles were sold in salt states (the subject vehicles).The GMT800 platform includes the following vehicles:1999-2007 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra 1500, 2500 and 3500 series pick-up trucks; 2000-2006 Chevrolet Suburban, Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon sport utility vehicles; and 2002-2006 Cadillac Escalade and Chevrolet Avalanche sport-utility vehicles.General Motors produced a total of approximately 10,427,062 GMT800 vehicles for sales in the United States, including almost 5 million that were sold in salt states.Although there are over 60 different brake pipe routing configuration used in GMT800 vehicles, with the exception of the rear crossover pipes in MY 200x-2007 vehicles that changed from rear disc to drum brakes, all of the vehicles use brake pipes from the same supplier with a common double-wall, brazed steel pipe design with a combination of hot dip Zinc-Aluminum corrosion protection coating and Aluminum paint outer layer known in the industry as AlGal (ASTM-B750). ODI analysis of field data regarding GMT800 vehicles identified a total of 3,645 complaints of brake pipe corrosion failures, including 107 alleging crashes, and 40 injuries.Though only 20% of total GMT800 production, due to age and region the subject vehicles account for a disproportionate share of the failure experience; with 2,702 of the complaints (75%), 88 of the crashes (82%) and 20 of the injuries (50%) reported in those vehicles.Analysis of the complaints showed strong correlations to vehicle age and region.For vehicles with less than 8 years of service, the complaint rates were minimal for all regions.In the salt states the failure rates begin to climb as the vehicles advance in age, particularly in the Northeast corner of the United States.The complaint rates in the salt states go from less than 0.1 incident per thousand vehicles (IPTV) at 7 years in service to over 1.0 IPTV after the 12th year of service for the subject pickup trucks and utility vehicles.Most of the failures reported to ODI occurred in vehicles with more than 10 years in service.ODI?s investigation did not identify any specific defect conditions that were causing or contributing to the brake pipe failures.Nor did the analysis isolate the problem to any subject vehicle sub-populations when analyzed by vehicle type or production range.The investigation found that vehicles experiencing brake pipe corrosion failures were likely to have general patterns of excessive corrosion on the majority of the brake pipe assembly and appear to be occurring due to expected wear out for the brake pipe coating material used in the subject vehicles and the environmental conditions in severe corrosion states.A safety-related defect has not been identified at this time.Accordingly, this investigation is closed.The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that a safety-related defect does not exist.The agency will monitor t
- Brake line corrosion failure
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) received Defect Petition DP10-003 on March 2, 2010, requesting the investigation of model year (MY) 2003 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD 4WD pickup trucks for corrosion failures of the vehicle brake lines.DP10-003 was granted and on March 30, 2010, Preliminary Evaluation PE10-010…
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) received Defect Petition DP10-003 on March 2, 2010, requesting the investigation of model year (MY) 2003 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD 4WD pickup trucks for corrosion failures of the vehicle brake lines.DP10-003 was granted and on March 30, 2010, Preliminary Evaluation PE10-010 was opened on more than six million model year 1999 through 2003 light trucks and sport utility vehicles manufactured and sold by General Motors Corporation (GM).On July 2, 2010, ODI received GM's response to an information request, which included GM's assessment of the frequency and safety consequences of the alleged defect. GM stated that:(1) the brake system of the subject vehicles is split front/rear and should a brake pipe suddenly fail for any reason, the affected vehicle would be capable of stopping with the pressure supplied by the remaining circuit; (2) the subject vehicles were designed to meet the hydraulic circuit partial failure requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards 105 and 135, Light Vehicle Brake Systems; and (3) should a brake fluid leak occur for any reason, the brake system malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) would illuminate and warn the driver before the brake fluid level was low enough to cause a loss of line pressure.ODI's and GM's analysis indicates that 85 percent of the complaints occurred on vehicles used primarily in States that use salt on the roads during Winter months (Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia and Wisconsin).Overall the complaint rates per 100,000 vehicles for Salt Belt States is 43.0 and Non-Salt Belt is 3.0.In approximately 25 percent of the complaints the brake pipe failure occurred suddenly, with no warning (i.e., no MIL, Brake Fluid Loss Warning), and resulted in extended stopping distances.In 30 of these the increase in stopping distance that resulted was a factor in the crash and in 10 others the vehicle was intentionally steered off the road or into another lane of travel in order to avoid a crash.This investigation has been upgraded to an Engineering Analysis (EA11-001) for subject vehicles sold or currently registered in Salt Belt States to further assess the scope, frequency and safety risks associated with sudden failures of corroded brake pipes that can result in decreased brake effectiveness. ODI will continue to gather information on subject vehicles outside the Salt Belt as well.
- Parking brake failure
Odi's review of complaint data received since the close of ea04-011 revealed no indication that the investigation should be re-opened.more details can be found in the federal register notice enclosed in the dp05-009 public file.odi reserves the right to reopen the investigation in the future should conditions warrant.
- Hydraulic pump failres
Gm IS conducting a recall on all subject vehicles build between may 1999 and october 14, 1999.significant changes were incorporated into production in early october 1999, and vehicles built after that date have lower warranty failure rates.the complaint and warranty data appear to support the effectiveness of these…
Gm IS conducting a recall on all subject vehicles build between may 1999 and october 14, 1999.significant changes were incorporated into production in early october 1999, and vehicles built after that date have lower warranty failure rates.the complaint and warranty data appear to support the effectiveness of these changes. Gm made additional changes in november 1999, february 2000, may 2001, and february 2004.odi will continue to monitor this problem and will take further action, if warranted, in the future.for further technical details see the attached engineering analysis report.
- Parking brake failure
In a letter dated april 20, 2005, gm notified nhtsa that it had decided that defects that relate to motor vehicle safety exist in certain model year (my) 1999-2002 c/k 1500 series (pbr parking brake system) and my 2001-2005 c/k 2500 and 3500 series (trw parking brake system) pickups with manual transmissions.according…
In a letter dated april 20, 2005, gm notified nhtsa that it had decided that defects that relate to motor vehicle safety exist in certain model year (my) 1999-2002 c/k 1500 series (pbr parking brake system) and my 2001-2005 c/k 2500 and 3500 series (trw parking brake system) pickups with manual transmissions.according to gm, some of these vehicles may have conditions that cause the friction linings to wear to an extent where the parking brake can become ineffective in immobilizing a parked vehicle.gm's action covers an estimated total of 142,585 vehicles.dealers will install a low-force spring clip retainer for vehicles equipped with the pbr parking brake system and install a redesigned parking brake cable assembly on vehicles equipped with the trw parking brake system. A total of 58 non-duplicative complaints were received by odi and gm concerning the approximately 59,000 my 1999-2002 c/k 1500 series pickup trucks with the pbr parking brake system.these included 22 alleged rollaway incidents, resulting in a rate of 38.5 rollaway incidents per 100,000 vehicles.odi IS aware of 24 complaints regarding the my 2001-2005 c/k 2500 and 3500 series manual transmission trucks recalled by gm, including 5 alleging rollaway incidents.though the conditions described in gm's letter are also present in the c/k trucks with automatic transmissions, the rollaway rate in those vehicles was similar to those observed in peer vehicles studied by odi in this investigation.this engineering analysis IS closed. For additional information, see the attached closing report.
- Steel wheel rim fracture
There have been less than 2 complaints per 100,000 subject vehicles related to the alleged defect.the oldest vehicles (my 1999) have only 2 complaints in over 140 thousand vehicles after over 4 years in service.the rate of warranty claims potentially related to the alleged defect IS less than 0.1%.there are no known…
There have been less than 2 complaints per 100,000 subject vehicles related to the alleged defect.the oldest vehicles (my 1999) have only 2 complaints in over 140 thousand vehicles after over 4 years in service.the rate of warranty claims potentially related to the alleged defect IS less than 0.1%.there are no known incidents involving rapid loss of tire pressure or loss of vehicle control. A defect trend has not been identified at this time.accordingly, this investigation IS closed.the closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by nhtsa that no safety-related defect exists.the agency will take further action if warranted by the circumstances.
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 11010544This service bulletin explains how to measure for oil consumption and possible reasons for loss of oil.
- 11009156This Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester, multi media tester, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester and Vehicle Data Recorder tools, giving website address and step by step instructions to complete the update.
- 11007744This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical Assistance Center technician will need to have high and low pressures, outside temperature, humidity, and vent temperature.
- 11007743This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical Assistance Center technician will need to have high and low pressures, outside temperature, humidity, and vent temperature.
- 11007208This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about changing the tire and wheel size on vehicles. General Motors will only support a tire calibration for tires that have been sized, tested and designed for the vehicle in question and its applications. Technician should not use the information that is provided by the antilock braking system tire size selection.
- 11006621Vehicle Wide Programming (VWP) is a new process to update software on GM Vehicles. It provides the ability via a single selection within Techline Connect to first identify which modules need updating and then proceed to updating affected modules (with some exceptions). The updating of modules is completed in parallel instead of the technician needing to update one module at a time. This allows a more streamlined approach for dealers and customers.
- 11006421GM is receiving damaged (cracked or broken) transmission cores returned to the reman facilities. The damage is being caused either in the removal process by the technician, or inadequate packaging or shipping. This bulletin advises the dealers to be more careful not to damage the transmissions during removal and to package the core properly for return.
- 11006274This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the speedometer needle appears to be inaccurate. Dealer should advise the customer the specification for speedometer needle accuracy is +/- 2 MPH at any given speed when looking straight at the needle.
- 11004761This service bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up.
- 11004557This bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.
- 11002312This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Service Programming System (SPS) Error Codes E4398, E4399, E4401, E4403, M4404, M4413, M6954, M6955, E4414, E4423, E4491, E4492, or E6961 and resolution information.
- 11000576This Warranty Administration bulletin provides retail and wholesale service personnel with the policies/procedures and the warranty transaction submission procedures that support the Personal Property Damage process.
- 10252735This bulletin provides information for electrical ground repairs using new General Motors replacement fasteners with conductive finish.
- 10252163XM Audio Traffic And Travel Link Availability And Operation.
- 10251890This technical bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up.
- 10251887This bulletin advises the technician of possible location of an internal coolant leak from a specific cylinder head and location.
- 10250775This service bulletin provides service information to technicians on guidelines to replace Oil Cooler, Oil Cooler Lines and Oil Tank if the engine was replaced where large amounts of debris has flowed throughout the oiling system.
- 10249980This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vibration complaints that are one of the most challenging complaints to accurately diagnose and repair. Technician will need to use Pico Oscilloscope Diagnostic Kit to effectively diagnosis vehicles. Technician should drive the vehicle will using the Pico Oscilloscope to record data. After the data is recorded it should be reviewed to determine the root cause of the concern. If a repair attempt made the concern better but not eliminated or had no affect at all, and are requesting assistance from General Motors Technical Assistance Center record another Pico file and save it to the computer. After the new Pico Oscilloscope data has been saved email the data to General Motors Technical Assistance Center in the subject line include ?Vibration? ?Business Associate Code? and the last 8 of the Vehicle Identification Number.
- 10249590This bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.
- 10249579This PI bulletin advises the technician on the proper way to install the pistons in an engine.
- 10249011This informational bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Headlamp, Tail Lamp, License Lamp or Fog/Driving Lamp Damage.
- 10248444Vehicle Recalls
- 10247780This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical Assistance Center technician will need to have high and low pressures, outside temperature, humidity, and vent temperature.
- 10247748Speedometer Needle Accuracy Information.
- 10247747Speedometer Needle Accuracy Information
- 10247693Suspension.
- 10247681Information On Requests To Add OnStar Bluetooth Option.
- 10247552This service bulletin provides information on Concerns or Questions Regarding Installation of Dealer Installed Accessories.
- 10247093Speedometer Needle Accuracy Information.
- 10247092Speedometer Needle Accuracy Information
- 10246952Programming And Activation Of Replacement OnStar Modules.
- 10246951Programming And Activation Of Replacement OnStar Modules.
- 10246647Pre-Formed and Pre-Flared Hydraulic Brake Pipe Kits Now Available for Service
- 10246646Pre-Formed and Pre-Flared Hydraulic Brake Pipe Kits Now Available for Service
- 10246645Pre-Formed and Pre-Flared Hydraulic Brake Pipe Kits Now Available for Service
- 10246631Expanded Availability for Remanufacture and Return (R&R) Electronic Control Modules
- 10246624Car and Truck Fix it Right the First Time Issues
- 10245951Canadian Customers Unable To Place Calls And Turn By Turn Inoperative In The United States.
- 10245950Canadian Customers Unable To Place Calls In The United States
- 10245332Suspension.
Every Chevrolet Suburban model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.