2002 Chevrolet Suburban 2500
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Chevrolet › Suburban 2500 › 2002
These records cover every 2002 Chevrolet Suburban 2500. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Owner complaints
33 complaints1 involved a crash
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Service brakes
Had my truck looked at by all american chevrolet in 2014 after I read your article a couple of years ago, and while they said the lines looked rusty underneath the truck, things looked ok. The gm exec [xxx] was estimating a $500 repair cost, and figured it was no big deal when I eventually got to…
Had my truck looked at by all american chevrolet in 2014 after I read your article a couple of years ago, and while they said the lines looked rusty underneath the truck, things looked ok. The gm exec [xxx] was estimating a $500 repair cost, and figured it was no big deal when I eventually got to that point. I also read that gm said if a problem occurred I'D not lose braking because it was a double system, and that I would also get an indication on the dash of a problem. sadly over the christmas holiday 2016, I experienced a total brake line failure, and luckily no one was hurt. The repair was not the $500 estimated by gm it was over $2,000. "..g.m. Does not comment on other automakers? Recalls, [xxx], a spokesman for g.m., wrote in an email. [xxx] gm added that general motors had developed a parts kit last year for the brake lines..." ?these are available through dealers and the aftermarket,? He said. ?Based on time studies, the repair including labor should cost about $500. We can only suggest how much labor time the repair should take.? I also received no warning on the dash of the truck when the lines failed, and the fluid was pouring onto the road, I could see a trail of it behind the car. Luckily I had kept the emergency brake well maintained and I downshifted the truck to stop and had it towed by aaa to the shop. can we talk about this or who at gm should I speak with? When the brakes failed I needed to get the truck repaired right away and the cost was over $2200. [xxx] [xxx] *dl information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(B)(6).'*jb
- Engine
The engine stops running while driving or sitting at a stop sign without warning. has happened at highway speeds, city driving speeds and while at a stop sign. same problem as described in recall ID: 07v521000. the dealer says my vehicle isn't covered in this recall. why?
- Electrical system · Engine
I have had several incidents in two weeks that nearly caused serious accidents. I would be driving at various speeds, slow and interstate driving, where the engine would suddenly lose all power and the battery light would come on. I would have to struggle to have the vehicle glide to the service…
I have had several incidents in two weeks that nearly caused serious accidents. I would be driving at various speeds, slow and interstate driving, where the engine would suddenly lose all power and the battery light would come on. I would have to struggle to have the vehicle glide to the service lane without causing an accident. these happened all times of day and all weather conditions and caused hazardous close calls. the vehicle was through diagnostic testing by an independent mechanic found to have a defective crank position sensor. attached for your information IS a copy of the invoice which includes the diagnosis and repairs required. reviewing nhtsa complaints this IS a serious problem that appears to have happened many times in the past which needs to have a nhtsa investigation and recall. please advise if it would help get this problem addressed if I seek legal, legislative or regulatory relief. I look forward to your response. thank you. *tr
- Engine · Service brakes
TL* the contact owns a 2002 chevrolet suburban 2500. The contact stated that while driving 50 mph, the vehicle stalled without warning and the brakes would pulsate and increase stopping distance. The vin was not included in nhtsa campaign numbers: 07v521000 (engine and engine cooling) and 05v379000…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 chevrolet suburban 2500. The contact stated that while driving 50 mph, the vehicle stalled without warning and the brakes would pulsate and increase stopping distance. The vin was not included in nhtsa campaign numbers: 07v521000 (engine and engine cooling) and 05v379000 (service brakes, hydraulic). The vehicle was taken to a dealer, who replaced the crank shaft sensor. The vehicle was not repaired for the brake failure. The failure mileage was 113,204. updated 6/8/15*cn updated 10/2/2017*cn
- Electrical system
I have a 2002 chevrolet suburban. I have had it for two years. I am having problems similar to what it's the gm recall. This doesn't happen everytime I drive. I can be driving down the street or on the expressway and my vehicle will just shut off and the battery light will come on. After sitting…
I have a 2002 chevrolet suburban. I have had it for two years. I am having problems similar to what it's the gm recall. This doesn't happen everytime I drive. I can be driving down the street or on the expressway and my vehicle will just shut off and the battery light will come on. After sitting for a few minutes, the truck will start back up with no problem or without having any boost. I have been having this problem since I have had the vehicle and noone could ever tell me what the problem was. I think it IS the ignition switch. Please assist me in finding out how I can get my truck fixed as I am a mother of 4 and that IS my only means of transportation. I am blessed for having not being in a fatal accident or accident period due to this problem since I have had this vehicle. Thanks. *tr
- Service brakes
While driving the vehicle, the brake lines along the frame rail under the driver's side of the vehicle failed. the lines burst and a loss of fluid caused the brake pedal to go to the floor. due to the brake failure it took a considerable distance to get the truck stopped probably due to a loss of…
While driving the vehicle, the brake lines along the frame rail under the driver's side of the vehicle failed. the lines burst and a loss of fluid caused the brake pedal to go to the floor. due to the brake failure it took a considerable distance to get the truck stopped probably due to a loss of brake pressure. I was driving in a residential area and luckily was able to get the vehicle stopped before being involved in a crash or hitting a pedestrian. the vehicle was repaired at a local gm dealership at a cost of approximately $4000. That's right four thousand dollars. *tr
- Service brakes
Launching boat at the ramp when brake line ruptured and I lost all pedal. under drivers side door in the same spot as my 2005 2500 HD chevy. *Tr
- Engine and engine cooling
After so long ignoring the smell in my cab, I decided to get it checked out at benny's exhaust in bristol, tn, and found that exhaust manifold head bolts broke off on both sides of engine. 1ST bolt initially then second bolt next to it broke as well. No work has been done to motor or aftermarket…
After so long ignoring the smell in my cab, I decided to get it checked out at benny's exhaust in bristol, tn, and found that exhaust manifold head bolts broke off on both sides of engine. 1ST bolt initially then second bolt next to it broke as well. No work has been done to motor or aftermarket parts added that would affect this part and create failure. Exhaust gas enters the underhood area sometime can be smelled inside passenger cab area. The exhaust makes a black plume up side of motor on both sides. This vehicle can not be registered in any state that has emissions testing, because it will not pass. I am forced to register it to non-testing states. Why isn't there a recall on this matter. It appears that this affects all years. What IS wrong with gm, why won't they take care of this matter. After someone spends several tens of thousands on a vehicle, why isn't safety the standard gm should measure itself up too. Engineers, are you making sure planned obsolescence IS built into all your vehicles. I won't buy gm no more after owning gm all my life. *tr
- Engine and engine cooling
TL* the contact owns a 2002 chevrolet suburban 2500. The contact was driving approximately 45 mph when the engine stalled, followed by the battery warning light illumination. The failure occurred eight more times. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who was unable to locate a problem. In addition…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 chevrolet suburban 2500. The contact was driving approximately 45 mph when the engine stalled, followed by the battery warning light illumination. The failure occurred eight more times. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who was unable to locate a problem. In addition, the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for a diagnostic testing which detected a trouble code with the crank position sensor. The vehicle was repaired. There was a recall related to the defect under nhtsa campaign ID number 07v521000 (engine and engine cooling). The contact notified the dealer concerning the recall. The manufacturer was not made aware of the problem. the approximate failure mileage was 70,000. updated 09/21/11*lj the consumer stated after waiting 15-30 seconds, the engine would start immediately and run smoothly. updated 10/26/11
- Engine and engine cooling
TL* the contact owns a 2002 chevrolet suburban k2500. While driving at any speed, the contact stated that the vehicle would stall and sporadically fail to start. The contact referenced nhtsa campaign ID number: 07v521000 (engine and engine cooling) for the 2001 model suburban. The dealer advised…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 chevrolet suburban k2500. While driving at any speed, the contact stated that the vehicle would stall and sporadically fail to start. The contact referenced nhtsa campaign ID number: 07v521000 (engine and engine cooling) for the 2001 model suburban. The dealer advised the contact that his vehicle was not included in the recall because the recall was not for his model year vehicle. The contact did not inform the manufacturer of the failure nor was the vehicle repaired. The current mileage was 71,000 and the failure mileage was 68,000.
- Service brakes, hydraulic
Our 2002 chevrolet k2500 suburban's anti-lock brakes slip (trigger) at low speed, which was not needed, nearly causing a couple of accidents. no brake light comes on during this to show failure. this happens every single time the brakes are applied when rolling to a stop. it IS believed to be a faulty wheel speed sensor issue. *Tr
- Electrical system
2002 suburban 2500 8.1 faulty crankshaft position sensor. Vehicle died on highway at 65 mph. Almost crashed into other vehicles. This happened a few times. the vehicle could not be diagnosed. Due to the sensor fault never being stored in the fault codes. the 2001 8.1 has been recalled for…
2002 suburban 2500 8.1 faulty crankshaft position sensor. Vehicle died on highway at 65 mph. Almost crashed into other vehicles. This happened a few times. the vehicle could not be diagnosed. Due to the sensor fault never being stored in the fault codes. the 2001 8.1 has been recalled for this reason why hasn't the 2002 its the same part number? There are many complaints about this issue. I have the old part. [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(B)(6). *Tr
- Engine and engine cooling › Exhaust system
Exhaust bolts breaking 0N 2002 suburban 2500 series with 6.0 engine. *Tr
- Engine and engine cooling · Equipment › Appliance › Air conditioner
A loud rattling noise was coming from under the hood and the had no a/c. after looking under hood, found the belt had split in two. I replaced the a/c belt on a 2002 chevy suburban and after doing this, noticed the belt tensioner was rattling a great deal so replaced it. when I received the belt…
A loud rattling noise was coming from under the hood and the had no a/c. after looking under hood, found the belt had split in two. I replaced the a/c belt on a 2002 chevy suburban and after doing this, noticed the belt tensioner was rattling a great deal so replaced it. when I received the belt tensioner from the parts store, enclosed was a warning/alert message to refer to gm tbs # 03-01-38-019a after reviewing this information, I don't understand why the customer should have to pay to replace the a/c compressor when they know it IS a default on 17 vehicles from the years 2002 to 2004. I feel this should be chevy and gm's responsibility as I now will need to pay well over $1000.00 to fix something that was a known problem, yet nothing was done about it. I feel this IS a danger to any driver if this IS not fix because had the belt broke while I had been driving down the highway and also taken out the serpentine belt while driving, it could cause a significant accident for my vehicle to stop working in the middle of the highway. *Tr
- Tires
TL* the contact owns a 2002 chevrolet suburban 2500. The vehicle has firestone steel tex a/t tires, line size lt245/75r16. The contact stated the tires were exhibiting separation from the chords. In addition, the front passenger's tire was dry rotted. The contact stated the tread separated and…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 chevrolet suburban 2500. The vehicle has firestone steel tex a/t tires, line size lt245/75r16. The contact stated the tires were exhibiting separation from the chords. In addition, the front passenger's tire was dry rotted. The contact stated the tread separated and damaged the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage of the tires was 500. The vehicle failure and current mileages were 91,418.
- Engine and engine cooling · Engine and engine cooling › Cooling system
2002 chevy suburban 2500. 42,000 miles. engine stalls with no warning. Sometimes while stopped at light or when driving. After waiting a few minutes car starts after reading other posts had crank sensor replaced today very stressing and dangerous. -- no power steering or power brakes. *Tr
- Engine and engine cooling
My 2002 k2500 suburban engine dies abruptly while driving, with no warning (neither sputtering nor messages on the dash). after pulling over to the shoulder and waiting between a few seconds and a few minutes, the engine will start. This happens at random times at any speed. needless to say…
My 2002 k2500 suburban engine dies abruptly while driving, with no warning (neither sputtering nor messages on the dash). after pulling over to the shoulder and waiting between a few seconds and a few minutes, the engine will start. This happens at random times at any speed. needless to say, this IS an extreme safety hazard, as all power to steering and brakes IS lost when the engine dies. these random stalls have been increasing in frequency over the last couple years. my car only has 36,000 miles - mostly highway driving. apparently lots of people have experienced this potentially deadly condition. IS gm just going to wait for people to get killed before they issue a recall on this? *Tr
- Engine and engine cooling › Engine
While driving 60 mph under normal conditions on the interstate, I experienced full power loss. without warning, the engine shut down and could not be restarted in neutral. engine turned, just didn't fire. no sputter, no dash lights, just an instant shut down. I pulled the vehicle to the side…
While driving 60 mph under normal conditions on the interstate, I experienced full power loss. without warning, the engine shut down and could not be restarted in neutral. engine turned, just didn't fire. no sputter, no dash lights, just an instant shut down. I pulled the vehicle to the side of the roadway, put it in park and it started right up. fortunately, this experience was on an not so crowded and straight section of the highway. I fear this could happen in a turn, in an intersection, or any situation where the lack of power steering could lead to an accident. this issue IS the latest in a few related. what started a couple months ago as intermittent failed engine starts, has progressed into intermittent engine stalls. initial problems were start related. the vehicle would make a normal starting sound, but just not fire. it would then start normally on the second or third attempt. I see a recall for the 2001 version of my specific vehicle/engine type, and an investigation opened on the 2002 model. this has to be related. the chevrolet dealer failed to replicate the issue this week and did not receive any codes pointing to the issue. they will not blindly replace parts on a hunch, even with the car being under a full extended warranty. this IS a safety issue. fortunately, the vehicle has not yet stalled in a critical situation. *Tr
- Engine and engine cooling › Engine
Engine stalls while driving at random times, approximately every 80 miles. Engine will start back after a wait of more than 30 seconds. The engine will stall while hot or cold, idling or driving at any speed. *Tr
- Engine and engine cooling
I recently purchased a 2002 chevrolet 2500 suburban with an 8.1L engine. after only a week it would suddenly stall at different highway speeds. it did this 3 times in one week. I then discovered the problem was the crankshaft positioning sensor, which has been recalled on 2001 models. why has…
I recently purchased a 2002 chevrolet 2500 suburban with an 8.1L engine. after only a week it would suddenly stall at different highway speeds. it did this 3 times in one week. I then discovered the problem was the crankshaft positioning sensor, which has been recalled on 2001 models. why has this part not been recalled on the 2002 model it has the exact same defective sensor from the factory as the 2001 had. this failure creates a very dangerous situation in an SUV of such size. when the engine stalls there IS no power brakes or power steering, and hopefully you have enough momentum to get out of the way of traffic. *Tr
- Electrical system · Fuel system, gasoline › Delivery › Fuel pump
My 2002 chevrolet 2500 suburban 8.1L, has been stalling continuously. It stalls when driving, slow, fast or even at a red light, it doesn't matter. I have had the fuel pump, starter, alternator and batter all replaced. I have read on many sites that I am not the only one with the same vehicle with the same problem. *Tr
- Electrical system · Engine and engine cooling
Tl*the contact owns a 2002 chevrolet suburban 2500. while driving, the vehicle stalled. a red warning light illuminated on the instrument control panel prior to the failure. occasionally, the vehicle loses power steering and braking ability. the vehicle has been to numerous dealers, but no one could duplicate the failure. the manufacturer would not assist. the failure mileage was 92,000. updated 6/9/08 *cn
- Engine and engine cooling
Tl*the contact owns a 2002 chevrolet suburban 2500. while driving at an unknown speed, the vehicle sporadically stalled without warning. the dealer stated that the vin was not included in nhtsa campaign ID number 07v521000 (engine and engine cooling), although the failures were identical. he IS in the process of having the vehicle repaired. the failure mileage was 81,000.
- Engine and engine cooling › Engine
2002 chevrolet suburban 2500 with 8100 engine stalls unexpectedly at any speed. Vehicle starts back after a few minutes. *tr
- Engine and engine cooling › Engine › Gasoline
I have a 2002 chevrolet suburban 2500 4 wd with an 8.1 liter engine with 67,000 miles on it. it has stalled out 5 times over the last 6 months, nearly causing a serious crash on the second to last one on interstate route 80 outside of sparta, new jersey. the engine just stops and I have no…
I have a 2002 chevrolet suburban 2500 4 wd with an 8.1 liter engine with 67,000 miles on it. it has stalled out 5 times over the last 6 months, nearly causing a serious crash on the second to last one on interstate route 80 outside of sparta, new jersey. the engine just stops and I have no control over the vehicle. I have taken it to two mechanics who have not been able to repair it. I am afraid to drive the vehicle. What should I do and where should I go to get this fixed. It IS a life safety issue not only for me, but my family and horses when we haul horses for our equestrian activities. Can you imagine the disaster this would be with people and horses on the highway if the vehicle stops dead!!?? *tr
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Trailer hitch receiver failure
Complaint reports allege poor weld quality and/or bending of the subject vehicle original equipment trailer hitch receiver.the agency's investigation included analysis of manufacturer and agency incident reports, review of police reports, analysis of the agency's fatal analysis reporting system, a vehicle owner…
Complaint reports allege poor weld quality and/or bending of the subject vehicle original equipment trailer hitch receiver.the agency's investigation included analysis of manufacturer and agency incident reports, review of police reports, analysis of the agency's fatal analysis reporting system, a vehicle owner survey, inspection of tow vehicles/hitches and analysis of failed parts.incidents of weld failure were rare and associated with very low-speed driving (turning, backing and sudden stopping).incidents of bending were associated with improper trailer hitch adjustment or overloading. A safety-related defect has not been identified at this time and further use of agency resources does not appear to be warranted.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 this issue and reserves the right to take further action if warranted by the circumstances.see document search file for addition information.
- Trailer hitch receiver failure
Gm provided additional data regarding allegations of failure of the trailer hitch.odi reviewed that as well as other data provided by peer manufacturers.based on our review, odi finds the need to further investigate this issue.this preliminary evaluation IS upgraded to an engineering analysis (ea07-013) for further assessment and study of this issue.
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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
- 10247681Information On Requests To Add OnStar Bluetooth Option.
- 10247552This service bulletin provides information on Concerns or Questions Regarding Installation of Dealer Installed Accessories.
- 10246952Programming And Activation Of Replacement OnStar Modules.
- 10246951Programming And Activation Of Replacement OnStar Modules.
- 10246631Expanded Availability for Remanufacture and Return (R&R) Electronic Control Modules
- 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
- 10244274This service bulletin provides information about the Hunter wheel Road Force balancers that should be utilized for all repairs requiring balance and Road Force measurement.
- 10244201This service bulletin provides information for dealers on how to submit a product information report (PIR) (Canada Only).
- 10242843The service bulletin advises the tech of a normal transmission shift condition and the delay in throttle response when the throttle plate is opened rapidly and advises the customer that it is normal for the delay.
- 10242262This service bulletin provides graphics, information and guidelines for engine component wear to assist service personnel as a guideline to perform necessary engine repairs and prevent unnecessary engine replacement.
- 10242252This technical bulletin provides information and a solution to a condition of Brake Pedal Moves or Self Applies at Full Turns.
- 10240344This service bulletin explains how to measure for oil consumption and possible reasons for loss of oil.
- 10235802This diagnostic tip bulletin provides additional information on how to diagnose a possible valve, lifter or camshaft issue.
- 10235799This service bulletin provides information about the Hunter wheel Road Force balancers that should be utilized for all repairs requiring balance and Road Force measurement.
- 10234141This diagnostic tip bulletin provides additional information on how to diagnose a possible valve, lifter or camshaft issue.
- 10234110This service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.
- 10232287This warranty administration bulletin provides information regarding the field action courtesy transportation policy.
- 10232136This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Exterior Lamp Condensation and Water Leaks and Replacement Guidelines.
- 10228888This service bulletin provides diagnostic tips/steps on testing for possible EVAP leaks in the system to correct a customer concern of an MIL Illuminated with DTCs P0442 and/or P0455 Set.
- 10227056This 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.
- 10225615This service bulletin provides information on Module Harvesting.
- 10224820This service bulletin provides information for dealers on how to submit a product information report (PIR) (Canada Only).
- 10222839This service bulletin provides information on Handling Requests for Modifications to Permanently Import/Export Vehicles Between the U.S. and Canada.
- 10222796This service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.
Every Chevrolet Suburban 2500 model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.