I am very happy with this vehicle, but it did leave me stranded recently. The problem: bad starter, poor batter connections (corroded), replace distributor cap and cables.
Have a small oil leak possible between the transmission and engine block. It runs through about 1.5 quarts of oil every 3k miles.
Alternator went out about 80k miles. Front heater fan makes a clicking noise at low speed. Cooling takes some time during extreme weather (AC needs more power on hot days).
Overall, I am very anal about squeaks and rattles. Even though this vehicle is huge, it stays “tight” and I am very happy.
We only get about 12 mpg average, but it does have a nice 5.7l.
You can haul 9 people and a couple of dogs!!!
I have a 1996 suburban also, and currently it's getting a third transmission, but I really put some miles on this vehicle.
As the previous writer stated, it is a tight vehicle, with 240000+ on the odometer, I'm fine with putting in the tranny.
The engine has the same leak as before mentioned, but with the only modification of the amount of oil seeped, which is only two quarts in six months.
I also noticed the seal at the pinion shaft has gone bad, so that's next.
Lastly, the distributor has a broken screw boss at the fire wall side, I think that happened when the person who had it before me changed the transmission. and that also explains that odd miss that was only occasional (the cap was loose).
Over all I am very pleased with this vehicle, and have had many wonderful hours enjoying my family on trips. every where.
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