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2019 Chevrolet Suburban Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Ryan Davis·2 Critical Recalls

Overall Score

6.0/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Significant concerns exist regarding automatic transmission failures, often reported as catastrophic.
  • Engine problems, including rough running and stalling, are also a frequent complaint.
  • Four recalls were issued, including critical ones for the rear seatbelt retractors and the Electronic-Brake Control Module (EBCM) software.
  • Fuel economy is rated at 16 MPG combined, leading to potentially high fuel costs.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2019 Chevrolet Suburban

The 2019 Chevrolet Suburban offers substantial passenger and cargo space, making it a practical choice for large families or those needing to haul significant loads. However, prospective used-car buyers should be aware of its documented reliability issues. With 4 recalls and 77 complaints logged with NHTSA, the primary concerns center on the powertrain and engine, with a notable number of reports detailing transmission failures and engine problems. While its 5.3L V8 engine provides ample power, fuel economy is modest at 16 MPG combined, contributing to higher fuel costs. The 4-wheel-drive system enhances its capability in adverse conditions. Given the potential for costly repairs, a meticulous pre-purchase inspection is essential.

Critical Failure Risk

Significant internal wear or damage leading to slipping, shuddering, hard shifting, or complete failure. Metal fragments in fluid indicate severe issues.

Early detection can help you avoid a $2,500-$5,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls4
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

77
Power Train29
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
16
MPG
City
14
MPG
Highway
21
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.4/ 10

Practicality

3.6/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Families needing maximum passenger and cargo capacity.

+3 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Budget-conscious buyers who cannot afford unexpected major repairs.

+3 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2019 Chevrolet Suburban Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2019 Chevrolet Suburban.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Gasoline or E85
Seating Capacity
7
Transmission
Automatic 6-spd
Drivetrain
4WD/4-Wheel Drive/4x4
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
16

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Powertrain

Most reported

Usage: 29 reports

2. ENGINE

Usage: 17 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (6 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
4 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2019 Chevrolet Suburban reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2019 Chevrolet Suburban is 8.4/10. Reliability score is 8.4/10. NHTSA recalls: 4. Owner complaints: 77.

How practical is the 2019 Chevrolet Suburban for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 3.6/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 16 MPG. Seating capacity is 7.

What is the overall score for the 2019 Chevrolet Suburban?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2019 Chevrolet Suburban is 6.0/10. Overall score is 6.0/10 (Mixed). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 7.8/10. Practicality 3.6/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2019 Chevrolet Suburban?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $1,500. Repair prediction highlight: Automatic Transmission (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $2,500 • Max: $5,000+).

What is the MSRP range for the 2019 Chevrolet Suburban?▾

Base MSRP is $57,095.

What engine is in the 2019 Chevrolet Suburban?▾

Engine specs list 8 • 5.3.

What transmission does the 2019 Chevrolet Suburban use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Chevrolet Suburban, transmission is Automatic 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is 4WD/4-Wheel Drive/4x4.

Does the 2019 Suburban require Gasoline or E85 gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Gasoline or E85.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2019 Chevrolet Suburban?▾

EPA combined estimate is 16 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2019 Chevrolet Suburban?▾

11 standard and 1 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2019 Chevrolet Suburban?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Chevrolet Suburban, seating capacity is 7.

What body style is the 2019 Chevrolet Suburban?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Chevrolet Suburban, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2019 Chevrolet Suburban use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Chevrolet Suburban, drivetrain is 4WD/4-Wheel Drive/4x4. Transmission is Automatic 6-spd.

What are the most common power train problems on the 2019 Chevrolet Suburban?▾

Top complaint category: power train (29 reports, 37.7% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2019 Chevrolet Suburban?▾

This model year has 4 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2019 Chevrolet Suburban?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2019 Ford Expedition and 2019 Toyota Sequoia.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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