3 Reliable Chevy Suburban Model Years on a $15,000 Budget
The Chevrolet Suburban has long proven itself a favorite full-size SUV. However, not all used Suburban models provide the same level of dependability. Here’s a look at three of the most reliable Chevy Suburban years under $15,000.
(Note: Regardless of a used car’s reliability score, always obtain a vehicle history report and have a trusted mechanic perform an inspection to uncover potential problems before purchasing. Also, prices may vary depending on trim level, mileage, overall condition, and location.)
The 2011 Suburban has a solid reliability score for an old SUV
The first model year on our list is the 2011 Chevy Suburban. This year earned a “great” 81 out of 100 overall from J.D. Power. Its quality and reliability score is a slightly lower 78, which the market research firm considers “average.” As for the driving experience, the 2011 model received a 79. And it got an 88 in resale value. J.D. Power says people are paying around $10,119 to $16,387 for a used 2011 model.
Though the 2011 Chevy Suburban has a decent reliability score, this model year has some common issues that tend to arise over time. According to CarComplaints.com, the No. 1 problem owners have reported is the vehicle running rough while idling. This issue commonly appears around 84,000 miles. In addition, the most common solution is to replace the spark plug or valve cover and clean the fuel injectors. This repair costs an average of $1,180.
The 2012 Chevy Suburban is more reliable
The next model year on our list is the 2012 Chevy Suburban. This model earned an 82 overall. Regarding quality and reliability, the 2012 model scored an 81, right on the cusp of “great.” In the area of driving experience, it received 80 out of 100. And in resale value, the 2012 Suburban earned an 87. J.D. Power also reports that consumers are paying around $12,347 to $20,377 for a 2012 model year.
The biggest issue plaguing the 2012 Chevy Suburban is the dashboard is susceptible to cracking. To fix it, the dashboard must be replaced. The good news is that this issue does not affect the Suburban’s driveability. According to CarComplaints.com, the next two most significant issues consumers experience are excessive oil consumption and low oil pressure. Those can be pricier and more problematic because they might require the engine to be rebuilt or replaced.
How reliable is the 2013 Chevy Suburban?
The final model year on our list is the 2013 Chevrolet Suburban. J.D. Power gave this model an overall 81. Regarding quality and reliability, the 2013 model earned an “average” 79. In the area of driving experience, it received a 77. And the 2013 Chevy Suburban scored an 88 in resale value. The market research firm says shoppers are paying around $13,745 to $23,170 for used 2013 Suburban models.
Consumers have voiced some of the same issues with the 2013 model as with the 2012 model. According to CarComplaints.com, the most common problem with this Suburban is excessive oil consumption. The issue generally surfaces around 93,000 miles. It can be rectified through piston replacements or rebuilding the engine. The typical repair cost for this problem is around $3,900.
Generally, Suburbans are known to last a lifetime. So if you can find a well-maintained used model for less than $15,000, it’s a bargain.
