1997 GMC Suburban Review

One of GM's Best

Written by: Mike H on 06/23/2009

Vehicle

1997 GMC Suburban 4 Dr K1500 4WD Wagon

Review

This truck's been in my family for 10 years now, and I just received it from my dad last year around this time. And, at 210,000 miles, it still runs like a dream. This truck's been through hell and back. My older sister destroyed two cars with it, every winter in Michigan, this truck's a toughie. Repairs have been minimal: replaced alternator at 125,000, replaced rear-end at 160,000, one battery, 3 sets of front brakes, distributor cap. The back brakes are the originals that came on the truck 12 years ago, and they still aren't worn through. Essentially, from my experience, it doesn't wanna give up. And, atop all that, I'm still beating the mileage ratings. That old 5.7 is a strong one.

Favorite Features

Good longevity, looks great, awesome in the snow.

Suggested Improvements

As with all large SUVs, mileage. That's about it. But, if ya treat it right, it'll get ya there with 14 city/18 highway like me.

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Unreliable

Written by: sandyle03 on 06/20/2009

Vehicle

1997 GMC Suburban 4 Dr C2500 Wagon

Review

I have had my truck for 5 years. Although I haven't had to replace the fuel pump, I am having some electrical issues. The starter is not bad, but sometimes I will drive some place, get out, and get back in the truck...it won't say a sound, no turn over or nothing but everything in the truck still works. I took it to GMC and they refused to dig into the problem because it would not stall there (no wonder they are in bankrupt). They put a $356 wire on it, and it did it again as soon as I stopped to the store leaving. No one would come up the road to help me.(maybe 5 blocks) Great vehicle but the gas cost is killing me! If I can get it to stop stalling, it would be even better!

Favorite Features

My fav would be the cd and cassette player combo.

Suggested Improvements

I would suggest a switch that can turn off/on the headlights. It is annoying when they are constantly on. Also a reliable horn, mine is gone out, and it's not the fuse.

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1997 K1500 Suburban

Written by: RTS on 10/02/2008

Vehicle

1997 GMC Suburban 4 Dr K1500 4WD Wagon

Review

Good solid truck for the most part. Two issues in the last 57,000 miles, first it lost the 2-3 clutch pack in the transmission at 121,000 but the previous owner had done a lot of towing. Second I lost a fuel pump at 154,000 miles but that was my own fault for not changing the fuel filter as often as required (filter was pluged). It took me longer to drain the tank than it did to replace the pump, which cost $110. I have a 32' travel trailer and 4 kids and overall this has been a good vehicle. Mileage is poor, but there is a limit to what you can expect from a 5300 pound box.

Favorite Features

Lots and lots of room in a comfortable cruising vehicle.

Suggested Improvements

Newer Suburbans get better mileage and are more comfortable.

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Tough & Reliable

Written by: JWG on 08/12/2008

Vehicle

1997 GMC Suburban 4 Dr K1500 4WD Wagon

Review

We purchased our '97 Suburban new and will probably have it for 3-5 more years. It's been a great vehicle! I'm big on maintenance. Treat the car right and the car will treat you right. Consequently, we've never had a break down or surprise issue.

Favorite Features

Power & roominess

Suggested Improvements

Brakes. Hey she's 5,000 pounds. That takes some work to stop.

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I love my sub

Written by: Dena Shatzer on 04/18/2008

Vehicle

1997 GMC Suburban 4 Dr K1500 4WD Wagon

Review

I love this SUV. Best I've ever owned. I have a 6 inch lift and 35's. It' reliable and comfortable. The only problem is I go through 2 sets of brakes a year, thank goodness for lifetime warranty pads. Plenty of room for camping and ballgames. Pulls 5 quads easily. Rear air is great.

Favorite Features

Comfort and power.

Suggested Improvements

Brakes and gas mileage, needs external fuel pump. Redesign front end for not so many moving parts.

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