Largest regular production SUV on the market, cargo capacity, very safe vehicle, standard ABS, dual airbags
Cons
Fuel economy, very poor list of standard equipment, dealers generally gouge customers on price, difficult to manuever in tight places
What’s new
Dual airbags debut, and a cargo area power lock switch makes locking up the vehicle after unloading cargo more convenient. Variable power steering lightens low-speed steering effort, and automatic transmissions are improved. Two new exterior colors are added to the paint roster.
THIS VEHICLE IS LOCATED IN OUR PA. SHOWROOM, FREE SHIPPING AND WARRANTY !!!!! 5.7L Vortec Chevrolet Engine. 700R4 Automatic Transmission. Summit White...
*The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price excludes destination freight charge, tax, title, license, dealer fees and optional equipment. Click here to see all Chevrolet vehicles' destination freight charges. Dealer sets the final price.
In some sections of the country, upmarket folks have been tooling around for several years in mile-long Suburbans, whether or not they have great need for all that expanse behind the driver's seat. Through the suburban reaches of Houston and Dallas, among other spots, the Chevrolet and GMC Suburban have become de facto status-flaunting vehicles.
Yes, those who formerly wheeled around town in a Cadillac or Lincoln or Mercedes, and wouldn't feel quite right in a pickup truck, appear to have twirled their affections toward the biggest passenger vehicles in the General Motors repertoire. Chevrolet, in fact, considers the Suburban "as suited to the country club as to a roughneck oil field."
Mechanically, you get the same layout in the smaller Chevrolet Tahoe, but that vehicle is only available with Chevy's Vortec 5700 V8 engine. Select a Suburban and you can accept that motor, with 255 horsepower. Or, with the 3/4-ton C/K 2500 series you can go all the way, opting for the mammoth Vortec 7400 V8, whipping out 290 strutting horses and a mean 410 foot-pounds of ground-tromping torque. Oh, there's also an optional turbodiesel. Both the half- and 3/4-ton versions come with either two- or four-wheel drive, and all have four-wheel antilock braking.
This season's interior is upgraded with the addition of a driver's airbag. Rear passengers are made more comfortable with the addition of height-adjustable outboard safety belts. Drivers won't need to wrestle the Suburban at low speeds with the introduction of Electronic Variable Orifice power steering. Locking the Suburban after unloading cargo is easier this year, because Chevy added a power lock switch to the cargo area. Shifts are smoother from revised transmissions, which also improve efficiency. Two new exterior colors debut: Medium Opal Blue Metallic and Medium Beige Mystique Metallic.
Suburbans seat up to nine occupants and tow as much as five tons, when properly equipped. For families who need plenty of room for youngsters, or for retirees who need loads of power to haul a travel trailer, a Suburban can make good sense. Chevrolet can expect competition from Ford's new Expedition for 1997, but for heavy-duty use and maximum space, Chevrolet and GMC are still the only serious games in town for a mammoth "truck wagon."
*The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price excludes destination freight charge, tax, title, license, dealer fees and optional equipment. Click here to see all Chevrolet vehicles' destination freight charges. Dealer sets the final price.
Owners' Opinions
What Owners Like
The 1997 Chevrolet Suburban earns praise for its durable performance and versatility. Owners consistently highlight the vehicle's ability to handle significant towing tasks, whether pulling travel trailers or hauling equipment. With seating for up to nine, the Suburban proves to be an ideal choice for family road trips or group outings, offering plenty of space without compromising comfort. Despite its size, many find the ride surprisingly smooth for long drives, a testament to its robust build. Even at higher mileage, owners report that the Suburban's engine maintains its reliability, particularly praising the Vortec engines for their dependability. Its capacity to safely transport passengers and cargo through challenging conditions is a theme that permeates owner reviews, with multiple accounts of the Suburban handling inclement weather and rough terrain admirably. Moreover, these older models often evoke a sense of nostalgia, with their straightforward, tough design contrasting sharply with the more refined modern iterations, appealing to those who desire a practical and rugged vehicle.
Common Issues
The 1997 Chevrolet Suburban faces criticism for certain recurring mechanical issues. A notable concern for many drivers is the frequency of brake system repairs, as components wear out or malfunction more often than expected. Transmission problems also emerge as a common pain point, with several owners having to undertake costly rebuilds. The vehicle's cooling system, including gaskets and radiators, tends to be problematic, with issues like leaks and overheating reported by several users. Additionally, the fuel pump draws complaints for failing prematurely, often necessitating replacement. Electrical issues, such as malfunctioning wipers and window regulators, frustrate owners who seek reliability in inclement weather. Despite these challenges, regular maintenance can mitigate some problems, but the expenses and inconvenience of these repetitive repairs can dampen enthusiasm for the vehicle's otherwise strong performance.
Final Takeaways from Everyday Drivers
The 1997 Chevrolet Suburban offers a mixed bag of daily driving experiences. Drivers appreciate its spaciousness and ability to accommodate large families and substantial cargo with ease, making it a practical choice for those who regularly travel with a full house. On the open road, its capacity to provide a smooth and comfortable ride often surprises newcomers who expect a harsher experience from such a large vehicle. Yet, familiarity with frequent maintenance is a part of ownership, as minor glitches can occasionally disrupt day-to-day functionality. Reliability over long distances remains a highlight, with the Suburban proving dependable on extended road trips and towing endeavors, provided it's adequately maintained. However, the toll of high fuel consumption is felt at the pump, a common trade-off for its size and capability. Ultimately, the Suburban endears itself to those who need its space and strength, even as they stay vigilant against the known quirks of its advanced age and design.
The 1997 Chevrolet Suburban has 3 recalls. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.
Recalls
3 recalls found
Checking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.
If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).
Recall Number:
06E043000
Number of vehicles affected:
88303
Defect Description:
CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 18, 2005, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2006, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE AND ON CERTAIN SCHOOL BUSES. (TO SEE THE SCHOOL BUS ENGINE SIZES, CLICK ON "DOCUMENT SEARCH" AND THEN "BUS APPLICATIONS"). THE CONNECTOR ON THE FUEL FILTER WAS NOT MANUFACTURED TO HONEYWELL'S SPECIFICATION. AS A RESULT, THE O-RING MAY NOT SEAT CORRECTLY ON THE FUEL LINE.
Defect Consequence:
THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE AN INADEQUATE SEAL AT THE CONNECTION, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO A FUEL LEAK. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
Corrective Action:
HONEYWELL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-890-2075 (OPTION 1).
Recall Number:
03V159000
Manufacturer Recall Number:
03023
Manufactured from:
1996-04-01 to 1997-08-31
Number of vehicles affected:
1755876
Defect Description:
ON CERTAIN MINIVANS, PICKUP TRUCKS, AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES WITH CERTAIN MODEL-ENGINE COMBINATIONS, THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR MAY FAIL DUE TO CRACKED SOLDER JOINTS ON THE CONTROLLER CIRCUIT BOARD. THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS COULD WORK INTERMITTENTLY OR NOT AT ALL.
Defect Consequence:
IF THIS WERE TO OCCUR DURING BAD WEATHER, DRIVER VISIBILITY WOULD BE REDUCED, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
Corrective Action:
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE WIPER MOTOR CIRCUIT BOARD AND COVER. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON JUNE 19, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-222-1020, GMC AT 1-800-462-8782, OR OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-442-6537.
Recall Number:
03V093000
Manufacturer Recall Number:
03006
Manufactured from:
1996-05-01 to 1997-08-31
Number of vehicles affected:
507171
Defect Description:
CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, MINI VANS, AND PICKUP TRUCKS MAY DEVELOP A SHORT CIRCUIT IN THE ELECTRIC OUTSIDE REARVIEW MIRROR SWITCH.
Defect Consequence:
IF THIS WERE TO HAPPEN, IT COULD RESULT IN AN INOPERATIVE SWITCH, HEAT DAMAGE TO THE DRIVER+S DOOR, AND/OR IGNITION OF COMPONENTS IN THE DRIVER+S DOOR AND A SUBSEQUENT VEHICLE FIRE WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
Corrective Action:
DEALERS WILL INSTALL A FUSED JUMPER HARNESS TO THE ELECTRIC OUTSIDE REARVIEW MIRROR SWITCH. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON APRIL 24, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-222-1020 OR GMC AT 1-800-462-8782.
Purchased used for $5k @ 150,000 miles.
20,000 miles later I still think it is the Best truck I have ever owned.
I have carried two families of 8 (4 car seats and 4 adults).
I have hauled 1,500 lbs of equipment with space to spare.
I pulled a friends crew cab truck out of 3 1/2 feet of running water (interior and bed flooded) uphill on gravel at idle.
It has protected my family … through two car accidents in which the other vehicles were totaled and the Suburban withstood cosmetic/no damage.
Fantastic comfort for long drives, 3 leather rows.
Moving from Tacoma Wa to Phoenix AZ took two tank-fulls for a 1,600 mile drive.
Over my 20k miles I have averaged 16.3 mpg and maxed at 19.3
Pretty Good Vehicle
4.63 out of 5 stars
VinceInCali, 03/06/2006
1997 Chevrolet Suburban K1500 4dr SUV 4WD
The only problems I have had with mine is the front brakes and the catalytic converter. It seems to run great otherwise
228,000 miles and doing great!
4.25 out of 5 stars
runner97, 09/29/2012
1997 Chevrolet Suburban K1500 4dr SUV 4WD
My 97 4dr k1500 has 228,000 miles and is doing great. Just used it to pull my travel trailer 6,000 lb through Penn, Maryland, WV, V, KY, and back to Michigan and did great! Other than regular maintenace as well it is doing good. Can't be more happy with it.
I don't think you can find anything better for pulling.
Things I wish they would keep in the new suburbans.
A simple, tuff, and … not be afarid to get dirty suburban.
The new ones are to nice. Why would you use it for hauling things in.
Best truck I've ever owned!!
5 out of 5 stars
jbradabadowski, 10/12/2012
1997 Chevrolet Suburban C1500 4dr SUV
I use this truck for a work truck. I usually haul from 1500 to 2000 lbs. of tools in the back of this truck and also pull a 5x10 enclosed trailer fully loaded with tools. It now has 260,000 miles and has never given me any trouble other than I had the transmission rebuilt at 175,000 miles. I have worked this truck much harder than was intended for it and it has never let me down. These … older ones are stronger and tougher trucks than the newer ones. My wife drives a 2006 Tahoe and it is just not the work horse that my older suburban is although hers IS a good truck. If you can find one of these Surburbans from 1995 to 1999 with the 5.7 engine with decent miles, buy it. You'll love it.