Used 1998 GMC Suburban Consumer Reviews
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We have a limited number of reviews for the 1998 Suburban, so we've included reviews for other years of the Suburban since its last redesign.
Dependable Family Vehicle
FLEX, 03/25/2002
1997 GMC Suburban K1500 4dr SUV 4WD
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
This vehicle has proven itself; especially if you have a large size family. Whether in hot/cold climate, the surbuban always started and performed above standards. Very roomy, dependable, and stylish.
Third times a charm
Bunnys454, 07/24/2010
1998 GMC Suburban K2500 4dr SUV 4WD
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
This is my third suburban I've owned, and i have to say that the third is definitely a charm. I love hauling my kids, their friends, my friends and all the extra crap in the back of my truck. It pulls anything i ask it to and the 454 isn't that bad with mileage. Mine has been slightly neglected over the last year, but my baby always starts and runs for me! I'm proud to be seen in it and know that its a tank but who cares? I'm in Minnesota and I'm telling you, burbs are tanks! Two feet of snow, two wheel drive, and you still can fly past people. Ive been offered on it, but wont sell this one. Hes a keeper for sure!
1998 GMC Suburban for sale near you
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- 1500 4dr SUVMSRP: $4,4491,567 mi away
Sad Owner
disheartened, 11/24/2003
1998 GMC Suburban K1500 4dr SUV 4WD
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Purchased with 83,000 miles. Now 96,000 miles on the clock. Repairs so far: AC hoses & condensor, ($1,000), front breaks, (Repaired by the dealer), shocks, (%150), front end alignment, (twice so far, $200 combined), intake manifold gaskets, due to coolant leak, ($350). Next trip to the shop is scheduled for 12-2- 03 to diagnose another coolant leak. The dealer can't work on this truck for a week due, I suppose, to all of the other 1998 Suburbans in the shop. Do not buy one of these vehicles.
Knock on wood
Dennis, 11/08/2010
1997 GMC Suburban K2500 4dr SUV 4WD
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I have done nothing except for regular maintenance on this vehicle. 1 fuel pump. Two sets of front brakes. 1 water pump. The interstate ride is phenomenal if you can afford the gas. 11 miles to a gallon. 1 tune-up in 10 years. We are overdue. We load it up and go. No thoughts of breakdowns so far. Please Lord, don't let this little bit of bragging jinx me
Solid SUV
I_like_burban, 01/05/2007
1998 GMC Suburban K1500 4dr SUV 4WD
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I purchased this vehicle with 114000 miles six months ago. I've needed to patch the A/C lines and replace two U joints. Other than that, the Suburban has been solid. Great on long trips, comfortable, MPG runs 13-14 city and 15-16 hwy. Usable cargo space is excellent with the third row seats out, and I can pack 8 people in when all the seats are installed. Good substitute for a full sized pickup if you don't want to sacrifice seating space. The Suburbans tend to run a couple of thousand dollars less than comparable pickups on the used market as well. If you're buying a Suburban with over 90,000 miles, look for one that has already had the transmission rebuilt.
Great American made truck
Imateetoo, 07/28/2009
1998 GMC Suburban K2500 4dr SUV 4WD
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
We bought this truck used at 60,000 miles and have had very little trouble with it. I wanted something that could pull my horse trailer over mountains with no problem and it more than delivers. The 2500 model / 454hp engine is outstanding! Having the rear A/C is essential with people in the third seat in the summer. We are and will remain a Suburban family! My last Suburban (a 1979) went to almost 300,000 miles on the original engine. GMC certainly does make a GREAT truck!
LOVE it or LEAVE it
kdb, 03/28/2003
1998 GMC Suburban K1500 4dr SUV 4WD
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
For years I've lusted over the Suburban. However, I thought the new style (2000) was less TRUCK and more Sport Utility. So I bought my 1998. I really use this vehicle and drive it hard. With NUMEROUS cross counrty trips,it is truly an ideal vehicle. I am now getting into what I term as it's "MID LIFE CRISES" and have had to spend some serious money to keep it in the running order I demand. If I didn't love the drive and look of this truck I would have sold it. But as it is I plan on passing 200k before that will happen.
Doesn't quit
Curt, 12/31/2009
1997 GMC Suburban C1500 4dr SUV
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
My 97 Burb was without a doubt, the most reliable vehicle that I have ever owend. It is currently at 391,500 kms (Yes you read it correctly) and going strong.I live in Canada and use it for hunting, fishing, and in -35 degree celcius weather. I have no worries about turning the key and making another 1500 km trip without notice or time to prep. Aside from changing the Fuel Pump once (common problem), I have not had any major issues with her. There is no rust on it and the interior is still in great shape without cracks in the dash or holes in the seats. Aside from regular maintenace and fluid changes, the only thing that I had to change was the air freshener. It never quits!
Car Eating Me Out of House and Home
fifthavenuegirl, 12/01/2006
1997 GMC Suburban K2500 4dr SUV 4WD
2 of 4 people found this review helpful
This car looks really cool but I have only had it a year and it has already cost me $3000 in repair bills. It has been a nightmare and waste of my time waiting in the waiting rooms while it gets fixed. And that doesnt include the $900 for the tires I will have to replace if I keep it. I've only had it a year and bought it with under 100k miles.
Tough & Reliable
JWG, 08/12/2008
1997 GMC Suburban K1500 4dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
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.
1997 K1500 Suburban
RTS, 10/02/2008
1997 GMC Suburban K1500 4dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
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.
Unreliable
sandyle03, 06/20/2009
1997 GMC Suburban C2500 4dr SUV
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
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!
One of GM's Best
Mike H, 06/24/2009
1997 GMC Suburban K1500 4dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
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.
Great Car, Great Value
bw626, 05/07/2010
1997 GMC Suburban K2500 4dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Purchased the SLT 4X4 2500 Suburban new. Had all the options. I put 230,000 miles on it, wrecked it, fixed it, and put another 50,000 on it. Never did anything other than routine maintenace and brakes. I sold my Suburban after buying a new truck in 2007 for $3500-with a repaired title and 280,000 miles on it. These cars are reliable, comfortable, have incredible towing capacity, and have great resale value. Had plenty of room for passengers and cargo space. If you can find one of these used, buy it. They are wonderful cars.
gmc suburban
Kirt, 03/15/2004
1997 GMC Suburban K1500 4dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Minimul problems. Starter went out at 75K miles due to engine heat.
4 months and lovin' it
Mike, 12/29/2004
1997 GMC Suburban C2500 4dr SUV
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I really like this Suburban. This is the first full size SUV I have owned and I love it. I have had minor problems such as the wipers getting stuck, but move after I "help" them. There is also a gremlin in the wiring for the interior lights. They stay on all the time unless I use the override switch. I find these to be minor problems I can live with. I have the 7.4 2wd. Loads of power! Gas mileage the same as my old Grand Cherokee 12mpg. Nine-passenger seating has plenty enough room for three kids and camping gear. Handles great on the open highway, a little tougher to handle in the city traffic. Also, it's a big truck that needs lots of room to stop. Brakes could be better. Great truck.
High Cost of Ownership
dls, 06/04/2003
1997 GMC Suburban K1500 4dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
By far the most costly vehicle I have ever owned (and I consider myself a GM guy). Although I love this vehicle for trips and towing my boat and motocross trailer it has cost me dearly over the past 12 months. Repairs to the transfer case, power steering pump, rear universals, sway bar connecting rods and upper and lower coolant intakes have cost me just under $2500 this year. With only 70K miles on the vehicle I had hoped to own it for another 70K-80K miles. I expect the poor gas mileage, wear and tear and brake pads and a new battery every three years, it's a big vehicle and I bought it with my eyes open.
7 years of great service
Jay, 03/24/2007
1998 GMC Suburban K1500 4dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We bought our '98 Burb in 2000 w/59000 miles, getting out of a poor quality Chrysler minivan. We knew what to expect as far as gas mileage but didn't as far as reliability. After countless trips back and forth to soccer games, school, 2000 mile vacations, this Burbhas never stranded us on the road and has only been in the shop twice for repair work- intake gasket and fuel pump. The only reason we're selling it is because one of my children is getting ready to drive, so we're downsizing. Except for the 14 mpg around town, this Burb has been as dependable as any Toyota or Honda!
Middle of the road
texan, 06/13/2006
1997 GMC Suburban C1500 4dr SUV
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
This SUV is OK. Not bad but not real great. The fuel pump has gone out 4 times and the AC broke. Not bad for 147,000 miles. Handles nicely but hard to park
My Lemon
dgalliga, 10/24/2002
1998 GMC Suburban K1500 4dr SUV 4WD
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
I have always liked GM vehicles. Previous to this suburban I had one I purchased in 1992 that I traded on this vehicle with 165,000 miles. It was a great rig. This one however has been nothing but problems since we purchased it. 2 months after we bought it, it needed a new transmission fluid pump, to the tune of $3000. It then had a period of good working for about a year. In the last three months I have had to replace the alternator, the starter, the water pump, the battery, and just learned that I need a brand new transmission today. While the suburban has been an industry standard, I wouldn't recommend this model year.
WHAT A TRUCK
skriser, 06/10/2002
1997 GMC Suburban K1500 4dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
There are a few things to look for when buying. 1. Make sure it has LT tires and not P, the passenger radial tends to pull even though the alignment is good. We just spent over $500 putting 4 LT tires on and it rides a heck of a lot better. 2. Make sure there are good shocks.The dealer claimed to put on new shocks, they spent $11 a piece. They are wrong for that class of truck.3. Check for maintenace history. 4.Have FUN. We did the 100k tune up,and it runs like a champ. The gas mileage is about 15 mpg, but the tank holds 40 gallons and we can go a long long way on a tank.
Dependable
joevalis, 09/30/2002
1997 GMC Suburban K1500 4dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
One of the best vechicles I ever owned. Rides great and is very dependable. Had no problems with it except normal wear and tear. Has 120000 miles bught it new and I'am going to sell it to my daughter.
I love it
sunflower252003, 11/06/2003
1997 GMC Suburban C1500 4dr SUV
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this SUV and I love it.I have 5 kids and we can all fit comfy.I love chevy
Great older ride
Grady, 05/29/2005
1997 GMC Suburban C1500 4dr SUV
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Had to replace the fuel pump and water pump at 70K miles. Otherwise, a splendid vehicle.
my favorite vehicle
waderboddle, 03/05/2006
1997 GMC Suburban K1500 4dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This vehicle is over nine years old but is still solid, quiet and dependable. I have owned it for five years. It handles well for it's size, tracks well and is a pleasure to drive. Current odometer is 170k. Motor is still quiet and peppy. I use synthetic oil. The downside of this truck is the fuel pump. If you plan to buy one and can hear a buzzing sound, with the engine running, coming from the rear license plate, replace the fuel pump. Also check the gas tank for rust. I've replaced the pump twice myself. I was blessed, both times when it died it was parked.
Old and still running well.
R W, 07/09/2007
1997 GMC Suburban C1500 4dr SUV
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
125,000 miles and still running like a champ. Hauls our 3000 lb travel trailer well, but uses a lot of gas when towing (9 mpg). When not towing I get 18 mpg on the highway. Replaced fuel pump two times in two month (also replaced steering gearbox and alternator, but after 113,000 miles, I suppose that's OK). The engine itself is solid as a rock. 125,000 miles and no leaks. It runs very smooth even on heavy acceleration. I've heard from a lot of people, including mechanics, to watch the tranny. Had a spring break in the tranny, but was inexpensive to repair.
5 for 5
bww, 05/21/2003
1997 GMC Suburban C1500 4dr SUV
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I'm on my 5th Suburban. I love them and I feel my family is safe in one. Safety is more important to me than a few miles per gallon. By the way all 5 of my Suburbans have averaged 18-20 mgp on the road. Not bad considering that I usually I'm loaded up with gear.
Great sooo Far!
larry brixey, 06/28/2003
1997 GMC Suburban K1500 4dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
WE just purchased this SUV and soo far soo good! It runs great and has plenty of room for 8! My wife and daughter love the size and the reliability. WE plan on lifting it 3" and upsizing the tires to probably 36" Inches. It is a stylish, comfortable and affordable!
I love my sub
Dena Shatzer, 04/19/2008
1997 GMC Suburban K1500 4dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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.
Keeps on Going
Gene, 03/04/2021
updated 03/06/2023
1997 GMC Suburban C1500 4dr SUV
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great family vehicle. Has definitely been the most dependable vehicle I have ever owned. Keeping any vehicle long term will involve some repairs and I had to replace the transmission after pulling around a 30 foot trailer for a while. Wear and tear means occasional repairs but she keeps on a going...currently 787,000 miles (so far) Update: now up to 830K and still running well...doesn't really like to climb hills at high altitudes (>7500 ft) as much any more, but otherwise is being a trooper. Still the vehicle for our exploring.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Great First Vehicle! Proud Owner
PrdSubrbnDrvr, 06/13/2008
1998 GMC Suburban K1500 4dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I was handed down the Suburban from my parents 2 years ago when I turned 16, my parents bought the 2006 Denali XL. I love this truck! It is so fun to drive everywhere, I love taking my friends around. The gas mileage is good, the 44 gallon tank helps a lot, but not at the pump($160 everytime, but lasts forever!) This truck has been nothing but reliable and strong for us. Only fix was the fuel pump went out at 120,000. It has been through towing the 7000lb camper everywhere. I am still debating on if I ever want to replace it. I want to run it till it dies, it's at 125,000 now. I say to people I drive a tank, and it is. The Ford Excursion may be bigger, but not all metal like mine!
Really A Proud Suburban Driver!
prdsubrbndrvr, 11/16/2008
1998 GMC Suburban K1500 4dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My Suburban is my tank! I am in college and love to drive all my friends around and everyone is sooo safe and comfy! Its a beast! The MPG is actually ok for being an older Suburban. The 44 gallon tank is the best thing ever for going a long time without filling up! I would like to thank my parents for handing this down to me! Minimal mechanical problems due to its age, but its always running strong! Took is off roading, 4x4 is the bomb on my tank! I will keep this till its end!
GM Engineers were touched by God
BigRon65, 02/27/2009
1998 GMC Suburban K1500 4dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I wouldn't trade this vehicle for anything in the world. I've raised three kids in this beast and it still runs like a top after 140,00 miles. A steering issue and a water pump are all the problems I've had with this baby and that's it. A few weeks ago I got T-boned by three full grown deer running across a dimly lit two lane road in the middle of a cold night. They hit me in full stride. My GMC didn't budge! I checked the rear view and the deer were sprawled across the road. Got some damage to my doors and quarter panels but I've had them fixed and my baby still runs great. Get one and keep it forever.
Long Time Owner
Marshall, 11/21/2009
1998 GMC Suburban C1500 4dr SUV
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought vehicle in 11/97, and have driven over 297,000 miles. Original transmission lasted 207,000. Have replaced just about everything (except engine) several times. Worst experience involved the fuel pump... after replacing 3 times in 12 months, discovered the fuel harness underneath vehicle had a nick (from a rock?), and when it bumped metal it would burn the pump up. Needless to say, our family of 5 have loved the Suburban, and would definitely purchase another.
1998 suburban
bill from memphis, 07/13/2002
1998 GMC Suburban C2500 4dr SUV
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
ride is great. gas mileage is not have had problems with brakes, a/c ,cooling.
Look Out! The Bus is coming through!
98 Bus, 08/02/2002
1998 GMC Suburban K1500 4dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My wife and I have had the pleasure of driving this beast for over a year and have yet to have a major problem. It's definitely BIG, but people out there tend to give you the room needed for handling such a beast. Handling-we're both surprised how the "Bus" drives and handles. I'd recommend a good set of Michelin's and not the all-terrain tires...it definitely takes away from the ride! Around town, it's great...off- road (mud & sand), not a problem (old set of Dunlop AT tires). Word of advice- be prepared for $45.00 plus gas fill- ups! Normal city / highway 12.5 to 13 mpg! Not bad for safety, quality, looks, and road command.
Bought Used
prudence, 10/18/2003
1998 GMC Suburban K1500 4dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought it used used with 35K+ miles. Added 100K ext warr though AAA. Have 100K+ miles now. Truck looks great and has been roomy, reliable but have only had one GMC dealer do all the work (same dealer has worked on it since sold new). Warranty has come in handy when parts wear out. Truck is quiet. Good off road but heavy. Have lubed, oil and filter every 2k to 3k miles. Use synthetics. Highway mileage 17+ Average/mixed 14.
Just Fine
From the Flatland, 12/06/2003
1998 GMC Suburban K1500 4dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Four years and counting. This GMC has been very reliable. It's a smooth ride, easy to maneuver for its size, and about what you can expect for gas mileage. Just about to 100K with pretty much normal maintenance (which is performed religiously).
Best SUV ever
Vetdoc, 01/23/2004
1998 GMC Suburban K1500 4dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love my 1998 GMC Suburban. I tow a trailer and I have 4 people in my family to travel in it with. Good gas mileage for a big SUV. Very fun to drive and reliable.
Saved My Family's Life
haocamper, 12/19/2004
1998 GMC Suburban C1500 4dr SUV
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Our 1998 GMC Suburban was totaled in a wreck. Thank God we were in a Suburban! The vehicle rolled and ended up upside down on the expressway. The camper we were towing flipped on it's side causing it and our truck to flip. I have three small children (still in carseats) and we all walked away without a scratch and my husband only had a nasty cut on his arm from the glass. The roof was barely crushed in. My husband is 6'6" and had plenty of head room in the Suburban - it saved his life. I will never own another vehicle but a Suburban seeing how well it held up in the crash. I only had to make minor maintenance repairs over the three years and 130,000 miles that we had it. We will soon be purchasing another one.
Perfect for me!
Proud AZ owner, 06/08/2007
1998 GMC Suburban K1500 4dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My parents bought our Suburban in 1998 to tow our RV with. It performed outstandingly and when towing, the Suburban didn't hesitate a bit. We love our Suburban! It has been across the US towing the RV, it provided 100's of safe and comfy trips! We just recently bought a 2006 Yukon XL Denali to tow our RV because the Suburban is getting older now. Last year, I got my license and I knew I wanted the Suburban. I love being taller and bigger than all the other cars!
Strongest SUV Ever!
Automan, 07/26/2005
1998 GMC Suburban K1500 4dr SUV 4WD
0 of 4 people found this review helpful
Lets start with my truck is the stongest truck I have ever owned. I have the 5.7 V8 4x4 and I tow my 30ft. travel trailer that weighs 7500 dry! It tows it like nothing, sometimes I forget until I look in the rear view mirror. I can tow with it going 65 up steep hills! My Suburban is maroon with tan leather interior. Seats 8 with room for more. We take our friends and their family members everywhere in it. It looks and drives like when I bought it new.