Owners have filed 101 complaints
about the 2019 Chevrolet Suburban with NHTSA between 2019 and 2026.
The largest single group is the transmission & drivetrain.
Across this model's run it ranks 21 of 32 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 16
Against the median year of the Chevrolet Suburban. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 36
6.9% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 69
41% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
How 2019 compares with every other Chevrolet Suburban
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
616.2%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
513.5%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
410.8%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
25.4%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
410.8%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
1129.7%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
410.8%
150,000+ miles
12.7%
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Aug 2019peak 9Jul 2026
Recalls on the 2019 Chevrolet Suburban
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
United States — NHTSA
26V289000
POWER TRAIN:TRANSFER CASE (4-WHEEL DRIVE)
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2026 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, and Tahoe, and GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles with four-wheel (4WD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), and certain 2015-2020 Suburban, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Yukon, Yukon XL, and Tahoe vehicles. A component missing from the drivetrain transfer case may cause the front and/or rear wheels to lock up without warning to the driver.
Risk: Front or rear wheel lockup increases the risk of a crash.
19V761000
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:WHEEL SPEED SENSOR/TONE RING
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2015-2020 Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe, and GMC Yukon, and 2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 vehicles equipped with a 5.3-liter engine, a 3.08-ratio rear axle and four-wheel drive. If a wheel-speed sensor fails, while the vehicle is traveling between 41 and 60 mph in four-wheel or automatic mode, the Electronic-Brake Control Module (EBCM) software may activate the driveline-protection system.
Risk: Unintended activation of the driveline-protection system will cause unintended braking on the wheel on the opposite side of the failed sensor, causing the vehicle to pull to one side unexpectedly, increasing the risk of a crash.
18V673000
SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Cadillac CT6, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban, Volt, and GMC Yukon XL vehicles. Certain second-row or third-row rear seatbelts retractor assemblies may not automatically lock when the seatbelt is fully pulled out of the retractor, possibly preventing a child seat from being properly secured. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Risk: If the child seat is not properly secured in the event of a crash, it can increase the risk of injury.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 201953337,378 units in Canada
Brakes
Issue: On certain vehicles, there may be an error in the electronic-brake control module software. This could cause the driveline-protection system to activate when a wheel-speed sensor fails. If this happens, the brakes could apply and cause the vehicle to pull to one side. Note: This recall only affects vehicles equipped with four-wheel drive, a 5.3-L engine, and a 3.08 ratio rear axle. The problem can only occur when the vehicle is in four-wheel drive or automatic mode, and travelling at a speed between 66 and 97 km/h (41 and 60 mph). A wheel-speed sensor failure will cause the electronic stability control (ESC) and anti-lock braking system (ABS) warning lights to turn on, and a "Service StabiliTrak" message to display. Safety Risk: A vehicle that suddenly pulls to one side could increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: General Motors will notify owners by mail and instruct you to take your vehicle to a dealer to update the electronic-brake control module software. General Motors advises that using two-wheel-drive mode can eliminate the risk until the recall repair is completed.
Recall 20194205,327 units in Canada
Other
Issue: This recall is for aftermarket replacement rear window glass produced by Vitro Automotriz. Certain rear window glass may not have been properly tempered. If the window breaks, the glass may separate into large pieces instead of very small ones. Note: This is a voluntary recall that is not being conducted under the requirements of the Motor Vehicle Safety Act. Safety Risk: Glass that breaks in to large pieces could create a risk of injury. Corrective Actions: The company will notify consumers by mail and instruct them to inspect the designation code marked on the rear window glass. Products affected by this recall have the designation “DOT 287” along with the lettering “VMR” (Replacement Market) and a date code that is before July 2019. This information is printed on the bottom corner of the glass. Consumers should contact Vitro's customer service at 1-412-995-6457 or argbacklites@vitro.com to arrange for replacement of the glass.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
Graham, WACrash
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
We were in an accident with minor exterior damage but when closer look the frame is damaged and even bolts to engine bent. Insurance company first totalled then decided to repair with new frame . All car experts say that the vehicle will decrease substantially in value. My concern is that we have no control or protection about how it is repaired and if we sell it with the current VIN number, it is misleading to the new buyer as it was not assembled as stated in the VIN number. Would appreciate your response.
NHTSA complaint #11474915 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Graham, WACrash
STRUCTURE:BODY
We were in an accident with minor exterior damage but when closer look the frame is damaged and even bolts to engine bent. Insurance company first totalled then decided to repair with new frame . All car experts say that the vehicle will decrease substantially in value. My concern is that we have no control or protection about how it is repaired and if we sell it with the current VIN number, it is misleading to the new buyer as it was not assembled as stated in the VIN number. Would appreciate your response.
NHTSA complaint #11474915 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 55,000 milesIrving, TXCrash1 injured
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2019 CHEVROLET SUBURBAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE ATTEMPTING TO PARK AND THE BRAKE PEDAL DEPRESSED, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED TO THE RIGHT AND CRASHED INTO A BUILDING. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT AS THE FAILURE OCCURRED HE FORCEFULLY PRESSED THE BRAKE PEDAL TO NO AVAIL. THERE WERE NO WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED INJURIES TO THE LEGS BUT MEDICAL ATTENTION DID NOT SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACTS HOME. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED, THE DALLAS POLICE DEPARTMENT WAS PRESENT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 55,000.
NHTSA complaint #11343538 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
South Berwick, ME1 injured
STEERING
2019 CHEVROLET SUBURBAN. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO ISSUES WITH THE ELECTRONIC VEHICLE STEERING SYSTEM. *LD CONSUMER SENT ADDITIONAL CORRESPONDENCE. *LD THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE WOULD VEER OUT OF THE LANE. THE STEERING WAS DIFFICULT TO CONTROL CAUSING TENDONITIS TO THE HANDS AND ARMS, HEADACHES, AND FATIGUE. THE DEALER WAS NOTIFIED AND STATED THE COMPUTER NEEDED TO ADJUST TO THE CONSUMER'S DRIVING. *JS
NHTSA complaint #11253855 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 1,200 milesMclean, VAFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
DRIVING OUR NEWLY PURCHASED 4 WEEK OLD SUBURBAN DOWN I95. FOLLOWING A BATHROOM BREAK AT A REST STOP, WE LOADED UP IN THE CAR, STARTED IT VIA THE PUSH IGNITION AND DROVE DOWN THE ON RAMP ONTO THE HIGHWAY. WITHIN SECONDS, SMOKE BEGAN BILLOWING FROM THE HOOD. A FIRE UNDER THE HOOD ENSUED. WE WERE TRAVELING AT APPROXIMATELY 30-40MPH, WHEN THE SMOKE BECAME SUDDENLY HEAVY. WE PULLED OVER AND PARKED THE CAR ON THE SHOULDER AND ATTEMPTED TO TURN IT OFF. FOR 30-40 SECONDS, THE CAR WOULD NOT TURN OFF, RATHER, IT SHOOK AND SPUTTERED. WE EVACUATED THE CAR AND CALLED THE STATE POLICE WHO ARRIVED SHORTLY THEREAFTER. THE SUBURBAN WAS TOWED TO RICK HENDRICK CHEVROLET IN RICHMOND, VIRGINIA. ABOUT A WEEK LATER, WE WERE TOLD THAT THE PUSH IGNITION IN THE CAR CAUSED AN ELECTRICAL FIRE. CHEVROLET STILL HAS THE CAR AND IS WORKING TO REPAIR, BUT WE HAVE CONCERNS ABOUT TAKING POSSESSION OF A 4 WEEK OLD CAR THAT CAUGHT FIRE. WOULD APPRECIATE CHEVROLET'S ASSISTANCE, BUT THE DEALERSHIP THAT WE PURCHASED THE VEHICLE, KOONS CHEVROLET OF MCLEAN, HAS BEEN NONRESPONSIVE AND VERY UNHELPFUL.
NHTSA complaint #11241952 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 1,200 milesMclean, VAFire
ENGINE
DRIVING OUR NEWLY PURCHASED 4 WEEK OLD SUBURBAN DOWN I95. FOLLOWING A BATHROOM BREAK AT A REST STOP, WE LOADED UP IN THE CAR, STARTED IT VIA THE PUSH IGNITION AND DROVE DOWN THE ON RAMP ONTO THE HIGHWAY. WITHIN SECONDS, SMOKE BEGAN BILLOWING FROM THE HOOD. A FIRE UNDER THE HOOD ENSUED. WE WERE TRAVELING AT APPROXIMATELY 30-40MPH, WHEN THE SMOKE BECAME SUDDENLY HEAVY. WE PULLED OVER AND PARKED THE CAR ON THE SHOULDER AND ATTEMPTED TO TURN IT OFF. FOR 30-40 SECONDS, THE CAR WOULD NOT TURN OFF, RATHER, IT SHOOK AND SPUTTERED. WE EVACUATED THE CAR AND CALLED THE STATE POLICE WHO ARRIVED SHORTLY THEREAFTER. THE SUBURBAN WAS TOWED TO RICK HENDRICK CHEVROLET IN RICHMOND, VIRGINIA. ABOUT A WEEK LATER, WE WERE TOLD THAT THE PUSH IGNITION IN THE CAR CAUSED AN ELECTRICAL FIRE. CHEVROLET STILL HAS THE CAR AND IS WORKING TO REPAIR, BUT WE HAVE CONCERNS ABOUT TAKING POSSESSION OF A 4 WEEK OLD CAR THAT CAUGHT FIRE. WOULD APPRECIATE CHEVROLET'S ASSISTANCE, BUT THE DEALERSHIP THAT WE PURCHASED THE VEHICLE, KOONS CHEVROLET OF MCLEAN, HAS BEEN NONRESPONSIVE AND VERY UNHELPFUL.
NHTSA complaint #11241952 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Tomball, TX
POWER TRAIN
I bought this vehicle in August 202 from Bayway Chevrolet in Pearland, Texas. The vehicle is now at 101,703 miles. The vehicle is a 2019 Chevy Suburban LT with the 8L43 transmission. Approximately 1 year ago, we started to have issues with the electronic screens - both the dashboard and the radio screen. The screens freeze, change channels and displays without any buttons being pressed or the screen being touched. Due to cost, we have not had this repaired yet, however our usual mechanic has said that he sees this issue all the time in smart technology vehicles. The transmission, on XXX, we were going to a family dinner and the vehicle started shifting hard and making a clanking noise. We turned around and went straight home. The next morning we took the vehicle to our mechanic who said the motor mounts were broken and a tune-up was needed. We got the vehicle back on Monday, XXX. Tuesday the XXX, I drove about 100 miles for work and noticed the vehicle was making a whining sound from the transmission. Took it to mechanic, by the time we drove about 2 miles to the mechanic, the entire transmission was completely broken. We now have to pay $5402.19 to rebuild the transmission at only 101,703 miles. I know GM is under a lot of scrutiny with the transmission issues right now and I believe my transmission is another one of those affected.
NHTSA complaint #11753997 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Tomball, TX
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I bought this vehicle in August 202 from Bayway Chevrolet in Pearland, Texas. The vehicle is now at 101,703 miles. The vehicle is a 2019 Chevy Suburban LT with the 8L43 transmission. Approximately 1 year ago, we started to have issues with the electronic screens - both the dashboard and the radio screen. The screens freeze, change channels and displays without any buttons being pressed or the screen being touched. Due to cost, we have not had this repaired yet, however our usual mechanic has said that he sees this issue all the time in smart technology vehicles. The transmission, on XXX, we were going to a family dinner and the vehicle started shifting hard and making a clanking noise. We turned around and went straight home. The next morning we took the vehicle to our mechanic who said the motor mounts were broken and a tune-up was needed. We got the vehicle back on Monday, XXX. Tuesday the XXX, I drove about 100 miles for work and noticed the vehicle was making a whining sound from the transmission. Took it to mechanic, by the time we drove about 2 miles to the mechanic, the entire transmission was completely broken. We now have to pay $5402.19 to rebuild the transmission at only 101,703 miles. I know GM is under a lot of scrutiny with the transmission issues right now and I believe my transmission is another one of those affected.
NHTSA complaint #11753997 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Pounding Mill, VA
POWER TRAIN
Transmission broke.
NHTSA complaint #11752858 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Pounding Mill, VA
ENGINE
Oil pressure acting weird. We checked the oil and there were only 2 quarts of oil in truck. I just had an oil change 3 weeks ago. No oil leaks. Engine must be burning oil for some reason.
NHTSA complaint #11752859 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 88,000 milesFort Lauderdale, FL
POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2019 Chevrolet Suburban. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. The contact stated that while the brake pedal was depressed, the vehicle jerked abnormally. The contact stated that the vehicle jerked abnormally hard. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to three dealers, and the vehicle was diagnosed with transmission failure. The contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not replaced. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 88,000.
NHTSA complaint #11752201 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Garden Grove, CA
POWER TRAIN
Since December 2020, our Suburban has been in for seven extended, documented dealership repair events at Guaranty Chevrolet and Simpson Chevrolet of Garden Grove, totaling 192 cumulative days out of service and $47,560.86 in documented repair invoices — approximately 71% of what we paid for the vehicle. Those repairs have included a complete transmission replacement (58,861 miles), a recurrence of the same active-lifter defect only ten days later, an ignition coil failure, fuel injector and air conditioning failures, an oil pump failure, and, most seriously, a complete engine replacement (66,854 miles) after the dealership documented metal in the oil and filter and engine end play. The situation has continued to worsen. We picked up the vehicle on XXX following the complete engine replacement. Only six days later, on July 6, 2026, the check-engine light returned and we brought the vehicle back to the dealership. We were initially told the issue was a sensor; the following day, we were informed that the replacement engine — which the dealership had disclosed to us at the time was a refurbished unit — was itself defective and would need to be replaced a second time. As of this writing, that repair remains open. In other words, the remedy provided for this vehicle's most serious failure did not resolve the problem, and we are once again without our vehicle. This pattern of failures has caused real, ongoing hardship for our family. We specifically purchased a full-size, top-trim Suburban for its seating and cargo capacity: we have two teenagers at home who depend on us for transportation to school and activities, we regularly care for grandchildren, and our [XXX] daughter has Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), a debilitating condition that often requires her to use a wheelchair. The Suburban's cargo space is what allows us to transport her together with her wheelchair. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11750421 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Garden Grove, CA
SEAT BELTS
Since December 2020, our Suburban has been in for seven extended, documented dealership repair events at Guaranty Chevrolet and Simpson Chevrolet of Garden Grove, totaling 192 cumulative days out of service and $47,560.86 in documented repair invoices — approximately 71% of what we paid for the vehicle. Those repairs have included a complete transmission replacement (58,861 miles), a recurrence of the same active-lifter defect only ten days later, an ignition coil failure, fuel injector and air conditioning failures, an oil pump failure, and, most seriously, a complete engine replacement (66,854 miles) after the dealership documented metal in the oil and filter and engine end play. The situation has continued to worsen. We picked up the vehicle on XXX following the complete engine replacement. Only six days later, on July 6, 2026, the check-engine light returned and we brought the vehicle back to the dealership. We were initially told the issue was a sensor; the following day, we were informed that the replacement engine — which the dealership had disclosed to us at the time was a refurbished unit — was itself defective and would need to be replaced a second time. As of this writing, that repair remains open. In other words, the remedy provided for this vehicle's most serious failure did not resolve the problem, and we are once again without our vehicle. This pattern of failures has caused real, ongoing hardship for our family. We specifically purchased a full-size, top-trim Suburban for its seating and cargo capacity: we have two teenagers at home who depend on us for transportation to school and activities, we regularly care for grandchildren, and our [XXX] daughter has Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), a debilitating condition that often requires her to use a wheelchair. The Suburban's cargo space is what allows us to transport her together with her wheelchair. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11750421 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Garden Grove, CA
ENGINE
Since December 2020, our Suburban has been in for seven extended, documented dealership repair events at Guaranty Chevrolet and Simpson Chevrolet of Garden Grove, totaling 192 cumulative days out of service and $47,560.86 in documented repair invoices — approximately 71% of what we paid for the vehicle. Those repairs have included a complete transmission replacement (58,861 miles), a recurrence of the same active-lifter defect only ten days later, an ignition coil failure, fuel injector and air conditioning failures, an oil pump failure, and, most seriously, a complete engine replacement (66,854 miles) after the dealership documented metal in the oil and filter and engine end play. The situation has continued to worsen. We picked up the vehicle on XXX following the complete engine replacement. Only six days later, on July 6, 2026, the check-engine light returned and we brought the vehicle back to the dealership. We were initially told the issue was a sensor; the following day, we were informed that the replacement engine — which the dealership had disclosed to us at the time was a refurbished unit — was itself defective and would need to be replaced a second time. As of this writing, that repair remains open. In other words, the remedy provided for this vehicle's most serious failure did not resolve the problem, and we are once again without our vehicle. This pattern of failures has caused real, ongoing hardship for our family. We specifically purchased a full-size, top-trim Suburban for its seating and cargo capacity: we have two teenagers at home who depend on us for transportation to school and activities, we regularly care for grandchildren, and our [XXX] daughter has Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), a debilitating condition that often requires her to use a wheelchair. The Suburban's cargo space is what allows us to transport her together with her wheelchair. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11750421 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 120,000 milesAngier, NC
SEAT BELTS:PRETENSIONER
The contact owns a 2019 Chevrolet Suburban. The contact stated that the middle row seat belts failed to retract, and the seat belts became inoperable. The contact had taken the vehicle to an independent mechanic and to two dealers, and the contact was informed that the seat belts could not be replaced because parts were no longer manufactured. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.
NHTSA complaint #11750255 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Odometer Fraud. The contact was in the process of purchasing a 2019 Chevrolet Surburban. It was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. Contact stated the vehicle was a private dealer sale were they garage vehicles at 1524 Firestone Blvd. LA CA 90001. Contact stated vehicle was being sold with a milage of 69,430 but it was later discovered that Carfax reported vehicle mileage as 154,206.
NHTSA complaint #11741842 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Nashport, OH
ENGINE
When I first got this vehicle 2019 brand new off the lot the dealership in newark ohio had to completely rewire it. It took them a month to figure it out. I just replaced the transmission and now the engine is out. A piston rod snapped hit both sides an cracked the sides and the oil pan.
NHTSA complaint #11739942 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Waynesville, NC
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The rear defroster malfunctioned and caused the rear glass to reach a high temperature, and it started raining outside, and it caused the rear glass to shatter. No known issues before? We come to this conclusion by looking at the black overheating marks on the glass after it shattered.
NHTSA complaint #11739846 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Pinecrest, FL
POWER TRAIN
Transmission stalling, hesitating, affecting engine performance and rpm's. broke down on highway. We replaced the transmission, now it's doing a similar problem and the mechanic says the engine is failing, cylinders issues. I've read up it's happening to many of the same year make and model. I spent 7k on a new transmission. Now a new engine??? ...frustrating! Please help
NHTSA complaint #11739110 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Pinecrest, FL
ENGINE
Transmission stalling, hesitating, affecting engine performance and rpm's. broke down on highway. We replaced the transmission, now it's doing a similar problem and the mechanic says the engine is failing, cylinders issues. I've read up it's happening to many of the same year make and model. I spent 7k on a new transmission. Now a new engine??? ...frustrating! Please help
NHTSA complaint #11739110 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Bedford, TX
VISIBILITY/WIPER
The rear window exploded and shattered while sitting parked in front of my house.
NHTSA complaint #11732598 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Audubon, NJ
ENGINE
I was driving yesterday when my car began to shake at low RPMs. The traction control light came on steadily and the check engine light was blinking. I was unable to safely accelerate. I took it to my mechanic who tested spark plugs and coils, which he confirmed aren't the problem. He informed me that this is a common issue with the GM 6.2L engine, but mine isn't part of the recall. After checking online I see that this is exactly what many others are reporting and that there's an NHTSA investigation as well as a class action lawsuit tied to this issue.
NHTSA complaint #11730201 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 112,000 milesEvans, GA
POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2019 Chevrolet Suburban. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle slowed down and failed to properly shift gears. The contact shifted into neutral while stopping the vehicle. Additionally, the contact stated that the vehicle failed to accelerate as needed. The vehicle was driven to a dealer, where it was diagnosed with severe fluid leakage and torque converter shutter. The contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 112,000.
NHTSA complaint #11728758 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Baltimore, MD
POWER TRAIN
Two years ago, we had to have the transmission rebuilt after it kept slipping. Yesterday, as I was driving on I-95, I was passing a vehicle and pressed on the gas. There was a loud crunching noise and I lost acceleration. The check engine light came on right away and I couldn’t press on the gas without a noise and limited forward momentum. I then had to maneuver the car across four lanes of traffic with limited control over speed. There was no warnings an issue was going to occur. We had it towed to our mechanic who said there was low compression in cylinder 1. Less than 90 psi. Again, we had already had the transmission replaced and now this major engine issue. We are in the process of getting it to a Chevy dealer.
NHTSA complaint #11725090 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Baltimore, MD
ENGINE
Two years ago, we had to have the transmission rebuilt after it kept slipping. Yesterday, as I was driving on I-95, I was passing a vehicle and pressed on the gas. There was a loud crunching noise and I lost acceleration. The check engine light came on right away and I couldn’t press on the gas without a noise and limited forward momentum. I then had to maneuver the car across four lanes of traffic with limited control over speed. There was no warnings an issue was going to occur. We had it towed to our mechanic who said there was low compression in cylinder 1. Less than 90 psi. Again, we had already had the transmission replaced and now this major engine issue. We are in the process of getting it to a Chevy dealer.
NHTSA complaint #11725090 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Poland, ME
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Year: 2019 Make: GMC Model: Suburban Mileage: Approximately 125,000 miles (purchased under 90,000 miles) 1. Transmission Failure My vehicle is experiencing clear signs of transmission failure, including: •Hard downshifting/clunking •RPM fluctuations while cruising •Shuddering between approximately 30–50 mph •Vibrations while idling •Hesitation and irregular shifting These symptoms have progressively worsened and are consistent with widespread complaints I have found from other 2019 Suburban owners. This appears to be a known issue affecting multiple vehicles. 2. Rear Liftgate / Electrical Malfunction The rear trunk/liftgate has closed on its own without warning multiple times. I have personally been struck in the head several times as a result. This presents a serious injury risk, especially for families loading children or cargo. There is clearly an electrical or sensor malfunction causing this behavior. 3. Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) System Activating Randomly The most alarming issue is that the automatic emergency braking system has activated on its own multiple times while driving on the turnpike with no obstruction present. This has nearly caused accidents on several occasions. Unexpected braking at highway speeds creates an extremely dangerous situation for both my family and surrounding drivers. These issues are not minor inconveniences — they are serious safety hazards. Sudden braking, unintended liftgate closure, and transmission failure all create significant risk of injury or collision. Given the number of similar complaints publicly reported by other owners, I am requesting that NHTSA formally investigate these defects and determine whether a recall should be issued for affected 2019 GMC Suburban vehicles. I am extremely concerned for the safety of my family and others on the road. Please confirm receipt of this complaint and advise if additional information is needed. Sincerely, [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)
NHTSA complaint #11720007 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Poland, ME
ENGINE
Year: 2019 Make: GMC Model: Suburban Mileage: Approximately 125,000 miles (purchased under 90,000 miles) 1. Transmission Failure My vehicle is experiencing clear signs of transmission failure, including: •Hard downshifting/clunking •RPM fluctuations while cruising •Shuddering between approximately 30–50 mph •Vibrations while idling •Hesitation and irregular shifting These symptoms have progressively worsened and are consistent with widespread complaints I have found from other 2019 Suburban owners. This appears to be a known issue affecting multiple vehicles. 2. Rear Liftgate / Electrical Malfunction The rear trunk/liftgate has closed on its own without warning multiple times. I have personally been struck in the head several times as a result. This presents a serious injury risk, especially for families loading children or cargo. There is clearly an electrical or sensor malfunction causing this behavior. 3. Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) System Activating Randomly The most alarming issue is that the automatic emergency braking system has activated on its own multiple times while driving on the turnpike with no obstruction present. This has nearly caused accidents on several occasions. Unexpected braking at highway speeds creates an extremely dangerous situation for both my family and surrounding drivers. These issues are not minor inconveniences — they are serious safety hazards. Sudden braking, unintended liftgate closure, and transmission failure all create significant risk of injury or collision. Given the number of similar complaints publicly reported by other owners, I am requesting that NHTSA formally investigate these defects and determine whether a recall should be issued for affected 2019 GMC Suburban vehicles. I am extremely concerned for the safety of my family and others on the road. Please confirm receipt of this complaint and advise if additional information is needed. Sincerely, [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)
NHTSA complaint #11720007 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Year: 2019 Make: GMC Model: Suburban Mileage: Approximately 125,000 miles (purchased under 90,000 miles) 1. Transmission Failure My vehicle is experiencing clear signs of transmission failure, including: •Hard downshifting/clunking •RPM fluctuations while cruising •Shuddering between approximately 30–50 mph •Vibrations while idling •Hesitation and irregular shifting These symptoms have progressively worsened and are consistent with widespread complaints I have found from other 2019 Suburban owners. This appears to be a known issue affecting multiple vehicles. 2. Rear Liftgate / Electrical Malfunction The rear trunk/liftgate has closed on its own without warning multiple times. I have personally been struck in the head several times as a result. This presents a serious injury risk, especially for families loading children or cargo. There is clearly an electrical or sensor malfunction causing this behavior. 3. Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) System Activating Randomly The most alarming issue is that the automatic emergency braking system has activated on its own multiple times while driving on the turnpike with no obstruction present. This has nearly caused accidents on several occasions. Unexpected braking at highway speeds creates an extremely dangerous situation for both my family and surrounding drivers. These issues are not minor inconveniences — they are serious safety hazards. Sudden braking, unintended liftgate closure, and transmission failure all create significant risk of injury or collision. Given the number of similar complaints publicly reported by other owners, I am requesting that NHTSA formally investigate these defects and determine whether a recall should be issued for affected 2019 GMC Suburban vehicles. I am extremely concerned for the safety of my family and others on the road. Please confirm receipt of this complaint and advise if additional information is needed. Sincerely, [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)
NHTSA complaint #11720007 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Carroll, IA
POWER TRAIN
The suburban pulls to side. I got it into the service center and they tried to fix the alignment but when we got it back it still does it. So im not driving it til it gets a second opinion because its definitely not the alignment if it is still doing it. So I dont feel safe driving it with me or especially my kids in it.
NHTSA complaint #11714003 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Carroll, IA
STEERING
The suburban pulls to side. I got it into the service center and they tried to fix the alignment but when we got it back it still does it. So im not driving it til it gets a second opinion because its definitely not the alignment if it is still doing it. So I dont feel safe driving it with me or especially my kids in it.
NHTSA complaint #11714003 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Wheatfield, IN
ENGINE
Statement of Incident and Repair Costs While driving on the expressway at approximately 70 mph in the express lane with my family in the vehicle, the engine suddenly began to stutter and run rough. Within seconds, the vehicle lost engine power, the oil light came on, and the check-engine light started flashing. The sudden loss of power caused another vehicle to almost collide with us from behind, narrowly missing my family when our truck slowed abruptly. Because of the immediate danger, we were forced to cross two lanes of interstate traffic to reach the shoulder as quickly as possible, putting my entire family at further risk. We were then stranded on the side of the expressway. The vehicle was taken to the Chevy dealership in DeMotte, Indiana. Their diagnosis determined a catastrophic engine failure caused by lifter failure, resulting in bent rods and damage to the camshaft. Despite widespread reports and known issues involving lifter failures in this model, there is no recall for this year and model. As a result, we were left to cover the full cost of the repair. The dealership did not provide a rental vehicle, even though this truck is our family’s only means of transportation large enough to safely haul all of us. Insurance would not cover the failure due to the numerous notices and documentation showing that GM/Chevy is aware of this problem but has not initiated a recall. Total cost of repair: $8,801.53, paid out of pocket. Of which we had to borrow and scrape to figure out how to pay for it, due to it being our only vehicle for our family. Now we are left with the uncertainty as to whether the same thing will happen again, endangering the lives of our family yet again, due to living out more in the country and having to drive 30+ miles one way to get to grocery stores etc… on roads that have a speed limit of 55mph rt 49 going north from south of the Kankakee river or the expressway again where the other incident occurred I65 by Lowell Indiana exit.
NHTSA complaint #11701254 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.