How old are Chevy Suburbans?

Chevy Suburbans date back to 1935, making the model line about 90 years old in 2025. The Suburban remains in continuous production and continues to evolve as a full-size, family-friendly SUV.

Historical perspective: A vehicle with a long lineage

The Suburban began life in 1935 as the Carryall Suburban, a wood-bodied wagon designed to haul families and cargo. Over the decades it evolved through many redesigns, expanding interior space and payload while keeping its signature body-on-frame construction. Today it is recognized as one of the longest-running automobile nameplates in the United States.

Enduring design and technology

Despite changing tastes and increasingly stringent safety and efficiency standards, the Suburban has maintained its core identity: a large, rugged, three-row SUV capable of hauling people and gear. It has shifted through generations, incorporating modern powertrains, updated technology, and refined ride quality while remaining a staple for drivers who need space and capability.

Today’s Suburban: Keeping age in perspective

While the Suburban’s product lineup updates across model years, buyers today can purchase a brand-new Suburban for the current model year, with a broad market of used examples that span roughly a decade or more in age depending on history and usage. The age of a particular Suburban is governed by its model year, rather than simply how long it has been on the road.

How to determine the age of the Suburban you’re considering

Use these steps to determine a Suburban’s age and confirm its model year:

1. Locate the VIN on the dashboard near the windshield or the driver's door jamb.


2. Identify the 10th character in the VIN, which encodes the model year (GM uses a year-code that cycles every 20-30 years; consult a VIN-year chart for accuracy).


3. Check the door jamb sticker (the driver’s-side) for the model year and production date.


4. Cross-check the VIN with the Build Sheet or service records for consistency.

Knowing the model year helps with insurance, maintenance schedules, and resale value, since a Suburban’s age directly affects its condition and ownership costs.

Summary

The Chevy Suburban has a history spanning more than 90 years, beginning with its 1935 introduction. It remains a cornerstone of Chevrolet’s lineup in the 2020s, with brand-new models available and a large market of used examples. For buyers and owners, the model year is the key indicator of age, condition, and future maintenance needs, underscoring the Suburban’s unique blend of longevity and practicality.

What years of Suburban to avoid?

You should generally avoid Chevrolet Suburban model years from 2007-2009 and 2015-2017, as these years are frequently cited for significant mechanical issues. The 2007-2009 models are particularly known for problems with the Active Fuel Management (AFM) system, which can lead to engine damage, while 2015-2017 models are often associated with issues in the powertrain and other components. Newer models, specifically 2021-2024, have also been subject to recalls for potential engine damage due to defects in connecting rod and/or crankshaft engine components, according to Cars.com. 
Specific model years to avoid:

• 2007-2009: These years are frequently mentioned as problematic due to the Active Fuel Management (AFM) system, which can lead to excessive oil consumption and other engine issues. 
• 2015-2017: These models are often cited for issues related to the powertrain, and the 8-speed transmission has also been a source of trouble. 
• 2021-2024: These newer models have been recalled due to manufacturing defects in the connecting rod and/or crankshaft engine components, which could lead to engine damage and failure. 

Potential issues in other years:

• 2018-2022: Some reported issues include shaking while driving, stiff brake pedals, and check engine lights. 
• 2010: Known for transmission slipping and fuel pump failures, which can be avoided with proper maintenance. 
• 2004: This model year has had multiple recalls and potential trouble spots, including the transmission and climate control system, according to Consumer Reports and JustAnswer. 

How old are suburbans?

In 1935, Chevy introduced the “Carryall Suburban” to the public and it quickly became a hit with professional customers. And though the term “SUV” wasn't coined for another half-century, the Suburban is widely considered the first such vehicle—and nearly 80 years later it's still one of the most popular.

What is the average life of a Chevy Suburban?

A Chevrolet Suburban can last between 200,000 and 300,000 miles or more with proper maintenance, though a 2015-2016 model generation is noted for potential transmission issues around 125,000-150,000 miles. Regular oil changes, fluid checks, and addressing rust are critical for extending its lifespan.
 
Longevity and factors that influence it

• General lifespan: With consistent maintenance, a Suburban can last for 200,000 to 250,000 miles, with many reaching 300,000 miles or more. 
• Maintenance is key: Proper care, including regular oil changes, transmission fluid flushes, and checking other fluids, is the most significant factor in a vehicle's longevity. 
• Driving conditions: Short daily trips can be harder on an engine than longer, steady drives. 
• Rust: Rust is a major hurdle, especially in "rust belt" areas, and requires diligent washing of the undercarriage to prevent premature failure. 

Common issues and maintenance tips

• Transmissions: Some users have reported transmission failures, particularly in the 2015-2016 model years, around 125,000 to 150,000 miles. Keeping up with transmission service can help mitigate this risk. 
• Routine maintenance: Follow the manufacturer's maintenance schedule and regularly change the oil and filter, check and top off all fluids, and have the cooling system inspected. 
• Other parts: Expect to address wear-and-tear items over time, such as brakes, shocks, and water pumps. 
• Address rust: Promptly address any signs of rust, especially on the frame and undercarriage, to prevent it from compromising the vehicle's structure. 

What year did Chevy start making suburbans?

The Chevrolet Suburban first came out in 1935 when it was introduced to the public as the "Carryall Suburban". While there were earlier models for military use in 1933, the 1935 version is considered the first generation intended for the general public.
 

• 1935: The first generation Suburban is released as a two-door, steel-bodied, station wagon on a truck chassis, with seating for up to eight people. 
• 1937: GMC releases its own version of the Suburban. 
• 1941-1946: The second generation is built, with production continuing during World War II for military transport. 
• 1947: The third generation Suburban is released after the war, which has been in continuous production ever since.