Last updated: 2026-03-04

2021 Chevrolet Suburban Reliability Score & Common Problems
The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban scores 60/100 ("Good"). With 12 recalls and 149 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
2021 is the first model year of the Twelfth generation (GMT1YC/YG).
Recalls
12
Complaints
149
Complaint Rate
17.5
per 10k sold
Below avgEst. Annual Cost
$944
Above avgMajor Repair Risk
15%
NHTSA Rating
4/5
Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues
12 recalls on record
Generation & Refresh (US)
2021 is the first model year of the Twelfth generation (GMT1YC/YG).
- First-year models may have unresolved issues from the new design.
- Redesigned for the 2021 model year.
- 12th generation Suburban (US).
What this means for buyers
First-year models carry more risk — early production issues are common. Consider waiting for the second year if reliability is a priority.
Compare 2021 pricing and recall counts against 2022+ before deciding.
Twelfth generation (GMT1YC/YG)
Should You Buy the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban?
The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban scores 60/100 ("Good"), placing it in acceptable but not class-leading territory. As a first-year redesign, early-adopter issues are common.
With 149 owner complaints, some reported issues may need attention, but we don't yet see evidence of a single dominant failure mode.
A pre-purchase inspection is recommended for used examples, with particular attention to engine (51). An extended warranty may provide additional peace of mind.
Compared to the 2022 Chevrolet Suburban, which scored 5 points higher. See also the 2020 Chevrolet Suburban for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- Acceptable reliability score
- Low major repair risk (15%)
- Below-average complaint rate for SUV
Cons
- Above-average repair costs for its class
- Above-average recall count
- ENGINE issues reported (51 complaints)
Compare 2021 Chevrolet Suburban With
Common Problem Categories
Safety
- 12 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
- ENGINE (51)
- POWER TRAIN (21)
- FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (15)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (11)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (7)
- SERVICE BRAKES (7)
- FUEL SYSTEM (6)
- ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (5)
- EXTERIOR LIGHTING (5)
- AIR BAGS (4)
- WHEELS (4)
- SEAT BELTS (3)
- SUSPENSION (2)
- VISIBILITY/WIPER (2)
- FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (2)
- SEATS (2)
- STEERING (1)
- Chest Clip (1)
Recall Overview
12
recalls on record
The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban has 12 recalls on record, which is above average. A higher recall count can indicate multiple component concerns. However, recalls also demonstrate that the manufacturer is actively addressing known issues. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
17.5
per 10k soldSegment avg: 17
Safety Incidents
Crashes
6
Fires
1
Injuries
5
Deaths
0
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2021 Chevrolet Suburban Recall Details
12 recalls have been issued for the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, and Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles equipped with a 6.2L V8 gas engine. The connecting rod and/or crankshaft engine components may have manufacturing defects that can lead to engine damage and engine failure.
Consequence
Engine failure increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the engine, and as necessary, repair or replace the engine. For vehicles that pass inspection, dealers will add higher viscosity oil, install 6 oil fill cap, replace the oil filter, and update the owner's manual. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 18, 2025. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N252494000.
POWER TRAIN
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, 2500, 3500, GMC Sierra 1500, 2500, 3500, 2021 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Tahoe, Suburban, GMC Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles equipped with diesel engines. The transmission control valve may fail and cause the rear wheels to lock-up.
Consequence
Rear wheel lock-up can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will install new transmission control module software, free of charge. GM will provide a special coverage program to cover the repair of transmissions that are identified by the remedy software as containing a defective control valve. Owner notification letters were mailed December 12, 2024. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, GMC customer service at GMC 1-800-462-8782 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N242454440.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Yukon, Yukon XL, Chevrolet Tahoe, Chevrolet Suburban, Cadillac Escalade, and Cadillac Escalade ESV vehicles. The daytime running lights (DRLs) may not deactivate when the headlights are on. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence
Daytime Running Lights that do not deactivate as intended may cause a glare, reducing visibility and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will provide an over-the-air (OTA) update for the Body Control Module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 15, 2022. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N222382220.
Showing 10 of 12 recalls. View all on NHTSA.gov →
2021 Chevrolet Suburban NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 21.2%
Safety Technologies
Chevrolet Suburban Repair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
3Maintenance rating: 3 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$944
vs $784 avg for fullsize SUVs
vs $652 avg for all vehicles
Repair Frequency
0.5
unscheduled repair visits per year
Severe Repair Probability
15%
chance of a major repair
Annual Cost Comparison
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
When Buying a Used 2021 Chevrolet Suburban
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing, based on the most common reported issues.
- Check for excessive oil consumption by inspecting oil level and history
- Test transmission for hard shifting or failure to change gears
- Inspect brake system for hard pedal feel and warning lights
- Verify fuel pump module recall completion and test for stalling
- Test air suspension system for leveling issues and abnormal ride height
- Check for any engine ticking or knocking noises during a test drive
- Inspect headlights for proper alignment and functionality
Check Any 2021 Chevrolet Suburban's History Before You Buy
Reliability scores tell you what to expect from the 2021 Suburban in general — but every car has its own story. Uncover past accidents, title issues, odometer rollbacks, and service records for a specific Chevrolet Suburban with a free VIN lookup.
Powered by VINExposed.com — free vehicle history reports using public title and safety data.
2021 Chevrolet Suburban Common Problems by Component
149 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
ENGINE
51 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report frequent engine failures in the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban, often occurring without warning and sometimes accompanied by a ticking noise or rough idle. Complaints frequently mention excessive oil consumption, with some engines consuming over two quarts of oil between changes. Issues such as collapsed lifters, metallic debris in the oil, and complete engine seizure are described, with failures typically occurring between 30,000 to 86,000 miles. Safety implications include sudden loss of power, stalling in traffic, and one incident involving a crash. These patterns suggest potential risks for used car buyers considering this model, particularly regarding engine reliability and associated repair costs.
POWER TRAIN
21 complaintsOwners of the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban frequently report issues with the powertrain, particularly involving hard shifting and transmission failures. Common symptoms include the vehicle jerking during gear shifts, being stuck in gear, failing to reverse, and entering "limp" mode, with some reports of the vehicle unexpectedly losing propulsion or dying while in motion. These issues often appear at varying mileages, with some complaints as early as 7,000 miles and others beyond 80,000 miles. Safety implications are noted, as several owners describe sudden loss of power or control while driving, which poses a risk in traffic. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and the associated repair costs, as multiple complaints mention significant expenses for repairs.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
15 complaintsOwners report frequent issues with the fuel pump power control module in the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban, often resulting in the vehicle stalling or failing to start. Common symptoms include the vehicle unexpectedly shutting off while driving, difficulty restarting, and the inability to shift into neutral when the engine is off. These problems are noted at various mileages, with some occurring as early as 40,000 miles. The implications for safety are significant, as several owners describe being stranded in traffic or in unsafe locations. Additionally, some owners mention that their vehicles are not included in a known recall for this issue, despite experiencing similar failures.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (11 complaints)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
11 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report multiple electrical system issues with the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban, including infotainment malfunctions, dead batteries, and erratic seat and mirror adjustments. Complaints frequently mention the vehicle going completely dead, sometimes while stationary, with one owner noting this occurred on a major highway. Symptoms such as black screens on infotainment systems, malfunctioning backup cameras, and warning messages about safety restraints are common. Mileage ranges from as low as 88,000 to over 107,000 miles, with several reports indicating these issues persist despite dealership visits. Safety implications are significant, as one complaint involves a fire with injuries, and others describe loss of power while driving, raising potential concerns for used car buyers regarding electrical reliability and safety.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (7 complaints)
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
7 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban report several issues related to oil consumption and engine problems, with some mentioning excessive oil loss and engine failure. Affected vehicles often exhibit rough running or unexpected shutdowns, with one owner noting a pool of oil in a cylinder and requiring a new engine. Transmission and drivetrain concerns are also noted, with complaints about shaking, vibrations, and steering lock during acceleration, although inspections sometimes fail to confirm these issues. The reports include a crash incident where airbags did not deploy, raising potential safety implications. Mileage varies significantly, with some issues occurring shortly after purchase and others at higher mileages around 111,000 miles.
SERVICE BRAKES (7 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
7 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report frequent issues with the braking system of the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban, primarily involving brake master cylinder failures. Complaints consistently mention symptoms such as hard brake pedals, loss of power braking, and various warning lights and messages like "Brake System Failure" and "System Brake Failure 43 MPH Top Speed." These issues often occur around 30,000 to 82,000 miles. One report includes a crash due to brake failure at low speed, highlighting potential safety implications. Buyers should be aware of these patterns, as they suggest significant braking performance concerns that could impact safety.
FUEL SYSTEM (6 complaints)
FUEL SYSTEM
6 complaintsOwners of the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban frequently report issues with the fuel pump power control module, with symptoms including unexpected stalling and loss of motive power while driving, often without warning lights. These failures typically occur at mileages ranging from 30,000 to 90,000. Several complaints indicate difficulty restarting the vehicle after a stall, and in some cases, the vehicle requires towing. Safety implications are notable, as the loss of motive power occurs at various speeds and can lead to dangerous situations on the road. Buyers should be aware of potential part availability issues, as some owners mention delays in obtaining necessary replacement components.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (5 complaints)
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
5 complaintsOwners of the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban frequently report significant engine issues, including abnormal sounds such as ticking, knocking, and banging, as well as engine failure symptoms like loss of acceleration and excessive oil consumption. These issues are often linked to mechanical failures involving lifters, push rods, and valves, with some cases mentioning bent rods and piston damage. Complaints commonly arise around 107,000 to 132,000 miles, with some vehicles experiencing problems as early as 60,000 miles. Safety concerns are implicit, as engine failures and loss of power pose potential risks, especially in harsh weather conditions. Buyers should be aware of these mechanical issues and their potential impact on vehicle reliability and resale value.
AIR BAGS (4 complaints)
AIR BAGS
4 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban report issues with the airbag system, with incidents involving incorrect airbag deployment and non-deployment during crashes. A notable pattern includes airbags deploying unnecessarily due to false rollover detection, leading to vehicle shutdown during accidents, while another report describes airbags failing to deploy in a significant frontal collision. Common symptoms include persistent "SERVICE SAFETY RESTRAINT SYSTEM" warnings and improperly repaired airbags from previous deployments. These issues are reported to occur both shortly after purchase and during ownership, with one owner noting the problem immediately upon driving off the dealership lot. The safety implications are significant, with crashes and injuries reported, suggesting potential risks for used car buyers.
SUSPENSION (2 complaints)
SUSPENSION
2 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report recurring issues with the air suspension system of the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban, particularly involving the vehicle's ride height and leveling system. Complaints frequently mention that the suspension system fails, causing the vehicle to lower to the crash shield or become uneven, which results in the vehicle speed being limited to 55-56 mph and a bouncy ride. One owner notes that the problem began within two weeks of purchase, while another describes ongoing issues despite multiple dealer visits and repairs, including replacing components like the air suspension arm and solenoids. Safety implications are evident, as one complaint involves a crash and describes an "explosion" sound followed by a sudden lowering of the vehicle, making it unsafe to drive. Used car buyers should be aware of these potential suspension issues and the challenges in obtaining a lasting repair.
When Do 2021 Chevrolet Suburban Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Chevrolet Suburban Years
Best Chevrolet Suburban Years to Buy
The best Chevrolet Suburban year is 2025 with a reliability score of 78/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2024 (72/100) and 2020 (68/100).
Chevrolet Suburban Years to Avoid
The worst Chevrolet Suburban year is 2021 with a score of 60/100, primarily due to engine (51) issues.
2021(this page)
12 recalls · 149 complaints
Chevrolet Suburban Reliability Score Trend
Chevrolet Suburban reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 68/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 68/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 68/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 68/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 60/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 65/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 65/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 72/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 78/100 | Good |
Chevrolet Suburban Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban?
How many recalls does the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban have?
Is the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban expensive to maintain?
How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent — Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good — Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed — Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky — Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
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