Chevrolet Suburban Complaints (2021)

185 consumer complaints on file.

#11759283August 24, 2026
ENGINE
While coming to a stop on a highway, the engine started running very rough, shaking the vehicle constantly, and the check engine light came on and the ESC failure notice came on. We brought it to an independent repair shop that ran diagnostics and recommended the vehicle needed a new engine and should not be driven for risk of it seizing. They introduced us to the fact that there was a GM recall on this particular engine and production year. Upon taking the vehicle to the local Chevy dealership, they suggested that we first repair a failed cylinder lifter, but that there may also be crankshaft issues, but that it would be costly to determine this for sure and that it was likely more cost effective to replace the whole engine than approach the repairs in order. They also confirmed our VIN was not part of the recall so the replacement engine would be our responsibility. We had the engine replaced back at the independent repair shop. Given the recent recall expansion, I wanted to submit this, as it seems that a broader number of vehicles within the production years of this engine should be considered included in this recall.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11755959August 10, 2026
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Suburban. The contact stated that while driving approximately 40 MPH, the vehicle failed to accelerate as needed. The contact was able to coast to the side of the road, and the vehicle was turned off. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer and was diagnosed with fuel pump power control module failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact discovered a recall for the issue; NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V739000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and confirmed that the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V739000 (Fuel System, Gasoline). The manufacturer opened a case for the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11755546August 7, 2026
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP:CONTROL/DRIVE MODULE
Fuel pulp module failed on highway. Was told there is not a recall on my VIN even tho online there is a recall and known issue for the part
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11753933July 31, 2026
ENGINE, ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Suburban used to tow a 30-foot trailer. The contact stated that while towing the trailer and driving 60 MPH up an incline with no shoulder, the vehicle shut off in a remote area. The contact was able to move the vehicle off the roadway. There were no warning lights illuminated. The brakes and power steering features became inoperable. The vehicle shifted to neutral without driver input. The contact stated that the failure was associated with NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. A hauling company was contacted to tow the vehicle. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and opened a claim. The failure mileage was approximately 106,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11752994July 27, 2026
FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL
The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Suburban. The contact stated that while driving on the highway, the vehicle experienced reduced engine power and failed to exceed 30 MPH. A message pertaining to the deceleration was displayed. The following Monday, the vehicle failed to exceed 35 MPH, and a friend followed the contact while driving to the dealer. The dealer recommended a fuel filter replacement. The contact declined the repair because the fuel filter life was at 47%; however, the dealer proceeded with the replacement. The contact provided the diagnostic trouble code to an independent mechanic, who informed the contact that the failure was associated with TSB Numbers: 20-NA-197 and 18-NA 361. The contact then advised the dealer of the TSBs, and the dealer determined that the fuel pump module and fuel tank module needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. Additionally, the contact stated that the second-row passenger’s side seat belt buckle failed and was replaced under an extended warranty, although the part was previously replaced under a recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failures several times, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 92,709.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11752904July 26, 2026
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Pulled out in 4 lane traffic. Got almost to 55mph. Vehicle lost all power, slowed down and auto shifted to neutral, vehicle stopped and went to park. Vehicle would not start back nor transition to Neutral to remove from highways. 2021 suburban with just 35,000miles. Shut down a lane on a 55mph highway. Code P129F
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11750547July 15, 2026
POWER TRAIN
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? (On our 2021 gasoline suburgan, the rear wheels locked up at free-way speeds, which nearly caused a possibly fatal accident. The lock released but it appears the strain caused rear differential gear teeth to break and the rear differential now needs to be replaced for the vehicle to operate properly.) How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? (The sudden rear wheel lockup at freeway speeds resulted in temporary loss of control of the vehicle and significant surprise to the driver, who, after swerving into the adjacent lane was able to gain control of the steering and stop the vehicle. Had there been another vehicle in the other lane the MVA could have been fatal for 9 people in the suburban and any other vehicle involved.) Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? (The rear differential damage was confirmed by a dealer.) Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? (No.) Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? (No warning or messages. This has happened 3 times over 3 years, always on extended trips 9-12 hours in duration. The first two times nearly caused an accident but no differential damage. This third time, the differential was immediately damaged due to the incident. We have since learned that this is an issue with 2022 suburbans, for which a recall has been issued. A recall has also been issued for 2021 DIESEL suburbans. However, no recall has been issued to gasoline 2021 suburbans, but apparently needs to be.)
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11750175July 13, 2026
POWER TRAIN, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
COMPONENT: The 10-speed automatic transmission failed on 6/29/26, locking the vehicle completely in neutral. The neutral override could not be disengaged even by dealership technicians. Vehicle is currently at [XXX] Chevrolet, [XXX] and is available for inspection. SAFETY RISK: I have 3 young children who are regular passengers. The failure occurred without warning. Had it happened at highway speed in oncoming traffic, I would have had no ability to move the car — creating a direct risk of a serious or fatal collision. CONFIRMED BY DEALER: Yes. Don Hewlett Chevrolet received the vehicle on 6/30/26 and confirmed the failure is directly related to two active federal recalls: NHTSA #24V-797 (10-speed transmission valve body failure/wheel lockup) and NHTSA #22V-036 (driveshaft assembly/loss of propulsion). Vehicle has been unrepaired for 13 days with no timeline provided. OTHER INSPECTIONS: Vehicle has been in possession of Don Hewlett Chevrolet since 6/30/26. No manufacturer representative, police, or insurance inspection has occurred. WARNING SIGNS: None. No warning lamps, messages, or symptoms appeared before the failure. The power train locked suddenly and completely without any prior indication on 6/29/26. Despite the dealer confirming this is recall-related, they have indicated I may owe partial repair costs. Under 49 U.S.C. § 30120, GM must remedy recalls at no charge regardless of mileage or warranty. I am requesting NHTSA investigate both the failure and GM's attempt to charge the owner for federally mandated recall repairs. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11748810July 7, 2026
ENGINE
I had a recall serviced on a Friday which was completed by the dealership. My car sat all weekend and was not driven until Monday AM which was fine. After work, there were several warning lights that popped up and it was making a terrible noise. I was unable to drive home and had to have my car towed to the dealership. Following there inspection, my engine had to be replaced due to a known issue with this engine and GM. Cylinder #2 misfire, lost compression - lifter had spun in guide, camshaft is damaged - engine needs to be replaced. Unfortunately, I was just out of warranty so it was either pay $12,000+ for a new engine or walk away from a car that I love. I just don't understand why if GM knows this is an issue, why there is not some sort of recall on it.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11746579June 25, 2026
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
2021 SUBURBAN LT. Driver side headlamp adjuster failed while driving. Wife struggles to see at night so when the adjuster failed the driver side headlamp faced right to the ground causing no projected illuminating light. We attempted to adjust the light when she arrived home but it would not adjust due to the leveler failing and breaking. Looking into the matter we found out that numerous people with those, suburban's and even Silverado's that share the same parts have also reported the part failing due to the leveling being so thin and driving over bumpy roads will cause the weight of the lamp to snap and break. Its a growing concern yet dealerships are charging customers over 1400 to replace the whole assembly as it is one seal piece. There was no indication of it starting to fail just the moment it went from fine to facing the ground. We tried to run through extended warranty but claimed denied stating us touching the leveler to adjust it is what caused it to break. We tried to prove our case that doing research they would find to be common but no luck. its a safey matte.r
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11744528June 16, 2026
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Suburban. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the engine was idling rough, the Check Engine warning light was illuminated, and the vehicle failed to properly accelerate. The vehicle was driven to the local dealer who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the engine rods were bent, causing internal damage to the engine. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The contact was informed that the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING). The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was 99,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11743773June 12, 2026
POWER TRAIN
2021 Chevy Suburban started to have harsh shifting particularly on acceleration and shuddering at higher rates of speed (feeling like you are driving over a rumble strip). I took it to the dealer, and they confirmed the torque converter was in the process of failing. It's currently in the shop getting a new torque converter. No warning messages/lights had yet appeared. Technician at dealer stated that this was a common failure with this model.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11742128June 4, 2026
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
The front headlight leaks water which pools inside the led front headlight bezel causing the headlamp to blow/fail. This is a known GM issue and TSB's have been initiated. Concern was confirmed by the dealership who reported that the seal on the headlamp had failed causing the water leak and full replacement of the headlamp/headlight bezel needed to be replaced.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11742058June 4, 2026
POWER TRAIN
The failure involved the transmission valve body control valve within the automatic transmission system of the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban, a critical component responsible for regulating hydraulic pressure and controlling gear shifting. The malfunction caused erratic and unreliable shifting behavior, including hesitation, harsh engagement, and loss of proper acceleration; the failed component is in the custody of Northside Chevy in San Antonio, TX. This issue created a significant safety risk, as the unpredictable transmission response impacted the driver’s ability to accelerate when necessary (merging onto high traffic roads) and increased the likelihood of dangerous situations like rear-end collisions or loss of control. The problem was confirmed by an authorized Chevrolet dealer, where diagnostic testing identified faults in the transmission control system and verified the failure through performance testing and fault codes. The vehicle has been inspected by the dealership service department, though it has not been directly examined by the manufacturer, law enforcement, or insurance representatives; however, documentation of the diagnosis is being withheld by the dealership. Prior to the failure there were no warning signs present. Only after failure did the check engine light illuminate, transmission-related warning messages, and noticeable symptoms such as hard shifting, delayed engagement, and slipping, which appeared shortly before the complete failure and significantly worsened over the three-mile drive to the dealership.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11741176May 31, 2026
ENGINE, FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Vehicle stalled during routine driving. Code P129F. I was stranded in 95 degree weather with three small children. Please correct and advise ASAP. Had to be towed home. Vehicle inoperable.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11740950May 29, 2026
POWER TRAIN
transmission failed high speed jerking shifting ruined a set of tires yes has been confirmed by dealer but our vin is not covered under the recall no yes error codes appeared before we took the vehicle in for service 6-5-2025 we have had the vehicle in to 2 separate dealerships a total of 4 times for repair now that powertrain warranty is expired they are calling for a transmission replacement
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11740036May 26, 2026
POWER TRAIN
Suburban started to have shudder at lower rpm on acceleration. I took it to the dealer and they confirmed the valve is bad. They are unsure at this time but depending on damage from the bad value my Suburban may also need a new torque convertor or transmission.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11738718May 19, 2026
ENGINE
Had to replace entire engine for same reason other GM engines are recalled for, the lifters and shifting cylinders. This should also be covered under a recall! It left me and my kids stranded.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11735081May 1, 2026
POWER TRAIN
The transmission of the 2021 Suburban failed. While operating the vehicle down a state highway, out of nowhere the power was reduced significantly while in traffic. It would not go over 30 MPH after forcing itself to 30 MPH while driving down the busy highway. After struggling to find a safe place to park, the vehicle would not, and still will not, go into reverse. There were no warning lights of any sort prior to this incident. Now there are several warning lights. The vehicle has been towed and taken to a repair shop with current unknown diagnostics as we are waiting our turn for the vehicle to be diagnosed. This vehicle has a transmission that is currently under Class Action for GM knowingly selling defective transmissions.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11732962April 22, 2026
POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Suburban. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle jerked abnormally while shifting into reverse(R) or drive(D). The contact stated that the vehicle lost motive power with the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact was able to restart the vehicle; however, the failure persisted while attempting to drive. The contact also stated that the vehicle was put into LIMP Mode several times. The dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 78,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0

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