General Motors (GM) is a maker of some of the most durable trucks and SUVs on the planet. They also pride themselves on producing ultra spacious barns on wheels culminating in the beloved Suburban. The seven- or eight-seat family hauler has been around since the mid-1930s, and GM has improved the platform ever since. However, some examples raise more issues than the average owner wants to deal with. While some may be looking for a used 2007 Chevrolet Suburban in the pre-owned market, there is a great reason to avoid it.
Used 2007 Chevrolet Suburbans drinking oil
In 2007, the tenth-generation Suburban’s first year featured a throwback to boxy styling. Big and roomy as ever, it also provided owners with plenty of power. GM scrapped the LM7 version of its bulletproof third-generation 5.3-liter V8 for an update. The outgoing engine had 295 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque. The LY5 replacement gained 25 horsepower and 15 pound-feet of torque.
Power increases aside, there was one major problem with the new V8. Owner entries to CarComplaints paint a picture of excessive oil consumption. With only 30,000 miles on the clock, a 2007 Chevrolet Suburban will start drinking oil. Some owners say they have to put a quart of oil in the engine every time they fill up. Interestingly, there seems to be no problem with oil leaks, as most used 2007 Chevrolet Suburban owners claim that the floor under the V8 is usually dry.
Is there any way to fix the problem?
Some claim the problem is caused by the Active Fuel Management (AFM) system. Reportedly, the AFM valve can be uncovered, causing increased oil consumption. However, only a handful of used 2007 Chevrolet Suburbans could be fixed this way.
Although the oil consumption problem is covered by a factory warranty, many mechanics have told customers that they need replacement engines. One owner describes his estimated repair cost as $9,000, even before his SUV reaches 100,000 miles. A few others have gotten away with the stock cylinder head, but most have never found resolutions. Unfortunately, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration never recalled the Suburban for this problem.
Are there any good alternatives to a used 2007 Chevrolet Suburban?
Based on owner input, GM seemed to get the 5.3-liter V8’s excessive oil consumption under control for the 2010 model year. But it’s still present for the 2013 model year. Otherwise, the Suburban SUVs model year 2008 and 2009 have the same serious pressing problem as the 2007 Suburban. In those years, it is the most complained about problem.
As some know, the first year of a vehicle redesign is often plagued with problems. The 2007 Chevrolet Suburban is no different. For those who like the look of the tenth-generation Suburban, the further away from 2007 the better. Realistically, potential buyers should look for one built after the 2010 model year. Given its age, there isn’t much of a price difference between a used 2007 Chevrolet Suburban and newer model years.
