I currently own 3 GM vehicles from this generation: A 2005 Suburban 2500HD (8.1), a 2002 Silverado 1500, and - the crown jewel - a 2004 Hummer H2 Luxury package. I bought the Suburban with 110k miles (it currently has 210k), the Silverado with 137k (it currently has 179k), and the Hummer with 53k (it currently has 79k). I daily drive all three, and have done many long-distance road trips and family outings in both the Suburban and the Hummer. I occasionally tow with all three (nothing very heavy), and have done a fair amount of light off-roading with the Suburban and the Hummer. I used to have a 2003 Suburban 1500. I gave it to my daughter with 275k miles on it. It currently has 300k miles, and she is still driving it. These four vehicles have proven to be the toughest, and most reliable vehicles I have ever owned by FAR, in my total 35-ish years of vehicle ownership. In the case of the Suburban's specifically, also the most versatile and useful. GM really knocked it out of the park in the early 2000's.
Yes very little went wrong with my three 2003 ( by chance owned that year in that vintage 99- o7 (only bought the suburban new). I usually do my own light work , the o3 silverado shorty I had to get another tranny ( I shopped around and a passing remark to the service manager: a great deal I was ‘going toget’ At a well known local transmission shop… he said I’ll beat it! Not many folks believed the deal I got on a new trans. And of all my years of only chevy ownership it was my only trans swap .. ( but I do believe in early 60 80 k miles trans fluid replacement .. and I clean it with can of seafoam transtune first ( use to use silo). Was fortunate never any major engine failure or swap all these years . Valvoline every 4 to 5 k miles … when I was young dad said to change every 3500 miles,, but early adult hood read a article in popular mechanics 🤔or consumer report on chevy caprices tested ) New York taxis . And it was a very scientific study.. they showed 6 thousand ( almost double currant thought ) miles was sufficient !!!
I'm 5 years as the second owner of my 2000 very rust free AZ Tahoe. Got it for very cheap as I knew the engine was on it's last leg due to poor maintenance by previous owner. However the body is clean, the interior clean as well, so an engine was a minor sacrifice I was willing to pay. After a rebuilt engine was installed it's been my daily driver. multiple trips back and forth from west to east coast without concern. My biggest headache was replacing the heater core and may I suggest to anyone buying a Tahoe to get that replaced as soon as you can. Trust me that sucker will go. Replace it and get it out of the way now. Whether you do it yourself (like me) or pay someone, just do it and replace the ac evap and blend door actuators as well for good measure and for goodness sake spend a little and get all acdelco replacements. You don't want to chase bad/cheap parts in hard to replace places twice. Getting close to 290,000+ miles so I know my tranny is way past an overhaul (which is coming) but after installing a larger aftermarket cooler and replacing the valve body she's still going. My advice is, if you find a clean Tahoe don't pass up the ones with engine/transmission problems. If it's rust free, straight and clean you can easily replace engine and tranny (even better if you can do it yourself) and be happy. I would love any of the newer Tahoe or Silverados but my wallet cries when it sees the prices of those SUV's/Trucks. So I will happily stick with my Tahoe.
yeah i recently bought a 2005 gmc yukon xl denali 1 owner clean title no rust for 2k in sport red metallic the engine and transmission were rebuilt with performance parts and it rips with a 200 shot of nitrous, its a very fun sleeper
My 2002 Yukon SLE was a steal for me. I had to replace the water pump. I've since changed the oil and filter, of course, the coolant was replaced, and I installed new belts. Will be replacing the tranny fluid and filter next. But so far, and at 275,500 miles on the odometer, she's running great. No major issues. As far as I know it's never been off road, the undercarriage is in jam up shape. A few minor cosmetic issues, but these can be taken care of as I go. My Dad was a mechanic and I learned a lot from him and do everything I can myself, I have for many years now. I bought the Yukon for $900 cash... A real bargain in my book... A friend recently offered me twice what I have in it...No Sale, No Way! Safe Travels ✌️ 😎
That is why I love our year GM vehicles. you can work on it yourself, they are damn near bulletproof when taken care of and parts are plenty! May you be blessed with many happy miles!
I know this is a year old, but l just may be in luck to pick one up tomorrow. It's a 2004 Suburban 4x4., it has 187,000 miles on it. I can't get over how clean the body is. That is what impresses me the most. And the fact that one can work on it is a miracle these day's. I hope she turns out to be a real sweet cream puff ' even if gas is at $7.00 plus a gallon here in Northern California 😉
I love my 2004 tahoe and I stole it for 2600! I plan on fixing what ever goes down. First was the oil pressure sending unit as the gauge was pegged to 80. I really dreaded it because of where it is so tight to firewall. I got into it and really wasn't bad at all. The only line I removed was the gas line and I don't think I had to. Got it in and the gauge now works! Anyways they are great vehicles!
I bought a 2003 GMC Yukon 5 years ago. SLT. Black. Well loved (think I was the 7th owner). It is 4x4 with leather, sunroof, etc. It needed some TLC. My plan was to buy it, give it the TLC, then flip it. 5 years later and I still drive it. 220k miles. Starts every time. 4x4 works flawlessly. I installed a touch screen nav unit with backup camera. It has basically everything I would want on a brand new one, just for less than 1/10th of the cost. That no payment life has me hooked. I will not say it has been trouble free. I've had some AC issues, and had the tranny rebuilt 4 years ago. Minor electrical gremlins are common. All in all, they are very nice reliable trucks.
My 01 suburban is best truck I've ever owed with the 8.1 it's a towing monster used since new pulling my construction trailers for over 18 years still runs like new with 330k miles I like it so much I'm thinking about doing full restoration
From experience, the Gen 9 (2000 to 2006) are known to blow brake lines and fuel lines especially if you live in an area that gets snow. Other then that my '03 Tahoe has been excellant!
Bought 02 k2500 6.0 4.10 g80 burb for little under 4k. Threw out the 3rd row seats, folded down the 2nd row most of the time, i can git 4x8 inside. Been best camper/tow rig for last 3 yrs.
Great Video. My Dad owns a 2005 Yukon XL V8 8.1L 4×4 and man that thing is a beast. I have the 2007 Yukon XL 5.3 V8 4x4 and love it. It's super smooth and well rounded truck. I also have the 1997 GMC Suburban truck 5.7 V8 4x4 It's honestly one of my favorite vehicles to drive. I own 5 total. Great American classics
I have an '03 Suburban 2500 with quadrasteer. I am the third owner and other than oil changes and the impending tune up, the only component replaced was the body control module. If anyone is fortunate enough to have quadrasteer, you will love it. I will be buried in this suburban.
Love my 2002 Suburban with 151,000 miles runs and drives in excellent condition original everything daily drive it everyday bought it from a older couple a few months ago took really care of it
I got my 2002 Yukon XL to 372,000 with original engine and transmission and could’ve gone on even longer if an intoxicated driver didn’t decide to take it from me
Thanks for this great info. Being a retired farmer in Mich. I've been wanting a Suburban but not all rusty for years. Just bought an 04, Z71 Suburban from a friend that had come from lower Kansas 4 years ago. Little surface rust. Excellent cond. but had my mechanic check it out first. It's still there as transfer case needs fixing along with new rear A/C Evap. Having new fuel pump put in, pulling oil pan to replace the oil pick up tube seal on the 5.3, flush tranny, fix dash cluster and more. Hasn't made it home yet but pretty excited about it. My mechanic is from a Chevy/Buick dealer and knows them well. He's impressed how clean it is. Exactly what I was wanting to travel, tow, camp & sleep in with my Jack/Rat. I saved this vid, Thanks.
The highest mileage version that I have seen was a white 2001 Chevrolet Tahoe Z71 with close to 500,000 miles and also, I was seriously surprised by that but I wasn’t even scared by that either because I knew these vehicles really well
Original owner of a 2004 LS still under 180K miles. I’ve had many issues, mainly electrical and interior plastics. Transmission skips and engine seems like it’s 100 HP. I still love the truck as it has the size and look combination that is rare these days. I got it when they were giving them away at $36K. I hope to restore it to its former glory one day.
I bought a 2000 Suburban LT 2500 4x4 and it was the best purchase I’ve ever bought. The truck just keeps putting out. Bought it from the original owner with 115k miles on it. Now it’s got 190k. Highly recommend grabbing one if you get the chance.
I have owned my Suburban for 16 years has 270,000 miles and it still runs like a champ keep up with oil changes rear end transmission electrical and light bulbs regular cleaning detailing and good tires very happy about it 16 years ago paid. $26,000 Suburban still looks brand new if you don't thrash on it it will run forever. Im not buying a new model motor very strong.
Honestly even if you thrash on it it'll still last, been beating the hell out of mine and the worst thing to go wrong is a broken brake caliper after jumping it. Repairs are cheap too
Love my 04 Tahoe Lt herein Canada. And yes I took care of the rust issues around the fenders here in southern Canada 🇨🇦 where a lot of rock and salt brine is used.
Bought a 2000 chevy suburban k1500 lt for 1k as my first car. I've been using it as my daily, dirt racer, and overlander. Repairs and modifications have been fairly easy, I've been beating the hell out of it and the worst issue I've had is a broken brake caliper after jumping it which I easily replaced. Genuinely feels like a tank of a vehicle and I love it.
My family has a ‘06 Yukon XL Denali and the 4th gear unfortunately went out on it, but it went all the way to 207k miles before transmission problems occurred
FYI...the rear left pocket above the jack is a perfect fit for the small plastic Harbor Freight 30cal ammo boxes. I made a small tool box with one and it sits perfectly there. Like it was designed to fit.
2005 Tahoe. If the interior ever goes dead, follow the parking brake release cable and you may find it leaning against a black box in a galvanized bracket. Move the cable away and everything will work again.
I just got an '04 Suburban LS from my Aunt that I was just gonna use as a mountain camping car for my family but I decided I like it so much I am gonna turn it in to my daily as well. Such a comfortable vehicle to ride around in and solid as can be.
Brother I thank you and applaud you on an awesome and very detailed and informative video on the TAHOE/SUBURBAN. Helped allot with what I already knew and you gave me info I needed as I'm looking for one. Many cheers and God bless brother.
Great info. I just bought an 05 Suburban Z71 4x4 with high mileage but trans was rebuilt less than a year ago and it runs and drives great. Looked at my heads and immediately noticed 706 stamp😳 truck has over 350K miles I'm hoping I have a good set...
I bought the 04, Z71, 198 K that is rust free. Owner and I use the same mechanic so we had it checked before I bought. Transfer needs repair/replace, rear A/C evap gets replaced, dropping oil pan to replace oil pick-up o-ring, repair gage cluster, fuel pump and much more. Probably 2 weeks before I bring it home for 1st time. Wanted one for years and found a good one,,,hopefully. Even got the owners manual, yeaaaa. Hope you're happy with yours. On the farm near Battle Creek, Mi.
This will go into my GM SUV file! 5:07 When I bought my 2003 Avalanche new, I got a recall notice to replace the steering column so I'm surprised there are vehicles that still have that problem. 6:00 My 2002 GMC 5.3 has 407,000 miles on it and it purrs like a kitten. I've got the P0300 code on my 2004 Chevy Express 6.0L that I hope isn't due to that head problem.
Yep the 03 XL has a history of failing brake lines due to road salt. That's why I got mine for $2500. $80 for brake lines, I learned a LOT replacing them, and could sell it for about $5K today. But it's not for sale, I couldn't replace it for that.
The 2011 to 2014 Suburban’s are bulletproof, all the factory service bulletins and defects where fixed by 2011. Too bad Chevy changed things again in 2015. I’ll never ever sell mine.
One of the benefits of these vehicles is parts availability. I have a rust free 2005 Tahoe and I live in the south so I expect to keep it until the engine or transmission goes and then I might just pick up another engine or transmission. LOL
Rod I would have agreed with your parts statement up until the last 18 months. Needed a new radiator for my 2005 and there wasn't a single 1 available in the US last summer. Had 2 go to a junkyard and source 1 until the only manufacturer of new put this part back on there manufacturing schedule. Twice a year they make them.. Bought 1 once they were available and still waiting for the junk yard radiator to fail.
My mom bought her 01 Chevy suburban brand new 0 miles and never had any issues or rust unfortunately they stole the suburban in July and set it on fire/: but it ran like new only thing we changed was the water pump everything else was original with no issues. It had 236k miles
Got my 2001 Chevy Tahoe lt autoride with around 100,000 miles 5 years ago and he first year I had it the a/c had a leak and the rear airbags for the suspension ripped open, a year later the transmission we out and I got it replaced for $995 around a year and a half after that the transmission slips when going into third and the engine started making a ticking sound and it still does and the oil’s pressure it okay. Last summer I got the a/c and it worked for like 3 months and it broke again. Also the passengers side clear coat is all burned off, over all it has been a very unreliable truck but a plus is it never left me stranded also worked enough to get me home
I have an 05 Tahoe LT with 285K miles that I absolutely love. For the last couple years I have been chasing down coolant leaks. I’ve replaced the upper and lower hoses only to smell (and see) another leak. I replaced the water pump and 6 months later I had to replace the heater hoses. A few months later I have a leak on the back side of the motor on the driver’s side. Even with a small mirror, I can’t figure out where the leak is. I figure an intake gasket replacement is next but I’m not sure. Any advice? I love this truck and I want this to be my daily driver FOREVER!
Brake Lines in this generation were the worst when exposed to road salts and chemicals. GM took little responsibility because of their financial liability after the first year when this became a known issue.
Question guys, I have an ‘04 Suburban with 193k miles on it. Wondering if I should spend the $80 on changing the rear diff fluid or just leave it alone? I don’t have any of the service records on the car? Any negative to changing out the fluid or just leave ‘er be? Thanks in advance!
I've replaced many of these blend motors without having to remove the dash and the reason I was given the opportunity to do these repairs was because the shops told them they had to remove the whole dash,,, it's not necessary, and truthfully the only thing I found someone intimidating about the job is retiming or calibrating the new blend motor with the other blend motors and the knobs position as well but there's a there's a very simple method you just have to be able to find that method for that blend motor and once you run that that blend motor through are very short brief couple of steps it will be timed you can slap a couple of covers back on under & in front of center dash console I think , and you're done if you go at it with the information needed to re-time and recalibrate whichever blend motors u are replacing, I think there's four of them but don't quote me on that , as it's been a long long time ago... Now, these trucks last so long, so well, that I recommend if you're not already akin to it, I recommend that you open up a little bit and familiarize yourself with the art of hunting down your parts to upgrade or improve/repair your short list of things you notice you'd like to fix because it you know is gotten to the specs that it needs to be replaced or it might have a squeak or might have a pop or might have a blemish on it you can there's tons of parts to be found in junk yards that was surprise you because they are basically new as the owner right before it was wrecked or you know engine blue or something of a mistreated in some way and it just became a total the previous owners in most cases have replaced a lot of parts on those trucks that are finally hitting the junk yards and no just don't just a one or a couple of trucks you can find a lot of parts that you know have very little use on them and can be bought cheaply and I'm all about that !!!! There's nothing in the world and nothing but benefits to doing your own repairs and learning as you go by asking a lot of questions doing a lot of research taking a lot of notes and you get from that to satisfaction of saving a bunch of money as well as that satisfaction of yeah I did that I'm not riding around wondering if I pay the whole lot of money to a shop or dealer and did they really do what is written down there on that paper that they claim they charge me for you know what's happening to your vehicle and you'll always while you're making that repair you'll be noticing anything else that's showing anywhere and you'll say what's that I wonder if that's well you know if you want to know check the specs on it see if it is at a point where it needs to be replaced and as much a fan as I am of that whole process I say to you do not,,& by that I mean dont go to a junkyard for these Parts because of several reasons like they're not very expensive to buy new and perhaps slightly improved if by the Polly and plastic material by which they are manufactured having improved over the years, and also it can be hard or near impossible to easily determine whether one's good or bad or whether it will even work in your replacement I found in my experience most of them were broke and the last drivers or owners of these trucks weren't really too much about having everything perfect and everything working right it was just a bit of vehicle for them to ride to the wheels fall off basically and they wind up in a junkyard that way by the way but you know it's the type situation where well this don't work and that don't work we don't know why and want a lot of money to fix it so the hell with it we just don't have air blowing here and blowing there or the AC has gone down you know a while back a long time many miles ago whatever and it was a lot of money to fix so why fix the blender or blenders So anyway I set out to keep this short and sweet and once again I've written a book but it's really pretty much all I have on that although this is not exactly straightforward as a lot of repairs can be please do not let that intimidate you because once you've seen it done and done it you will feel ridiculous for having been intimidated at all by it it only takes a couple of tools and literally you know minutes up to less than an hour to do depending on your skill level and I think that's a win-win all day long and something to fix right away don't be has been about it and drive the truck uncomfortable and you know or have a member of your family or friend or passenger will be uncomfortable fix the doggone thing so that it works and go to a NAPA store to buy it or a you know your local whatever you're good reps or regular story is where you know the people behind the counter have a little bit of knowledge in their car fixers their self and you know they they take the time to familiarize themselves even if it's not there necessary a brand of choice vehicle as they sell those parts they're carefully taken in all the knowledge they can about that part and the ups and downs and can be very helpful plus the parts that they buy to sell their customers are going to be the best you can mark it on the market that you can get you know aside from OEM dealer parts and in a lot of cases these are the part that the manufacturer used so that makes it a direct OEM replacement so I hope that that helps everyone that has an issue going on with the no air coming out here no air coming out there blah blah blah because it does get weird when one one of these finally breaks the system will seem just like completely different in the way it performs so have a laugh at your local shop that told you you'd have to pay them over a grand plus to r&r one of these parts under your dash and have a good laugh at them and the satisfaction of knowing you did it yourself knowing it was done right knowing you used a good part knowing you saved a lot of money and you'll be excited about the next thing on the truck that's been bothering you want to fix and you sleep real good that night thanks for listening !! I'm out.😎
It's not that hard to pull the dash. It's actually less time than you would spend with the hardest ones to get to, not to mention saving the meat on the back of your hands.
Depends on where the trucks spent their lives at, the trucks down south generally don't have any rust while most of them up north are rusty. If those trucks had previous owners, could be that your '02 had an owner that neglected to wash the salt off the truck if you're living where they salt the roads in the winter.
*OTHER REVIEWS TO WATCH*:
Chevy:
1972-1987 Square Body Buyer's Guide: ua-cam.com/video/78oolTruPdQ/v-deo.html
1988-1998 Silverado /Sierra Buyer's Guide: ua-cam.com/video/pLs-KWSucjo/v-deo.html
1994-2004 S10 Buyer's Guide: ua-cam.com/video/CmfgCOxW6XA/v-deo.html
1999-2007 Silverado / Sierra Buyer's Guide: ua-cam.com/video/LmN6_ubzyuI/v-deo.html
2007-2013 Silverado / Sierra Buyer's Guide: ua-cam.com/video/_UXTc5BGxsM/v-deo.html
Ford:
2004-2008 F-150 Buyer's Guide: ua-cam.com/video/duNWJA7m63s/v-deo.html
2009-2014 F-150 Buyer's Guide: ua-cam.com/video/3IpC-mHY0xM/v-deo.html
1997-2004 F-150 Buyer's Guide: ua-cam.com/video/eaKffURoFQY/v-deo.html
1998-2011 Ranger Buyer's Guide: ua-cam.com/video/fELUyrKY1U4/v-deo.html
2005-2014 Mustang Buyer's Guide: ua-cam.com/video/lrfpgzcgLI8/v-deo.html
Jeep:
1984-2001 XJ Cherokee Buyer's Guide: ua-cam.com/video/YoNrkxEew4Y/v-deo.html
Mercedes:
W211 E-Class Buyer's Guide: ua-cam.com/video/QpplQTp2DSQ/v-deo.html
W212 E-Class Buyer's Guide: ua-cam.com/video/IYZSnLzdNp8/v-deo.html
W212 Best E-Class(?): ua-cam.com/video/UNF5piFLS4U/v-deo.html
W204 C-Class Buyer's Guide: ua-cam.com/video/BtCbbrsQQ-Y/v-deo.html
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Mazda:
1990-1997 MX-5 Miata: ua-cam.com/video/KjNB-LbkNSY/v-deo.html
Nissan:
2004-2015 Titan Buyer's Guide: ua-cam.com/video/2VFdZeEyGnA/v-deo.html
HardBody Pickup Truck Buyer's Guide: ua-cam.com/video/-mRVMByFh_I/v-deo.html
Subaru:
2014-2018 Subaru Forester SJ Buyer's Guide: ua-cam.com/video/Ir694Wah9PA/v-deo.html
Lexus:
2001-2005 IS300 Buyer's Guide: ua-cam.com/video/mtxoUg0zthw/v-deo.html
Toyota:
1995-2004 1st Gen Tacoma Buyer's Guide: ua-cam.com/video/WtyhiOD8Jm4/v-deo.html
2005-2015 2nd Gen Tacoma Buyer's Guide: ua-cam.com/video/9ZOhD0KU_gA/v-deo.html
2000-2006 1st Gen Tundra Buyer's Guide: ua-cam.com/video/9pIyUcFGf4c/v-deo.html
2007-2020 2nd Gen Tundra Buyer's Guide: ua-cam.com/video/fhH4UnFvJuI/v-deo.html
1991-1997 Land Cruiser Buyer's Guide: ua-cam.com/video/8dnMu2WzYRo/v-deo.html
Porsche:
2010-2016 Panamera Buyer's Guide: ua-cam.com/video/3giueysuXdU/v-deo.html
1999-2005 911 996 Buyer's guide: ua-cam.com/video/rvdMzS8XdXk/v-deo.html
I have a 2002 Yukon with 375,000 miles...
It's still running great, no rust, no body damage...
The interior is in good condition as well...
✌️
Can I get an update now?
I currently own 3 GM vehicles from this generation: A 2005 Suburban 2500HD (8.1), a 2002 Silverado 1500, and - the crown jewel - a 2004 Hummer H2 Luxury package.
I bought the Suburban with 110k miles (it currently has 210k), the Silverado with 137k (it currently has 179k), and the Hummer with 53k (it currently has 79k).
I daily drive all three, and have done many long-distance road trips and family outings in both the Suburban and the Hummer. I occasionally tow with all three (nothing very heavy), and have done a fair amount of light off-roading with the Suburban and the Hummer.
I used to have a 2003 Suburban 1500. I gave it to my daughter with 275k miles on it. It currently has 300k miles, and she is still driving it.
These four vehicles have proven to be the toughest, and most reliable vehicles I have ever owned by FAR, in my total 35-ish years of vehicle ownership. In the case of the Suburban's specifically, also the most versatile and useful.
GM really knocked it out of the park in the early 2000's.
Yes very little went wrong with my three 2003 ( by chance owned that year in that vintage 99- o7 (only bought the suburban new).
I usually do my own light work , the o3 silverado shorty I had to get another tranny ( I shopped around and a passing remark to the service manager: a great deal I was ‘going toget’ At a well known local transmission shop… he said I’ll beat it! Not many folks believed the deal I got on a new trans. And of all my years of only chevy ownership it was my only trans swap .. ( but I do believe in early 60 80 k miles trans fluid replacement .. and I clean it with can of seafoam transtune first ( use to use silo). Was fortunate never any major engine failure or swap all these years . Valvoline every 4 to 5 k miles … when I was young dad said to change every 3500 miles,, but early adult hood read a article in popular mechanics 🤔or consumer report on chevy caprices tested ) New York taxis . And it was a very scientific study.. they showed 6 thousand ( almost double currant thought ) miles was sufficient !!!
I'm 5 years as the second owner of my 2000 very rust free AZ Tahoe. Got it for very cheap as I knew the engine was on it's last leg due to poor maintenance by previous owner. However the body is clean, the interior clean as well, so an engine was a minor sacrifice I was willing to pay.
After a rebuilt engine was installed it's been my daily driver. multiple trips back and forth from west to east coast without concern. My biggest headache was replacing the heater core and may I suggest to anyone buying a Tahoe to get that replaced as soon as you can. Trust me that sucker will go. Replace it and get it out of the way now. Whether you do it yourself (like me) or pay someone, just do it and replace the ac evap and blend door actuators as well for good measure and for goodness sake spend a little and get all acdelco replacements. You don't want to chase bad/cheap parts in hard to replace places twice.
Getting close to 290,000+ miles so I know my tranny is way past an overhaul (which is coming) but after installing a larger aftermarket cooler and replacing the valve body she's still going.
My advice is, if you find a clean Tahoe don't pass up the ones with engine/transmission problems. If it's rust free, straight and clean you can easily replace engine and tranny (even better if you can do it yourself) and be happy.
I would love any of the newer Tahoe or Silverados but my wallet cries when it sees the prices of those SUV's/Trucks. So I will happily stick with my Tahoe.
yeah i recently bought a 2005 gmc yukon xl denali 1 owner clean title no rust for 2k in sport red metallic the engine and transmission were rebuilt with performance parts and it rips with a 200 shot of nitrous, its a very fun sleeper
My 2002 Yukon SLE was a steal for me. I had to replace the water pump. I've since changed the oil and filter, of course, the coolant was replaced, and I installed new belts. Will be replacing the tranny fluid and filter next. But so far, and at 275,500 miles on the odometer, she's running great. No major issues. As far as I know it's never been off road, the undercarriage is in jam up shape.
A few minor cosmetic issues, but these can be taken care of as I go. My Dad was a mechanic and I learned a lot from him and do everything I can myself, I have for many years now.
I bought the Yukon for $900 cash...
A real bargain in my book...
A friend recently offered me twice what I have in it...No Sale, No Way!
Safe Travels ✌️ 😎
That is why I love our year GM vehicles. you can work on it yourself, they are damn near bulletproof when taken care of and parts are plenty! May you be blessed with many happy miles!
I know this is a year old, but l just may be in luck to pick one up tomorrow. It's a 2004 Suburban 4x4., it has 187,000 miles on it.
I can't get over how clean the body is.
That is what impresses me the most. And the fact that one can work on it is a miracle these day's. I hope she turns out to be a real sweet cream puff ' even if gas is at $7.00 plus a gallon here in Northern California 😉
I love my 2004 tahoe and I stole it for 2600! I plan on fixing what ever goes down. First was the oil pressure sending unit as the gauge was pegged to 80. I really dreaded it because of where it is so tight to firewall. I got into it and really wasn't bad at all. The only line I removed was the gas line and I don't think I had to. Got it in and the gauge now works! Anyways they are great vehicles!
I bought a 2003 GMC Yukon 5 years ago. SLT. Black. Well loved (think I was the 7th owner). It is 4x4 with leather, sunroof, etc. It needed some TLC. My plan was to buy it, give it the TLC, then flip it. 5 years later and I still drive it. 220k miles. Starts every time. 4x4 works flawlessly. I installed a touch screen nav unit with backup camera. It has basically everything I would want on a brand new one, just for less than 1/10th of the cost. That no payment life has me hooked. I will not say it has been trouble free. I've had some AC issues, and had the tranny rebuilt 4 years ago. Minor electrical gremlins are common. All in all, they are very nice reliable trucks.
My 01 suburban is best truck I've ever owed with the 8.1 it's a towing monster used since new pulling my construction trailers for over 18 years still runs like new with 330k miles I like it so much I'm thinking about doing full restoration
You should! It'll last another 400k
If your truck takes care of you, you take care of it.
This speaks volumes. Keep it going bud.
From experience, the Gen 9 (2000 to 2006) are known to blow brake lines and fuel lines especially if you live in an area that gets snow. Other then that my '03 Tahoe has been excellant!
Bought 02 k2500 6.0 4.10 g80 burb for little under 4k.
Threw out the 3rd row seats, folded down the 2nd row most of the time, i can git 4x8 inside. Been best camper/tow rig for last 3 yrs.
Wow, I was wondering if a 4X8 would fit. Just bought a clean 04, Z71, private sale. Getting several things fixed before I bring it home.
Great Video.
My Dad owns a 2005 Yukon XL V8 8.1L 4×4 and man that thing is a beast.
I have the 2007 Yukon XL 5.3 V8 4x4 and love it. It's super smooth and well rounded truck.
I also have the 1997 GMC Suburban truck 5.7 V8 4x4 It's honestly one of my favorite vehicles to drive. I own 5 total. Great American classics
Your dad is rocking that 2500! I like it. I have the 6.0 version. Those 2500’s are some work horses.
I have an '03 Suburban 2500 with quadrasteer. I am the third owner and other than oil changes and the impending tune up, the only component replaced was the body control module. If anyone is fortunate enough to have quadrasteer, you will love it. I will be buried in this suburban.
Love my 2002 Suburban with 151,000 miles runs and drives in excellent condition original everything daily drive it everyday bought it from a older couple a few months ago took really care of it
I got my 2002 Yukon XL to 372,000 with original engine and transmission and could’ve gone on even longer if an intoxicated driver didn’t decide to take it from me
I currently drive an 06 tahoe. It has 220,000 miles. When sitting at a light you cannot tell its still running. I love this truck
Thanks for this great info. Being a retired farmer in Mich. I've been wanting a Suburban but not all rusty for years. Just bought an 04, Z71 Suburban from a friend that had come from lower Kansas 4 years ago. Little surface rust. Excellent cond. but had my mechanic check it out first. It's still there as transfer case needs fixing along with new rear A/C Evap. Having new fuel pump put in, pulling oil pan to replace the oil pick up tube seal on the 5.3, flush tranny, fix dash cluster and more. Hasn't made it home yet but pretty excited about it. My mechanic is from a Chevy/Buick dealer and knows them well. He's impressed how clean it is. Exactly what I was wanting to travel, tow, camp & sleep in with my Jack/Rat. I saved this vid, Thanks.
2005 cadilliac escalade esv platinum! totally in love with this truck with 134k
The highest mileage version that I have seen was a white 2001 Chevrolet Tahoe Z71 with close to 500,000 miles and also, I was seriously surprised by that but I wasn’t even scared by that either because I knew these vehicles really well
Original owner of a 2004 LS still under 180K miles. I’ve had many issues, mainly electrical and interior plastics. Transmission skips and engine seems like it’s 100 HP. I still love the truck as it has the size and look combination that is rare these days. I got it when they were giving them away at $36K. I hope to restore it to its former glory one day.
Best SUV's ever made.
I bought a 2000 Suburban LT 2500 4x4 and it was the best purchase I’ve ever bought. The truck just keeps putting out. Bought it from the original owner with 115k miles on it. Now it’s got 190k. Highly recommend grabbing one if you get the chance.
I have a 2001 suburban, 5.3L, 210K miles and running. You forgot to mention the fuel pump issues. Great video.
My 2006 yukon with 250000 miles does me good, love the power and looks.
I have owned my Suburban for 16 years has 270,000 miles and it still runs like a champ keep up with oil changes rear end transmission electrical and light bulbs regular cleaning detailing and good tires very happy about it 16 years ago paid. $26,000 Suburban still looks brand new if you don't thrash on it it will run forever. Im not buying a new model motor very strong.
Also regular car wash keeps rust away
Honestly even if you thrash on it it'll still last, been beating the hell out of mine and the worst thing to go wrong is a broken brake caliper after jumping it. Repairs are cheap too
Got one. Had it for 5 years. Tahoe is the most reliable work suv
Love my 04 Tahoe Lt herein Canada. And yes I took care of the rust issues around the fenders here in southern Canada 🇨🇦 where a lot of rock and salt brine is used.
Bought a 2000 chevy suburban k1500 lt for 1k as my first car. I've been using it as my daily, dirt racer, and overlander. Repairs and modifications have been fairly easy, I've been beating the hell out of it and the worst issue I've had is a broken brake caliper after jumping it which I easily replaced. Genuinely feels like a tank of a vehicle and I love it.
These are the best truck ever built imo
I have 2001 chevy tahoe 281K miles still going strong oil pressure almost 70 psi
My family has a ‘06 Yukon XL Denali and the 4th gear unfortunately went out on it, but it went all the way to 207k miles before transmission problems occurred
Wow, that's alot of good info. How have I not found this channel until now.
FYI...the rear left pocket above the jack is a perfect fit for the small plastic Harbor Freight 30cal ammo boxes. I made a small tool box with one and it sits perfectly there. Like it was designed to fit.
Did you know black ops and other government service agents used these instead of the hummer for their OPs, its really cool tahoes are beast
Oh I love suburbans I'm on my fourth one just picked up a one three quarter ton with the 6.0 in it
2005 Tahoe. If the interior ever goes dead, follow the parking brake release cable and you may find it leaning against a black box in a galvanized bracket. Move the cable away and everything will work again.
Bought an 01 yukon xl for the engine, but it turned into my daily..
I just did the same thing my 85 mc gbody need a ls swap so I got a 2002 Tahoe , after driving it home I made it my daily too.🥺
I just got an '04 Suburban LS from my Aunt that I was just gonna use as a mountain camping car for my family but I decided I like it so much I am gonna turn it in to my daily as well. Such a comfortable vehicle to ride around in and solid as can be.
Back to report my 4l60e has left the chat
@@Lordspaghett damn thats a bummer, how many miles were on that transmission?
@@UAE_8100 50k on that rebuild
Brother I thank you and applaud you on an awesome and very detailed and informative video on the TAHOE/SUBURBAN. Helped allot with what I already knew and you gave me info I needed as I'm looking for one. Many cheers and God bless brother.
My dad 2005 GMC Yukon SLT 5.3 294,000 miles.
Im get mine whit 153000 im tinking was alot milles now im feel happy
Great info. I just bought an 05 Suburban Z71 4x4 with high mileage but trans was rebuilt less than a year ago and it runs and drives great. Looked at my heads and immediately noticed 706 stamp😳 truck has over 350K miles I'm hoping I have a good set...
I bought the 04, Z71, 198 K that is rust free. Owner and I use the same mechanic so we had it checked before I bought. Transfer needs repair/replace, rear A/C evap gets replaced, dropping oil pan to replace oil pick-up o-ring, repair gage cluster, fuel pump and much more. Probably 2 weeks before I bring it home for 1st time. Wanted one for years and found a good one,,,hopefully. Even got the owners manual, yeaaaa. Hope you're happy with yours. On the farm near Battle Creek, Mi.
@@jefffrayer8238Congratulations. Yes, I love mine as well. In going to install new engine in future. I'm turning mine into an overlanding rig.
This will go into my GM SUV file!
5:07 When I bought my 2003 Avalanche new, I got a recall notice to replace the steering column so I'm surprised there are vehicles that still have that problem.
6:00 My 2002 GMC 5.3 has 407,000 miles on it and it purrs like a kitten.
I've got the P0300 code on my 2004 Chevy Express 6.0L that I hope isn't due to that head problem.
Yep the 03 XL has a history of failing brake lines due to road salt. That's why I got mine for $2500. $80 for brake lines, I learned a LOT replacing them, and could sell it for about $5K today. But it's not for sale, I couldn't replace it for that.
The 2011 to 2014 Suburban’s are bulletproof, all the factory service bulletins and defects where fixed by 2011. Too bad Chevy changed things again in 2015. I’ll never ever sell mine.
One of the benefits of these vehicles is parts availability. I have a rust free 2005 Tahoe and I live in the south so I expect to keep it until the engine or transmission goes and then I might just pick up another engine or transmission. LOL
Rod I would have agreed with your parts statement up until the last 18 months. Needed a new radiator for my 2005 and there wasn't a single 1 available in the US last summer. Had 2 go to a junkyard and source 1 until the only manufacturer of new put this part back on there manufacturing schedule. Twice a year they make them.. Bought 1 once they were available and still waiting for the junk yard radiator to fail.
Great video, thnx for the post..!
👍👍👍
You still see them on the road today, that’s how you know they are good rigs.
My mom bought her 01 Chevy suburban brand new 0 miles and never had any issues or rust unfortunately they stole the suburban in July and set it on fire/: but it ran like new only thing we changed was the water pump everything else was original with no issues. It had 236k miles
Got my 2001 Chevy Tahoe lt autoride with around 100,000 miles 5 years ago and he first year I had it the a/c had a leak and the rear airbags for the suspension ripped open, a year later the transmission we out and I got it replaced for $995 around a year and a half after that the transmission slips when going into third and the engine started making a ticking sound and it still does and the oil’s pressure it okay. Last summer I got the a/c and it worked for like 3 months and it broke again. Also the passengers side clear coat is all burned off, over all it has been a very unreliable truck but a plus is it never left me stranded also worked enough to get me home
Wow very informative
My 99 yukon slt only has 175,000 miles still original transmission and engine a little rust but it's the best I only replace the front seats
The transmission went on my 2004 yukon Denali recently has 400,000 kms on it
I have an 05 Tahoe LT with 285K miles that I absolutely love. For the last couple years I have been chasing down coolant leaks. I’ve replaced the upper and lower hoses only to smell (and see) another leak. I replaced the water pump and 6 months later I had to replace the heater hoses. A few months later I have a leak on the back side of the motor on the driver’s side. Even with a small mirror, I can’t figure out where the leak is.
I figure an intake gasket replacement is next but I’m not sure.
Any advice? I love this truck and I want this to be my daily driver FOREVER!
My truck says GMC
217000 leather
winter packedg
Same original exhaust
Just faded
Vortex power plant
No fail
Brake Lines in this generation were the worst when exposed to road salts and chemicals. GM took little responsibility because of their financial liability after the first year when this became a known issue.
i like my 2003 tahoe
So how common are the suburbans of that era to have a sunroof? Specifically the 02 model year.
thank you man
For sure - thanks for watching!
My 02 has 256,000 mi and is Great
I've had the needles of the gauges fall to the bottom like that. I used a bent paper clip to reset them to their correct positions
Question guys, I have an ‘04 Suburban with 193k miles on it. Wondering if I should spend the $80 on changing the rear diff fluid or just leave it alone? I don’t have any of the service records on the car? Any negative to changing out the fluid or just leave ‘er be? Thanks in advance!
Change all fluids
2005 Tahoe is hitting 200k miles on original engine and transmission
I've replaced many of these blend motors without having to remove the dash and the reason I was given the opportunity to do these repairs was because the shops told them they had to remove the whole dash,,, it's not necessary, and truthfully the only thing I found someone intimidating about the job is retiming or calibrating the new blend motor with the other blend motors and the knobs position as well but there's a there's a very simple method you just have to be able to find that method for that blend motor and once you run that that blend motor through are very short brief couple of steps it will be timed you can slap a couple of covers back on under & in front of center dash console I think , and you're done if you go at it with the information needed to re-time and recalibrate whichever blend motors u are replacing, I think there's four of them but don't quote me on that , as it's been a long long time ago...
Now, these trucks last so long, so well, that I recommend if you're not already akin to it, I recommend that you open up a little bit and familiarize yourself with the art of hunting down your parts to upgrade or improve/repair your short list of things you notice you'd like to fix because it you know is gotten to the specs that it needs to be replaced or it might have a squeak or might have a pop or might have a blemish on it you can there's tons of parts to be found in junk yards that was surprise you because they are basically new as the owner right before it was wrecked or you know engine blue or something of a mistreated in some way and it just became a total the previous owners in most cases have replaced a lot of parts on those trucks that are finally hitting the junk yards and no just don't just a one or a couple of trucks you can find a lot of parts that you know have very little use on them and can be bought cheaply and I'm all about that !!!! There's nothing in the world and nothing but benefits to doing your own repairs and learning as you go by asking a lot of questions doing a lot of research taking a lot of notes and you get from that to satisfaction of saving a bunch of money as well as that satisfaction of yeah I did that I'm not riding around wondering if I pay the whole lot of money to a shop or dealer and did they really do what is written down there on that paper that they claim they charge me for you know what's happening to your vehicle and you'll always while you're making that repair you'll be noticing anything else that's showing anywhere and you'll say what's that I wonder if that's well you know if you want to know check the specs on it see if it is at a point where it needs to be replaced and as much a fan as I am of that whole process I say to you do not,,& by that I mean dont go to a junkyard for these Parts because of several reasons like they're not very expensive to buy new and perhaps slightly improved if by the Polly and plastic material by which they are manufactured having improved over the years, and also it can be hard or near impossible to easily determine whether one's good or bad or whether it will even work in your replacement I found in my experience most of them were broke and the last drivers or owners of these trucks weren't really too much about having everything perfect and everything working right it was just a bit of vehicle for them to ride to the wheels fall off basically and they wind up in a junkyard that way by the way but you know it's the type situation where well this don't work and that don't work we don't know why and want a lot of money to fix it so the hell with it we just don't have air blowing here and blowing there or the AC has gone down you know a while back a long time many miles ago whatever and it was a lot of money to fix so why fix the blender or blenders
So anyway I set out to keep this short and sweet and once again I've written a book but it's really pretty much all I have on that although this is not exactly straightforward as a lot of repairs can be please do not let that intimidate you because once you've seen it done and done it you will feel ridiculous for having been intimidated at all by it it only takes a couple of tools and literally you know minutes up to less than an hour to do depending on your skill level and I think that's a win-win all day long and something to fix right away don't be has been about it and drive the truck uncomfortable and you know or have a member of your family or friend or passenger will be uncomfortable fix the doggone thing so that it works and go to a NAPA store to buy it or a you know your local whatever you're good reps or regular story is where you know the people behind the counter have a little bit of knowledge in their car fixers their self and you know they they take the time to familiarize themselves even if it's not there necessary a brand of choice vehicle as they sell those parts they're carefully taken in all the knowledge they can about that part and the ups and downs and can be very helpful plus the parts that they buy to sell their customers are going to be the best you can mark it on the market that you can get you know aside from OEM dealer parts and in a lot of cases these are the part that the manufacturer used so that makes it a direct OEM replacement so I hope that that helps everyone that has an issue going on with the no air coming out here no air coming out there blah blah blah because it does get weird when one one of these finally breaks the system will seem just like completely different in the way it performs so have a laugh at your local shop that told you you'd have to pay them over a grand plus to r&r one of these parts under your dash and have a good laugh at them and the satisfaction of knowing you did it yourself knowing it was done right knowing you used a good part knowing you saved a lot of money and you'll be excited about the next thing on the truck that's been bothering you want to fix and you sleep real good that night thanks for listening !! I'm out.😎
It's not that hard to pull the dash. It's actually less time than you would spend with the hardest ones to get to, not to mention saving the meat on the back of your hands.
I have a 99 GMC Suburban with less rust then my 02 Chevy suburban. Newer cheaper material?
Depends on where the trucks spent their lives at, the trucks down south generally don't have any rust while most of them up north are rusty. If those trucks had previous owners, could be that your '02 had an owner that neglected to wash the salt off the truck if you're living where they salt the roads in the winter.
Although my 02 suburban still has front interior door handles.......99 doesnt
I lost brake due to rusted brake line this suv rust out realy fast
Old ones are amazing, anything after 9th gen is absolute trash. Go buy a new one if you don’t believe me lol