2016 Chevrolet suburban vs 2017 Chevrolet suburban
Reliability Side-by-Side
2016
Chevrolet suburban
Grade C+
A utilitarian powerhouse that demands careful pre-purchase inspection and proactive maintenance to mitigate known powertrain risks.
2017
Chevrolet suburban
Grade B-
A powerhouse family hauler that demands proactive maintenance to prevent costly engine and suspension repairs.
Best For
Best for Reliability
2017 Chevrolet suburban
Score 82/100 vs 78/100
Best for Lowest Annual Upkeep
2016 Chevrolet suburban
$500-750
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Cost of Ownership
| Line Item | 2016 Chevrolet suburban | 2017 Chevrolet suburban★ |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Maintenance | $500-750 | $600-800 |
| Moderate Repairs | $500-1,500 occasionally (e.g., electrical, suspension components) | $800-2,000 occasionally |
| MPG (City/Hwy) | 16 / 23 | 16 / 23 |
| MSRP (New) | $49,700 | $50,200 |
Major-failure risk and insurance outlook for each vehicle are in their full reliability reports.
Biggest Risks on Each
2016 Chevrolet suburban
Active Fuel Management (AFM) System
80,000-150,000 mi
Transmission (6L80)
60,000-120,000 mi
Electrical System & Infotainment
40,000-100,000 mi
2017 Chevrolet suburban
Engine (AFM Lifters)
80,000-120,000 mi
Suspension (Magnetic Ride Control)
60,000-100,000 mi
Brakes (Vacuum Pump)
70,000-110,000 mi
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Editorial Take
The 2016 and 2017 Chevrolet Suburban models represent consecutive years within the same generation, offering similar designs and capabilities that make them frequent comparison points for buyers of large SUVs. These full-size, body-on-frame behemoths are typically considered by large families needing substantial passenger and cargo space, or individuals requiring robust towing capacity for boats or RVs. The key decision factors between these two model years often boil down to subtle technology updates, slight pricing differences, and the availability of specific features that may have become standard or optional. Understanding these nuances is crucial for making an informed choice between two otherwise very similar and capable vehicles. HEAD-TO-
Reliability & Common Issues
As part of the same generation, the 2016 and 2017 Chevrolet Suburbans share many of the same potential reliability characteristics and common issues. 2016 Chevrolet Suburban: 1. HVAC Blend Door Actuator Failure: A common complaint involves the blend door actuators within the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system. These plastic components can fail, leading to inconsistent temperature control, hot or cold air blowing only on one side of the vehicle, or clicking noises from behind the dashboard. This typically manifests between 50,000 and 100,000 miles and can be a moderately expensive repair. 2. Active Fuel Management (AFM) Lifter Issues: The 5.3-liter V8 engine employs Active Fuel Management (AFM), which can deactivate cylinders to improve fuel economy. Some owners have reported issues with lifters failing in the AFM system, leading to engine misfires, excessive oil consumption, and in severe cases, requiring significant engine work or replacement. This issue is more prevalent in vehicles with higher mileage, often past 100,000 miles. 2017 Chevrolet Suburban: 1. Infotainment System Glitches: Owners occasionally report issues with the MyLink infotainment system, including freezing screens, Bluetooth connectivity problems, or slow response times. While software updates can often resolve these, some persistent issues might require dealer intervention. These can occur at various mileages, from new to tens of thousands of miles. 2. Power Liftgate Malfunctions: The power liftgate, a convenient feature, can sometimes develop issues such as failing to open or close properly, making grinding noises, or getting stuck. This can be due to problems with the liftgate motor, sensors, or wiring. These issues can arise at various mileage points, from 40,000 miles onward.
Value & Cost of Ownership
When considering value and cost of ownership, the 2016 and 2017 Chevrolet Suburban models present very similar propositions, with the 2017 holding a slight edge due to its newer model year. Purchase prices (new and used): As noted, the original MSRP for the 2017 Suburban was slightly higher than the 2016 model, typically by $500 to $1,000 for comparable trims. In the used market today, this trend generally continues. A 2016 Suburban, depending on trim, mileage, and condition, might range from approximately $20,000 to $35,000. A comparable 2017 Suburban would likely command roughly $2,000 to $4,000 more, typically ranging from $22,000 to $38,000. This difference reflects the one-year age gap and the minor feature enhancements. Insurance costs: Insurance costs for both models are expected to be very similar. Factors such as the vehicle's value, repair costs, and safety ratings contribute to premiums. Since these models are nearly identical in these aspects, any difference in insurance rates would primarily come down to individual driver profiles, location, and chosen coverage. Generally, full-size SUVs tend to have moderate to high insurance costs due to their replacement value and potential for higher repair costs. Maintenance costs: Maintenance costs for the 2016 and 2017 Suburbans are effectively identical. Both utilize the same 5.3L V8 engine and six-speed transmission, and share common wear-and-tear components. Owners can expect to spend approximately $650 to $750 per year on average for routine maintenance, including oil changes, tire rotations, and general inspections. Major services, such as brake replacements or suspension work, will be similar in cost for both years. Resale value: The 2017 Suburban will generally maintain a slightly better resale value compared to the 2016 model simply due to being one year newer. While Suburbans historically hold their value well for large SUVs, the depreciation curve will be marginally flatter for the 2017 model year, especially in the first few years of used ownership. This difference, however, becomes less significant as the vehicles age further.
Editorial Verdict
Best for families: Both the 2016 and 2017 Chevrolet Suburban are excellent choices for families, offering vast interior space, robust safety features, and comfortable seating for up to nine passengers. The 2017 model has a slight edge due to the standard inclusion of Android Auto alongside Apple CarPlay, and the addition of the "Teen Driver" and "Rear Seat Reminder" systems, which enhance family-oriented functionality and peace of mind. Best for commuters: Neither vehicle is ideally suited for urban commuting due to their sheer size and lower fuel economy compared to smaller SUVs. However, for those with long highway commutes who prioritize comfort, cargo capacity for weekend trips, or the ability to tow, both Suburbans offer a smooth and quiet ride. Their identical fuel efficiency means there is no advantage of one over the other in this category. Best for enthusiasts: The Chevrolet Suburban is not typically considered an enthusiast's vehicle. However, for those whose enthusiasm lies in towing, rugged capability, or possessing a powerful American V8, both model years deliver. With identical powertrains and towing capacities, neither stands out as a "better" enthusiast choice. The available Magnetic Ride Control on higher trims offers a subtly more refined ride, which might appeal to some. Best value overall: The 2016 Chevrolet Suburban typically represents the best value overall. Given its very similar features, identical performance, and highly comparable reliability to the 2017 model, the slightly lower used purchase price of the 2016 model means you get nearly the same vehicle for less money. The technological updates in the 2017 model, while useful, are minor enough that the cost savings on a 2016 model often outweigh the benefits for the budget-conscious buyer. If you find a well-maintained 2016 Suburban, you are getting essentially the same great full-size SUV experience without paying the premium for the newer model year.
Parts & Accessories for These Vehicles
Products for 2016 Chevrolet suburban
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