Just picked up our 2003 Suburban LT with the factory installed Panasonic LCD screen and DVD player. The setup comes with 2 wireless headphones - however, we have 5 kids. The dealer wants $75 each, or $225+tax for 3 additional headsets. Anyone here have any experience or suggestions? I appreciate any and all!
We use the two wireless headphones for two kids in the back row and then use two Walkman-type wired headphones for the middle row (set the rear audio panel to RSE to listen to the DVD). I know it doesn't completely solve your problem with 5 in the back, but 4 is better than 2! Or you can always set the front audio to RSE and run the DVD sound through the car speaker system. glsable
You can use the steering wheel buttons (which come with the Driver Convenience pkg, I think) to scroll throught the Driver Info Center to set the Driver # whenever the car is unlocked with the corresponding remote #. I would be surprised if this does not work if you have the steering wheel buttons, even on an LS. glsable
tell ur dad to buy about the SRX..it seems pretty good to compete with the XC90 and RX330, since u said that he's "shying away" from buying another Caddy..it seems pretty good to me
i meant to tell him about the SRX..it seems like a very good car for the money, though I am skeptical about the low-slung LCD screen for the back seats (how can the third row watch a DVD!?!)...
and i see what you're saying about buying the Yukon XL, it seems very solid and the interior seems to have a good fit and finish (i checked one out this weekend)..very nice for an SUV
and it seems as if i may have been wrong, the Yukon XL is a good deal for the money
Thanks for the suggestion. The wired option certainly cuts my costs significantly.
Also appreciated your other post on setting the Driver #. Ours was backwards, with the system recognizing remote #1 as #2 and vice versa. Minor item, but a big help.
My opinions: The new minivans like the Odyssey, Sienna and Quest have about the same room inside as a Suburban (and perhaps more legroom in the 3rd row), but you have to decide if you want a minivan or an SUV. We like the security of a big SUV in case someone else runs into us.
The Expedition is more equivalent to the Tahoe than the Suburban. If you need to seat 6 people with luggage, the Expedition won't work. The larger Ford Excursion is being phased out this year, and is much more "trucky" than a Suburban since it is based on the F-350 chassis rather than being a stretched Expedition.
The Suburban 1500 LS and LTs have street tires rather than the knobby truck tires like the Z71 and 2500 models, so they ride nicely and are quieter. We were more interested in people-carrying and so chose a Suburban K1500 (4WD/lightweight). And we got the middle row buckets so access to the 3rd row is great!
rc: since you had a Suzuki and just bought an FX-45, Suburbans are obviously not for you. So why don't you go over to the Infiniti board and post there?
Glsable: "We like the security of a big SUV in case someone else runs into us." My wife feels the same way and, I must admit, so do I. Unfortunately, it seems that the real world figures show that the safest vehicles on the road are the minivans. Go figure!? Maybe its because they aren't used as much for commuting? Maybe there is a safer driving attitude by their owners? Maybe they really do survive accidents best (they are highest rated by both the IIHS and the NHTSA after all)? But them's the facts.
rctennis3811: It takes a big man (somehow it doesn't sound quite right to use that same expression for a woman; "big woman" just doesn't carry the same positive connotation) to actually say, "I may have been wrong." My compliments. Besides, it may still turn out that you weren't wrong! ;-)
Many people have been talking about "cold air" problems on this board, but I have a different type of problem and I'm wondering if any one can shed some light on it.
My 2001 K1500 4x4 Suburban with Manual Climate Controls started putting out VERY COLD air (as in A/C coldness) in recirculation mode about 2 weeks ago. This would otherwise be fine except that it does this regardless of whether the AC button is on or off. (I have the dials set to blow air through the front vents.) The dealer tested all modes and said this was normal. It is so cold that it's the same temperature as with the AC on. I think the AC compressor is engaged constantly, but the dealer says it goes on and off normally.
The user manual says that RECIRC mode will just recirculate cabin temperature if you don't turn the AC on, but the dealer says AC comes on with RECIRC mode no matter what. This makes no sense to me because it only started doing this about 2 weeks ago. What do you folks think? Would appreciate finding out if this is "normal" on your vehicles.
jgkii: thanks for the info on getting the extra wireless headsets since we may eventually go that way too. The DVD is a Panasonic, so I was wondering if you checked them as a source too?
One reason we want the extra wireless headsets is that if you have XM radio the wired headsets cannot be set to the RSE/DVD when the driver is listening to XM. I presume this is how everyone is set up and we do not just have a bug. If you have XM and DVD can you confirm this on your vehicle?
One advantage of having the wired headsets is that the middle row can listen to the radio or CD (playing on the system up front) while the back row can listen to the DVD.
Also FYi: the DVD player can also play CDs if the rear seat passengers want to listen to a different CD than what is playing up front.
We have been extremely happy with both XM and the DVD. glsable
Took our 03 Suburban LT 4wd 5.3 V8 on its first road trip from Kansas City to Denver and back. Good highway ride however there was a lot of noise from about 70 to 74 mph. Seems like a front wheel balance issue but there was no shake in the steering wheel. Just a loud noise (tire noise for lack of a better word) that seemed to go away once speed got below 60mph. Will have dealer check the balance on tires (only have 2100 miles) Averaged 16.5 mpg travelling at 75-79mph. Any thoughts on the noise?
Also, we are looking to buy a travel trailer and tow with either my Avalanche or Suburban. Both are 1500 series 4WD 5.3L V-8 with a 3.73 rear end and both have tow package options. Tow capacity is listed 7000-7500 depending on vehicle. Hope to find an unloaded Travel Trailer that is 4500# empty and no more than 5500# loaded. Any experiences or advice on trailer type etc.
Not my numbers, but I've heard that a good rule of thumb is tow no more than 80% of the maximum towing capacity. You're right under that with the numbers you're using, either vehicle.
Check out Forest River's ultra lite line, the surveyor, and grand surveyor. We have a 30' GS but it's all I'd want to tow with a Tahoe. Jayco and others have ultralites. Ours weighs right what you're after 4600 empty probably 5500 full. You will give up solid oak cabinets, corian, and hardwood floors, on most of these to cut the weight. Some look "trailery" so take a close look. The lines turn over in June-July so you're mid year, trailer wise. Her's a link on them. http://www.forestriverinc.com/nd/default22.asp?nav=rec
To "phkck"...I have an 01 Burb LT 5.3 4wd with current mileage at 33,500. Same complaint about tire noise at freeway speeds. Sounds like a bearing going wah-wah-wah. A custom alignment shop looked at the wear (which seems to be causing the noise) and says it's common on the OEM Firestone Wilderness tires due to the softer tread compounds. These tires need to be cross rotated every 3-5K miles. They recommend Michelin X-Terrain tires once I'm ready for a replacement set.
Could be the firestone tires. Have Michelin Wranglers on the Avalanche and don't have any noise complaints. Thanks. Also, thanks for travel trailer links.
Hello glsable - We did try Panasonic, but they referred me back to GM - citing supplier agreement. As far as the wireless/wired set up issues you cite, we have the same result. Kind of curious why the wired headsets can't be set to the RSE/DVD setting when the main unit is on XM. Also, definately agree with your comments - XM and the DVD are terrific. Honestly had some reservations about paying (yet another) subscription fee for the XM, but definately an outstanding benefit.
Bought my 2002 Suburban in July, during the road test noticed light howling noise from drivetrain which actually came from the Firestone tires with just 21,000 on them. Dealer gave me tires of my choice to close the deal, choose Michelin LTX M&S and all noise is gone at all speeds. Smooth ride and great traction. Thanks to all the posts on Firestones as it's true, drop the stock Firestones!!!
I had the misfortune of buying a 99, only to see the value plumment when the 00 came out with new design. I'm torn between trading in my 02, or trying to make it last until the next model comes out (although that's a stretch because I'm putting lots of miles on it). It would help greatly if I knew when that would occur. I guess it will be the 05, 06 or 07 model, but is there any way to find out exactly?
I am in the market now for a full size SUV. I am in Austin TX and will use it mostly for highway trips and around town. 2WD is all I need. However, I currently drive a Nissan frontier and I know rwd can be scary when road is wet. Can you experts help me decide on which feature do I need, limited slip differential or the Electronic stability control system? Looks like it is only available one or the other.
BTW, Do you think invoice+100-rebate will be a fair deal for a 2004?
I had the misfortune of buying a 99, only to see the value plumment when the 00 came out with new design. I'm torn between trading in my 02, or trying to make it last until the next model comes out (although that's a stretch because I'm putting lots of miles on it). It would help greatly if I knew when that would occur. I guess it will be the 05, 06 or 07 model, but is there any way to find out exactly?
philipa: Yes, the dreaded "Avalanche-style" nose is making its way through the Chevy Trucks line-up (Silverado, Express, Trailblazer ...) and I guess it is bound to end up on the Tahoe/Suburban! This was one reason I was happy to buy an '03 Suburban because personally I do NOT like the butch-look squared fenders and squint-eyed nose of the Avalanche! I am not worried about value dropping on my vehicle since we intend to keep it for 10+ years and over that time it will not be significant.
Keep checking Edmunds Future Vehicles pages to know for sure, but since it is an easy production change, Chevy could make the switch very quickly. Maybe they are waiting to use up the current-style front clips that are already in the parts bin? glsable
huitaol: I don't think RWD is that scary, even when it is wet. Large RWD cars were around for a long time before FWD cars appeared in the U.S. and everyone managed to stay on the road! However, I would definitely get one or the other: the limited-slip (i.e., locking) rear differential or the Stabilitrak stab control. My preference would be the locking diff since it is more tried-and-true. And the newer 'Burbs have a few electrical gremlins running around, that could appear with the Stabilitrak. My 2 cents worth! glsable
I have an 01 XL 2wd with 48k. No problems until now. ABS light came on and when I parked and turned it off I heard a noise comming from under the truck like a motor running. I took the ABS fuse out and it stopped. The brake and ABS light stay on now.
I called the local GMC dealer and he quoted me $750 to replace the ABS modulator. I called the local parts dealers and they do not have this in stock yet.
Has anyone had to have this replaced and is $750 in line? I am taking it in on Monday AM so if anyone has suggestions please send them.
I have a '99 chev suburban 4wd k1500 5.7L vortec V8. It has 99,000mi and the engine has recently started to shake and what seems like a misfire when going up a grade of more than 30 seconds or so. Should I have a shop do a compression check or sell it quick? Brad
I have tested stability control on a track. Once through the cones with stability control on and onece with it off. It is amazing how much stability control does for you. It doesn't just prevent wheel spin, it applies an individual brake (1 wheel) to coorect the direction the vehicle is going if the direction the vehicle is steered is different than the direction the vehicle is going. Go with stability control.
And also the 2000 redesign was a full revamp. what is likely coming next is just a front clip change. So the effect on residual values should be much less than you saw in 2000. glsabe
lobsenza: I never tested a Stabilitrak-equipped version. It must have been interesting to get to do a back-to-back comparison! I wonder how the locking diff would feel since the runs you did with the Stabilitrack off would have been with an open differential. Did you notice much inside-rear-wheel wheelspin?
I did test extensively a Quadrasteer that was very impressive (except that it was only available on the 2500s and cost $4000!). Parking lot maneuverability was fantastic with the wheels turning opposite directions. At higher speeds the logic switches such that the rears turn in the same direction as the fronts and I did a few back-to-back sudden lane change maneuvers at high speed. The stabilty was dramatically improved with the Quadrasteer system ON.
I think Chevy is missing a great opportunity by marketing Quadrasteer for towing trailers, when they could "make a lot of hay" selling it to Moms who have to park at the grocery store! glsable
I am surprised by the rebates on the '04 models ($2500 plus $1100 for the DVD/sunroof/XM package). I thought that the rebates would go away with the '03s.
As others I recently replaced the stock Firestones with Michelin LTX M/S. The difference is incredible. No noise, at least up to 80, as fast as I have had them. The handling is great and at slow speeds the wheel turns much easier than with the Firestones. Wish I had replaced them sooner.
I guess I should clarify. The test was done at the Ford proving grounds with a Lincoln LS. It does have an open differential and the stability control system functions very similiarly to GMs. The amount of help the stability system gave me to stay on course was simply amazing. Frankly, I didn't realize how much it helped until I drove a second lap without it.
I would like to get more information on the thread written by Michy2, thread #2917. I've purchased a 2003 LS Suburban two weeks ago and have been getting the same symptom. I took it to two dealers and the last thorough inspection the recommendation was to add the dampers to weight the exhaust system. I was told this was an uncertified repair by Chevrolet since it does not guarantee that this would resolve the problem. I would like to know if anyone else has had this problem and what was done. Thanks.
I have a 2002 Suburban with 35,000 miles and am experiencing transmission issues - The dealership explained it to be a "stripped sun shell" in the transmission and had it rebuilt - Has anyone had a similar experience? This is a lease that comes up in March and I am strongly considering turning it in due to the problem - I love the Suburban and would consider buying it out but this issues scares me into thinking I'm going to have ongoing probelms!
Stability control and the locking differential serve two different functions.
Stability control helps prevent the vehicle from spinning out of control during turning maneuvers. StabiliTrak constantly monitors the vehicle's directional status, and if it detects the vehicle is not responding adequately to steering input, it applies a quick, precise force to the appropriate brake to help bring the vehicle back on track. See the following web page: http://www.chevrolet.com/suburban/safety.htm
The locking differential only works at speeds under 20mph. If one rear wheel spins 100 rpm faster than the other, the differential locks and power is transmitted equally to both rear wheels. See the following web page: http://automotive.eaton.com/product/traction_stability/lockingdif- f.html
I don't know much about the optional Electronic Stability Control system on the Suburban ("Stabilitrak") but reviews of ESC on Mercedes and Toyota vehicles mention that they are annoying at times, and unfortunately they cannot be switched off on these models. glsable
We are 10 months away from first deliveries of the 2005 models and I would be surprised if there is a completely redesigned Suburban hiding out there! But if there is, I would love to see the pics!
I suspect it is just a "freshening up" of the current model, perhaps with the front hood and fenders and grille from the Avalanche or Silverado. glsable
I recently purchased a 2003 Sub LT and was inquiring from the local Chevy dealer about when the Suburban was due for a revision. They claim the 2005 will pick up some of the front end features (?) of the full size pick ups. A completely new model isn't due until 2007.
I have a 2003 Yukon XL with power seats. Just recently the Lumbar adjuster started inflating on its own. It takes 5 - 10 minutes, but it does kreep up until it is fully inflated. I did a search on this site and I found a few similar posts, but not how it was resolved. I'd really rather not have to go back to the dealer.
Hey PHKCK, read you post about your new 2003 Suburban. Looking to buy a 03 or 04. Live in KC area. If you got a good deal, I would like to visit the same dealership. Any help would be great.
on Shawnee Mission Parkway just east of I-35. Don't know if I can post dealer name? They are fairly typical, first quote was sticker yada yada. They saw I almost blew a gasket and were about to lose an easy sale. I also showed them print outs from Chevy showing who else had vehicles that would work for me. Next offer was right on target, over $6000 below the initial salvo. Chevy and GMC have great web sites to check inventory. At this point I would work for an 04 as they are offering money off on them as well. An 03 Yukon XL would also be a good choice depending on the trim level you were considering. One thing I wish I had done was ask/demand to see any and all rebates that you will assign to the dealer BEFORE you agree on a price. There was an extra $500 rebate at the time of purchase that I missed, so lesson learned. Also, had purchased an Avalanche from a Chevy dealer on Metcalf north of I-435. They were nice enough but played the same games. If you have the time and stomach for it, you can let a few dealers fight it out. I went with the Shawnee Mission dealer as they are close to my house and met an acceptable price. Sorry so long, let me know if I can be of further help. PHERTEL@kc.rr.com
Comments
glsable
glsable
and i see what you're saying about buying the Yukon XL, it seems very solid and the interior seems to have a good fit and finish (i checked one out this weekend)..very nice for an SUV
and it seems as if i may have been wrong, the Yukon XL is a good deal for the money
Also appreciated your other post on setting the Driver #. Ours was backwards, with the system recognizing remote #1 as #2 and vice versa. Minor item, but a big help.
Thanks!
The new minivans like the Odyssey, Sienna and Quest have about the same room inside as a Suburban (and perhaps more legroom in the 3rd row), but you have to decide if you want a minivan or an SUV. We like the security of a big SUV in case someone else runs into us.
The Expedition is more equivalent to the Tahoe than the Suburban. If you need to seat 6 people with luggage, the Expedition won't work. The larger Ford Excursion is being phased out this year, and is much more "trucky" than a Suburban since it is based on the F-350 chassis rather than being a stretched Expedition.
The Suburban 1500 LS and LTs have street tires rather than the knobby truck tires like the Z71 and 2500 models, so they ride nicely and are quieter. We were more interested in people-carrying and so chose a Suburban K1500 (4WD/lightweight). And we got the middle row buckets so access to the 3rd row is great!
I hope that helps.
glsable
rctennis3811: It takes a big man (somehow it doesn't sound quite right to use that same expression for a woman; "big woman" just doesn't carry the same positive connotation) to actually say, "I may have been wrong." My compliments. Besides, it may still turn out that you weren't wrong! ;-)
My 2001 K1500 4x4 Suburban with Manual Climate Controls started putting out VERY COLD air (as in A/C coldness) in recirculation mode about 2 weeks ago. This would otherwise be fine except that it does this regardless of whether the AC button is on or off. (I have the dials set to blow air through the front vents.) The dealer tested all modes and said this was normal. It is so cold that it's the same temperature as with the AC on. I think the AC compressor is engaged constantly, but the dealer says it goes on and off normally.
The user manual says that RECIRC mode will just recirculate cabin temperature if you don't turn the AC on, but the dealer says AC comes on with RECIRC mode no matter what. This makes no sense to me because it only started doing this about 2 weeks ago. What do you folks think? Would appreciate finding out if this is "normal" on your vehicles.
One reason we want the extra wireless headsets is that if you have XM radio the wired headsets cannot be set to the RSE/DVD when the driver is listening to XM. I presume this is how everyone is set up and we do not just have a bug. If you have XM and DVD can you confirm this on your vehicle?
One advantage of having the wired headsets is that the middle row can listen to the radio or CD (playing on the system up front) while the back row can listen to the DVD.
Also FYi: the DVD player can also play CDs if the rear seat passengers want to listen to a different CD than what is playing up front.
We have been extremely happy with both XM and the DVD.
glsable
Good highway ride however there was a lot of noise from about 70 to 74 mph. Seems like a front wheel balance issue but there was no shake in the steering wheel. Just a loud noise (tire noise for lack of a better word) that seemed to go away once speed got below 60mph. Will have dealer check the balance on tires (only have 2100 miles)
Averaged 16.5 mpg travelling at 75-79mph.
Any thoughts on the noise?
Both are 1500 series 4WD 5.3L V-8 with a 3.73 rear end and both have tow package options.
Tow capacity is listed 7000-7500 depending on vehicle. Hope to find an unloaded Travel Trailer that is 4500# empty and no more than 5500# loaded.
Any experiences or advice on trailer type etc.
Cheers!
Paul
http://www.forestriverinc.com/nd/default22.asp?nav=rec
Also, thanks for travel trailer links.
We did try Panasonic, but they referred me back to GM - citing supplier agreement. As far as the wireless/wired set up issues you cite, we have the same result. Kind of curious why the wired headsets can't be set to the RSE/DVD setting when the main unit is on XM.
Also, definately agree with your comments - XM and the DVD are terrific. Honestly had some reservations about paying (yet another) subscription fee for the XM, but definately an outstanding benefit.
BTW, Do you think invoice+100-rebate will be a fair deal for a 2004?
Thanks!
Yes, the dreaded "Avalanche-style" nose is making its way through the Chevy Trucks line-up (Silverado, Express, Trailblazer ...) and I guess it is bound to end up on the Tahoe/Suburban! This was one reason I was happy to buy an '03 Suburban because personally I do NOT like the butch-look squared fenders and squint-eyed nose of the Avalanche! I am not worried about value dropping on my vehicle since we intend to keep it for 10+ years and over that time it will not be significant.
Keep checking Edmunds Future Vehicles pages to know for sure, but since it is an easy production change, Chevy could make the switch very quickly. Maybe they are waiting to use up the current-style front clips that are already in the parts bin?
glsable
glsable
I don't think RWD is that scary, even when it is wet. Large RWD cars were around for a long time before FWD cars appeared in the U.S. and everyone managed to stay on the road! However, I would definitely get one or the other: the limited-slip (i.e., locking) rear differential or the Stabilitrak stab control. My preference would be the locking diff since it is more tried-and-true. And the newer 'Burbs have a few electrical gremlins running around, that could appear with the Stabilitrak. My 2 cents worth!
glsable
I called the local GMC dealer and he quoted me $750 to replace the ABS modulator. I called the local parts dealers and they do not have this in stock yet.
Has anyone had to have this replaced and is $750 in line? I am taking it in on Monday AM so if anyone has suggestions please send them.
Thanks
Larry
glsabe
I did test extensively a Quadrasteer that was very impressive (except that it was only available on the 2500s and cost $4000!). Parking lot maneuverability was fantastic with the wheels turning opposite directions. At higher speeds the logic switches such that the rears turn in the same direction as the fronts and I did a few back-to-back sudden lane change maneuvers at high speed. The stabilty was dramatically improved with the Quadrasteer system ON.
I think Chevy is missing a great opportunity by marketing Quadrasteer for towing trailers, when they could "make a lot of hay" selling it to Moms who have to park at the grocery store!
glsable
The difference is incredible. No noise, at least up to 80, as fast as I have had them. The handling is great and at slow speeds the wheel turns much easier than with the Firestones.
Wish I had replaced them sooner.
Thanks!
Jeff
Stability control helps prevent the vehicle from spinning out of control during turning maneuvers. StabiliTrak constantly monitors the vehicle's directional status, and if it detects the vehicle is not responding adequately to steering input, it applies a quick, precise force to the appropriate brake to help bring the vehicle back on track. See the following web page: http://www.chevrolet.com/suburban/safety.htm
The locking differential only works at speeds under 20mph. If one rear wheel spins 100 rpm faster than the other, the differential locks and power is transmitted equally to both rear wheels. See the following web page: http://automotive.eaton.com/product/traction_stability/lockingdif- f.html
glsable
I suspect it is just a "freshening up" of the current model, perhaps with the front hood and fenders and grille from the Avalanche or Silverado.
glsable
They are fairly typical, first quote was sticker yada yada. They saw I almost blew a gasket and were about to lose an easy sale. I also showed them print outs from Chevy showing who else had vehicles that would work for me. Next offer was right on target, over $6000 below the initial salvo.
Chevy and GMC have great web sites to check inventory. At this point I would work for an 04 as they are offering money off on them as well.
An 03 Yukon XL would also be a good choice depending on the trim level you were considering.
One thing I wish I had done was ask/demand to see any and all rebates that you will assign to the dealer BEFORE you agree on a price. There was an extra $500 rebate at the time of purchase that I missed, so lesson learned.
Also, had purchased an Avalanche from a Chevy dealer on Metcalf north of I-435. They were nice enough but played the same games.
If you have the time and stomach for it, you can let a few dealers fight it out.
I went with the Shawnee Mission dealer as they are close to my house and met an acceptable price.
Sorry so long, let me know if I can be of further help. PHERTEL@kc.rr.com