You can try www.gmwarrantycentral.com. They gave me quotes that I brought in to the dealer to meet or beat. They didn't, but came close to it so I bought through the dealer anyway, they were just a tad higher. I went with a 5/75,000 warranty with a 200.00 deductible for 999.00, online folks had quote me like 950.00. Woman I spoke to there asked if I was sitting down when she went into the 100,00 mile warranty charges cuz the cost jumps tremendously. It was about almost 4K for the warranty you want, so I think your prices are close. I couldn't swallow the cost of the longer warranty.
What can I say, I love the Yukon, it is awesome! I am in awe that the ride is better than my T&C van. Hubby took it out on Saturday, even he came back impressed. He was most pleased that he did not have to empty the cargo area of strollers, etc., to go shopping and it fit everything in the back, no squishing stuff in amongst the kids.
Installed my VentaShade window deflectors and Lund interceptor visor yesterday. Going to polish it up as soon as my Zaino order comes in. Figured I'd even do hubby's car since he went along with my trading in our van.
I am thrilled so far. Still haven't made it through the owners manual though. Pleased with the MPG's so far. Got 1 MPG less than my minivan on the freeway on the way home, figure it will get close to my previous highway/around town average once the engine gets broken in.
Thinking of a backup system, but undecided. Kids keep asking when the video system will be installed, they are spoiled from the van. Was a bit worried about parking it in my garage. Was going to move some storage cabinets we have in there but decided to wait till I got it home. It's tight, can't open the cabinet doors with it in there and there's only about 3 inches of room on the front end, but it fits! I may still move them if I get around to it. Awesome vehicle!
My 2002 Suburban Z71, which I recently bought used, has a dual exhaust system, with low profile tailpipes on each rear side. Didn't think much of it at the time, and the GMC dealer where I bought it stated that there were no after-market additions to the vehicle. The engine makes a nice burble sound and I have no overall complaints about the vehicle, which is otherwise perfect. However, at high cruising speeds over 70 mph, the dual exhaust drones a bit loud, and certainly louder than other Suburbans and Yukon that I had test driven.
My questions: Is dual exhaust available as a factory-installed option; is it an acceptable dealer modification; does it make any difference as to power or fuel consumption; would it make sense to re-pipe the exhaust so that both pipes exhaust to the right side (the proper side) of the vehicle to reduce noise of the pipe traveling the length of both sides of the vehicle (as they do now); is it damaging in any way; and should I have it removed?
I don't know who else to ask and have not gotten sufficient answers from the dealership. I figured there are experienced Suburban/GMC vehicle owners at this site--I have been exclusively a Ford owner until now. (LOVE the Suburban overall). Thanks for any help or advice!
I too have been thinking about a backup system, let me know what you go with. By the way, can you tell me what psi your tires came with please. Mine came with inflated at 40psi, but the door decal says max cold should be 35psi and the tires say it should be at 44 psi. I read here on the boards that 40 should be ok, but just curious to see what your came at? Thank you!
We bought our 03 Z71 October 02 and have put about 16K on it so far. Love the truck, but the mileage is not close to the stated mileage (14/17, I think). Our BEST mileage has been 14 and it typically is around 10-12. We live in the country, and city drive a little, but for the most part it's pretty easy driving. Our best has been on long trips, where we've hit 13-14 (10mpg when pulling a pop-up camper).
Does the Z71 package actually affect mileage? Is this something we should talk to the dealer about? Can't imagine that they could do anything, but who knows?
Pegleg, I too have noticed that my mileage has been around the 13-14 mpg neighborhood and often around 11. I've been driving about 1/2 in town and 1/2 on the interstate. I recently took a long trip, mostly on interestates, but neglected to keep a record of the mileage. I wonder if there is some Z71 discrepancy, though the only substantive differences in the Z71 over other Suburbans is supposed to be the locking rear diff, firmer suspension, and 17" tires. I don't suppose that you have dual exhaust on yours... (see above).
We bought at ONeill GMC on Street Road in Warminster.
For others looking at the Yukon XL, we bought the 1SD package w/o sunroof a few weeks ago, and I continue to be impressed with the drivability and road manners of such a large vehicle. Visibility is excellent, the leather quality seems high, and the overall feel is solid. My only complaint is that the carpeting is really cheap for such an expensive vehicle. We have 3 kids and the extra room will be welcome at vacation time. We paid $300 under invoice and perhaps could have done better given how close we are to the 2004s, but coupled with GM dollars and rebate we paid $6K under invoice. So overall we are pleased with an excellent upgrade from a mini van. For anyone on the fence on this vehicle, I strongly recommend a test drive.
visiting up here on Long Island(NY) this week.. my old home.. now residing in s/e NC north of M-Bch area.....
all the local papers here on LI are running ads stating GM has initiated their early lease turn-in for those leases that end May-thru Dec '03.. anyone else heard anything on it.. I used it once before back in '01 when I turned in my '99 Chevy Subn for my '01 Z71... still have 1 year left Apr '04 lease ends..
not sure if we'll be Subn owners once again.. we both drive '01 burbans .. wife has an LT 4wd.. excessive inside front tire wear a major headache on both trucks... Chevy-GM won't do anything about it... we've noticed many, many Subn-Tahoe-Yukons-XL's in parking lots with same wear patterns.. so it must be a problem GM-wide.. both have been checked, rechecked front end alignments and balancing.. bad news...
might be going back to Ford because of it.. have had pretty decent luck with them in the past.. never anything like this.. have had new Expedition and two Explorers.. all 4x4's..without any front end problems.. or any major problems at all
I recently called our local dealer for a price on a loaded Z71. He told me $500 over invoice (plus tax and license I'm sure) What other charges should I be aware of? Is this a fair price? our driving is mainly in town taxiing kids, and road trips. Is the Z71 pkg worth the extra $ and fuel expense? We bought a new LT in 95 and like the subs or should we look at the GMC? If ordered should we delete the on star?( probably wont use it) how about the satellite radio? or are the after market entertainment and satellite radio better?
Lumber, the Z71 trim is essentially a bumped-up LS trim, adding some off-road essentials and some nice touches like a "real" roofrack and tubular running boards. I also believe the Z71 is about 3" higher. It should be considered between the LS and LT trims, but shouldn't warrant any significant pricing/profit margin over the other trims. Most people buy the Z71 because, well, it looks very sporty and sits just a tad higher. The road manners are a little better with the stiffer suspension but the ride isn't as cushy as the LT. Just depends on what you like.
As to the OnStar and XM Satellite packages, I don't believe that you can delete them on the '04's and possibly the '03's too, though I could be wrong, since they are now standard features. There is no longer a "base" model any more. You can simply elect not to subscribe to any monthly package deal after your free service (with new car purchase) ends, as the hardware is virtually invisible anyway.
There are some terrific and MUCH cheaper alternatives to factory or dealer installed entertainment systems. For example, for a mere $400 I purchased an Audiovox mobile entertainment system--VBP3000---with video cassette player, tv tuner, and two 5" color flat screens with attached speakers. The screens fit nicely on the back of the front seat headrests with the included headrest attachments. The VCP/tuner fit PERFECTLY under a 2nd row captain's chair in my 'Burb, completely out of the way and out of sight. A plus with two screens is that one person can watch a video while another watches tv or can play a video game. Each screen has the standard 3-radio plug audio/video connections! One thing--to get any stations at all on the tv tuner, no matter where you live, you must purchase an ampliphied tv antenna. I bought and installed an in-cabin antenna for less than $30 and it works great. I get 4 channels even in rural Virginia. I imagine more would be available in population centers. The whole shebang is also easily removeable and has an adapter for home use, so you can bring it into the hotel/motel/campground, etc. I recommend it over the installed overhead versions, which are pricey no matter how you slice it, are a BIG problem if they break (which I understand is not uncommon), and they interfere with rear-views while driving when they are in the down position.
Hope all that helps! I don't suppose that you have ever had dual exhaust in your 'Burbs...see my post above. Thanks!
We have had our 03 Z71Burb for about 7 months and 16K miles. I would concur a lot with what waveho wrote. Ours has XM and the DVD player factory-installed. I think the ride isn't quite as cushy in the Z71 package, but I love the look. I can always spot ours in the parking lot, so for me it's about the look.
XM Radio: We found Z71 exactly as we wanted, except it had XM. I didn't want it (I think it was $350 and $10/month if you activate it. You get one month free, I think.) I'm so glad we got the XM. I love it. I even got an after market XM for my Audi. Much better factory-installed, however. Works better with the stereo. Highly recommend.
DVD: Yes, the screen blocks your center rear view mirror when down -- test drive to see how much it bothers you. I'm used to it, but it is a minus. Another negative is its cost. But, I would do it again. It's awesome for the kids with the wireless headphones (we bought two more) and you can even plug two wired headphones into the rear center console and choose 'RSE'. Also, sometimes we even put the DVD on the stereo so the entire cab can listen without headphones, kind of a riot listening to Shrek while you're driving.
Onstar: Pretty sure it's standard. I won't renew after the free 12-month period. Haven't used it once, except to set up. Personal preference, wish I could delete it.
Price: We paid $500 over invoice, but there was $500 in dealer give back plus 0%/36 months, so it was invoice plus zero percent. We were happy with it, especially getting it early in the model year (October 1, 2003).
Thanks for the comments on the Z71. They were great! Good to hear from those that have what one is trying to buy. The dealer just faxed the detail of the vehicle and said it is ordered. I can't believe he ordered it I only called for a price? I do not have dual exhaust although I would think it would increase the power at the sacrifice of quiet. I'll look into the audiovox, thanks. For my wife, she now wants the look of the Z71 it appears to us that it sits higher than a LT or normal sub. I asked the dealer, he blew me off with " nahh..." My wife is excited about a new sub. Sounds like our mileage is going to drop 10-12mpg may hurt. thanks again.
I have had my new Z for a week now, awesome vehicle. I does sit about 3 inches higher than LT or LS.
I agree on waveho's assessment of the ride quality. I prefer a bit more feel of the road so the Z71 is right up my alley.
As for the fuel mileage, so far for the in town/hwy mix driving I have done (200 miles) I am averaging 14.3. I did one city freeway trip of about 50 miles and averaged 16.2. I am going to put on about 750 miles over the next 6 days, I will report back how the hwy mileage is.
When fuel mileage is lower than expected keep these things in mind: 285hp engines burn a lot of fuel when pushed. When accelerating from a stand still, do so very gently. Use cruise control whenever possible, including around town assuming you can do it safely, even for short stretches. 4.10 gears will decrease fuel mileage, as will Ethanol enhanced fuel, especially E85. Concerning freeway driving, after 60 mph, each 5 mph will come at a cost of about 1 MPG, so if you were getting 18mpg at a constant 60, you will get 15mpg at a constant 75- time is money, how fast do want to go?
In the end, none of us bought these machines thinking we were going to get great fuel mileage like we did when we drove Civics and Escorts. So-so fuel economy is the price we pay for all the other great attributes the Suburban brings to the table.
Has anyone wired in the factory supplied Harness to put in an electric trailer brake controller? I found the plug where the factory supplied (separate) harness plugs in above the drivers left foot. What I don't see is where the separate Orange 40 amp fuse plugs in. Instructions say to plug it into Stud #1 located at the UH electrical Center for vehicles with single battery which mine is. Any idea where Stud #1 is? other than between your legs that is. Has anyone wired in a controller, and has any advise on brand or types, I'd appreciate it. Thanks Rich
Hi. Just joined this board. Have a Suburban 1500 4WD LT on order (it is "in transit" from the factory) moving up from a mini-van/station wagon.
We were looking at buying another mini-van (Honda or Toyota) until we saw the great deals on Suburbans, and with the 2nd row bucket seats it is perfect for access to the 3rd row. My wife thinks the heated seats and dual lumbar (middle and side!) air inflators are wonderful. I thought the heated seats would only be used in winter but she plans to use them all year round like she would a heating pad.
We were initially concerned with the skimpy leg-room in the 3rd row compared to minivans and also flirted briefly with the idea of a full-size Express conversion van (an extra foot of legroom in each row!), but we decided the Suburban is better overall.
It was interesting going back to read posts over the last 2 years, and I am sure I will be looking for advice myself in the near future! glsable
Did anyone notice that the Edmunds MSRP and invoice prices for the 1500 LT 4WD are out of date? It looks like the LS has been updated with the latest price creep throughout the model year, but not the LT. Edmunds is quoting an MSRP of $43,060 whereas the latest ones from the factory have $39,750 base price + $4,130 LT which equals $43,880.
Is there a way to find out the factory invoice prices for individual vehicles somewhere?
Following up on 'joebas' and the $500 rebate for the 24-hour test drive, I contacted GM and they weren't aware of it. However, since your dealer specifically mentioned leaving a competing (non-GM) make car at the dealer, perhaps they gave you the GM$500 Conquest incentive?
I just saw today on Chevy.com that the Suburban base price is now up another $100 to 39,850!
I have only been watching since September 2002 when it was $39006. I think it went to $39100 in November, then $39,350, then $39,650 in April and 39750 in May. Is this typical?
Sorry everyone, I had my email marked private, so nobody could reach me.
In Nov. 2001 I bought a 2001 Chevy Suburban LT, $40,000 plus tax. In first week the A/C motor failed, front passenger seat rails were found to be cracked (check for slight seat shift forward feeling when you are braking, clock/radio electrical short, gas guage never reads correctly, engine pings constantly regardless of what type of gas you use, window motor switch failed, parking brake assembly had to be replaced, service bulletin on the electronic ignition assembly required replacement of that item (it was causing the transmission to hang in 3rd gear for too long of a time before shifting to 4th gear).....and more! In my opinion, the car is a piece of junk and if this helps prevent anyone from going theough the same headaches then I'll feel better. Chevy didn't do anything to help us and for a $40k+ vehicle this was junk. After talking to the service department manager, he said that the car was built in Mexico and that Chevy has a factor around $2000.00 built into the price of the vehicle for warranty items expected to fail. Half the people never bring them in for replacement of service, so that is more profit for Chevy. In my opinion, who has the time to go through the problems in the first place? I don't care that they put $2000.00 worth of parts in my vehicle during the warranty time frame (actually I went over $2000.00 so far) the problems shouldn't have happened in the first place! I'm dumping this and going to a 2003 excursion diesel. Anyone need info on the service bulletins email me.
Today I went to the GMC dealer to find out the best price I could get on a 2003 Yukon XL. I was able to get the price down to $275 below invoice + tax. On top of that they offered me $3000 rebate + $500 Conquest rebate. So after all the rebates and "dealer" fees, I was able to get down to $3775 under invoice + tax, title, and licensing. I decided to hold off purchasing since I was hoping for a little more discount on the 2003's and the dealer has 50 Yukon XLs in stock. I may have to wait until the 2004 comes out in another month.
Finally got around to checking the tire pressure. The door panel reads 35 PSI, the Michelin Cross Terrains read 35 PSI as well and that's what they are inflated to. Loving the Yukon XL!
BTW, bought it at Park Cadillac GMC in New Milford, CT. and it was the best buying experience ever of 7 new car buys.
I was considering the purchase of a Yukon XL, but don't want or need the extra luxuries of the Denali. The one exception is the available navigation system (inr - integrated navigation radio) which is not an option on the regular Yukons. Does anyone know whether you can add the factory system after the fact?
The Suburban LT package includes replacing the CD/casetter player in the LS with a 6-disc in-dash CD changer. We would really prefer the CD/cassette. Has anyone swapped radios back to the one in the LS? Or has anyone purchased a separate cassette player to install in the center console? Any other ideas?
In Northern Virginia/Washington DC area some dealers are advertising $10,000 off MSRP on any Suburban/Yukon XL in stock. I think that works out to about INV-$1000 on optioned-up LTs and INV-$3000 on base LS models.
Does anyone know why the Suburbans have such big (read ugly) antennas for Onstar and XM radio? I don't see any Cadillacs running around with these big bumps on their roofs!
Can anyone tell me what to do about random misfires while at high RPM's on my 1999 5.7L Suburban? When towing and going uphill in passing gear, vehicle will shake and "Check Engine" light will come on. I've had the fuel filter replaced, injectors cleaned twice, plugs replaced and so on. It appears to be running out of gas. If I don't use cruise and keep it from downshifting, it doesn't do it. Only when RPM's are high. 63K miles. Help?
Try looking at the Yukon. With the Yukon, the 6 disc cd player is a separate option not tied to the LT package. The Suburbans have more package options where the Yukons you get to pick and choose inidividual options a bit more.
This is an intersting situation since it is one instance where the Suburban LT package includes more than the Yukon SLT package! On the SLTs I believe the 6-disc CD is bundled with the XM radio (which are available separately on the LT).
But yes, you are correct, you can get an LT-equivalent SLT with the cassette/CD. We went for the Chevy anyhow, but still want to solve the cassette problem!
waveho: the only 2002/2003 dual exhaust 'Burbs I have seen were conversions done by Centurion/ Ducks Unlimited. The exhaust splits just ahead of the rear axle and a tailpipe goes straight back on each side of the spare tire. Is this what you have? Or is yours a factory mod that goes with a big engine or ???
Glsable: This was a 1-year lease return which was purchased by the dealership at wholesale. The dealer insisted that no aftermarket alterations/additions were made to the vehicle--which is also prohibited by the lease terms, I understand. The engine is the standard 5300 model, and the low-profile tailpipes are exactly the same as on all other 'Burbs---except of course mine has one on each side. There doesn't appear to be any other modifications. They are not straight pipes. The exhaust does split as you say ahead of the rear axle. I don't really mind the dual exhaust, but I'm not exactly certain what the benefit is, like more torque, or if there is any harm in it, such as fuel consumption. I like the sound to a point, as it is a bit noisier at higher rpms due to the two pipes riding down each side of the chasis. I suppose this simply has to be an aftermarket change, unless there is some factory/dealer mod that I don't know about.
Has anyone seen in person one of the double vision video systems installed in a Suburban or Yukon? I am considering one, but have only seen pics of the installations, not the actual product installed. Anyone have any info on them? For inquiring minds, the double vision is a dual screen video system that plays dvd, vhs as well as games. You can watch on both screens or different things on each screen. Trying to determine between that and a Salient designs video system with a single 10". Nice thing about the double vision is the rear mirror isn't blocked. Thanks!
Another option to consider when looking at an aftermarket video system is Clarion. It mounts on the back of the console. Very clean installation, and does not block the rear view mirror. I bought the parts on the internet and installed it myself.
Chief29, do you mean the LCD mounts on the console? I am looking at systems where the DVD and VCR player mount in the console, but need an LCD screen that can be seen from both rows since I have kids in both the rear row and middle captains chairs. Thanks!
Anyone here have problems with one of their daytime running lamps going out? I have a 2000 Burb (new body style) and the right running lamp continues to go out (though it's not the bulb). Took it into the dealer once, and they "fixed" it but they created a short that killed the battery. Took it back and they "fixed" the short, but now the running lamp is dead again. Anybody have any advice? Thanks!
I have seen this on many, many Suburbans and Yukons. I was wondering the same thing. There has got to be something wrong with the design. Anyone have any ideas?
:-) Funny you mention that, because in the last week I have seen two right side DRLs out, one Yukon and one Suburban. I thought it was only a curiosity until now! At least the engine doesn't quit at the same time! :-)
lovemyneuf: You may find that with the middle row buckets that the back row passengers can see up the middle aisle to watch on a screen mounted low down (which certainly wouldn't work with the middle row bench), or have you already checked this out?
We went with the factory DVD player, although we initially considered an aftermarket system with a larger flip-down LCD screen. We really liked the big 13-inch screens but were concerned with the blocked rearward view.
If you have a sunroof the ceiling panel is already 2-3 inches lower, so the problem is worsened. I wonder how the 2004s will deal with this since I hear they are offering both systems installed from the factory?
lovemyneuf: The console mounted video system can be seen at the Crutchfield.com web site. Search with the part number 020AVCG2T. You get a free housing with the purchase of the monitor. For me this was the right system, I installed it myself, and did not have to mess with the headliner.
I was interested in purchasing a travel trailer with a GROSS DRY WEIGHT of 6580lbs. I have an '01 1500 Suburban 4x4 with the a 5.3 liter and 3.73 diff. According to the manual the max rating for this is 7600lbs. When I add in my family of 7, I don't have much room left over for gear. The dealer says I'll be fine if I add in a trans cooler and towing stabilizer and I don't take any water in the tanks. Anyone had any experience towing with this and pushing it?? (the limits i mean)
Also, any way to increase the towing capacity of my burb?
that problem with the DRL's ( daytime running lights) has been around a long long time... noticed it a while back first on Chevy-GMC pickups.. all the 'new style'( from 2001-present) pickups/Subn/Yukons have this problem.. obviously GM doesn't give a darn about it as it continues to happen thru a few model years...
and 'funny you should also mention' about the engine cutting out... while driving my wife's '01 Suburban last week on a 3 lane limited access roadway not too far from home doing the 60 mph speed limit, for no reason the engine just shut down.. no power at all..limited steering and brakes( yikes) .. a very dangerous situation... I luckily made it to the right shoulder, where I had to call a AAA wrecker for a tow... I tried calling the Chevy -GMAC toll free Towing under the warranty... useless as 'mammary glands' on a bull.. they said after taking all my info that their computers were 'down'.. and that they couldn't help me... I went with what I should have done to begin with.. called AAA.. they were out there in less than a half hour...then dropped me off at my house and took the truck up to my local dealer up the road..
turns out it was the fuel pump.. blew the fuse.. then again.. they replaced the fuse and fuel pump.. according to the dealer service manager, he wasn't surprised.. sounded like they've had this happen a number of times before.. only 30K miles on her truck.. a fuel pump shouldn't fail at that mileage.. I have an '01 Z71 burban also.. can't wait for it to happen to it..
looks like these two trucks will be heading back to Chevy after their leases are up in less than a year.. too many problems on both of them.. mainly excessive wear on front tires which Chevy will not address..
Regarding Danz42, we were in the same boat with a 02 Hoe, same towing capacities. What the big tow boys tell me is to tow up to 75% of your capability, so 7700 lbs gross = 5775 in what you can tow with a "safe" limit. We skinned that cat by finding a lightweight travel trailer. Forest River makes a new Grand Surveyor, 29' that has a factory weight of 4,375 empty, and will probably weight 4750 with all the options they sell. They also sell a Surveyor which is same thing, with less bells and whistles. Not sure if you've bought one already, but we had the same problem and saved weight with a more "campery" style camper, rather than Solid Oak, tile floors, etc, which adds the weight. I'm not a dealer or seller of campers, we just approached the problem from the camper side. I just finished a 1200 mile round trip towing 3,000 lbs and it did fine, but 11-13 MPG, so plan on filling up often.
Danz42: You may want to approach the problem from the standpoint of the Gross Combined Weight Rating, which is a limit on the weight of the vehicle+trailer+family+cargo. My 2003 manual shows for a GCWR of 13,000 lbs for a K-1500 with 5.3 and 3.73. And of course you need to stay under the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (check your driver's door) for the stuff and people in the Suburban.
I would be comfortable loading to 100% of the rated weights.
Just purchased a beautiful '03 1500 LS. One thing we need that it did not come with are the roof rack cross bars -- part of a package that was not on the lot (and had a few things we didn't need). I'm now looking to see if there are any good sources of aftermarket or OEM crossbars for the side rails. We're going to need them this summer. Dealer said he can order them easily, but I want to see what the options are.
Comments
Installed my VentaShade window deflectors and Lund interceptor visor yesterday. Going to polish it up as soon as my Zaino order comes in. Figured I'd even do hubby's car since he went along with my trading in our van.
I am thrilled so far. Still haven't made it through the owners manual though. Pleased with the MPG's so far. Got 1 MPG less than my minivan on the freeway on the way home, figure it will get close to my previous highway/around town average once the engine gets broken in.
Thinking of a backup system, but undecided. Kids keep asking when the video system will be installed, they are spoiled from the van. Was a bit worried about parking it in my garage. Was going to move some storage cabinets we have in there but decided to wait till I got it home. It's tight, can't open the cabinet doors with it in there and there's only about 3 inches of room on the front end, but it fits! I may still move them if I get around to it. Awesome vehicle!
Sandy
My questions: Is dual exhaust available as a factory-installed option; is it an acceptable dealer modification; does it make any difference as to power or fuel consumption; would it make sense to re-pipe the exhaust so that both pipes exhaust to the right side (the proper side) of the vehicle to reduce noise of the pipe traveling the length of both sides of the vehicle (as they do now); is it damaging in any way; and should I have it removed?
I don't know who else to ask and have not gotten sufficient answers from the dealership. I figured there are experienced Suburban/GMC vehicle owners at this site--I have been exclusively a Ford owner until now. (LOVE the Suburban overall). Thanks for any help or advice!
Does the Z71 package actually affect mileage? Is this something we should talk to the dealer about? Can't imagine that they could do anything, but who knows?
For others looking at the Yukon XL, we bought the 1SD package w/o sunroof a few weeks ago, and I continue to be impressed with the drivability and road manners of such a large vehicle. Visibility is excellent, the leather quality seems high, and the overall feel is solid. My only complaint is that the carpeting is really cheap for such an expensive vehicle. We have 3 kids and the extra room will be welcome at vacation time. We paid $300 under invoice and perhaps could have done better given how close we are to the 2004s, but coupled with GM dollars and rebate we paid $6K under invoice. So overall we are pleased with an excellent upgrade from a mini van. For anyone on the fence on this vehicle, I strongly recommend a test drive.
all the local papers here on LI are running ads stating GM has initiated their early lease turn-in for those leases that end May-thru Dec '03.. anyone else heard anything on it.. I used it once before back in '01 when I turned in my '99 Chevy Subn for my '01 Z71... still have 1 year left Apr '04 lease ends..
not sure if we'll be Subn owners once again.. we both drive '01 burbans .. wife has an LT 4wd.. excessive inside front tire wear a major headache on both trucks... Chevy-GM won't do anything about it... we've noticed many, many Subn-Tahoe-Yukons-XL's in parking lots with same wear patterns.. so it must be a problem GM-wide.. both have been checked, rechecked front end alignments and balancing.. bad news...
might be going back to Ford because of it.. have had pretty decent luck with them in the past.. never anything like this.. have had new Expedition and two Explorers.. all 4x4's..without any front end problems.. or any major problems at all
As to the OnStar and XM Satellite packages, I don't believe that you can delete them on the '04's and possibly the '03's too, though I could be wrong, since they are now standard features. There is no longer a "base" model any more. You can simply elect not to subscribe to any monthly package deal after your free service (with new car purchase) ends, as the hardware is virtually invisible anyway.
There are some terrific and MUCH cheaper alternatives to factory or dealer installed entertainment systems. For example, for a mere $400 I purchased an Audiovox mobile entertainment system--VBP3000---with video cassette player, tv tuner, and two 5" color flat screens with attached speakers. The screens fit nicely on the back of the front seat headrests with the included headrest attachments. The VCP/tuner fit PERFECTLY under a 2nd row captain's chair in my 'Burb, completely out of the way and out of sight. A plus with two screens is that one person can watch a video while another watches tv or can play a video game. Each screen has the standard 3-radio plug audio/video connections! One thing--to get any stations at all on the tv tuner, no matter where you live, you must purchase an ampliphied tv antenna. I bought and installed an in-cabin antenna for less than $30 and it works great. I get 4 channels even in rural Virginia. I imagine more would be available in population centers. The whole shebang is also easily removeable and has an adapter for home use, so you can bring it into the hotel/motel/campground, etc. I recommend it over the installed overhead versions, which are pricey no matter how you slice it, are a BIG problem if they break (which I understand is not uncommon), and they interfere with rear-views while driving when they are in the down position.
Hope all that helps! I don't suppose that you have ever had dual exhaust in your 'Burbs...see my post above. Thanks!
XM Radio: We found Z71 exactly as we wanted, except it had XM. I didn't want it (I think it was $350 and $10/month if you activate it. You get one month free, I think.) I'm so glad we got the XM. I love it. I even got an after market XM for my Audi. Much better factory-installed, however. Works better with the stereo. Highly recommend.
DVD: Yes, the screen blocks your center rear view mirror when down -- test drive to see how much it bothers you. I'm used to it, but it is a minus. Another negative is its cost. But, I would do it again. It's awesome for the kids with the wireless headphones (we bought two more) and you can even plug two wired headphones into the rear center console and choose 'RSE'. Also, sometimes we even put the DVD on the stereo so the entire cab can listen without headphones, kind of a riot listening to Shrek while you're driving.
Onstar: Pretty sure it's standard. I won't renew after the free 12-month period. Haven't used it once, except to set up. Personal preference, wish I could delete it.
Price: We paid $500 over invoice, but there was $500 in dealer give back plus 0%/36 months, so it was invoice plus zero percent. We were happy with it, especially getting it early in the model year (October 1, 2003).
Steve, Host
what one is trying to buy. The dealer just faxed the detail of the vehicle and said it is ordered.
I can't believe he ordered it I only called for a price? I do not have dual exhaust although I would think it would increase the power at the sacrifice of quiet. I'll look into the audiovox, thanks.
For my wife, she now wants the look of the Z71 it appears to us that it sits higher than a LT
or normal sub. I asked the dealer, he blew me off with " nahh..." My wife is excited about a new sub. Sounds like our mileage is going to drop 10-12mpg may hurt. thanks again.
I agree on waveho's assessment of the ride quality. I prefer a bit more feel of the road so the Z71 is right up my alley.
As for the fuel mileage, so far for the in town/hwy mix driving I have done (200 miles) I am averaging 14.3. I did one city freeway trip of about 50 miles and averaged 16.2. I am going to put on about 750 miles over the next 6 days, I will report back how the hwy mileage is.
When fuel mileage is lower than expected keep these things in mind: 285hp engines burn a lot of fuel when pushed. When accelerating from a stand still, do so very gently. Use cruise control whenever possible, including around town assuming you can do it safely, even for short stretches. 4.10 gears will decrease fuel mileage, as will Ethanol enhanced fuel, especially E85. Concerning freeway driving, after 60 mph, each 5 mph will come at a cost of about 1 MPG, so if you were getting 18mpg at a constant 60, you will get 15mpg at a constant 75- time is money, how fast do want to go?
In the end, none of us bought these machines thinking we were going to get great fuel mileage like we did when we drove Civics and Escorts. So-so fuel economy is the price we pay for all the other great attributes the Suburban brings to the table.
'Ole
I drove about 400 miles yesterday, nearly all hwy driving at 67-72 mph, for the day I averaged 16.7 mpg.
We were looking at buying another mini-van (Honda or Toyota) until we saw the great deals on Suburbans, and with the 2nd row bucket seats it is perfect for access to the 3rd row. My wife thinks the heated seats and dual lumbar (middle and side!) air inflators are wonderful. I thought the heated seats would only be used in winter but she plans to use them all year round like she would a heating pad.
We were initially concerned with the skimpy leg-room in the 3rd row compared to minivans and also flirted briefly with the idea of a full-size Express conversion van (an extra foot of legroom in each row!), but we decided the Suburban is better overall.
It was interesting going back to read posts over the last 2 years, and I am sure I will be looking for advice myself in the near future!
glsable
Is there a way to find out the factory invoice prices for individual vehicles somewhere?
I have only been watching since September 2002 when it was $39006. I think it went to $39100 in November, then $39,350, then $39,650 in April and 39750 in May. Is this typical?
In Nov. 2001 I bought a 2001 Chevy Suburban LT, $40,000 plus tax. In first week the A/C motor failed, front passenger seat rails were found to be cracked (check for slight seat shift forward feeling when you are braking, clock/radio electrical short, gas guage never reads correctly, engine pings constantly regardless of what type of gas you use, window motor switch failed, parking brake assembly had to be replaced, service bulletin on the electronic ignition assembly required replacement of that item (it was causing the transmission to hang in 3rd gear for too long of a time before shifting to 4th gear).....and more! In my opinion, the car is a piece of junk and if this helps prevent anyone from going theough the same headaches then I'll feel better. Chevy didn't do anything to help us and for a $40k+ vehicle this was junk. After talking to the service department manager, he said that the car was built in Mexico and that Chevy has a factor around $2000.00 built into the price of the vehicle for warranty items expected to fail. Half the people never bring them in for replacement of service, so that is more profit for Chevy. In my opinion, who has the time to go through the problems in the first place? I don't care that they put $2000.00 worth of parts in my vehicle during the warranty time frame (actually I went over $2000.00 so far) the problems shouldn't have happened in the first place! I'm dumping this and going to a 2003 excursion diesel. Anyone need info on the service bulletins email me.
BTW, bought it at Park Cadillac GMC in New Milford, CT. and it was the best buying experience ever of 7 new car buys.
Then I could take it from one vehicle to another. Any thoughts from anyone else?
I haven't seen it demo'd yet, but I understand it has voice directions and a color display.
But yes, you are correct, you can get an LT-equivalent SLT with the cassette/CD. We went for the Chevy anyhow, but still want to solve the cassette problem!
Jack
We went with the factory DVD player, although we initially considered an aftermarket system with a larger flip-down LCD screen. We really liked the big 13-inch screens but were concerned with the blocked rearward view.
If you have a sunroof the ceiling panel is already 2-3 inches lower, so the problem is worsened. I wonder how the 2004s will deal with this since I hear they are offering both systems installed from the factory?
Also, any way to increase the towing capacity of my burb?
Thanks!
and 'funny you should also mention' about the engine cutting out... while driving my wife's '01 Suburban last week on a 3 lane limited access roadway not too far from home doing the 60 mph speed limit, for no reason the engine just shut down.. no power at all..limited steering and brakes( yikes) .. a very dangerous situation... I luckily made it to the right shoulder, where I had to call a AAA wrecker for a tow... I tried calling the Chevy -GMAC toll free Towing under the warranty... useless as 'mammary glands' on a bull.. they said after taking all my info that their computers were 'down'.. and that they couldn't help me... I went with what I should have done to begin with.. called AAA.. they were out there in less than a half hour...then dropped me off at my house and took the truck up to my local dealer up the road..
turns out it was the fuel pump.. blew the fuse.. then again.. they replaced the fuse and fuel pump.. according to the dealer service manager, he wasn't surprised.. sounded like they've had this happen a number of times before.. only 30K miles on her truck.. a fuel pump shouldn't fail at that mileage.. I have an '01 Z71 burban also.. can't wait for it to happen to it..
looks like these two trucks will be heading back to Chevy after their leases are up in less than a year.. too many problems on both of them.. mainly excessive wear on front tires which Chevy will not address..
I would be comfortable loading to 100% of the rated weights.