GMC Yukon XL and Yukon XL Denali

cowboyindian1 · September 2003

Does anyone have experience with the rebate and if tax was charged on the vehicle price before or after the rebate? On a $5500 rebate, depending on the tax rate, this could be a difference of $350-400.

The XM info is great - I think we'll enjoy it more than we know.

nellcoop · September 2003

We got taxed on price before rebate which had both my husband and I sitting there going "hmmmm" but that's how it's done apparently.

at3 · September 2003

...after much research, just picked up our brand new '03 Z71. Originally wanted an LT as didn't necessarily need the off-road stuff but couldn't find exactly what I was looking for at this time of year so got the Z71 loaded with everything the LT offers - except OnStar (wouldn't have paid for the subscription after the free 1st year anyhow) and XM (but will buy the Delphi unit and have the flexibility of moving it from vehicle to vehicle). Paid $11,500 off of MSRP and am pretty satisfied that I negotiated well. Tax was figured at that price, after rebates and dealer discounts. It's only been about 150 miles but love the vehicle so far. The kids do, too.

lobsenza · September 2003

Varies by state. Dealers don't always do it right. Check your tax office....

stever · September 2003

Some good info for XM fans here:

XM & Sirius Satellite Radio

Rock 'n Roll!

Steve, Host

cowboyindian1 · September 2003

Thanks, lobsenza. I checked ct state tax office and found that in the case of a manufacturer's rebate, the buyer actual "assigns the right of the rebate" to the dealer so that the dealer can immediately give the lower price to the buyer. CT uses the total amount BEFORE manufacturer rebate as measure for tax on the vehicle - i.e. we have to pay tax on the rebate amount. A "dealer" rebate is different. That is offered by the dealer as a discount; the tax in this case is applied to the discounted amount. For those interested, I found it on the internet under CT State Dept of Revenue Services htttp://www.drs.state.ct.us/ . at3 - enjoy your Z71 and the great deal you got!

nellcoop · September 2003

Where are you in CT? I am also in CT and we bought from Newman Chevrolet. We're outside of Hartford.

We had the '01 pewter and now that we have the '03 dark green/ I am in scratch obsess mode since scratches will show much more. I've parked away from people, I've been ever so careful AND my 3 year old LOVELY daughter today had a rock in her hand while I was loading our dogs into the car after a walk. She decided to draw a few nice, big circles on the drivers side/passenger door where she sits! Can't even describe my emotions at that moment. Not a pleasant moment for either one of us. I'm told that it's a "clear coat" scratch and can be buffed out which is being done tomorrow morning. We've had it 3 days! Oh the joys of parenting.

cowboyindian1 · September 2003

Ouch - thanks for the warning, nellcoop. I'll be sure to keep an eye on our 19 month old. Hope the buffing works.

We're in Stamford - we got our Suburban at Karl Chevrolet in New Canaan. Nice, family-owned place. Didn't have to fill out any paper work - Mike just took some basic info and did everything for us.

fkozil · September 2003

Just curious to know if any of you have tried this kit out.

I am thinking about it and it seems fairly easy to install.

I am not sure if it will void the warranty.

fkozil · September 2003

I noticed a post on another Suburban board the other day about a problem or defect with the shift/brake lock on an '03 model.

In order to shift the transmission, the brake must be pressed.

The owner of a new '03 Z71 complained that when the key was in the accessory position, the transmission lever could be shifted without first pressing the brake pedal.

I also own an '03 Z71 and tried to duplicate his claim. When I put the key in the accessory position ONLY, I was able to shift the transmission lever into any gear without applying the break first.

I tried the key in other positions and the safety interlock worked.

The next time I have it at the dealer for service, I will log my complaint.

Any of you with children should be extremely careful and check your vehicles for this defect.

nellcoop · September 2003

We got lucky! They buffed it out and did a great job. I just know where it was so I can see it a tiny. They did a great job, thank God! My daughter saw it and said "we only draw on paper mama". Lesson learned....we hope. Cowboy Indian, we have the same situation Mr. Newman is an old family friend so our deal was easy and the fixing of our little artists work was done quickly which is pretty nice to have. The rear seat audio is going to be great also with our daughter which I just bought headphones for and is amazing how she can listen to her music and I can listen to mine. Brilliant!

bdesai · September 2003

Hi everyone,
Can someone please tell me who qualifies for the tax write off if used as a buisness vehicle. I was told by someone that all vehicles weighing > 6000 pounds can be taken off as a buisness expense the very year in which the vehicle is bought. Is this true. Where can I find out about it ?? Thanx

lobsenza · September 2003

There are 2 categories, I think.

A suburban/Tahoe have a gross vehicle weight of over 6000 lbs (meaning a fully loaded truck weighs over 6000 lbs). This vehicle can get accelerated depreciation over a standard car.

There is a new temprary tax credit that applies to vehicles weighing over 6000 lbs (not gross vehicle weight). These may be able to be written off in 1 year.

smokin_cigars · September 2003

I have a 2003 Chevy Suburban Z71 - Great SUV. I was wondering if anybody else has noticed that you can shift the gears when you have your keys turned to the Accessories position without having the brake pedal depressed. In my Chevy truck you have to turn the key back to turn on the Accessories but on the Suburban you have to turn the key forward one notch for the accessories. If the key is in the ignition position then you have to step on the brake to be able to shift gears. I did a search on the national transportation web page but did not find any articles about this issue. I have a 3 y/o and to play the DVD system I have to have the key in the accessory position but if he gets to the driver seat he can put the gear shift out of park. I have dropped the suburban off at the dealer to have this checked out, waiting to hear from them. It would be interesting to see if this is a design flaw or just a problem with my Suburban. Got the answer - The dealer said it's a feature - this is to allow your to get your suburban out of gear incase you needed to override the shift lock - some feature. To me a disaster just waiting to happen.

03tahoe · September 2003

I`ve been told that just because you have purchased a multi fuel veh. ( Regular Gas and the 85 corn stuff ) that you get a $2,000 Tax write off. Anyone know if this is true and if so how /where can you enter this on your tax form.

better2belucky · September 2003

Does anybody have any experience or informed views on the half-ton versus 3/4 (for either Suburban or YukonXL) . I know the 3/4 can tow a bigger trailer, but I am concerned about general durability. When we bought our 1991 Suburban 12 years ago, the dealer strongly recommended getting the 3/4 ton because he said they lasted much better and had fewer problems. (In hindsight, I wonder if he just had a lot of 3/4 ton ones to move at year end.) In looking around now, dealers tell us that most people in our area (Northern California) are buying half-ton and there are very few 3/4 ton ones around and so selection is very limited.

I do tow a trailer, and sometimes I load it with a lot of wood or brick, but I could easily confine myself to the weight limits recommended for half-ton, so my question really is on durability. Thanks for any comments.

Also, I would appreciate any comments on pricing--how much above dealer invoice or below sticker at this time of year (Sept 19,2003) for the 2003 models.

hawk248 · September 2003

My accountant told me and I have also read on my newspaper articles (do a search on Google on SUV writeoff) that the entire price of a new SUV that qualifies (over 6000 lbs) can be written off. This is per new law passed recently to get the economy going.

That is what I am hoping to do w/ my new 03 Z71 burb.

hawk248 · September 2003

I should have clarified that the SUV write off only applies to business (small or big), not to consumers.

fkozil · September 2003

By the end of October, most dealers want to clear their lots of the previous leftovers.

You should be able to negotiate a deal allowing for a price around invoice, allowing a $500 buffer either above or below depending on your market.

Now is a great time to buy with all of the rebates/incentives offered as well as the low rate financing.

With respect to the 1500 vs. the 2500, I don't know about the 2500 series lasting longer because most of the drivetrain component are similar or often the same.

With the 2500 series, a larger engine with more torque and hp is available for towing if you feel you will be hauling heavy loads over 8500 pounds. You also get upgraded drive axles etc.

If only towing occassionaly, the 1500 should serve you fine. (A judgement call)

Just some pricing advice...
Make sure you know the actual invoice price on the vehicle you are looking at and not an inflated figure provided by the dealer.

hawk248 · September 2003

So far so good. No major problems. Only noticed that the light on the left of the license plate is not coming on. The right one is OK.

Did my first oil change @ 600 miles. Opted for Mobil-1 10W5 super syn and also Mobil-1 oil filter (M-107). I noticed ample metal dust on the magnetic tip of the oil drain plug.

The oil change was a breeze other than a small accidental spill. Underestimated the initial burst of the oil after the plug was removed. Replacing filter was a joy - it is conveniently placed next to the drain plug. I poured 6 quart of Mobil-1 10w5 and it took every drop of it.

fkozil · September 2003

Have you tried to put your key in the accessory position and shift the transmission lever?

I'm just curious to know if other people with similar models have the same problem I do.

Just turned 1200 miles and plan on changing the oil too.

Other than the safety interlock for the transmission, everything has been fine.

hawk248 · September 2003

Yes I tried it and it does shift. Some one on this board said it was a design feature :-)

How about license plate lights? Is there anybody with one not working?

jmwat · September 2003

Saw a posting by glsable back in May about changer issues. I may be willing to trade my new (3-day old!) single cd/cassette for the indash 6 changer if it is possible. Does anyone know if it is / is not?

If not, what changers have others successfully added (preferably controlled by head unit).

John

suburbank2500 · September 2003

better2belucky: Where in northern CA? I went to Cal State Chico, class of '88! On your question:
This is how I would decide; If you are going to tow a trailer, and the loaded trailer weight is approx 75% of your GVWR, go for the 3/4 ton. You won't be sorry, and you'll be groaning and wishing for a 3/4 ton when you go up those hills a towing. We took our 5100 lb (empty) Hi-Lo from KC, MO to Yellowstone National Park, and our brakes started to smoke coming outta Cody,WY due to 8% grade! Yes, I know trailer brakes help out, and I've got electric, BUT that put a BIG!!! strain on the '99 burb. I would go for the 3/4 ton, with 8.1 and 4.10 gears. For mileage improvements, I suggest a K/N air filter, and a Banks PowerPack/Stinger System. Durability wise, the 3/4 ton have heavier duty components,so they won't wear out as fast. The 5.0 with Quadrasteer I would stay away from until the bugs are worked out. Besides, when towing inthe mtns. there ain't no such thing as enough power

resque84 · September 2003

Hi I'm looking for info on this TSB #
03-07-30-007 (APR 03) A/T - Apparent Delayed Gear Engagement .I got a 2003 Suburban all wheel drive and sometimes it feels like your in neutral until the tranny kicks into gear .I want to know the whole problem and fix BEFORE i go to the dealer so they can't give me one of the famous "Tech unable to verify" excuses.
Thanks

peglegger · September 2003

We have a 2003 Z71 Suburban and are up to 28K miles, so I'm starting to think about the extended warranty. Not usually a big fan of them, but this one is loaded with XM, DVD, CD Changer, etc.

Any thoughts on pricing?
Any thoughts on reputable companies?
Are the XM, DVD, Stereo covered?

Thanks!

lbcman · September 2003

Peglegger,

Check with Warranty Direct (warrantydirect.com) for an extended warranty. The coverage for our DXL was quite comparable to the coverage offered by the dealer but for alot less money. However, I don't think they cover the DVD entertainment systems. Quotes are available online. The only other company we checked with was Mercury, but the coverage from Mercury was not nearly as thorough.

raiste · September 2003

Make sure whichever company you go with is NOT backed by National Warranty!

http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news03/natl_warranty.html

http://abclocal.go.com/wabc/news/7onyourside/wabc_7side_081803nat- lwarranty.html

peglegger · September 2003

Thanks so much for the info. I'll be comparing my factory extended warranty quote with the outside party's warranties.

toe · September 2003

Looking at the numbers for brub and yxl before i buy, several questions. First year Depr=$9880 so an '03 should be bought with 80% of depreciation factored in and then add factory incentives and rebates? right? I am looking for quotes in S.C. (orNC/GA) any help would be appreciated for burb or yxl. Basically I want $50 over DEALER invoice +rebates and any discount for an '04 but I want to factor in the first years' depreciation to consider an '03. Any others with similar thoughts or experience?These dealers make plenty of $$ on every vehicle, I just aim to reduce it to a fair price for both parties. The last Yukon I bought was during the strike so I was stuck--this time is different.

glsable · October 2003

Thanks for the warning! And remember you can still watch the DVD or listen to the radio with the key removed - power stays on so long as the doors are kept closed. That way if the key is in your pocket, you'll feel safer. I am not sure if there is a power-save timer that will shut things off after 30 minutes or so?
glsable

glsable · October 2003

My recommendation is to work at a negotiated deal from the "invoice-up" (or "invoice-down!") as well as from "MSRP-down" to make sure the deal makes sense both ways. "Invoice" price can mean a lot of things!
glsable

beentook2 · October 2003

DISGUSTED AND FED UP WITH CHEVROLET/GM!!!!

BEFORE YOU PURCHASE A NEW 2003/2004 SUBURBAN, PLEASE READ!!!

I purchased my Suburban only one (1) month ago. I loved it for the first four (4) days, until the irritating noise from the A/C started in the dash. I have taken it in for three (3) separate service attempts to fix this noise. At all three (3) attempts, I had Service Managers, A/C Techs and other GM/Chevrolet employees admit to me that the noise I am hearing is caused by a GM Design Flaw in the A/C unit in all 2003/
2004 Chevrolet Suburbans and GM has no Service Bulletins issued to advised the Service Departments how to fix the noise and to basically live with it.

Disgusted I then contacted my dealership to see how to rectify this issue. My dealership advised GM/Chevrolet has a "BuyBack" program for those customers that are not happy with the purchase of their new vehicle. (WHAT A JOKE!!!!)

Feeling that I have been ripped off and knowing the Lemon Law, I proceeded to contact the 800# GM/Chevrolet Customer Service number and report the issue with my new Suburban. Customer Service issued me a case number, contacted my Dealership, spoke with the Service Department Manager, who advised the Customer Service Representative that they had researched how to fix the noise and have a couple of solutions they would like to try in an attempt to fix the noise.

I then took my Suburban back to the Service Department (this being the 3rd attempt). Noise was not fixed. Service A/C Tech. admitted to me he heard the noise in the dash and can't fix it. He even admitted to me that he has other 2003 Suburbans being serviced with the customers having the same complaint of a loud noise coming from the dash when the A/C is on.

Fed up, I contacted my GM/Chevrolet Service Representative via their 800#, advised her the noise was still not fixed, advised her of the names of Service Managers and A/C Techs that have admitted to me that there's a design flaw and no service bulletins to fix it and I want my vehicle bought back by GM because I know I could NOT live with driving a new vehicle that was making this irritating noise and knowing GM was getting by with it. She advised me the next step was to have the Area GM Representative review my file, speak with my Dealership and the Service Department to see why this A/C noise couldn't be fixed. She also advised me that if he determined the noise couldn't be fixed, he would advised GM that the vehicle should be bought back. They would be back in touch with me within 48hrs (business). (It ended up being 5 business days before they got back with me).

During this waiting time period, to make my purchasing experience even more irritating, my engine light came. I took my Suburban back to the Service Department (4th visit to the Service Department) to have this issue looked at. Service Department advised me it was a computer chip.

Five days later I heard back from my GM/Chevrolet Customer Service Rep. advising me that she had spoken with my Area Representative. Area Representative advised her that the noise I am hearing from the A/C is a NORMAL noise in all 2003/2004 Suburbans and Tahoes and that since my issue is not a MECHANICAL ISSUE, I really shouldn't be complaining. What, I should just accept this irritating noise, are they crazy???? I just spent $37K on a car that I get aggravated with when I drive it?? Yeah, right!! I dont think so.

For this reason, I am posting this message, in an attempt to let other future customers be aware of this design flaw and no fix solution concerning the 2003/2004 Suburbans. GM knows there's a design flaw and continues to sell these vehicles. If anything good comes out of my terrible experience is that I make anybody looking to buy a Suburban be aware of this issue and drive it for at least four (4) days. Good luck and beware.

nellcoop · October 2003

Saturday morning I opened the door to my week old brand new 2003 LT to find no dome light which I sensed wasn't good. The car was dead. AAA came to jump start it and off I went thinking maybe the liftgate had been left opened overnight. This morning dead AGAIN! AAA came, jump started it again and I brought it into the dealer. The guy from AAA said it was a bad battery. They gave me a new battery but were not convinced that the other one was bad. Anyone else experienced this? I'm hoping that from here on in every morning this brand new vehicle will start like it is supposed to!

tidester · October 2003

One week? If it were me, I'd have the car into the dealer first thing in the morning and have them do a thorough diagnostic of the entire electrical system - but that's just me!

tidester, host

waveho · October 2003

Nellcoop, I doubt too that your battery was "bad" or had a bad cell, considering the vehicle was brand spanking new--although that is not impossible. A more likely problem may exist as a fault in either your voltage regulator or alternator (or both). Have your system diagnosed at a dealer. My guess is that you will get a red light on your alternator/voltage regulator, which is a relatively cheap fix and should certainly be covered by your warranty. If they find a fault in your alternator, make SURE that they also replace the voltage regulator, whether they think it is working fine or not. I had a similar problem with an old Ford vehicle and went through alternators like crazy before a wiser mechanic told me to always change out the VR, whether it tests ok or not, when you need to replace a bad alternator. There were no problems after that.

nellcoop · October 2003

I did get the car first thing yesterday to the dealer with my 3 year old in tow for 3 1/2 hours of waiting and they did an electrical system check, battery test, alternator checked, etc... It started this morning BUT if it happens again I will take it back in and discuss the alternator theory and voltage also. Although they said these cars no longer have voltage regulators...I will also be very firm about replacing things whether they think it needs it or not. Not a good feeling to wonder if you brand new car is going to start up or not every morning. I was told by the dealer today that if it starts up the next three days in a row that everything should be fine. Still not reassured. Thanks for the help.

nellcoop · October 2003

IF my car runs that is after my two dead starts ...when my free 3 month period is up what is the fee for keeping the XM radio, if anyone has that info? Is it $300 up front and $10 a month, or something like that? And will they come on in the car to say my free listening is up and to subscribe? Thanks!

kitchens · October 2003

I have an 03 Suburban 2500 with XM Radio. Took delivery in December after ordering in November. I got the free three months XM RAdio too. What happens is that XM Radio will send you an invoice for future service. You can pay monthly, quarterly, or on an annual basis. Note that XM Radio will charge you a service fee if they send you invoices. This can be waived if you sign up for automatic payment from your checking account or credit card. This is what I did, I am billed on a quarterly basis. Since I use my 'burb for towing I use XM radio on our trips as it saves us from constant searches for stations. Note that the signal will come and go when in mountains--I was in the Catskills this summer and the signal was sporadic. Good luck with your truck!

waveho · October 2003

Good luck on the battery situation, Nellcoop--I know the horrible feeling of doubt every time you fire up the car in the morning, hoping for the best. Wasn't aware that the new Burbs don't have voltage regulators any longer--I suppose that all cars must still have such a device but they are probably integrated now into the alternator or some other part. Can't help with XM, but I'm hoping my wife is catching on to my many hints that it would make a terrific Christmas gift (for me) this year! I did keep OnStar, though, which I like very much--though my wife says I'm being silly and just like my gadgets and that I should just suck it up and get a cell phone. I hate carrying around those damn things!

nellcoop · October 2003

Ok...day two and the car started this morning also. Now to get to day three, or the end of the week as I see it, then I'll relax. Glad I have the free Onstar at this point...although it's no good if you have no juice to call for help! Definitely WAVEHO, get the XM it's terrific. Didn't think I'd want it but it came with the package and I love it. Only disadvantage to not having a hand held cell phone and using Onstar is that if you need a phone when you're not in the car you're stuck. I hate cell phones too! I find myself ducking down low whenever mine rings (which is very rare) and whisper. They're handy but obnoxious.

KITCHENS: What is the monthy XM fee? And was I right about the sign on fee or not? Thanks for the heads up on signing up for automatic payment to waive fee for invoice payment.

peglegger · October 2003

We have XM on my wife's 03 Z71 Suburban and love it. It was actually spec'd out exactly how I wanted, except that it also had XM (I think that was $350). We still took it and I'm SOOOOO glad we did. My wife and I love the XM.

As to charges, there was no setup charge that you talked about (I think you said $300). First three months were free. After that, it is $9.95/month.

I liked it so much that my wife bought me an after-market XM at Best Buy for my car. Not as slick as the integrated unit in her Burb, but still nice. Also, on second, third, etc. XM radios in the same name, the charge is $6.95 (still $9.95 on the first one) a month.

I just bought an 04 Volvo and can't believe they don't offer XM. I can still use my after-market, but I was hoping to have an integrated one.

Go for it, they are great!

fkozil · October 2003

Volvo is owned by Ford which does not support the XM radio format.

I believe Ford/Lincoln/Mercury products use Sirius Radio and not XM.

I've seen a few ads showing Saab offers XM radio. I know Saab is owned by GM now. Honda also offers XM radio as well.

glsable · October 2003

Even if you don't sign up, you can get some channels in a "preview" mode.

nellcoop · October 2003

Day three and car started so it looks like we good to go for now. Still a tad skeptical..negative side of me. The dealer manager called today to "check on things" which was nice, probably because the owner of the dealership is a family friend, but that was nice of her. Let's hope that we're back to "all brand new & running" status as we should be.

shieatt · October 2003

nellcoop... we also have an '03 Suburban. We have come out to the garage twice and found it wouldn't start, the battery being completely dead. Each time both my wife and I were at home, so we just jumped it and no but deal, but I wasn't able to determine what caused it in either instance. Doors all were shut, no vanity lights on, etc. And, I know that even if you leave a door adjar, the Burb will automatically shut off the interior lights after a period of time.

Hearing your story is starting to make me think maybe there is something to these instances... if it happens again, I think I'll taker 'er in and have them look it over.

smokin_cigars · October 2003

my 2003 suburban battery kept dying 3 days after i got it home, took it to the dealer they found a bad relay draining the battery, once fixed the battery has yet die again

curlybill · October 2003

These are the three vehicles we are down to. I'm leaning toward the Yukon XL. Anyone else who had the same dilemma? Any suggestions? I prefer cloth seats, but I want the second row captains chairs .... not sure if the Yukon does that without getting the leather. Don't like the feel of leather on those hot days, and I think my kids would rip it up pretty quick.

lobsenza · October 2003

The Suburband and YXL are basically the same vehicle with some minor trim differences, so it is personal preferance. The Expedition is about a foot shorter and not as roomy, but very roomy for its size. The independent rear suspension on the Expedition makes the 3rd row seat very roomy for the size of the SUV.

I personally would definitely get leather with kids. It cleans up much easier and can be repaired more easily if damaged. The comfort of the upper trim GM vehicles with the power 2 way lumbar support is different than the lower level trim vehicles. Make sure you try the seats with and without the power lumbar for comfort.

I got a seat cover for the middle row seat (the primary seat used by the kids) to help protect the leather. So far (almost 3 years) it was worked well and is easily washable

jamesbe · October 2003

Bought a '03 Yukon XL in February. Green hydrometer on battery wasn't glowing for 3 months or so. Only died once after playing stereo for 2 hours. It's been fine since. It's the first battery I've killed after 20 years and 1/2 dozen cars... The hydrometer is fine now too. I'd like a more beefy battery though.

GMC Yukon XL and Yukon XL Denali

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