Transmission info...need help

[Daniel Farin]

Hello.

I live in Israel . As we do not have a regular import of full size suv's ...info regarding this vehicle s in very lacking...so...I am 

Considering on purchasing a chevy suburban.

Options are limited.

2009 1500. 5.3L . 240k km.

2003 2500 8.1L. 170k km.

A friend mentioned that suburban in general is suffering from major transmission problems and that I should definitely stay away from it.

I did find many compliments regarding transmission issue and reliability over the internet. But yet ...also a lot of very possitive and highly recommend reviews especially regarding the 4l85e ..as I understand Is matched with the 8.1L from 2003.

So is have two questions.

With one should I prefer. The 2009 1500 as it  is a newer model.

Or the older model with a stronger build.

Would some one shed some light on the transmission reliability in both models.

 

Thanks a lot

Daniel

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Edited April 12, 2021 by Daniel Farin

[Earl Cordova]

If you are ever going to tow anything go for the 8.1.

I own two of them and will keep them as long as possible.

However the best mileage I have ever received is a little over 12mpg not towing.

 

As far as I know the transmission problems are with the newer 8 and 10 speed transmissions.

[Ian Mills]

I would personally buy the 2003. 

The 8.1 is a very solid engine,  but the mileage is poor at best.

Another thing to keep in mind is that a 2009 5.3 could have AFM where it shuts off some of the cylinders to get better mileage. This system is highly troublesome and requires a pretty significant overhaul to fix.

The 4L60e in the 2009 is a good transmission but lots of people (me included) have had issues with durability and longevity. Overheating the transmission is also a concern.

The 4L85e in the 2003 is a better transmission especially if you plan to pull a trailer or lots of cargo. 

The 2003 will also be on a heavier duty frame and axles because its the 2500 instead of the 1500.

[newdude]

4L85 is a tank compared to the 4L60 in that 2009.  

[swathdiver]

2009 Suburbans have the 6L80 transmission, not the 4-speed.  Both transmissions are very stout.  One truck is six years newer, newer gaskets, seals, etc.