2003 GMC Suburban recalls and problems

The 2003 GMC Suburban has 1 safety recall and 5 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any GMC dealer.

Recalls
1
Complaints
5
Crashes / fires
1 / 0
Injuries / deaths
0 / 0

Recalls may cover only some 2003 GMC Suburban vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2003 GMC Suburban recalls

Recall 03V-094: Structure

Reported Mar 7, 2003 · 3,674 vehicles affected · SOUTHERN COMFORT CONVERSIONS

Problem: Certain pickup truck, van, and mini van conversions equipped with southern comfort built running boards that contain certain courtesy lights manufactured by american technology components, inc. These units contain a courtesy light or lights that might overheat when the wire harness is exposed to excessive moisture and road salt.

Risk: This overheating condition can cause the running board to melt or cause a fire.

Fix: Dealers will replace the wiring harness on these running boards. Owner notification began march 7, 2003. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact southern comfort at 1-800-745-6096.

2003 GMC Suburban problems reported by owners

Problem areaReports
Service Brakes, Hydraulic2
Equipment2
Tires1
Steering1
Engine and Engine Cooling1
Fuel System, Gasoline1

Most reported parts

  • Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip — 2
  • Tires › Sidewall — 1
  • Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine — 1
  • Equipment › Appliance › Air Conditioner — 1

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 30,000 miles (median of owner reports).

Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.

Recent 2003 GMC Suburban complaints

Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.

Fuel System, Gasoline · at 7,000 miles · reported Feb 12, 2009
June 2006 the fuel pump stopped working when I was driving on the freeway, I was towed to the garage we normally use for maintenance. They replaced the fuel pump we did not pursue this under the original warranty on the vehicle - big mistake! In january 2009 the fuel gauge stopped working and again we stopped on the freeway and had to be towed. This time it was the fuel gauge. The fuel pump cannot be replaced under warranty as this was just for one year. We were advised to use the trip mileage to fill fuel tank. We have had two failures both at approximately 30mths.
Steering · at 30,000 miles · reported Aug 13, 2007
The contact owns a 2003 gmc suburban. The contact stated that he purchased his vehicle brand new and has currently spent over $5,000 in repairs. He has been to the dealer four different times concerning the steering wheel vibrating, shaking, and rocking while driving the vehicle. Each time he went to the dealer for the steering failure, they always found another failure to report. The dealer stated that the motor injection system was burned out and caused the steering failure. The contact was informed that the vehicle meets the manufacturer's specifications and that no other assistance could…
Service Brakes, Hydraulic · at 38,000 miles · reported Apr 26, 2004
While driving 65 MPH ABS warning light came on, and two seconds later vehicle shut off. As a result, power steering and power brakes failed.

Other GMC Suburban years

Compare all GMC Suburban years · All GMC models

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2003 GMC Suburban have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2003 GMC Suburban: 03V-094 (structure). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What is the most common problem with the 2003 GMC Suburban?

Owners report service brakes, hydraulic problems most often (2 reports), followed by equipment (2). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 30,000 miles.

Are GMC recall repairs free?

Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized GMC dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.