4.7
definitely annoyingTypical Repair Cost:
$3,000.00
Average Mileage:
68,773 miles
Total Complaints:
3 complaints
Most common solutions:
- not sure (2 reports)
- replace engine (1 reports)
engine problem
Search for Problems, Recalls & Defects
Find a good Chevrolet mechanic
A free service from MechanicAdvisor.comHelpful websites
- No one has added a helpful site for this 2001 Suburban problem yet. Be the first!
2007Feb 04
(reported on)Suburban LT 4x4 5.3 L
- Automatic transmission
- 60,000 miles
This is what GM calls CSK (cold start knock) or piston slap. It is supposedly caused by differences in expansion of metals used to manufacture the block, pistons, heads, etc. The noise is caused by the piston having too much clearance in the cylinder and consequently banging against the cylinder walls. After expansion under temperature the noise goes away. The problem has apparently existed for a long time but was amplified by the use of skirt-less pistons up until 2001-2002 year. My 01 Suburban sounds like a diesel in the morning, but fortunately the noise eventually goes away. The dealer told me about all the above and that the only real solution was to replace the engine. GM says it should not affect performance or durability, I however, do not like the thought of pistons banging around... that cannot be good.
2007Jan 22
(reported on)Suburban LS 1500
- Automatic transmission
- 49,320 miles
when i start the car up in the morning when it is cold it makes a knocking noise until it is warm and then it goes away. The dealership said it is just carbon between the rings and there is nothing to worry about. they suggested i use some lucas oil additive next time i change the oil but they assure me there is no problem. i sure hate the noise!!!!
Search CarComplaints.com for these popular complaint phrases...
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2010Jan 15
Suburban LX 3.50
What a problem this has been. I have taken it to 4 different mechanic shops to get fixed and none can give a good answer as to the problem. I even had the complete bottom of the engine removed and had the oil pump replaced and still nothing. I must have paid at least 3,000 dollars in repairs and it"s still making that ugly diesel sound every morning. If Chevrolet Motor Co. says that it's not a problem then why don't they make it right and put a new engine in our Suburban. I love Suburbans and I love me Chevy's but come on MAN! Somebody help me..
David Q.
Santa Fe, Texas, USA
SEND A COMMENT »