AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
2011 Chevrolet Suburban
Recalls, owner-reported complaints, investigations and safety data
Data refreshed
Overview
Our database contains 148 NHTSA owner-reported complaints for the 2011 Chevrolet Suburban, most frequently naming the airbags, body & structure and driver assistance categories. 3 safety recalls have been issued covering this model year; 1 NHTSA investigation names it; and 1,580 manufacturer communications are on file.
Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.
Complaint activity over time
When owners filed reports about this model year
View as table
| Month | Complaints filed | Cumulative |
|---|---|---|
| Nov 2015 | 2 | 26 |
| Dec 2015 | 1 | 27 |
| Jan 2016 | 6 | 33 |
| Feb 2016 | 5 | 38 |
| Mar 2016 | 3 | 41 |
| Apr 2016 | 1 | 42 |
| May 2016 | 2 | 44 |
| Jun 2016 | 1 | 45 |
| Jul 2016 | 1 | 46 |
| Aug 2016 | 2 | 48 |
| Sep 2016 | 4 | 52 |
| Oct 2016 | 1 | 53 |
| Nov 2016 | 2 | 55 |
| Dec 2016 | 3 | 58 |
| Jan 2017 | 2 | 60 |
| Feb 2017 | 1 | 61 |
| Apr 2017 | 1 | 62 |
| May 2017 | 3 | 65 |
| Jun 2017 | 7 | 72 |
| Aug 2017 | 2 | 74 |
| Sep 2017 | 5 | 79 |
| Oct 2017 | 4 | 83 |
| Nov 2017 | 4 | 87 |
| Dec 2017 | 6 | 93 |
| Jan 2018 | 1 | 94 |
| Feb 2018 | 2 | 96 |
| Mar 2018 | 1 | 97 |
| Apr 2018 | 1 | 98 |
| May 2018 | 1 | 99 |
| Jun 2018 | 1 | 100 |
| Jul 2018 | 2 | 102 |
| Aug 2018 | 3 | 105 |
| Oct 2018 | 1 | 106 |
| Nov 2018 | 3 | 109 |
| Dec 2018 | 2 | 111 |
| Jan 2019 | 1 | 112 |
| Jul 2019 | 2 | 114 |
| Aug 2019 | 4 | 118 |
| Oct 2019 | 2 | 120 |
| Nov 2019 | 3 | 123 |
| Jan 2020 | 2 | 125 |
| Feb 2020 | 1 | 126 |
| Mar 2020 | 2 | 128 |
| Jun 2020 | 1 | 129 |
| Sep 2020 | 1 | 130 |
| Oct 2020 | 2 | 132 |
| Dec 2020 | 1 | 133 |
| May 2021 | 1 | 134 |
| Sep 2021 | 2 | 136 |
| Dec 2021 | 1 | 137 |
| Feb 2022 | 2 | 139 |
| Mar 2022 | 1 | 140 |
| Nov 2022 | 1 | 141 |
| May 2023 | 1 | 142 |
| Jun 2023 | 1 | 143 |
| Apr 2024 | 1 | 144 |
| Jul 2024 | 1 | 145 |
| Mar 2025 | 1 | 146 |
| Feb 2026 | 1 | 147 |
| May 2026 | 1 | 148 |
What owners report
Complaints grouped by the component NHTSA recorded
- Airbags6645.2%
- Body & structure2617.8%
- Driver assistance106.8%
- Engine106.8%
- Electrical96.2%
- Fuel system64.1%
- Brakes64.1%
- Visibility32.1%
Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.
Safety recalls
3 campaigns cover this model year
Recalls apply to specific vehicles, not to every vehicle of a model year. Check your VIN with NHTSA or your manufacturer's dealer to confirm whether a recall affects your vehicle.
Check a VIN on NHTSA.govAIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
Safety investigations
NHTSA inquiries naming this vehicle. An investigation is not a finding of a defect.
Desiccated Air Bag Inflator Rupture
From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited. The rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment, potentially causing serious or even fatal injury to vehicle occupants. See 2016 Blomquist Report at www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/documents/expert_report-hrblomquist.pdf.Consequently, all frontal inflators using propellant 2004 that do not contain a "desiccant" (a substance that traps and holds moisture) in US vehicles are under recall. These "non-desiccated" inflators either have been or are required to be replaced.In some cases, the remedy part for these recalled inflators was, or will be, an inflator using either propellant 2004 or 2004L that does contain a desiccant. None of these "desiccated" remedy parts (which were installed in older model year vehicles) are currently under recall for a degradation concern. Certain subsets of desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004 for use as original equipment, however, have been recalled for a degradation concern. All Takata inflators produced with propellant 2004L contain desiccant, and none of these desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L are under recall for a degradation concern. There have been no reported field ruptures in any non-recalled desiccated PSAN inflators.It is understood that desiccants fully saturate at some threshold, at which point any additional moisture will not be captured. This means the degradation process observed in non-desiccated inflators using propellant 2004 may also occur in non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004, assuming additional moisture enters the inflator and high temperature cycling occurs. Based on available information, desiccant saturation can occur within the first five years in the worst environments, and the time required for full saturation is affected by multiple factors. While no present safety risk has been identified, further work is needed to evaluate the future risk of non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004.Three entities -- Takata (now known as TK Global), the Independent Testing Coalition, and Exponent -- have been studying the long-term behavior of Takata desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004L (as well as 2004) in the presence of moisture and temperature cycling. The research efforts, which include development of predictive modeling techniques and field sample analysis, are ongoing. To date, none of the researchers have identified field evidence showing that propellant 2004L is undergoing a degradation process that leads to aggressive deployment and potential rupture. However, the time in service of such inflators remains short compared to that of the inflators using propellant 2004. Further study is needed to assess the long-term safety of desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L.The Office of Defects Investigation is opening this investigation to examine whether a safety defect related to propellant degradation exists in non-recalled desiccated PSAN frontal inflators manufactured by Takata. This investigation will require extensive information on Takata production processes and surveys of inflators in the field. Lists of recall actions that may have used desiccated PSAN inflators as remedy parts, as well as the makes and models originally manufactured with them, is available with the downloadable version of this document (see nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=EA21002 -- note this information is subject to change/revision as the investigation proceeds). This investigation does not supersede EA15-001, which remains open.
Recent owner complaints
Reports submitted to NHTSA, shown in the owner's own words
I am experiencing the symptoms listed for the ignition coil recall listed 20011 suburban, but the recall is not on my vin. I've been experiencing the symptoms for quite some time now yrs even, but didn't know about the ignition recall. I've been replacing and fixing the parts and damage to the vehicle. Fortunately no accidents or injuries to report. I am currently experiencing my door locks cycling , brief losses of power while vehicle is in drive, on highway, My electrical components periodically work seat warmer, sensors oil, air, coil packs, cooling fans (the relays keeps burning out), Ac motor, water pump, cruise control, the main fuse, and 4 x4 engaging on its own.
- NHTSA ID
- 11737613
- Incident
- May 15, 2023
Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2011 Chevrolet Suburban. It was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a private sale. At the time of purchase, the mileage was 133,000. The contact stated that at the time of registration, it was discovered that the mileage was 233,793.
- NHTSA ID
- 11715292
- Incident
- Feb 2, 2026
- Mileage
- 233,793 mi
This is not connected with a specific crash in this vehicle. It is a defect with all vehicles with this seat. There is known common defect with the stitching on the side of the front seats covering the airbag. The stitching is designed to come apart if an airbag is deployed. The defective stitching deteriorates and falls apart. This exposes the airbag system in the seat. This occurs on all GM vehicles with the same leather seats. Models include Suburbans, Yukons, and pickup trucks. In this Suburban the stiching started to come apart about 6 years ago with a few loose threads. The entire side of the seat has now come apart. The rest of the seat is in relatively good repair without any holes, rips or torn stitching. GM claims this is cosmetic and not covered. The safety issues caused by this includes the potential deterioration of the airbag system interfering with deployment in a crash. Another safety issue is the potential for foreign objects to get lodged in this space and injuring someone if the airbag goes off. The third safety issue is the potential of a person, or child, to access the airbag and cause it to go off without warning.
- NHTSA ID
- 11645734
- Incident
- Feb 28, 2025
The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Suburban. The contact stated that on several occasions while driving with the cruise control feature activated, there was a clanking noise coming from under the vehicle, and the contact smelled a fuel odor. The vehicle was steered to the side of the road and inspected. The contact stated that the fuel tank was swollen. The vehicle was taken to the residence. The vehicle was then taken to an independent mechanic who could not provide a cause for the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 191,000.
- NHTSA ID
- 11604440
- Incident
- May 15, 2024
- Mileage
- 191,000 mi
The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Suburban. The contact stated that upon inspecting the vehicle, he noticed that the rear end of the vehicle was leaking. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was determined that the rear end pinion yoke needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure recurred. The contact stated that the dealer had replaced the rear end pinion yoke several times; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 11V007000 (Suspension); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 71,333.
- NHTSA ID
- 11583775
- Incident
- Mar 20, 2019
- Mileage
- 71,333 mi
The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Suburban. The contact stated while driving 45 MPH, he heard an abnormal sound coming from underneath the vehicle. Upon visual inspection, the contact observed that the rear fuel tank had expanded abnormally and was resting on the driveshaft. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the residence and remained at the residence. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number 17V664000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 150,000.
- NHTSA ID
- 11529199
- Incident
- Jun 26, 2023
- Mileage
- 150,000 mi
The ignition key is falling out of the ignition when it is in the run position similar to other vehicles that were recalled. I am concerned that we will not be able to turn off the engine in an emergency. We are also having problems with one of the seatbelts not latching.
- NHTSA ID
- 11521791
- Incident
- May 5, 2023
Dash cracked and cruise control wont turn on when button pushed.
- NHTSA ID
- 11494786
- Incident
- Nov 24, 2022
Manufacturer communications
A bulletin sent by a manufacturer to its dealers. Not a recall, and repairs are not necessarily free.
This Preliminary information communicates direction to find information at www.gmupfitter.com for Police and Special Service Vehicles.
This preliminary information communicates information about how to determine if a wheel and tires size change is available.
This preliminary information advises a dealer on how to email GDS2 session logs into Technical Assistance.
This Preliminary information communicates the steps on how to save a GDS2 Session Log and upload to a Technical Assistance Case in CX Connect.
This PI Communications information on an alternative product dealers can use to perform 19-NA-255: Wax Coating on Frame Peeling, Metal Shows Corrosion/Rusting due to issue with getting product from current supplier listed in the bulletin.
This preliminary information advises a dealer on how to email GDS2 session logs into Technical Assistance.
Manufacturers file copies of the bulletins they send to dealers with NHTSA. These often describe diagnostic or repair procedures for a known condition. They are not recalls: repairs described in a bulletin are usually only free if the vehicle is still under warranty or the manufacturer has extended coverage.
Compare model years
Complaint and recall counts across every year of this model
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Investigations | Issue Index |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 37 | 1 | 3 | 58.1 |
| 2023 | 114 | 3 | 3 | 64.8 |
| 2022 | 106 | 4 | 3 | 65.9 |
| 2021 | 184 | 12 | 4 | 68.5 |
| 2020 | 42 | 4 | 0 | 60.2 |
| 2019 | 76 | 3 | 0 | 58.4 |
| 2018 | 81 | 4 | 0 | 55.0 |
| 2017 | 141 | 5 | 0 | 58.2 |
| 2016 | 217 | 6 | 1 | 59.1 |
| 2015 | 428 | 11 | 1 | 59.8 |
| 2014 | 59 | 3 | 1 | 51.2 |
| 2013 | 118 | 4 | 1 | 51.9 |
| 2012 | 101 | 4 | 1 | 51.9 |
| 2011Viewing | 148 | 3 | 1 | 52.3 |
| 2010 | 117 | 3 | 1 | 50.1 |
| 2009 | 106 | 5 | 1 | 49.6 |
| 2008 | 213 | 4 | 1 | 50.9 |
| 2007 | 291 | 4 | 1 | 57.5 |
| 2006 | 23 | 1 | 0 | 34.1 |
| 2005 | 129 | 7 | 0 | 46.7 |
| 2004 | 204 | 6 | 1 | 58.1 |
| 2003 | 301 | 7 | 6 | 63.8 |
| 2002 | 286 | 4 | 8 | 62.9 |
| 2001 | 440 | 8 | 11 | 63.3 |
| 2000 | 282 | 11 | 10 | 63.5 |
| 1999 | 634 | 2 | 6 | 60.4 |
| 1998 | 201 | 3 | 1 | 53.3 |
| 1997 | 414 | 3 | 5 | 59.7 |
| 1996 | 360 | 4 | 7 | 62.6 |
| 1995 | 457 | 7 | 8 | 65.9 |
| 1994 | 858 | 6 | 4 | 69.4 |
| 1993 | 499 | 2 | 3 | 67.2 |
| 1992 | 189 | 5 | 2 | 69.6 |
| 1991 | 52 | 4 | 1 | 60.8 |
| 1990 | 54 | 4 | 1 | 62.0 |
| 1989 | 62 | 4 | 1 | 62.9 |
| 1988 | 30 | 4 | 0 | 49.0 |
| 1987 | 18 | 1 | 0 | 50.7 |
| 1986 | 7 | 0 | 1 | — |
| 1985 | 9 | 0 | 1 | — |
| 1984 | 6 | 0 | 1 | — |
| 1983 | 3 | 0 | 0 | — |
| 1982 | 1 | 1 | 0 | — |
| 1981 | 1 | 1 | 0 | — |
| 1979 | 1 | 0 | 0 | — |
| 1978 | 3 | 0 | 0 | — |
| 1977 | 2 | 0 | 0 | — |
Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers. Older model years have had longer for reports to accumulate.