MODEL
Chevrolet Suburban Safety
NHTSA safety across every Chevrolet Suburban model year we cover.
Across the 6 model years of the Chevrolet Suburban we cover (2021 to 2026), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2026 at 86 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2021 at 70. 24 recalls have been issued across those years.
The Chevrolet Suburban is a full-size body-on-frame SUV that has defined the segment for decades. Built to haul families, tow heavy loads, and cover long distances in comfort, it targets buyers who need genuine three-row capacity and serious capability. The 2021 to 2025 generation represents the current platform, and for shoppers weighing this large SUV, the safety picture deserves a close look before signing anything.
The Suburban's consistent three-star rollover rating across the 2021-2025 model years presents a notable safety concern. This outcome, reflecting its tall, heavy, body-on-frame architecture, stands in contrast to otherwise strong crash-test performance. The 2025 model earned a peak NHTSA Safety Index of 83 out of 100. This represents a significant improvement over earlier model years, which registered in the Average band. However, the vehicle's recall record demands close attention. Across these five model years, 21 recalls have been issued, an elevated number for any vehicle. Owners and prospective buyers should consult NHTSA's database by VIN to confirm specific recall status. Owner complaints total 449, including 11 reported crashes and 12 reported injuries. While these figures may not be alarming given the vehicle's sales volume, they are not insignificant. The Suburban has improved in overall safety, but its inherent rollover vulnerability and substantial recall history necessitate thorough due diligence.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally praise the Suburban for its cavernous interior, strong towing capability, and refined long-distance ride quality. Most acknowledge it as a benchmark for full-size SUV utility. The consensus also notes that its large footprint can make urban driving challenging, and some reviewers flag that its size and ride height come with handling tradeoffs compared to car-based crossover alternatives.
- Rollover protection is a genuine weak point: the Suburban earns only three out of five stars in rollover testing, a direct consequence of its tall, truck-based body-on-frame design. Buyers who frequently carry passengers should weigh this carefully.
- The 2025 model year achieves the strongest safety index score in the covered range at 83 out of 100, placing it in the Strong band. If safety performance is a priority, newer model years represent a measurable step forward over earlier examples in this generation.
- Twenty-one recalls have been issued across the 2021 to 2025 model years. Before purchasing any used example, run the VIN through NHTSA's free recall database to confirm all outstanding recalls have been remedied by a dealer.
- Owner complaints across the covered years include 11 reported crashes and 12 reported injuries among 449 total unverified allegations. While these figures are not extraordinary for a high-volume vehicle, shoppers should review the specific complaint categories on NHTSA's site to understand which systems have drawn the most attention.
Most-recalled year on record: 2021 Chevrolet Suburban with 12 recalls.