Vehicle purchase help (Tahoe/Suburban)

[aged1985]

Looking for some direction. I have an 08 Tahoe that is salvage, but has a new transmission with 2,000 miles on it. (I know it can be used in a Tahoe but not sure it can be use in a suburban)

I’m looking to purchase either an 09 Tahoe 5.3 with 159,000 miles…OR…a 2011 Suburban 1500 5.3 with 128,000 miles. Basically the same price for both.

I’ve always driven Tahoe, however love the space of a suburban. Neither vehicle has any major issues.

What would be the best route here? Thanks!

 

[swathdiver]

I suggest going with the Suburban. The engine is slightly more fuel efficient and you'll love the extra space, in the back and even in the 2nd row.

That 4-speed transmission cannot be used in either of your prospects as they both have the 6L80 transmission. Sell it.

 

[intheburbs]

"Gee, I wish I bought the smaller Tahoe" said no Suburban owner, ever.

 

[kbit]

Or you could be like me and have both...can't go wrong that way.

 

[aged1985]

Thanks for the feedback. I'm probably going to go with the Suburban. The vehicle is in great condition, however with roughly 130k, what immediate maintenance should be done? (plugs, coils, etc?) Someone had also recommended in higher mileage suburban's adding 1qt of Lucas oil stabilizer each oil change? Never used that product but looks promising.

 

[OR VietVet]

Welcome to the forum from Oregon.

Yes, go with the Suburban. The 2k miles new transmission in the Tahoe will help sell it for more money, if you can prove it with paperwork or CarFax.

 

[intheburbs]

Do not mess with oil additives. Just use a quality high-mileage full synthetic and a good filter.

 

[Marky Dissod]

Lucas oil stabilizer is just a base oil and ... nothing else normally in motor oil.
I'd rather just add a quart of Valvoline Restore & Protect.

 

[Joseph Garcia]

I've had both a Yukon and a Yukon XL, and the longer truck is just so much more useful overall. Towing is much more stable with the longer truck.

If you will garage this truck, make sure it will fit in your garage (some folks have found out the hard way after buying the longer truck).

 

[solli5pack]

I have both a regular size Yukon and a Suburban. If you plan on carrying any kind of cargo at all without folding the third row down go with the Burb. It's almost comical how little room is behind the third row in Tahoes and Yukon's! Can't even fit a case of water! Lol.