“I’ve always believed that if you take care of your vehicle, it will take care of you.” These words were pulled from one of the listings on ClassicCars.com, and they spoke to me because I love vehicles that have been driven and enjoyed, yet still look brand new.
The Pick of the Day is a 2003 Chevrolet Suburban 1500 LT listed for sale on ClassicCars.com by a private seller in Waxahachie, Texas. (Click the link to view the listing)
Following a similarly clean 1996 Suburban I wrote about last month, I was inspired to select this one as a follow-up. As of 2024, the Suburban name has been around for 90 years. Originally referred to as the “Carryall Suburban” in 1934, it has now endured an impressive 12 generations. Chances are, a Suburban has found its way into the driveway or garage of someone you know.
Model year 2000 marked the launch of the ninth generation which rode on General Motors’ GMT830 platform. Suburbans of this era were classified under half-ton (1500) and three-quarter-ton (2500) designations. The new millennium brought some important design and engineering changes. Among them, the spare tire was moved to the underbody to free up cargo room, the instruments were modernized, four-wheel disc brakes became standard, and higher trim levels got features like load-leveling suspensions and a digital climate control system.
Even though today’s featured Suburban shows 262,000 miles on the odometer, it has been completely revamped both inside and out. Even its 5.7-liter Vortec V8 has been remanufactured, and it carries a 100,000-mile warranty for added peace of mind. Additional maintenance includes a rebuilt air conditioning system, newer Michelin Defender tires, new shock absorbers, a new alternator, and much more.
The seller clarifies the breakout of expenditures over the life of the vehicle over the last two decades: “Since 2003, I’ve spent $33,920.44 in continuing repairs including $14,591.51 to replace the engine and transmission and $5,000 to touch up and paint it last year. This was the actual cost I’ve paid to mechanics and body shop and doesn’t include the purchase price. I will give all receipts for these repairs, maintenance, and restoration items to the buyer.”
“She has been well cared for and is ready for years of fun for the new owners,” the seller says.
The asking price is $14,999, which is less than the seller spent in the past year on the work to the engine, transmission, and body.
There aren’t many 20-year-old vehicles that come with warranties these days, so act now on this one!
To view this Pick of the Day on ClassicCars.com, see the listing here.
Wish I hadn’t sold the 2002 K2500 that was in my driveway for a couple years. Black with tan interior and a sunroof. That was a nice ride.
And I sold it for less than $5k with 150k miles. A big goof-up on my behalf.
Dang. Solid ride for the price!
I have a 2005 suburban 2500 with the 50 2 cubic inch engine, Allison transmission, tow package, black with gray leather interior and 90,000 miles the paint is excellent and it looks great! Of course, it’s a fearsome gas hog. I love it. I wonder what it is worth?
Hi, I see the guy is as crazy as I am… 😉😉 I have a 2002 Chevrolet Trailblazer LTZ and also use a towel on my floor for if my feet should have a little bit of moisture on it… I love my Chevy!!! Also have a ’93 Chevy C1500 350…. I wish all Chevy owners a super good year!!!
Thanks for sharing!
I own a 2001 chevy Suburban LT. I’m the original owner. All 177,500 miles are mine. Love this truck and don’t mind spending the money to keep it in use. It will be with me until I’m done. I’m 77.
Keep on rolling!
l’m on my 2nd Suburban. My 1st was a 2004 LT. I called her the “Bus”. I loved my Bus but In 2014 I was T-boned by a guy that ran a red light. Entire passenger side was demolished beyond repair.
Didn’t think I’d get another one but I now have a 2019 Sub. Love this just as much. Long live the Chevy Suburban.
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Thanks for sharing!
I think he means 5.3L the “350/5.7” wasn’t an option in the suburban after 99.
And this fine gem now belongs to me. Replaced an identical 2003 that died at 311K due to an emissions issue the state of GA could never find a way to ID or pass, hence it sat too long. Was all original, including entire drive train. Getting in this one is like slipping on your favorite old pair of really comfy shoes. So happy I grabbed it. Very pleased