Three problems related to starter have been reported for the 1997 Chevrolet Suburban. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
1. Battery leaked acid while idle and ultimately failed. Leak corroded positive power cable and undercoating. 2. Erratic steering while driving - steering position sensor replaced first time. 3. Starter failed 3 times - complete lock-up 4. U-joint failed twice - sealed/non-greasable poor access to add grease fitting.
Yesterday I read in the dallas morning news that you are investigating gm SUV's and battery leaks. I would like to go on record as having had this problem. Fortunately the leak was detected while the vehicle was sitting in my garage and no one was hurt. Although, there was damage done to the vehicle and I had to pay for a new starter cable, auxiliary cable, parts and general cleanup. The Suburban was just over 2000 miles out of warranty. Please keep me posted. Thank you karen yocum.
Our Suburban now has its 3rd battery in 3 years. The original battery's post broke off leaking acid, destroying starter wiring, causing associated frame damage. The dealer denied knowledge of any preexisting problems with Suburban vehicles of this type. The dealer replaced the battery, but refused to take care of the acid damage. The second incident was in the fall of 1999. We experienced the same problem and the dealer replaced the battery at full cost to us since the vehicle was out of warranty. Today July 10, 2000, the vehicle refused to start. The tray holding the battery shows evidence of corrosion. In addition, the positive cable terminals are corroded.