2015 Chevrolet Suburban Has A Check Engine Light

Check Engine Light Issues in 2015 Chevrolet Suburban and Their Resolutions

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2015 Chevrolet Suburban has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2015 Chevrolet Suburban has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2015 Chevrolet Suburban?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2015 Chevrolet Suburban, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach. Start by visually inspecting the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the warning light. If the gas cap appears secure, the next step is to utilize an OBD-II diagnostic scanner. This tool will help you retrieve specific error codes that can pinpoint the underlying issue, making it easier to address. Additionally, check the levels of vital fluids such as engine oil, coolant, and transmission fluid, as low levels can also activate the check engine light. Don't overlook the battery; ensure that the terminals are clean and tightly connected, as a weak battery can lead to electrical issues that trigger the light. Finally, be attentive to any unusual noises or odors from the vehicle, as these sensory clues can provide further insight into the problem. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and potentially resolve the issue causing the check engine light to illuminate, empowering you to take control of your vehicle's maintenance.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2015 Chevrolet Suburban?

When the check engine light illuminates in a 2015 Chevrolet Suburban, it signals the need for immediate attention to various potential issues that could compromise the vehicle's performance. A loose gas cap is often the simplest explanation, as it can allow fuel vapors to escape, triggering the warning light. More complex problems may involve a faulty oxygen sensor, which can negatively impact fuel efficiency and increase emissions. Additionally, issues with the catalytic converter can indicate a failure in the exhaust system, while malfunctioning spark plugs or ignition coils can lead to engine misfires, further activating the light. A defective mass airflow sensor can disrupt the engine's air-fuel mixture, and problems with the EGR valve may also cause the light to illuminate. Other concerns include a faulty thermostat that can lead to overheating and transmission issues stemming from low fluid levels or failing components. Lastly, problems with the electronic control module (ECM) can affect various engine functions, resulting in the check engine light coming on. By understanding these common problems, DIY enthusiasts can effectively diagnose and address issues, ensuring their Suburban operates smoothly and safely.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2015 Chevrolet Suburban?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2015 Chevrolet Suburban, it is essential to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning light is not merely a nuisance; it signals potential issues within the engine or emissions system that could escalate if left unaddressed. Ignoring this alert can lead to decreased fuel efficiency, increased emissions, and even severe engine damage, resulting in costly repairs. For DIY enthusiasts, the first step is to use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes, which can provide insight into the specific problem. Depending on the codes, you may be able to tackle minor issues yourself, such as replacing a faulty sensor or tightening a loose gas cap. However, if the codes indicate more complex problems, it is advisable to consult a qualified mechanic to ensure that the underlying issues are properly diagnosed and resolved. By taking prompt action, you not only safeguard your vehicle's performance but also enhance its longevity and reliability on the road.

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Check Engine Light Causes for 2015 Chevrolet Suburban