Chevrolet Suburban 1500 excessive oil consumption issue with significant engine damage risk on Chevrolet Suburban 1500

Submitted by sadburb · Jun 23, 2025
Published by RepairPal

Problem overview

Some Chevrolet Suburban 1500 owners report experiencing excessive oil consumption in their 2008-2013 models, particularly with the 5.3L V8 engine, which can lead to the need for frequent oil top-ups. This excessive consumption poses a significant risk of engine damage, as running the engine with insufficient oil can increase friction and heat, potentially causing severe harm to engine components. Additionally, some owners have linked the Active Fuel Management (AFM) system to these oil consumption issues, where the shutdown of cylinders may contribute to oil usage and increase the risk of engine failure. It is crucial for Suburban owners to regularly monitor their oil levels and promptly address any signs of excessive consumption to mitigate the risk of damage. Seeking professional diagnosis and adhering to recommended maintenance procedures is advisable to safeguard the engine's health and longevity.

84 people reported this problem
39 comments
Schedule Repair

Search for another problem

RepairPal Car Genius

Ask our experts about your Chevrolet.

RepairPal Car Genius™ is a free resource for vehicle owners seeking advice on maintenance, auto repair, shop inquiries, estimates, and finding a trustworthy repair shop in your area.

 Auto Repair Expert Auto Repair Expert

Call us at 877-913-1554

Available 9am – 6pm ET Monday through Friday

Call Our Experts