1998 GMC Suburban Visibility (wipers, defrost, mirrors) Problems
- Complaints
- 17about this part
- Share
- 17%of 100 total for the year
- Median mileage
- 87,000miles
- Trend
- StableComplaints filed in the last 3 full calendar years are within 25% of the 3 years before.
NHTSA recorded 17 complaints about the visibility of the 1998 GMC Suburban, 17% of the 100 complaints for this model year. Where a mileage was given, the median is 87,000 miles. 1 a fire, according to the filers. 1 recall campaign on record is filed under a similar system.
Example complaints
Selected from NHTSA records; personal details are removed. They are consumer reports, not findings.
“While driving at various speeds vehicle stalled without warning. Dealer had not been able to duplicate the problem. Also, windshield wipers worked intermittently.”
NHTSA complaint #10046193, filed 2003-11, 50,000 miles“Wiper motor/electrical problem on my 1998 Gmc Suburban. Gmc has had to recall earlier models, and I have the same problem on my 1998. Why was it not also recalled?”
NHTSA complaint #10016909, filed 2003-05“Windshield wipers work intermittently. When they do not work, the wipers and the windshield fluid motor don't work at all. There is a recall for this exact same problem for Suburban 1994-1997. Normally they will work when you first start the car, but then go out after about 10 minutes, and fail to work the rest of the day.”
NHTSA complaint #10031024, filed 2003-08“Intermittently windshield wipers become inoperable, obstructing the driver's view. Dealer stated there is not recall on this vehicle. A recall has been issued on similar makes and models, however this vehicle is not included due to the VIN#. Please provide further information.”
NHTSA complaint #10031720, filed 2003-07“While driving 60 MPH smelled smoke. Then, saw fire coming from driver's door panel. Stopped and put out fire, consumer stated it appeared fire started at mirror adjuster on door panel. No electrical component was used prior to fire*ak.”
NHTSA complaint #896328, filed 2001-09Related recalls
- 03V093000Mar 7, 2003Certain sport utility vehicles, mini vans, and pickup trucks may develop a short circuit in the electric outside rearview mirror switch.Covers: GMC Suburban 1997–1998, Chevrolet Suburban 1997–1998, Blazer 1997 +5 more
Visibility (wipers, defrost, mirrors): other model years
| Year | Complaints | Share of year |
|---|---|---|
| 2000 | 2 | 13% |
| 1999 | 10 | 4% |
| 1998 | 17 | 17% |
| 1997 | 12 | 6% |
| 1996 | 26 | 15% |
| 1995 | 20 | 9% |
| 1994 | 72 | 18% |
| 1993 | 19 | 9% |
| 1992 | 12 | 15% |
Other parts of the 1998 GMC Suburban
29 complaintsElectrical system
16 complaintsTransmission and drivetrain
15 complaintsTires
11 complaintsSteering
7 complaintsEngine cooling
5 complaintsFuel system
5 complaintsSeat belts
4 complaintsEquipment
3 complaintsOther or unknown
3 complaintsSeats
3 complaintsLatches, locks and linkages
2 complaints
← All problems reported for the 1998 GMC Suburban
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 29, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
To check a specific vehicle for open recalls, use its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Methodology