2021 Chevrolet Suburban: Tire Size & Pressure

Quick answer

• OEM Tire Size: 265/70R17, 275/60R20, 275/50R22 (varies by trim)
• Recommended Cold Tire Pressure: 36 PSI (front and rear)
• Bolt Pattern: 6x120 mm
• Wheel Size: 17x8.0", 20x9.0", 22x9.0" (varies by trim)
• Load Index/Speed Rating: 115S (for 265/70R17), 115H (for 275/60R20 and 275/50R22)
• Spare Tire Size: Varies depending on OEM tire size (typically a full-size or temporary spare)
• TPMS Frequency: 315 MHz

Tire sizes by trim

Recommended replacement tires

When it's time for new tires, considering your driving habits and budget is key. Here are a few popular options for the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban across different price tiers:

• Michelin Defender LTX M/S (Premium): A popular choice for SUVs and light trucks, offering excellent all-season traction, a comfortable ride, and a long tread life. Expect to pay around $250-$350 per tire, depending on size.
• Goodyear Wrangler SR-A (Mid-range): Often an OEM tire, the Wrangler SR-A provides a good balance of on-road comfort and light off-road capability. Prices typically range from $180-$280 per tire.
• Kumho Crugen HT51 (Value): A great option for those seeking a reliable all-season tire at a more affordable price. It offers good wet and dry traction with a quiet ride. You can generally find these for $150-$220 per tire.

When to inflate to max load psi

For the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban, which is not a heavy-duty truck designed for consistently hauling extremely heavy loads, you generally won't need to inflate your tires to their "max load psi" (the maximum pressure listed on the tire's sidewall). The recommended cold tire pressure of 36 PSI, as found on your vehicle's door placard, is designed for optimal performance, fuel efficiency, and tire longevity under normal driving conditions, including when carrying passengers and typical cargo.

Only consider inflating to max load psi if you are regularly carrying the absolute maximum payload capacity of your Suburban or towing a very heavy trailer that pushes the vehicle to its gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). Even then, it's crucial to consult your owner's manual for specific recommendations. Over-inflating your tires can lead to a harsher ride, premature tire wear in the center of the tread, and potentially reduce traction.

Lug nut torque & pattern

The correct lug nut torque is vital for safe wheel attachment. For the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban, the recommended lug nut torque is 140 lb-ft (190 Nm). Always tighten lug nuts in a star or crisscross pattern to ensure even seating of the wheel against the hub. This helps prevent warping of the rotor and ensures the wheel is securely mounted. After driving for about 50-100 miles after a wheel removal/installation, it's a good practice to re-check the lug nut torque to ensure they haven't loosened.

Common tire issues for this vehicle

While the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban is a robust vehicle, like any vehicle, it can experience common tire-related issues:

• Uneven Wear: Misalignment, improper tire pressure, or worn suspension components can lead to uneven tire wear patterns (e.g., feathering, cupping, or wear on one edge). Regular tire rotations (every 5,000-7,500 miles) and alignments can help mitigate this.
• TPMS Malfunctions: The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) alerts you to low tire pressure. Sometimes, sensors can fail due to battery depletion or damage, leading to a warning light even if tire pressure is correct. The 2021 Suburban uses 315 MHz sensors.
• Pothole Damage: The Suburban's larger wheels (especially 20-inch and 22-inch options) can be more susceptible to damage from potholes, including bent rims, bubbling sidewalls, or internal tire damage. Drive carefully on rough roads.
• Road Noise: As tires wear or if they are an aggressive tread design, road noise can become more noticeable. Choosing a tire with a good reputation for quietness can improve your driving experience.

Need new tires? Find a trusted shop on Repairius.