Chevrolet Tahoe problems
The Chevrolet Tahoe, and its badge-engineered GMC Yukon counterpart, are full-size SUVs and other trucks from General Motors, offered since 1994 and 1991, respectively. Since 1982, Chevrolet and GMC sold two different-sized SUVs under their "Blazer" and "Jimmy" nameplates, by introducing the smaller S-10 Blazer and GMC S-15 Jimmy for the 1983 model year, below the full-size Blazer and Jimmy models. This situation lasted into the early 1990s. GMC first rebadged the full-size Jimmy as the "Yukon" in 1991. Chevrolet however waited until 1994, when they rebadged the redesigned mid-size S-10 Blazer the "new Blazer," while renaming the full-size Blazer as the "Tahoe." The name Tahoe refers to the rugged and scenic area surrounding Lake Tahoe in the western United States, and was originally used as a trim level on S-10 models. The name Yukon refers to the Yukon territory of northern Canada.
For the 1995 model year, the Tahoe and Yukon gained a new, longer four-door model, slotting in size between the two-door models and the longer-wheelbase Chevrolet/GMC Suburbans.
The Tahoe is sold in North America, parts of Asia such as the Philippines, and the Middle East, plus other countries including Bolivia, Chile, Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, and Angola as a left-hand-drive vehicle. The Yukon is only sold in North America and the Middle East.
The Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon are part of General Motors' full-size SUV family and are differentiated from the similar Chevrolet Suburban and GMC Yukon XL primarily by the length of the passenger and cargo area behind the C-pillar. An upscale trim GMC Denali sub-model joined the Yukon lineup as the top-of-the-line trim for the 1999 model year; the Cadillac Escalade is a closely related upscale version sharing the same platform. The Denali is available on both standard and XL versions.
The Tahoe has regularly been the best-selling full-size SUV in the United States, frequently outselling its competition by two to one.
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Chevrolet Tahoe model years
Common Chevrolet Tahoe problems
The Chevrolet Tahoe is a popular full-size SUV, but like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems. Here are three of the most frequently reported issues based on data from RepairPal and other sources:
- Upper dash cracking: This issue has been reported by 450 owners of various model years from 1994 to 2014.
- Heating and A/C temperature and air delivery mode door actuator failure: Over 420 owners of model years from 1995 to 2017 have reported this issue. The fix requires a visit to a repair shop.
These common problems have contributed to the Tahoe's average reliability score of 3.5 out of 5.0 from RepairPal and its ranking of 21st out of 26 midsize SUVs.
What year is Tahoe the most reliable?
A: The 2020 Chevrolet Tahoe is the most reliable model year in the fourth generation. It received a perfect reliability score of 5.0 out of 5.0 from Consumer Reports and a Quality & Reliability score of 83 out of 100 from J.D. Power.
Is the Chevy Tahoe a reliable vehicle?
Quality and Reliability 81.0/100
The 2024 Chevrolet Tahoe has a predicted reliability score of 81 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.
What year Tahoes have bad transmissions?
Transmission Problems
Early models, particularly around 2002-2004 and 2007-2009, have been reported to have transmission issues.
How many miles will a Tahoe go before problems?
In reality, determining the actual lifespan of your Tahoe is practically impossible, and we can only provide estimates based on trends and owner accounts. With that said, the Tahoe can last between 200,000 and 300,000 miles, but that would depend on various factors – mainly with faithful maintenance and timely repairs.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Chevrolet Tahoe years
We have researched Chevrolet problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Chevrolet Tahoe cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Chevrolet Tahoe model years:
- Chevrolet Tahoe 2007
- Chevrolet Tahoe 2015
- Chevrolet Tahoe 2008
- Chevrolet Tahoe 1999
- Chevrolet Tahoe 2003
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Chevrolet Tahoe model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Chevrolet Tahoe years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Chevrolet Tahoe car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Chevrolet Tahoe , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Service brakes problems
- Air bags problems
- Electrical system problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Chevrolet Tahoe vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Tahoe model years
A total of 447 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Tahoe model years
There were a total of 126 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Tahoe model years
There were a total of 485 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Tahoe model years
There were a total of 33 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 9306 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Chevrolet Tahoe . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Chevrolet Tahoe vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Chevrolet Tahoe 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
- VIN: 1GNSKNKD6MR
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I was stranded and had to have my vehicle towed after the fuel pump control module failed.
Chevrolet Tahoe 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: 1GNSKPKD8MR
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Vehicle has 10,800 miles. The vehicle repeatedly failed to start. Towed to GM dealership. They say the fuel pump has failed. They say it is not covered (beccause my VIN isn't within the recalls that already exist for this exact same problem). The cost is over $1,200. I contacted Chevy corporate and they offered to cover 30%. The dealership is still awaiting the part(s) with no provided delivery date. This could have caused a serious MV accident if it had failed while driving. The vehicle gave no warning of this failure.
Chevrolet Tahoe 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: 1GNSKPKD8MR
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Took the vehicle in for Airbag System recall in 2022. They said they fixed it and that there was a broken wire. The very next day the warning light came on again like before. I contacted the dealership and they said bring it in. I could not get it in again as I was very busy. I asked them to make a note in my file of the immediate call/report of still a problem. I took the vehicle in this month (October 2024) for issue of no starting (fuel pump failure, another recall they are denying). They stated that the Drivers Side Airbag module was shorted or bad and my cost would be approximately $1,250. They stated it was not covered under any recall. I contacted Chevy corporate that offered to cover 30% only of this. I believe this should be covered in whole due to the failure to repair the first time and that is is a known safety issue. The vehicle has only 10,800 miles.
Chevrolet Tahoe 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: 1GNSKPKD6NR
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2022 Chevrolet Tahoe. The contact stated that after starting the vehicle and making a turn in either direction, there was an abnormal groaning sound coming from the rear of the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the rear differential had malfunctioned, and the differential fluids were replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not included in the Extend Coverage to address the failure. The failure mileage was 40,000.
Chevrolet Tahoe 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-21
- VIN: 1GNSKPKD5MR
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Engine would not start. When pressing the start button, engine would turn over but would only rough idle for a few moments then turn off. Called garage and had vehicle towed. Mechanic advised computer showed defective fuel pump power control module. Mechanic advised GM has recall N212332040 for defective fuel pump power control module but my VIN is not included. Mechanic ordered fuel pump power control module from GM and replaced on my vehicle. This corrected the problem. I am requesting my VIN to be added to the recall and GM to pay for the part, labor and towing.
Chevrolet Tahoe 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-27
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-19
- VIN: 1GNFK13027R
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Dashboard cracking in multiple places
Chevrolet Tahoe 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-18
- VIN: 1GNSKCKC5GR
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: The brake vacuum pump is bad. It was hooked up to solious and that's the codes it's throwing. Out of no where while driving on the highway my brake pedal became very stiff and difficult to push down. I could barely stop in time off the exit. Now when the truck is in Drive it doesn't even move. When you do go u have to put all your might into pressing the brake down to stop. Even then the pedal won't go down. Very dangerous especially since I had my [XXX] daughter with me. Very scary situation. I looked up recall for VIN but I have 0. Which is weird because there's a recall on 2016 chevy tahoes for this exact symptoms and part. Now I did go to [XXX] and found a recall under my Vin and also a warranty for this part under my Vin. Why doesn't it list a recall for me INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Chevrolet Tahoe 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-16
- VIN: 1GNSKBKC3GR
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The touch screen glitches. While traveling depending on maps I can't safely drive and follow the screen.
Chevrolet Tahoe 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: 1GNSKBKCXGR
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Most the time my passenger airbag will not detect someone sitting there. However, when it does, it will shut off and on.
Chevrolet Tahoe 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: 1GNSKBKCXGR
- Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: I have had several incidents this past couple months where my forward collision red light indicator will go off for no reason while driving. This literally scares me to brake when I shouldn't have to. Very annoying.
Chevrolet Tahoe 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: 1GNSKBKCXGR
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Several months back I took my car in to my local dealer for a recall and asked them about what was going in with my navigation and radio because when I'm driving the navigation system will deter from my destination that I put in and then start flipping through radio stations on its own and will not let me change or control it at all.
Chevrolet Tahoe 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1GNSCNKD6NR
- Components: AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: My husband had an accident on 8/10/24 where adverse driver ran a red light at high speeds and struck this vehicle he was while driving impacting front end and both sides of car and airbags failed to deploy! He sustained a permanent disabling injury to his left shoulder.
Chevrolet Tahoe 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-30
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-14
- VIN: 1GNSKPKD5MR
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: While my wife was driving her car going down a slope, Her brake pedal fell to the floor loosing brakes and would not return to normal position for a few minutes. I took the vehicle into the dealership over two weeks ago and they have not been able to re-create the situation that took place while my wife was driving the car and still have not returned the vehicle. My concern is that my wife will not feel comfortable driving the car with our toddler and new born if there is no actual repair.
Chevrolet Tahoe 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-10
- VIN: 1GNFK23039R
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Dash cover is falling apart, a well known defect. I worry that an airbag deployment could cause dangerous shrapnel to be projected throughout the passenger compartment causing injuries like skin cuts and eye injuries.
Chevrolet Tahoe 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-07
- VIN: 1GNSCBKC6GR
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I called my local Chevrolet dealership to get the recalled on my Tahoe fixed and they can’t fix the recall for a full month. I’m very concerned because it’s a recall on the vacuum pump so it affects my brakes. My truck is a daily driver so I will have to gamble for a month on the streets and pray the brakes don’t get any worse.
Latest 5 recalls Chevrolet Tahoe
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 152 recalls for different components of the Chevrolet Tahoe.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Chevrolet Tahoe 2023
- Report Received Date: 2024-09-12
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:BRAKE FLUID LOW WARNING: LAMP
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, 2023-2024 Chevrolet Tahoe, Suburban, GMC Yukon, Yukon XL, Cadillac Escalade, and Escalade ESV vehicles. The electronic brake control module software may fail to display a warning light when a loss of brake fluid occurs. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Vehicle Safety Standard number 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."
- Consequence: Without a warning light, the vehicle may be driven with low brake fluid, which can reduce braking performance and increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: The Electronic Brake Control Module (eBCM) software will be updated through an over-the-air (OTA) update or by a dealer, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed October 28, 2024. Owners can contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N242447990.
- Model: Chevrolet Tahoe 2023
- Report Received Date: 2023-09-20
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: SUSPENSION:REAR
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2023 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban, Chevrolet Tahoe, GMC Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles. The rear suspension outer control arm bolts may not have been properly heat-treated, which can cause the bolts to break.
- Consequence: A broken suspension bolt can result in misalignment of the rear wheel, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace both rear suspension outer control arm bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 14, 2023. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020; Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006; and GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N232415910.
- Model: Chevrolet Tahoe 2022
- Report Received Date: 2022-12-08
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:LIGHTING CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Cadillac CT4 and CT5; 2021-2023 Buick Envision; and 2022-2023 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles. The daytime running lights (DRLs) may not deactivate when the headlights are on. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
- Consequence: DRLs that do not deactivate as intended may result in a glare, reducing visibility, and increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: The body control module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 23, 2023. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N222386380. This recall expands previous recall number 22V-827.
- Model: Chevrolet Tahoe 2023
- Report Received Date: 2022-12-08
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:LIGHTING CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Cadillac CT4 and CT5; 2021-2023 Buick Envision; and 2022-2023 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles. The daytime running lights (DRLs) may not deactivate when the headlights are on. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
- Consequence: DRLs that do not deactivate as intended may result in a glare, reducing visibility, and increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: The body control module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 23, 2023. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N222386380. This recall expands previous recall number 22V-827.
- Model: Chevrolet Tahoe 2021
- Report Received Date: 2022-11-03
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:LIGHTING CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Yukon, Yukon XL, Chevrolet Tahoe, Chevrolet Suburban, Cadillac Escalade, and Cadillac Escalade ESV vehicles. The daytime running lights (DRLs) may not deactivate when the headlights are on. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
- Consequence: Daytime Running Lights that do not deactivate as intended may cause a glare, reducing visibility and increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will provide an over-the-air (OTA) update for the Body Control Module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 15, 2022. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N222382220.
Latest negative Chevrolet Tahoe car reviews
Latest positive Chevrolet Tahoe car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2020
Good buy... very good mpg compared to my older model..power train warranty
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Vehicle year: 2016
The radio and bluetooth not working together has been a persistent issue. During a trip through the mountains in a rainstorm, the radio and mapping system went black and did not come back on until the next day. Despite this, I was able to navigate my way with the help of my husband over the phone. On another trip from Tennessee to Florida during a hurricane, the radio and mapping system went black again when I answered a call, but came back on after the call ended. Towards the end of the trip, the bluetooth stopped working with my iPhone, making it impossible to make calls while tethered to the vehicle.
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Vehicle year: 2001
Your Tahoe sounds like a real workhorse! With over 200k on the clock and 99% original, it's clear you've taken great care of it. By using Mobil 1 oils and servicing it regularly, you've kept it in top condition. It's impressive that you're able to tow full-size trucks and boats without any problems, even if it could use a little more power. It's true that neglecting maintenance can lead to issues with transmissions and alternators, but you clearly know what you're doing. As someone who sells parts and works on cars for a living, you understand the importance of proper maintenance. Keep up the good work, and your Tahoe will continue to serve you well for years to come!
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Vehicle year: 2020
I'm so glad to hear that you're enjoying your new Tahoe! It sounds like you've had some experience with Suburbans and Tahoes in the past, but decided to try out a Toyota Highlander for a while. It's great that you found your way back to the Tahoe and that it's meeting your needs perfectly with the extra room.
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Vehicle year: 2011
I really love this vehicle! It handles my 6,500 pound trailer with ease and the ride is incredibly smooth, especially with the Z71 Package. It's a beast when it comes to tackling mountains and waterfording. I can't imagine driving anything else. The cargo space is huge and the cabin is incredibly roomy. The handling feels European and is amazing for such a large SUV. Even bumps and potholes are barely noticeable. One night, a deer jumped in front of my headlights and although I did hit it, I only felt a light thud. (The deer survived and is now at a sanctuary.) The car is remarkably safe and the electronic stability control has saved my life more than once. I highly recommend buying this vehicle without any hesitation!
Are you having problems with your Chevrolet Tahoe?
Tito Pollich 2025-01-08
Vehicle year: 2022
I recently purchased a 2021 Tahoe Premier in early October, but unfortunately, it has already been in the shop once and is about to go back in. With this new model, there are several issues and bugs already popping up. The first issue we had was an improperly installed front bumper sensor that was not seated flush on the bumper. When we pushed it with our finger, it pushed all the way into the bumper. However, Chevy was quick to resolve the issue by ripping off a bumper from another Tahoe on the lot to install on mine. This week, we have received two error messages on the dashboard: 'Service Safety Restraint System' and 'Check Reverse Lamp' when putting the vehicle in reverse. I called our dealer and they informed me that this is a known issue with the 2021's. We are now working on a game plan to get these issues, plus one other bulletin/recall related to the braking system resolved. Although I love the interior and exterior look of the new Tahoe, I would recommend waiting for these current and future bugs to be resolved. This is by far the worst experience I've had with a brand new car.
Emanuel Schmeler 2025-01-07
Vehicle year: 2020
We purchased our brand new Tahoe for $70,000, thinking it was the cream of the crop with its 6.2 engine and 10-speed transmission. At first, we loved it and thought we could go fast in it. We bought it in May and enjoyed rolling down the windows and feeling the breeze. However, when June hit, it got hot in there and the A/C seemed to make it even hotter. After calling the dealer, we found out that they had forgotten to put refrigerant in it, but it was a simple fix. Things were going well until one day, the back door seal fell off. It was frustrating to find out that Chevrolet had forgotten the clips on the door seal. Additionally, two body bolts had worn holes in the carpet. Thankfully, the local dealer was able to fix these issues for us. After five months of no problems, we fell back in love with our $70,000 investment. Unfortunately, one day, as I backed out of the driveway and put it in drive, nothing happened. I calmly shifted to neutral and tried again, but it slammed into drive with a big thud, causing me to hit the steering wheel. I was worried that I was going crazy, but I gathered some witnesses to confirm that I wasn't. Although Chevrolet thought it never happened to them, it happened to me five plus times a week. Sadly, this will be my last Chevy product. I can buy the same quality for half the price from another manufacturer. If you have $70,000 to spend, the new Tahoe is still a great choice!
Douglas Lebsack 2025-01-05
Vehicle year: 2020
General Motors must be held accountable for the faulty fuel management system that damaged your engine. As a customer, you deserve better treatment and prompt resolution of your issues. It is unacceptable that General Motors gave you the runaround for almost 4 months and then refused to reimburse your costs. Your safety and satisfaction should be their top priority. I urge General Motors to take responsibility for their mistakes and provide you with the compensation and support you deserve.
Jonatan Hermann 2025-01-01
Vehicle year: 2014
Hi there! I recently bought a 2013 Chevy Tahoe and have been enjoying driving it. However, I noticed that the steering column is not centered to the seat and my body. I took it back to the dealer, but unfortunately they were not able to fix the issue. I then went to another dealer who confirmed that this is a common problem with large SUVs. I was wondering if anyone else has experienced this issue? Despite this problem, I still really like the way it rides. I am considering appealing to the lemon law, but would love to hear any advice or experiences from others. Thanks!
Cordelia Koch 2024-11-28
Vehicle year: 2023
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my car that I purchased back in January. Overall, it's been a great car with amazing amenities. However, in March, we started experiencing a bit of a shimmy. We took it back to the dealer and unfortunately, they didn't have the part to fix the issue, which they said was related to the fuel injection. It's now mid-May and we're still waiting to get our Tahoe back. It looks like it might be a few more months before we can get it back, but we're hopeful that it will be worth the wait!