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: 2019
The 2017 Tahoe is a significant improvement over the 2009 Yukon that I previously owned. The engine is powerful, responsive, and very quiet at idle. The handling is excellent, which is the most noticeable improvement. Gas mileage is also improved, but like most SUVs, it greatly depends on how you drive and how fast you are driving, especially on the highway.
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Vehicle year: 2019
Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with my purchase. I bought it brand new and everything was correct on the purchase date. Since then, I haven't had any issues with the unit and it has never needed any repairs. It's now December 28th, 2023 and it's still running smoothly. The only work I've done on it is regular service like oil changes and tire rotations. Thanks for listening!
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Vehicle year: 2007
Your 2007 Z71 Tahoe has been a reliable vehicle with minimal mechanical issues. The first set of brakes and tires lasted 75 to 80K miles, even with towing a boat during summer months. At 100K, you took preventative measures by changing the rear differential, front differential, transfer case, transmission, and anti-freeze fluids and filters, as well as spark plugs, wires, and serpentine belt. You also had the driver side wheel bearing replaced at about 110K and the passenger side wheel bearing replaced at about 120K. It's impressive that this truck has never left you stranded or required towing due to mechanical failure. The paint and interior have held up well over the years, making it a beautiful truck even after 8-9 years. Thank you for sharing your positive experience with us!
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Vehicle year: 2017
Great choice for a full-sized SUV! The interior is nicely equipped and well-appointed. The only downside is the poorly designed third-row seat, which has no legroom as the seat cushion sits on the floor. However, overall it's a very nice vehicle. We traded our 2016 Tahoe LTZ for this new Tahoe Premier because we wanted a second-row bench seat, and we're much happier with it than the buckets from before. Our only regret is that Chevrolet has stopped installing cooled seats in favor of just ventilated seats now. They're just not as effective. It's an obvious cost-cutting move, but regrettable on a $70,000 plus vehicle. Otherwise, it's the same as the 2016 version. Update: We still own the Tahoe, and for the most part, we're pleased with it. We're about to embark on some long-distance trips in the next few months, and the new and updated Chevrolet Traverse looks like it could easily replace the current Tahoe. It's roomy, lower, has a usable third-row seat, and costs on average $15-20,000 less.
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Vehicle year: 2020
Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with my purchase. I bought it brand new and everything was correct on the purchase date. Since then, I haven't had any issues with the unit and it has never needed any repairs. It's now December 28th, 2023 and it's still running smoothly. The only work I've done on it is regular service like oil changes and tire rotations. Thanks for listening!
Are you having problems with your Chevrolet Tahoe?
Hipolito Kihn 2025-08-21
Vehicle year: 2022
Our 2021 Tahoe was purchased in January and the first service and oil change was due this month. However, after taking the truck in for service, we noticed a knocking in the engine just 2 days later. The situation escalated as the truck started shaking really bad and lights on the dash started to come on. Despite the dealership's uncertainty about the issue and the time it will take to fix it, we remain confident that the problem will be resolved. While it is disappointing to experience these issues with a brand new vehicle only 5 months and 6,000 miles in, we trust that the dealership will handle the situation with the utmost professionalism and expertise.
Dayne Yost 2025-08-21
Vehicle year: 2004
I am sorry to hear about your experience with the transmission. At 81,000 miles, the transmission failed and the service representative at the Chevy dealer informed you that the seal between the transmission and the transfer case had failed. This caused the transmission fluid to be three quarts low from the internal leak. The GM representative blamed you for the failure, stating that the transmission fluid should have been checked at each oil change. The total cost of the GM remanufactured transmission, including installation, was $3,922.00. It is unfortunate that this happened, and I hope that your future experiences with your vehicle are more positive.
Jeffery Mertz 2025-08-19
Vehicle year: 1999
I will never buy anything from GM again. Despite my Tahoe only having 50,000 miles on it, it has required an excessive amount of expensive repairs. Unfortunately, when attempting to contact GM to voice my complaints, I discovered that their customer service number has been discontinued. This experience has left me with serious doubts about the quality of GM's products and their commitment to customer satisfaction.
Jaden Schamberger 2025-08-18
Vehicle year: 1996
Hey there! I can totally relate to your love for trucks. I remember how excited I was when I finally saved up enough to buy my own used 96 Tahoe LT. However, I did have some trouble with it. Over the course of a year and a half, I had to replace 3 alternators and 4 Sears Gold Batteries. When I reached out to Chevrolet, they didn't offer much help and simply suggested I buy a new one. Unfortunately, the problem persisted and the truck would stall and quit after only 2 months. It was definitely frustrating, but I'm hopeful that I'll find a better solution soon!
Xander Emmerich 2025-08-16
Vehicle year: 2004
The title says it all. I found the lumbar support to be too high and not adjustable, which resulted in poor low back support. Additionally, the lower cushion lacked padding in the aft portion, which made it uncomfortable. I also experienced loud clunks when shifting gears and rough idle at times, which were explained to me as normal for a Chevy by others, not the selling dealer. Overall, I had some concerns with the car's comfort and performance.