2002 Gmc Tahoe problems

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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.

2002 Gmc Tahoe

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Common 2002 Gmc Tahoe problems

The GMC Tahoe 2002, like any vehicle, has its common problems based on complaints from owners. Here are some of the issues that have been reported:

  • Suspension Problems: The Tahoe's suspension system can wear out over time, leading to handling issues and a less comfortable ride. This problem is more common in models from the late 1990s and early 2000s. Drivers may notice a rougher ride, excessive bouncing or swaying, uneven tire wear, or unusual noises when moving over bumps or turning. Solutions include replacing worn shocks and struts, fixing or replacing the bushings, control arms, ball joints, or addressing air suspension system failures.
  • Transmission Issues: Early models, particularly around 2002-2004 and 2007-2009, have been reported to have transmission issues. These can range from hard shifting, slipping, or even complete failure. Transmission problems can be costly to repair, so it's essential to address them promptly.
  • Brake System Issues: Brake problems, including premature wear, outright failure, and ABS issues, have been reported in various model years, but the 2015 model year seems to have a higher number of complaints. Drivers may notice reduced braking effectiveness, unusual noises when braking, a pulsating brake pedal, or the ABS warning light illuminating. Regular inspections can help identify the problem early.
  • Interior Issues: There have been reports of interior issues, such as faulty door locks and a malfunctioning speedometer, in the second generation Tahoe (2000-2006).
  • Engine Problems: The 1999 model year was known for engine problems, and the second generation Tahoe (2000-2006) faced issues like a cracked head gasket and excessive oil consumption.
  • Cracked Dashboards: Models made from 2007 to 2013, which are created with a one-piece dashboard design, are prone to cracking. This is due to a lack of relief points, overtightened bolts, and constant exposure to sunlight, which puts stress on the plastic material.

While these problems can be concerning, it's important to note that the Chevy Tahoe is generally considered a reliable vehicle. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help prevent or mitigate many of these issues. If you're considering purchasing a Tahoe, it's a good idea to research specific model years and their common problems to make an informed decision.

2002 Gmc Tahoe engine

2002 Gmc Tahoe car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Gmc Tahoe problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Seat belts problems
  • Vehicle speed control problems
  • Tires problems
  • Air bags problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2002 Gmc Tahoe vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2002 Gmc Tahoe complaints

The NHTSA has received 4 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2002 Gmc Tahoe.

2006-05-15

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2006-03-20
  • VIN: 1GKEK13Z92R
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: DRIVER'S SHOULDER HARNESS RETRACTOR MAKES A SQUEAKING SOUND WITH NORMAL CAR OR DRIVER MOVEMENTS. BROUGHT TO DEALER FOR REPAIR AND WAS TOLD IT WAS DUE TO WEAR ON SEAT BELT RETRACTOR RATCHET AND THAT THE ONLY SOLUTION WAS A REPLACEMENT OF THE RETRACTOR AND REUPHOLSTERED OF SEAT AT A COST OF $350. FAILURE TO MAKE THE REPAIR MIGHT RESULT IN THE FAILURE OF THE SEAT BELT TO LOCK IN AN ACCIDENT. THE CAR IS 4 YEARS OLD AND HAS 40,OOO MILES ON IT. THIS APEARS TO BE A SAFETY DEFECT. *JB
2004-02-23

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 1GNEC13T92R
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: WHILE TRAVELING AT 30 MPH VEHICLE'S SPEED WAS REDUCED TO 20 MPH. THE REDUCED ENGINE POWER SIGN FLASHED ON THE DASHBOARD. CONSUMER TOOK VEHICLE TO THE DEALER, AND THEY REPLACED THE TACHOMETER AT 21,834, BUT PROBLEM REPEATED. THEN, WHILE TRAVELING AT 70 MPH, VEHICLE WAS NEARLY INVOLVED IN A COLLISION. *AK
2003-05-12

TIRES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2003-05-11
  • VIN: LGNEC13C92R
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: WHILE DRIVING, THE LEFT FRONT TIRE BLEW OUT. GOODYEAR WRANGLER ST TIRE. *JB
2003-02-21

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2003-02-12
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: PLEASE PROV
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: THE VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A COLLISION, AND THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY, CONSUMER SUFFERED INJURIES.*JB
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