The Chevrolet Tahoe is a large SUV that started out as a 1995 model year.
It drives like a smaller SUV, has a quiet interior, and is extremely agile.
In this article, we’ll be going through all of the best and worst model years of the Tahoe.
Table of Contents
Here’s The Short Answer To What The Best And Worst Years For The Chevrolet Tahoe Are:
The best Chevrolet Tahoe model years are 2024, 2023, 2022, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2014, and 2006. The worst model years of the Suburban are 1996 – 2005, 2007 – 2011, 2015 – 2017 and 2021. This is based on auto industry reviews, NHTSA statistics, reported problems, and consumer feedback.
What Are The Best Years For The Chevrolet Tahoe?
2024 and 2023 Chevrolet Tahoe
The 2024 and 2023 Tahoe models are part of the 12th Generation introduced for 2021, these models offer the latest tech, styling and equipment.
They have been praised for their roomy interior, smooth ride, intuitive touchscreen, and robust diesel engine option.
New for these model years are the Super Cruise upgrade (exclusive to the Premier and High Country trims), adaptive cruise control as standard (High Country trim only), and minor changes to feature availability.
There are 7 available trim levels: Fleet, LS, LT, RST, Z71, Premier, and High Country.
These variants have a base pricing ranging from $51,000 to $72,000.
2024 Tahoe:
- Edmunds: NA
- Kelley Blue Book: NA
- JD Power: NA
2023 Tahoe:
- Edmunds: 3.6 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 3.3 / 5.0
- JD Power: 84 / 100
2023 Tahoe, Edmunds review:
“Overall it is a nice ride. Thought it had adaptive cruise but it did not but is fully loaded other than that.”
2022 Chevrolet Tahoe
The 2022 Tahoe is a great SUV that is practical, packed with easy-to-use controls, and has a variety of powerful engine options.
New for 2022 are minor changes to optional packages, lane keeping assist and rear parking sensors come as standard, and enhanced Google-based voice controls for the 10.2-inch infotainment system.
The EPA claims that this model can achieve 20 MPG for combined city and highway driving, which is acceptable for the segment.
When properly equipped, this model can also tow around 8,400 pounds, which is more than enough to handle larger trailers and campers.
The standard engine across the board is a 5.3-liter V8 engine (355 horsepower) mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission.
- Edmunds: 2.7 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 3.3 / 5.0
- JD Power: 84 / 100
2022 Tahoe, Edmunds review:
“Extremely happy with the 2022 Tahoe, we needed something with enough room to fit our two giant dogs (mastiff type breeds) with the tahoe we have enough room to keep the dogs behind the second row and still have room for 5 people…”
2020, 2019, and 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe
The 2020, 2019, and 2018 Tahoe’s are the final models produced for the 11th Generation and there are no major differences between them. They may lack the upgrades of the newer models however they are tried and tested and have received solid reviews.
These models are capable of seating up to 9 people and have an impressive maximum tow rating of 8,600 pounds thanks to their durable frames and powerful V8 engines .
Auto critics have praised these models for their well-appointed and quiet interiors but have also noted that the high trunk floor makes loading difficult and reduces cargo space.
Introduced in 2018 was the new RST Edition and RST Performance Edition packages.
Owners have rated the following aspects the highest: engine power, handling, steering, comfort, seating, interior, spaciousness, dashboard, and sound system.
2020 Tahoe:
- Edmunds: 3.7 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 3.8 / 5.0
- JD Power: 85 / 100
2019 Tahoe:
- Edmunds: 3.6 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 3.8 / 5.0
- JD Power: 85 / 100
2018 Tahoe:
- Edmunds: 3.2 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 3.8 / 5.0
- JD Power: 83 / 100
2018 Tahoe, Edmunds review:
“Honestly. We haven’t bought a GM product in over 7 yrs. which my husband has had 2 Ford leases and I personally have had Honda minivans. We have since bought a Tahoe and I am so in love. I am 4’11” and he is 6’4.5″. I have test driven one a few years back and decided not to get it. The braking is amazing. It doesn’t feel like I’m driving a big truck, which is a big deal to me. It also is such a smooth ride. I’m impressed. The touch screen is super responsive, acceleration is a bit slow but that’s the v8…”
2014 Chevrolet Tahoe
The 2014 Tahoe is the final installment of the 3rd Generation, it has received excellent reviews from owners and auto journalists alike. ITs a great choice for those on a tighter budget who want something reliable.
The 2014 Tahoe sports a smooth V8 engine, a supple ride, stout towing capacity, a high-quality finish, and seating of up to 9 people.
Updates for this model year include additional standard equipment such as power-adjustable pedals, remote ignition, a rearview camera, and rear parking sensors.
There are 3 available trims: LS, LT, and LTZ.
All variants come with a 5.3-liter V8 engine (320 horsepower) mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission on either a 2-wheel-drive or 4-wheel-drive configuration.
- Edmunds: 4.5 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.5 / 5.0
- JD Power: 81 / 100
2014 Tahoe, Edmunds review:
“We’ve owned three Tahoes and 2014 is our absolute favorite. We were so sad when we went last week to start our search for a 2016 or 2017 because the new body style is horrible compared to the 2014. They’ve made the vehicle squatter and you lose a fair amount of the visibility. Sitting in the driver’s seat, you feel a little like you’re down in a hole and if you raise the seat all the way up, then it isn’t a comfortable feeling. Whoever came up with that terrible design must not have realized that one of the things that made Tahoes so fabulous was the great visibility and the feeling of sitting up high…”
2006 Chevrolet Tahoe
The 2006 Tahoe is the penultimate model of the 2nd generation which received stellar reviews and minimal complaints.
Despite being the oldest model on this list, it is known to be one of the most reliable models boasting strong engines, roomy and versatile interior, and various standard and optional features.
New for this particular model year are OnStar, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, StabiliTrak stability control system, and a tire-pressure monitoring system (TPMS).
According to owners’ reviews, this vehicle’s best aspects are as follows: reliability, manufacturing quality, comfort, appearance, ride quality, fuel economy, handling, and steering.
Standard for the base LS trim is a 4.8-liter V8 engine (285 horsepower) while the midrange LT and top-spec Z71 come with a 5.3-liter V8 engine (295 horsepower).
- Edmunds: 4.6 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6 / 5.0
- JD Power: NA
2006 Tahoe, Edmunds review:
“The Chevy Tahoe LT 5.3L V8 is one of the best vehicles I’ve ever owned! I bought it with 82,000 miles on it, and now it has 95,000 miles on it. The Tahoe can accelerate very fast for a large size vehicle. One of the reasons why I would recommend it to others. The only problem I had with it was that the clutch for the A/C and/or Heater went out. But It was a small repair, otherwise the Chevy Tahoe is the best SUV ever.”
Consumer Scores For Best Chevrolet Tahoe Years
| Model Year | Edmunds Consumer Rating | Kelley Blue Book Consumer Rating | JD Power Consumer Rating |
| 2024 Chevrolet Tahoe | NA | NA | NA |
| 2023 Chevrolet Tahoe | 3.6 / 5.0 | 3.3 / 5.0 | 84 / 100 |
| 2022 Chevrolet Tahoe | 2.7 / 5.0 | 3.3 / 5.0 | 84 / 100 |
| 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe | 2.6 / 5.0 | 3.3 / 5.0 | 82 / 100 |
| 2020 Chevrolet Tahoe | 3.7 / 5.0 | 3.8 / 5.0 | 85 / 100 |
| 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe | 3.6 / 5.0 | 3.8 / 5.0 | 80 / 100 |
| 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe | 3.2 / 5.0 | 3.8 / 5.0 | 83 / 100 |
| 2014 Chevrolet Tahoe | 4.5 / 5.0 | 4.5 / 5.0 | 81 / 100 |
| 2006 Chevrolet Tahoe | 4.6 / 5.0 | 4.6 / 5.0 | NA |
Related: Chevrolet Tahoe Alarm Going Off? (12 Causes & Solutions)
What Are The Worst Years For The Chevrolet Tahoe?
1996 to 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe
The 2004 and 2005 Tahoe model years (aptly named “clunkers” by CarComplaints.com), along with the 1996 – 2003 models, are highly problematic and should be avoided.
The problems experienced by owners of these model years are plentiful, with the most frequent concerns being brake-related.
Specifically, the 1996 to 2005 Tahoe models suffered from anti-lock brake system (ABS) malfunctions, lack of brake force at low speeds, and abnormal noises being produce when the brake pedal is depressed.
Here are some complaints filed on the NHTSA website.
“At low speeds under 10 mph the anti-lock brakes will activate causing longer stopping distance than normal. I checked on the recall through chevy and they say there is none for my vehicle yet this problem is identical to the other trucks that were recalled.”
“Experience unwanted antilock brake system (abs) activation at low speeds this can cause increased stopping distances during low-speed brake applications, which could result in a crash.”
Rusting of the brake lines is another commonly reported problem on these models which put many drivers in danger as the brakes failed whilst driving.
“Lost brakes on highway. Got in an accident. Now all brake lines have to be replaced. Never going to buy another gm”
“Brake line rusted. Lost fluid and brakes while driving. Have been driving for 53 years. Never had this happen with any other vehicle.”
Owners of 2003 – 2005 models widely reported that the speedometer was not working properly.
“Speedometer not working correctly. Shows 50 mph when stopped and 120 mph when on city streets.”
“Every other time I drive my 2003 chevy Tahoe the speedometer misreads. It is usually off by around 20-30 mph under the actual speed of the vehicle.”
- The 1996 Tahoe had a total of 8 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 285 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 1997 Tahoe had a total of 13 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 417 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 1998 Tahoe had a total of 8 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 264 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 1999 Tahoe had a total of 57 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 558 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2000 Tahoe had a total of 15 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 290 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2001 Tahoe had a total of 36 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 525 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2002 Tahoe had a total of 43 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 472 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2003 Tahoe had a total of 95 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 544 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2004 Tahoe had a total of 163 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 500 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2005 Tahoe had a total of 67 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 353 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Common problems:
- Fuel pump failure
- Intake gasket leak
- Hesitates when it starts
- Hard shifting
- Steering jerks intermittently
- Radiator fan problem
- Coolant leak
- Engine loss of power
- Blown engine
- Intermittent loss of steering
- Failed transmission
- Popping and creaking noise when turning
- Vibration at highway speeds
- Rear window hinge broke
- ABS module failure
- Air compressor makes screeching sound
- Knocking noise from steering column when turning
- Stalls, loses power while driving
- Air conditioning goes out
- Inaccurate speedometer
- Cracked head gasket
- Tapping noise at idle
2007 to 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe
The 2007 Tahoe was labelled “Beware of the Clunker” by CarComplaints.com due to its aluminum block engines with Active Fuel Management (AFM) consuming oil at an alarming rate.
These issues were also prevalent on the 2008 models and to a much lesser extent the 2010 and 2011 models.
“I have a 2007 Chevy Tahoe that runs fair. The problem I am having is having to put oil in my truck every week and that i have to change spark plug in it once a month. This is getting aggravating.”
“I bought this car knowing it was a gas hog but had no idea that it used about as much oil as fuel. This is ridiculous for a truck to be burning this much oil that it is triggering my low oil light to come on.”
The most common issue shared by all of these models was the infamous Takata airbag recall.
These models were equipped with faulty airbags that were prone to exploding thus firing metal shrapnel into the cabin.
Due to the slow response of the manufacturer to address the recalls, a huge number of complaints were filed.
- The 2007 Tahoe had a total of 255 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 1,429 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2008 Tahoe had a total of 69 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 653 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2009 Tahoe had a total of 56 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 367 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2010 Tahoe had a total of 14 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 376 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2011 Tahoe had a total of 27 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 544 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Common problems:
- Cracked dashboard
- Low oil pressure
- Rattle noise in engine
- Excessive oil consumption
- Door locks not working properly
- Door handle falls off
- Bad lock actuator
- Engine failure
- Transmission problems
- Water leaking into doors
- Dashboard display issues
- Timing chain failure
- Door armrest broke
- Dust comes in through vent
2015, 2016, and 2017 Chevrolet Tahoe
The 2015, 2016, and 2017 Tahoe model years had serious problems with their brakes.
Specifically, owners reported corrosion of brake lines, leaking of brake fluid, a brake pedal that is hard to depress, and difficulty braking at low speeds.
“Loss of braking effort. Also described as a hard pedal, requiring increased effort to slow the vehicle.”
“Vacuum pump related to the braking system is failing. This has been a repaired recall. The vacuum pump is failing again. It is my understanding this is a common issue with Chevrolet and GMC and is causing accidents.”
Owners also widely reported that the “service trailer braking system” message would continually pop up.
“Keep getting a message saying trailer system issue. Has occurred over the past few years but recently has shown up more than once about every day.”
“Trailer brake system chime goes off constantly. Chevy refuses to fix the defective wire harness. It is distracting and I have no idea if my trailer brakes would properly function if I were to tow.”
- The 2015 Tahoe had a total of 226 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 770 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2016 Tahoe had a total of 37 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 243 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2017 Tahoe had a total of 16 complaints according to CarComplaints.com and 135 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Common problems:
- Air conditioning stopped working
- Loud, rough ride
- Brakes not working properly
- Air conditioning does not blow cold
- Paint fading
- Transmission failure
- Transmission and torque inverter failed
Related: Chevrolet Tahoe Beeping? (9 Causes & Solutions)
2021 Chevrolet Tahoe
The 2021 Chevy Tahoe makes our worst list due to the poor owner reviews it has received, securing a 2.6/5.0 feedback score on Edmunds.
It is the first installment of the revamped 12th Generation and so it might be best to opt for a newer model as GM may have addressed some of the issues.
Here’s what owners had to say on the Edmunds website:
“As a previous reviewer wrote…Avoid-Total Lemon.. Less than 200 Miles and needs a new transmission.. Repeat****NEEDS A NEW TRANSMISSION**** on a brand new 2021 High Country Tahoe-The most expensive car I’ve ever owned.. Insane…Nice Job ,GM.. keep it up!!!”
“I bought a 2021 Tahoe in November and dropped it off today (for the 5th time) for electrical work. Problems with infotainment/radio/dash”
“Purchased 2021 Z71 in November. In January there was a popping sound, then knocking sound, then all my service lights came on, then it started rumbling & shaking. Chevy told me to stop driving & tow it in. It was a lift valve that blew & damaged something else. Everything repaired. Well here we are in April with THE EXACT SAME ISSUE and there were no loaners.”
What Years Have The Most Complaints?
| Model Year | Complaints (CarComplaints.com) | Problems (CarProblemZoo.com) | Recalls (NHTSA.gov) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 Chevrolet Tahoe | – | – | – |
| 2023 Chevrolet Tahoe | 0 | 7 | 1 |
| 2022 Chevrolet Tahoe | 0 | 56 | 2 |
| 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe | 1 | 140 | 13 |
| 2020 Chevrolet Tahoe | 0 | 20 | 3 |
| 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe | 6 | 58 | 1 |
| 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe | 10 | 67 | 3 |
| 2017 Chevrolet Tahoe | 16 | 135 | 3 |
| 2016 Chevrolet Tahoe | 37 | 243 | 7 |
| 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe | 226 | 770 | 14 |
| 2014 Chevrolet Tahoe | 16 | 107 | 3 |
| 2013 Chevrolet Tahoe | 23 | 287 | 4 |
| 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe | 10 | 240 | 3 |
| 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe | 27 | 544 | 5 |
| 2010 Chevrolet Tahoe | 14 | 376 | 4 |
| 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe | 56 | 367 | 5 |
| 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe | 69 | 653 | 4 |
| 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe | 255 | 1,429 | 4 |
| 2006 Chevrolet Tahoe | 2 | 133 | 4 |
| 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe | 67 | 353 | 7 |
| 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe | 163 | 500 | 5 |
| 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe | 95 | 544 | 7 |
| 2002 Chevrolet Tahoe | 43 | 472 | 6 |
| 2001 Chevrolet Tahoe | 36 | 525 | 8 |
| 2000 Chevrolet Tahoe | 15 | 290 | 10 |
| 1999 Chevrolet Tahoe | 57 | 558 | 3 |
| 1998 Chevrolet Tahoe | 8 | 264 | 4 |
| 1997 Chevrolet Tahoe | 13 | 417 | 2 |
| 1996 Chevrolet Tahoe | 8 | 285 | 5 |
Related: 12 Common Chevrolet Tahoe Problems (Explained)
What Problems Do Chevrolet Tahoes Have?
- Air conditioning stopped working
- Excessive oil consumption
- Excessive antifreeze consumption
- Loud, rough ride
- Brakes not working properly
- Cracked dashboard
- Low oil pressure
- Rattling noise in engine
- Inaccurate speedometer
- Cracked head gasket
What Are The Best Alternatives To The Chevrolet Tahoe?
| Make & Model | Score | MSRP | Fuel Economy (MPG) |
| Jeep Wagoneer | 8.5 | $58,995 – $77,220 | City: 15 – 16 /Highway: 20 – 22 |
| Chevrolet Suburban | 8.2 | $55,500 – $79,100 | City: 14 – 21 /Highway: 19 – 27 |
| Chevrolet Tahoe | 8.2 | $54,200 – $77,400 | City: 14 – 21 /Highway: 19 – 28 |
| Ford Expedition | 8.2 | $52,905 – $84,670 | City: NA /Highway: NA |
| GMC Yukon | 8.1 | $57,400 – $97,255 | City: 14 – 21 /Highway: 18 – 27 |
| Toyota Grand Highlander | 7.8 | $43,070 – $53,545 | City: NA /Highway: NA |
| Toyota Sequoia | 7.2 | $58,365 – $78,365 | City: 19 – 21 /Highway: 22 – 24 |
| Nissan Armada | 6.6 | $50,400 – $69,720 | City: 13 – 14 /Highway: 18 – 19 |
Source: cars.usnews.com, edmunds.com
Related: 7 Top SUVs Without Auto Start-Stop (With Pictures)
References
https://www.caranddriver.com/chevrolet/tahoe
https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/chevrolet/tahoe
https://www.edmunds.com/chevrolet/tahoe/
https://www.kbb.com/chevrolet/tahoe/
https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2023/chevrolet/tahoe
https://www.carcomplaints.com/Chevrolet/Tahoe/
https://www.carproblemzoo.com/chevrolet/tahoe/
https://www.cars.com/research/chevrolet-tahoe/recalls/
