2002 Chevrolet Tahoe

The 2002 Chevrolet Tahoe is a full-size SUV known for its spaciousness, towing capacity, and comfortable ride. It was a popular choice for families and those needing a capable vehicle. Engine options included the 4.8L Vortec V8 (275 hp, 290 lb-ft torque), the 5.3L Vortec V8 (285 hp, 325 lb-ft torque), and the 6.0L Vortec V8 (320 hp, 360 lb-ft torque - available on specific trims). The 4L60E four-speed automatic transmission was the only transmission option. Common praises for the Tahoe include its reliability, utility, and comfortable seating, while criticisms often point to its fuel economy and some reported electrical gremlins.

Engine

4.8L Vortec V8

• Intake Manifold Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idle, coolant leak, and potential overheating.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

5.3L Vortec V8

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes, blue smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replacement of Piston Rings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough running engine. Failed or misfiring cylinders. Poor Fuel Economy
  • Solution: Replace the faulty fuel injector
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

6.0L Vortec V8

• No Issues Found

Transmission

4L60E 4-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Slipping/Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slips between gears, delayed engagement, harsh or erratic shifting, reduced acceleration.
  • Solution: Possible rebuild or replacement of the transmission. Could be caused by worn clutch packs, damaged valve body, or solenoid issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at low speeds, stalling, poor acceleration, overheating of the transmission.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Suspension Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front end, loose steering, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the worn ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Leaf Spring Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear end of the vehicle sits lower than normal, reduced load-carrying capacity, poor ride quality.
  • Solution: Replace the rear leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges malfunction (speedometer, fuel gauge, etc.), dim or non-functional displays.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window/Door Lock Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of power windows and/or door locks.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and replacing faulty switches, motors, or wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ per door/window
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Rocker Panels and Rear Wheel Wells
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation on the lower body panels, particularly the rocker panels and around the rear wheel wells.
  • Solution: Rust repair or panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The fabric headliner separates from the backing board and sags.
  • Solution: Replace or re-glue the headliner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Chevrolet Tahoe, while a reliable SUV in many respects, does have some common issues to be aware of. Engine issues like oil consumption (5.3L) and intake manifold leaks (4.8L) can lead to moderate to significant repair costs. Transmission problems, particularly with slipping and harsh shifting of the 4L60E, can also be expensive to address. Electrical problems such as instrument cluster failures and power window issues are less critical but can be frustrating. The rocker panel rust and sagging headliner are cosmetic issues, but are common. Overall, prospective buyers should inspect potential Tahoes carefully, paying close attention to engine sounds and performance, transmission shifting, and the condition of the body and electrical systems.