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2021 Chevrolet Tahoe

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By Research the Car 5 min read

The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe represents the first year of the fifth generation of this popular full-size SUV. It offers a more refined ride and increased interior space compared to previous generations. Engine options include a 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 producing 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque, a 6.2L EcoTec3 V8 generating 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0L Duramax Turbo-Diesel I6 rated at 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. All engine options are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. People generally like the Tahoe’s spaciousness, comfortable ride, and towing capability. Common dislikes include its large size making it challenging to maneuver in tight spaces, and potential reliability issues.

Engine

5.3L EcoTec3 V8

  • Active Fuel Management (AFM)/Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM) Lifter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough running, check engine light illumination, and potential engine damage. The AFM/DFM system deactivates cylinders to improve fuel economy, but the lifters can fail, causing the valve to remain closed.
    • Solution: Replacement of the affected lifters, potentially including the entire bank or all lifters. Some owners choose to delete the AFM/DFM system entirely to prevent future issues.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+ (depending on extent of damage and repair shop).
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Excessive Oil Consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: The engine consumes an abnormally high amount of oil between oil changes, requiring frequent top-offs.
    • Solution: Various solutions have been attempted, including software updates to the engine control module (ECM), replacement of the PCV valve, or, in severe cases, engine replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $7,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

6.2L EcoTec3 V8

  • Active Fuel Management (AFM)/Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM) Lifter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough running, check engine light illumination, and potential engine damage. The AFM/DFM system deactivates cylinders to improve fuel economy, but the lifters can fail, causing the valve to remain closed.
    • Solution: Replacement of the affected lifters, potentially including the entire bank or all lifters. Some owners choose to delete the AFM/DFM system entirely to prevent future issues.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+ (depending on extent of damage and repair shop).
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Excessive Oil Consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: The engine consumes an abnormally high amount of oil between oil changes, requiring frequent top-offs.
    • Solution: Various solutions have been attempted, including software updates to the engine control module (ECM), replacement of the PCV valve, or, in severe cases, engine replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $7,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

3.0L Duramax Turbo-Diesel I6

  • Fuel Injector Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, reduced power, check engine light, and fuel smell.
    • Solution: Replacement of the faulty fuel injector(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

10-Speed Automatic Transmission (All Engines)

  • Harsh Shifting/Slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifts between gears, hesitation when accelerating, and slipping of the transmission.
    • Solution: Software recalibration of the transmission control module (TCM), replacement of valve body, or complete transmission replacement in severe cases.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $6,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque Converter Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at highway speeds, particularly when the transmission is in lock-up mode.
    • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Air Ride Suspension Problems (If Equipped)
    • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle may sag or lean to one side, the air compressor may fail, or error messages may appear on the dashboard.
    • Solution: Replacement of the air struts, air compressor, or height sensors.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Infotainment System Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, lagging, unresponsive touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity problems, and navigation errors.
    • Solution: Software updates, replacement of the infotainment module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1,500+ (module replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Battery Drain
    • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle’s battery drains quickly, especially when the vehicle is not in use. This can lead to difficulty starting the vehicle.
    • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of parasitic drain, which could be caused by a faulty module or accessory.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Sensor Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: Issues with sensors related to driver-assistance features like lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.
    • Solution: Diagnostics to identify the faulty sensor and replace it.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$1000+ (depending on sensor)
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Automatic Running Board Malfunctions (If Equipped)
    • Description/Symptoms: Running boards fail to extend or retract properly, get stuck in one position, or make excessive noise.
    • Solution: Lubrication, cleaning, or replacement of the running board motor or linkage.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Seat Heater/Cooler Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters or coolers fail to operate or provide adequate heating/cooling.
    • Solution: Replacement of the heating/cooling element or control module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Sunroof Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin from the sunroof, often during rain or car washes.
    • Solution: Cleaning and resealing the sunroof drain tubes, or replacing the sunroof seal.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe, while offering improvements over previous generations, is prone to several common issues. The most significant issues are related to the engine (especially AFM/DFM lifter failures and excessive oil consumption on the 5.3L and 6.2L engines) and the 10-speed transmission. Electrical and suspension issues are also common. Severity ranges from minor inconveniences to major repairs potentially costing thousands of dollars. These issues can affect the overall ownership experience and should be considered when evaluating a used 2021 Tahoe.

Chevrolet, Tahoe
Chevrolet Tahoe 2021
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