Engine And Engine Cooling Problems of Chevrolet Tahoe - part 1

I took the vehicle in for the engine recall. They put in the higher viscosity oil. Shortly thereafter the engine failed. They are trying to claim it's not related to the recall issue.

See all problems of the 2022 Chevrolet Tahoe 🔎.

1st issue: 9/2025, after driving from another city to my home at 55-75 mph. As I pulled up home, the car just stalled and wouldn't start. I googled issue to find out it was a commonly known issue by gm. If fuel pump control module had happened while driving faster and not on my street to roll up to curb. I would have or could have been deadly. I find out what part # and local dealer knew there was a recall but told me he never heard about it and charged me for part. I installed in front of home on street and have been trying to get money back after reporting to gm I repaired my fuel pump control module and have been trying to get my money back from a repair done on 9/29/2025 by me. Gm says it's looking into still after I keep calling them on status of this notice. I still have old part. I have filled out all reimbursement forms. 1st the danger of it failing and now no money. By the time engine light comes on you have no power for any stopping or steering. #2 engine 2021 Tahoe high country 6. 2 l no recall has been sent. Gm has known about an engine that has multiple failure issues that could get you in a serious accident/death by just stop running, while just driving at any moment, internal failures and main seal leaks, more! mine just poured oil out on driveway after driving 6 miles to church and back. This will be the largest and most deadly auto issue in history. They even had dealers now with any on lot with this engine a stop sale order. Aprox. 800,000 of these engines are out there, local gm dealer says there is no recall. 2021 to 2026 and they have only changed out aprox. 2800 engines and telling me mine sitting in driveway is not on recall. Bs. These engines are in their high-end trucks, SUV's, escalades. Someone needs to get gm to do what's right and replace with new engines. That have been tested, all issues before someone has to die. Trying to keep silent on internet is sad. Yes its going to cost billions. But to keep customers safe and not scared.

See all problems of the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe 🔎.

The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe. The contact stated that while his wife was driving out of the driveway and driving approximately 20 mph, the driver became aware of an abnormal flapping sound that became louder as the vehicle accelerated. Additionally, the contact stated while his wife was driving approximately 60-65 mph on another occasion, the check engine warning light illuminated. The driver pulled over to the side of the road. The vehicle was towed to the residence, where a mobile independent mechanic diagnosed the vehicle with a misfire in cylinder #8. The mechanic determined that both sides of the engine lifters, the gaskets, and other unknown parts needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. The dealer and the manufacturer were not contacted. The vehicle warranty company was contacted and informed the contact that the vehicle was not covered under warranty. The failure mileage was approximately 93,000.

My car has a problem this will be the 3rd visit to the chevy dealership and the 6th time in a garage. At this time, the original alternator that came with the Tahoe, was running high through December and replaced with a new alternator from parts geek. It was ok for a couple weeks and is running high again. You cannot test it from a cold start to get this reading. It must be ran for at least 20 min. After a certain amount of time the battery gauge will move to the highest point, the warning lights of abs, traction control, stabilitrak, trailer brake light, battery light (first time on 1/27/2026 for battery light), loss of drivers assist on 1/26/2026, tire pressure light, car dies coming to a stop sign. I can’t turn it back on for at least a min. I’m stuck inside with zero power, can’t unlock the doors to get out to direct traffic, open windows or put on 4 ways so I don’t get smacked in the middle of the road. After that minute I heard a click (no key in ignition, not trying to start) and then the dash lights started coming back on again and I started it. The battery did not restart the time on the radio screen so I’m assuming I didn’t die fully. The radio screen always goes black first, then the heat goes in and out, the warning lights come on and it dies. Takes a minute or so to be able to start it again and the lights aren’t on anymore but will continue to do the same shit after awhile of driving and now daily. I’m afraid to drive it anywhere since almost getting stuck inside and plowed at an interaction. I have reached out to chevy about this problem and was referred to take it back to the dealership again, and to reach back out as soon as it’s there to open a case on the issue. Ive had it, this has been ongoing for a year, and I have to keep paying for things that doesn’t fix the issue and it’s getting worse.

See all problems of the 2017 Chevrolet Tahoe 🔎.

Driving on the new jersey turpike I passed through the ez pass tolls traveling west bound on bayview Ave bridge, the vehicle shut off without warning. No check engine light or noise, just no propulsion or anything. Dead in the water. Vehicle would not restart.

See all problems of the 2024 Chevrolet Tahoe 🔎.

Dealer grounded vehicle for excessive crankshaft play due to thrust bearing failure. Been without vehicle since 1-20-2026 and although I have received 2 text from service manager I have not been told when I will get vehicle back. Mileage was at 4,820. Vehicle build date 7/25.

See all problems of the 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe 🔎.

The contact owns a 2023 Chevrolet Tahoe. The contact stated that while her husband was driving at 70 mph, the vehicle experienced a loss of automotive power. The check engine and "oil pressure low" warning lights illuminated, and the vehicle unintendedly decelerated. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the message "press start button" was displayed, and restarting the vehicle temporarily fixed the issue. The contact stated that after further inspection, the contact became aware that the vehicle had independently shifted from neutral(n) to park(p). The vehicle was towed to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed; however, no cause for the failure was determined. The local dealer advised the contact that the oil level was possibly low, and an oil consumption test was needed. The vehicle was not repaired. Upon further investigation, the contact related the failure to NHTSA campaign: 25v274000 (engine and engine cooling); however, the VIN was no longer included in the recall. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 33,253.

See all problems of the 2023 Chevrolet Tahoe 🔎.

Truck bucked twice in high-speed lane of the highway, gas pedal went soft and we luckily were able to coast the truck to the side of the highway without getting hit. The truck put itself in neutral when we lost the engine and the truck would not restart. It had to be towed, while me and my two kids stood on the side of a dangerous highway for 45 minutes in the snow. The truck has 52,000 miles, engine was already replaced at 10,000 miles. It just passed the recall inspection and had the upgraded oil that was recommended.

I purchased a 2023 Chevrolet Tahoe on December 17, 2025. On January 17, 2026, with approximately 17,000 miles, the vehicle experienced a catastrophic engine failure while I was driving. The engine seized without warning, causing a complete loss of power and leaving me stranded on the side of the road. At the time of the incident, my newborn child was in the vehicle, creating a serious safety risk. The vehicle had no prior warning lights or indicators before the failure. After the incident, I learned that there was a known recall or service update related to engine oil viscosity for this model year. This information was never disclosed to me at the time of purchase, and no recall documentation or corrective service was provided prior to delivery. I have since been informed that engine replacement will take over 30 days due to parts availability and that no loaner or rental vehicle is available during repairs. Given the catastrophic failure shortly after purchase, the undisclosed recall, extended repair time, and safety implications, I no longer feel the vehicle is safe or reliable.

2021 chevy Tahoe rst. Bad lifter valve, warranty not wanting to cover replacement for new one.

* sudden catastrophic engine failure. * the car lost power in the middle of a high traffic, very dark country road, forcing her to stay in the middle of the (undivided) road in the dark hoping cars didn't slam into her. A collin county sheriff was dispatched to keep her safe until the tow truck arrived almost two hours later. " * the vehicle was towed to a dealer where they confirmed that the torque converter, valves, lifters had failed. Dealer didn't disclose that there was any issues for these engines, which there is. It's a 6. 2l v8 Tahoe high country. * it has only been inspected by the dealer, not the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives, etc. . . * the vehicle indicated a traction control problem, then the engine light came on, and then the engine failed followed by loss of power. All happened in rapid succession with no opportunity for the driver to get to a safe location. * there was no warning or other symptoms preceding this. The vehicle has always been faithfully serviced at chevy dealerships consistent with the manufacturers recommendations.

Lost power. Engine went into a limp mode. Engine starting knocking loudly and service esc came up on dash along with check engine light. Took it to the dealer and they said a lifter spun and damaged the camshaft. Dealer says it’s not covered by recall. Vehicle has been in chevy dealer garage for 2 weeks and no repair yet.

While driving normally, the vehicle developed engine performance issues and was diagnosed with a catastrophic camshaft failure at approximately 85,000 miles. The vehicle has received regular oil changes with full documentation and has not been abused or neglected. A licensed mechanic confirmed that the camshaft was severely worn and damaged, consistent with afm/dfm lifter failure, which is a known issue on gm v8 engines. This failure caused significant internal engine damage requiring major repair. The failed camshaft has been retained as physical evidence. A camshaft should not fail prematurely under proper maintenance. This appears to be a manufacturing or design defect, not normal wear and tear, and presents a potential safety concern due to sudden loss of engine power.

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? complete engine failure. 2nd time this engine failed cylinder 4 bent rod. Cylinder 7 and camshaft. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? yes. Loss of power on busy highway. Trying to navigate to the shoulder through 5 lanes of high speed traffic. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? yes. I have a copy of a manufacture technical bulletin confirming the problem and service records. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? no1.

See all problems of the 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe 🔎.

We have the l86 6. 2l ecotech 3 engine. At 85,000 miles we noticed the oil pan is leaking and rear main seal is leaking. Both are common issues with the l87 engine as well.

See all problems of the 2020 Chevrolet Tahoe 🔎.

My Tahoe died on a busy bridge in moore ok during rush hour traffic. Got a ticket for impending traffic. Had to get car towed. Tahoe is still in shop. I have a rental…. Gm trax. My car is in the shop indefinitely. I’m requesting a rental car of equal value to what my Tahoe was. Please make contact with the appropriate hertz company as we will have bad weather in 2 days.

On December 30, 2025, I was driving the Tahoe at a highway speed in oklahoma city, oklahoma. I experienced two engine shut-offs. I was able to get the Tahoe to the Chevrolet dealer in midwest city, ok. Advisor tim took care of the vehicle and said that they "couldn't replicate the problem. " he did mention he had to add engine oil because it was a quart low. We noted that we are currently conducting an oil consumption test with a Chevrolet dealer in elk grove, illinois. He said we had a strong case for it, but the Tahoe was safe for traveling back home to illinois. The following days, the Tahoe performed well without any issues. On January 3, 2026, we left spencer, ok, and headed back home to illinois. Without any warning, while driving at highway speed, the engine shut off completely and would not restart. The failure occurred at approximately 9:00 pm on a pitch-black expressway about 40 miles from rolla, missouri. I was traveling with my wife and two children. We were stranded on the highway shoulder. A state trooper was dispatched for safety. The Tahoe required a tow over an hour later, and we had to take a lyft to a hotel. Logistics at that time in that location were complicated. Our family was terrified for our safety. Today is Sunday, and the nearest dealer is closed. We will have it dropped off tomorrow, January 5th, and go from there. We do not know how we are going to get back to illinois. We have work and my son has school. The vehicle is currently disabled and under manufacturer warranty. This was a serious safety incident involving loss of engine power at high speed.

While driving on I-90 in montana on a clear, sunny day at the posted speed limit of 80 miles per hour for one hour, the vehicle began making knocking noises then, all of a sudden lost power. Upon inspection at the nearest gm dealership service department in butte, mt, I was told something within the engine broke. I have attached an emailed repair bid from the gm service department and have copied and pasted the highlights here: -engine, lines, radiator, water pump, and tune up ($14,400. 00) -cam, lifters, lines, radiator, water pump, and tune up ($11,400. 00) -master cylinder/ebcm ($3,310. 00) previous to the incident, all recommended and routine maintenance was performed at intervals recommended by gm and by gm dealership service departments and/or the valvoline oil change location in missoula, montana. The odometer reading was between 95,000 and 96,000 miles at the time of incident.

Afm lifter collapse on cylinder 6 written repair estimate or a diagnostic report showing p0306 + lifter failure.

On December 19th while driving home from work (5 miles) the engineer ne had rough starts while in auto stop at each light and stop sign. Not enough to cause huge concerns. Two days later on December 21st we traveled to my mother in laws house 2 hours away. Upon returning home we noticed that the cruise control would not turn on, we pulled over and wiped the sensors even though the car was clean. 25 minutes later there was a metal on metal noise coming from the front end. The noise was heard when letting off the gas pedal. It sounded like a metal fan grinding at a high speed on a tin roof. We pulled over at a parking lot off the side of the road and opened the hood. When attempting to turn the car back on the noise from the engine was the same and it promptly shut down again. The car was towed and determined that the engine blown at 2,333 miles on the obo. No warning lights ever came on and the oil pressure seemed normal. There are still no notifications on the chevy app and it still says all is well. Even after the motor is replaced I will not feel safe driving my kids even to school. What happens when we’re driving to denver for my daughters all state choir and it blows again? what happens if we are traveling at an interstate speed and it causes an accident? I do not want to have to replace the motor twice more just to have gm buy it back. This motor design is going to kill someone and something needs to be done. I have a finance loan of $101,000 for a dangerous car that I will never feel safe in and trading it in we will lose out on $4k in registration and somebody else will buy it and they will be in danger as well. A recall for a buyback for all with the 6. 2 l Tahoe engine needs to happen.

Unknown.

I was driving on the highway at approximately 35mph when I noticed there was no response from the accelerator. I shifted the vehicle into neutral and coasted onto a side road and call onstar for assistance. The dashboard indicator said to restart engine. I attempted to restart, but the engine would crank but not turn over (start). The vehicle was towed to the dealership where the fuel pump assembly was found to have failed and need replacement.

Having to replace the radiator due to it leaking around a plastic connection to metal. Was told by the dealership this has an updated part from gm due to it being a known issue.

While driving to my appointments via the freeway, all of a sudden the vehicle slowed down, I noticed most of the warning lights were on including the check engine light that was blinking. I happened to be near a GMC dealership which previously did repair work on my vehicle and left it with their service center for a diagnostic inspection. A week later my service advisor contacted me with their vehicle condition report that my vehicle had camshaft and internal engine group issues. He quoted repairs but recommended replacing the engine. Repair or engine replacement $21,296. 51. Six months before this issue I had the same issue the warning lights and it resorted in replacing the brake control cylinder. Once repaired no issues/messages or symptoms with my vehicle until this current engine problem/replacement.

The vehicle stalled while driving down the road and started making a loud ticking noise, the engine light went on. It was brough to the dealership where they did an engine rebuild. They replaced 16 lifters and camshaft, a pulley belt and gaskets. The vehicle was picked up, however, a month later the oil low add oil light came on and the oil tank was more than 2. 5 quarts low indicating extreme burning of oil. The vehicle is shuttering on acceleration of low rpms. Brought it back to the dealership and awaiting further instruction. It caused a major safety concern because it has the potential to stall due to a motor defect on a major highway, putting my family and possibly others at risk of harm or death.

The contact owns a 2022 Chevrolet Tahoe. The contact stated that while driving 65 mph, the check engine warning light illuminated and the message "reduced acceleration - drive safety mode - drive with care" was displayed. The vehicle inadvertently decelerated to 45 mph and failed to accelerate properly. Additionally, the brake lights failed to illuminate, and the engine fan was abnormally loud while driving. The contact was able to drive to the destination and turn off the vehicle. After restarting the vehicle, the check engine warning light remained illuminated. The vehicle was taken to o'reilly auto parts, where dtc: p1098 for the coolant control valve (ccv) assembly was retrieved. The contact stated that a burning odor was outside the vehicle after the vehicle was turned off. The vehicle was then taken to the dealer, but no diagnostic trouble codes were retrieved since the code was cleared by o'reilly auto parts. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to technical service bulletin: n252508341 (engine); however, the vehicle was not covered under the TSB. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was filed. The contact was advised to report the failure to the NHTSA hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 72,000.

As the owner of a 2023 Chevrolet Tahoe, I am currently experiencing persistent issues with the instrument cluster going dark and a severely malfunctioning gm 6. 2l l87 engine. In November of the previous year, I encountered a sudden and alarming loss of engine power while traveling on a multilane highway at a speed of 70 mph. I successfully maneuvered the vehicle to a narrow shoulder, where I remained, accompanied by a highway patrol officer, for over three hours until a tow truck arrived. The gm certified dealership informed me that the engine was seized. The mechanics were unable to start or manually turn the engine. Upon removal of the engine’s oil pan, they found metal fragments in the oil. After having undergone an engine recall “fix” three months earlier, which included an inspection and oil service change to a more viscous 0w - 40, a new oil filter, and a new filler cap; in November, my engine failed and was replaced with a new 6. 2l l87 engine. Initially, I was pleased with the repair, but I have since lost confidence that my car is safe after the new engine began exhibiting symptoms of a pending failure. The Tahoe hesitates on acceleration when merging with highway traffic, the engine dies when decelerating, the check engine light flashes at highway speeds, and the instrument cluster turns off at random. The vehicle that has been outfitted with a brand new engine is currently at the Chevrolet dealership; however, just like in August of 2025 during the recall inspection, the mechanics there were unable to find any problems with their work or the new engine. They simply erased the stored p0300 engine diagnostics codes and ignored my evidence video, which showed the check engine light blinking at highway speeds. Despite the repair attempts, the issues have not been resolved, and the vehicle continues to pose a safety hazard.

I am writing to formally document serious engine defects I have experienced with my 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe equipped with the 5. 3l l84 v8 engine. 1. Crankshaft failure: my Tahoe suffered a catastrophic crankshaft failure that required major repair/replacement. I am aware that gm has recalled certain vehicles equipped with the 6. 2l l87 engine for crankshaft and rod-bearing defects. Based on my experience, the same or a very similar defect has also occurred in my 5. 3l engine, which is currently not included in that recall. 2. Valve lifter failure: in addition, my vehicle has suffered from valve lifter collapse—a well-documented problem in 2021–2022 gm trucks and suvs with both the 5. 3l and 6. 2l engines. This caused severe misfiring, drivability issues, and expensive repair needs. Why this is a concern: •both failures occurred well before what would be expected of a modern engine. •the crankshaft failure raises a safety risk: sudden loss of propulsion while driving could lead to accidents. •the lifter issue is widely reported by other owners and has been the subject of gm service bulletins. •taken together, these problems suggest systemic defects in the 2021 Tahoe’s 5. 3l engine that have not been adequately addressed by gm. Requested action: •I ask gm to extend recall and warranty coverage to include the 5. 3l l84 engine in addition to the 6. 2l l87. •I ask NHTSA to consider investigating whether the scope of the current 6. 2l recall should be broadened to include 5. 3l engines, given failures like mine. •at minimum, I request assistance in covering repair/replacement costs for both the crankshaft and lifter defects, which are clearly not due to normal wear and tear. Vehicle details: •year/make/model: 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe •engine: 5. 3l v8 l84.

1. What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? answer: the vehicle’s 6. 2l l87 v8 engine suffered a sudden internal mechanical failure involving the connecting rod, rod bearings, and crankshaft assembly, resulting in catastrophic engine damage. The failure mode is consistent with the defect described in gm recall n252494001. The engine and all damaged components are fully available for inspection upon request. 2. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? answer: the engine failed without warning while the vehicle was in motion, causing an immediate loss of propulsion. This created a hazardous situation where the vehicle could no longer accelerate or maintain speed in traffic, increasing the risk of a rear-end collision or loss of vehicle control. Gm’s own recall documentation identifies this exact failure mode as a significant crash risk, and that same hazard occurred in my case. 3. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? answer: yes. A service technician confirmed catastrophic internal engine failure consistent with connecting-rod or crankshaft damage. The dealer also verified that the engine is inoperable and requires full replacement. 4. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? answer: no, the engine failed while in motion and was taken to the closest mechanic. Inspections by an insurance representative or manufacturer representative can be arranged. The vehicle and damaged engine remain available for further examination. 5. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? answer: no. There were no warning lamps, diagnostic messages, or drivability symptoms prior to the catastrophic engine failure. The failure occurred suddenly and without any advance indication. All service records are available.

I dont believe the correct fix is changing oil viscocity.

My 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe z71 3. 0l lzo duramax with approx. 3,380 miles experienced a sudden and complete engine failure while towing my camper on the interstate at night, in the rain, while traveling alone 375 miles from home. The vehicle lost power, displayed warnings, and became inoperable, forcing me onto the shoulder in unsafe conditions. The engine has been diagnosed as requiring full replacement due to a defective crank end play / thrust bearing, under technical service bulletin (TSB) 25-na-307. This is a significant safety concern for a new vehicle and could have caused a crash. Gm has multiple documented issues with this model year, and the car has also experienced unresolved infotainment defects, as outlined in TSB #pit6393f. Requesting NHTSA to investigate a potential safety defect.

I am submitting this complaint to the national highway traffic safety administration (NHTSA) regarding a sudden engine failure in my 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe equipped with a 6. 2l v8 engine, which posed a serious safety risk. I was driving on the highway at approximately 65 mph with cruise control engaged. Suddenly, the vehicle lost all power, disengaging the cruise control, and the check engine light began flashing rapidly. I managed to exit the highway safely. While stopped at a traffic light, preparing to turn into a nearby repair shop, the car started shaking violently from side to side, making it difficult to control. I took the vehicle to a firestone shop and a local Chevrolet dealer, both of which diagnosed massive engine failure and indicated that the engine will most likely need to be replaced. The symptoms I experienced—sudden loss of power at highway speeds, flashing check engine light, and violent shaking—are in line with issues reported in other gm 6. 2l engines that have been recalled. ? for whatever reason, my 2021 Tahoe, which falls in the middle of the affected model years for these recalls (e. G. , gm recall n252494001 for 2021-2024 vehicles with 6. 2l v8 engines due to defects in connecting rods and crankshafts leading to engine damage and loss of propulsion), is not included under the broader gm 6. 2l engine recall, ? although I experienced very similar issues. The biggest safety concern was the engine essentially losing power at highway speeds, which could have led to a crash. I urge NHTSA to investigate and expand coverage if necessary to ensure public safety.

The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, several unknown warning lights illuminated. In addition, the contact noticed an abnormal ticking sound. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where the vehicle was diagnosed with a misfire in cylinder #7. The independent mechanic checked the spark plugs and other unknown parts for failure; however, there was no evidence of a failure. The contact was informed of a valve lifter failure. The contact was informed that the valve lifter and possibly the push rods and camshaft needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact referenced technical service bulletin: n212353840; however, the VIN was not included. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 87,893.

The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe. The contact stated that while driving 20 mph into the driveway, the engine seized. The contact stated that the service traction, service esc, and engine warning lights were illuminated. Upon research, the contact associated the failure with NHTSA action number: ea25007 (engine, engine and engine cooling). The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed, and dtc: p0300, p050d, and p0302 were retrieved. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the issue and offered to help with the cost of the repair. The approximate failure mileage was 64,572.

The idler pulley was squealing. Dealership I took it to said this was the 3rd one they've had to replace in the last few days.