Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe Problems of Chevrolet Tahoe - part 1

Chevrolet Tahoe owners have reported 35 problems related to manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe (under the engine and engine cooling category). The most recently reported issues are listed below. Also please check out the statistics and reliability analysis of Chevrolet Tahoe based on all problems reported for the Tahoe.

1 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem of the 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe

Failure Date: 07/28/2020

My2004 chevy Tahoe lt was moving when the rear view mirror fell off the windshield. Also the exhaust manifold bolts have broken off which cause bad gas mileage and slow take offs.

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2 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem of the 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe

Failure Date: 09/27/2017

I brought in my 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe to cutter Chevrolet in honolulu, hawaii to report an "engine light on" concern. Service advisor julianna parks reported that the issue may be attribute to (2) broken exhaust bolts on my vehicle's 5. 3 liter mfi iron v8 engine. Cutter Chevrolet is at 711 ala moana boulevard, honolulu, hi 96813. In following up today October 18, 2017, shop manager brad eisen reported that these bolts breaking is not a common problem, and that there is no recall for such issues. Cutter Chevrolet has had my vehicle since October 01, 2017 and reported that in addition to my $500+ inspection costs, that my costs for repair thus far has exceeded $1,400. 00 in their attempts to repair these broken bolts, and that they expect the final cost to be much higher by the time they are done as they have to contract a specialist mechanic from another town to come into the cutter Chevrolet repair shop this coming Saturday October 21, 2017 to meet with manager ms. Tina to do special work to remove these broken bolts. This is ripoff by gm to have such sub-quality exhaust manifold bolts breaking off. Help!!!! gm needs to do a recall on this!.

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3 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem of the 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe

Failure Date: 02/09/2016

The exhaust manifold bolts that thread into the cylinder heads holding the cast iron exhaust manifolds in place onto the heads break off under normal road conditions. The bolts break off and were causing an exhaust leak. My vehicle's exhaust was coming inside the vehicle making occupants ill. The steel manifold bolts are undersized for the application, and being used on iron manifolds mating to aluminum cylinder heads. I have to pay the $1000+ repair cost to fix an apparent manufacturing failure that should be recalled. No only do the broken bolts cause exhaust leaks and noise, but puts the vehicle in this condition as a possible fire risk.

4 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem of the 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe

Failure Date: 11/05/2015

On November 5, 2015, I took my 2003 Tahoe in due to the fact that an exhaust manifold bolt had sheared off during the normal course of driving. I bought my Tahoe new and have always had it service at the mccarthy-morris Chevrolet dealership on overland park, KS. I realize that over time parts on a vehicle will break and at 118,000 miles I should expect to incur maintenance expenses. However, based on my research gm used a substandard bolt and this issue impacts millions of gm v8 motors. From a safety perspective, I had the repair done because I didn¿t want to risk having exhaust fumes entering the cab of my vehicle. My understanding is that this type of exhaust leak could have epa implications as well. In order to have the repair done, the dealership had to pull the head because one of the two bolts that sheared off was flush with the head and had to be drilled out. Total cost was $1,381. 07. The sad fact is that after getting the vehicle back, it is running rough and chance are I will have to return it back to the dealership for additional repairs. I contend that when major repairs like this are done, the vehicle is seldom the same. It took 5 days to get it back do to the weekend. If the NHTSA won¿t take any actions over concerns about the exhaust leak, I hope some law firm might consider starting a class action suit. I have no issue paying for repairs caused by normal wear and tear, but this appears to be a defect that resulted from Chevrolet using a substandard bolt.

5 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem of the 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe

Failure Date: 09/15/2015

I heard a ticking noise in the engine compartment, upon investigation of where the noise was coming from, found a exhaust manifold bolt missing. Research indicates this is a common occurrence on these type vehicles.

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6 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem of the 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe

Failure Date: 07/19/2015

Exhaust manifold bolts broken off at rear of engine on both sides.

7 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem of the 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe

Failure Date: 06/26/2015

I am one of millions of 1999-2007 Chevrolet v8 truck engine owners, who is told by their gm mechanic that the exhaust manifold bolt(s) has broken, leading to expenses ranging from $500 to $1,500. Gm built the engines with substandard bolts that do not last in comparison to the rest of the engine and vehicle. One or more will break, which causes an exhaust leak and check engine light, and therefore the vehicle is out of service as it cannot pass state emissions tests. Additionally, some of the exhaust leaks are near other sensors which can cause faulty readings or unsafe conditions. Those who attempt to self-fix this gm-caused problem face unsafe conditions, as they are difficult to get to, require a welder to fix, may damage surrounding equipment, etc. The need for a recall is well-known and very large, and it is time for a recall on these, similar as have Ford and Toyota had recalls on similar issues. Gm survived due to a bailout from taxpayers (many of them their own customers); it is time for gm to perform responsibly to a needed recall. In the picture, the broken-off bolt head is evidenced a few inches to the left of the rusty one that still exists, where there is an empty hole (the bolt remains stuck inside the engine, and requires boring out or welding something on in order to back it out).

8 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem of the 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe

Failure Date: 07/03/2014

The contact owns a 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe. The contact stated that two of the rear exhaust manifold bolts sheared off on both sides of the engine. The vehicle was taken to the dealer. The technician stated that the bolts had to be drilled out in order to be replaced. The manufacturer and dealer were made aware of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 98,000. The dealers explanation was an aluminum head versus a cast iron exhaust manifold versus case hardened bolts all expanded and contracted together, which cause a poor design. Updated 08/18/14.

9 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem of the 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe

Failure Date: 08/01/2013

Excessive oil consumption. Quart of oil every 1000 miles. The engine, spark plugs, intake manifold, and sensors are all affected.

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10 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem of the 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe

Failure Date: 06/01/2013

Engine started with a ticking noise when cold. Would go away after engine warmed up. Upon inspection found 2 exhaust manifold bolts sheared on #7 cylinder, 1 broken on #8. Ticking coming from exhaust leak on #7. Upon research found that this is a common issue with these engines. Why is there no recall or safety notice as it presents a real hazard for fire and exhaust fumes entering passenger compartment.

11 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem of the 2001 Chevrolet Tahoe

Failure Date: 05/27/2013

Misfiring, exhaust leaking because of common problem (exhaust manifold bolts broken) many have complained of the same problem on the v8 engines. There needs to be a recall. Help!.

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12 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem of the 2002 Chevrolet Tahoe

Failure Date: 04/24/2013

The contact owns a 2002 Chevrolet Tahoe. The contact stated that after starting the vehicle, he noticed an abnormal ticking. The contact inspected the vehicle and noticed a broken head on the exhaust manifold bolts. The contact stated the exhaust fumes were not escaping from the exhaust pipe but remaining in the engine compartment. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 98,000.

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13 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem of the 2001 Chevrolet Tahoe

Failure Date: 09/25/2012

Two exhaust manifold bolts are broken. The service engine soon warning on. There should be a recall by gm to fix this under warranty. Due to the research I've done, this premature bolt breakage problem is costing consumers millions in repair costs that should not be our responsibility.

14 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem of the 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe

Failure Date: 09/20/2012

Heard a ticking sound coming from engine, sounded like an exhaust leak. Took in for inspection was advised that there was a broken bolt on exhaust manifold in the rear. Was advised it was not covered under warranty or extended warranty as it fell under "exhaust" and "fastener" components that are not covered. After searching the internet, I have found that this is a very common issue. This is a fire hazard and will cause me to fail emissions when I am due, which also violates the epa laws. I live in arizona where we do not have weather conditions that lead to rust issues. How can this be possible with such a large problem??.

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15 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem of the 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe

Failure Date: 02/17/2012

Exhaust manifold bolts breaking leaving studs in the heads, heating up engine compartments, releases carbon monoxide, affects O2 sensor and catalytic converter. Will not pass emissions in some states. Gm not standing behind this 1999-2008 issue. It is a safety issue and is expensive to fix. Gm mechanics denying any such issues. Please check- in to this. Our whole fleet and our personal trucks affected by this.

16 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem of the 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe

Failure Date: 01/20/2012

My bolts on my exhaust manifold are breaking off. I have five grand kids that ride in my truck at times. I don't want carbon monoxide coming into my truck. These bolts should not just break off, this is an expensive repair and should be recalled by the manufacturer. I have seen where this has been an on going issue with chevy and gm trucks. This truck was build with family in mind. Now because of this issue myself and my families safety is at risk.

17 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem of the 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe

Failure Date: 05/01/2011

The contact owns a 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe. The contact stated while driving at various speeds her v-8 engine should switch to a v-4 whenever she increased her speed to save on gasoline. The vehicle was inspected by a dealer who advised her that the vehicle was stuck in v-8 and caused the vehicle to misfire. The 8 lifters, manifold, and all of the gaskets surrounding them were repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000.

18 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem of the 1996 Chevrolet Tahoe

Failure Date: 08/05/2008

The contact's mother owns a 1996 Chevrolet Tahoe. The windshield wipers were not operating normally. They were repaired in 2001. Recall 03v159000 component: visibility:windshield wiper/washer is related to the failure. The dealer confirmed that the VIN is not related to the recall. The dealer also wrote on the invoice that the windshield wipers are working temporarily and can fail at anytime. The corporate office of gm was also notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 147956 and current mileage was 148114. Updated 01/08/09 the consumer stated the problems started when the vehicle would not start. It was determined the problem was the fuel pump. The headlights were not coming on. The consumer requested that the headlight switch be looked at. The vehicle began to shake and stall and white smoke emitted from the muffler. The check engine light also illuminated. Updated 01/09/09.

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19 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem of the 1999 Chevrolet Tahoe

Failure Date: 01/01/2006

Intake manifold cooling system leak.

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20 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem of the 1999 Chevrolet Tahoe

Failure Date: 12/23/2005

Smells of antifreeze in cab. Took to mechanic, intake manifold gasket must be replaced. This is due to bad part installed. This is a known problem with GMC.

21 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem of the 1999 Chevrolet Tahoe

Failure Date: 06/16/2005

Intake manifold leaked at gasket and at stub out for heater hose. Coolant leaked out of intake manifold. Intake manifold had to be replaced.

22 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem of the 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe

Failure Date: 07/28/2004

Purchased new 2004 z-71 Tahoe 06-30-04. Noticed vehicle had a loud popping sound comming from exhaust. Dealer had a bulletin stating gm acknowledged problem but had no fix. Contacted gm six weeks ago and was told the problem would be resolved by the middle of October. Have not yet been contacted. . . .

23 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem of the 1996 Chevrolet Tahoe

Failure Date: 07/12/2004

Exhaust y pipe sheared off, common in this type of vehicle. Very expensive because parts include y pipe two catalletic converters and three O2 sensors.

24 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem of the 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe

Failure Date: 06/14/2004

Consumer complained about excessive vibration. Nechanic replaced engine mounts/ tansmission, and intermittent steering shaft, but vibration continued. There was no final solution.

25 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem of the 2001 Chevrolet Tahoe

Failure Date: 06/12/2004

Why does the manual state that one can pull up to 8700lbs. If the Tahoe can barely handle 3500lbs? the springs have been replaced twice the manifold is cracked the fuel pump went out, the universal joint is going out, the transfer case is leaking and has only been used twice in 3 years, and has already been repaired once last year, the steering pump is going out, these are only the problems I can think of.

26 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem of the 1999 Chevrolet Tahoe

Failure Date: 05/14/2004

My husband and I were in route one evening when the check engine light came on. Following the manual's instructions: check the coolant gages, it had a reading of nearly 260. We pulled over at the next exit, into the parking lot of a gas station. We checked the coolant recovery tank, it was empty. Inspected the engine fan, it was operating normally. Waited 1 1/2 hrs to let engine cool down. Removed radiator cap. Radiator was dry. I asked the gas station for the recommended brand 'dex-cool'. Fortunately, they didn't carry that brand. (the reports I've read today, indicate brand dex-cool coolant is the #1 cause in gasket corrosions, it eats plastic. Added a 50/50 coolant and arrived home without further incident. The following morning I took my vehicle to a reputable mechanic. After giving him a very brief description of what we'd experienced the evening prior, he immediately stopped me in mid-sentence and said "vickie, you don't even have to finish telling me. I know exactly what the problem is. It's common for this engine in chevy's from 1996 - 1999 to leak coolant from the intake manifold near the rear firewall" he went on to say, that their service center has had many customers come in with the same complaint frequently. He estimated the cost to replace the intake manifold gasket is between $250 - $300. If this is such a common problem, then gm should not only be required to notify the owners, but should assist in the cost to replace the defective gaskets. The mechanic also stated, if the fluid enters the engine, which could very well happen, then the engine would lock-up. This is a safety issue, and can easily be prevented. Need there be a fatality before gm voluntarily notifies the owners and rectify this problem? I demand that gm inform current owners of this problem, reimburse owners who've already paid to have their vehicles repaired, and finally, stop recommending the use of dex-cool brand coolant in the owners manual!!!.

27 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem of the 1998 Chevrolet Tahoe

Failure Date: 01/11/2004

Engine leaked coolant from the intake manifold gasket. As a result, engine blew out, causing the vehicle to malfunction. Consumer was driving when coolant began leaking. Gm has a new part number because the previous gasket has been changed to correct deffect. Mechanic replaced intake manifold gasket set and serpentine belt.

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28 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem of the 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe

Failure Date: 12/18/2003

Consumer stated vehicle rumbled and made noise while stopping at a red light or stop sign. Consumer took vehicle to dealer/mechanic 5 times, they replaced the muffler, but the problem was getting worse.

29 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem of the 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe

Failure Date: 08/30/2003

Ever since purchasing my Chevrolet Tahoe lt brand-new in August of 2003, the muffler and/or the exhaust system has made an exploding sound both while the vehicle is running and after it is shut off. At stoplights and after being parked, you both hear and feel explosions from under the truck. Gm contends the sound is steam building up in the muffler and exploding, but admits it is not a "normal" backfire, and states that some Tahoes do it, and some do not. They have released two separate fixes for the problem but neither has been effective, and the last one came out over a year ago. Official gm policy prohibits replacing any mufflers/exhaust systems on vehicles exhibiting this problem - owners are simply told the explosions are normal. After much discussion, gm replaced my muffler, and the second one does the same thing. Needless to say, it is an alarming sound and feeling to have in a new vehicle, and logic dictates that steam explosions inside a metal box can only go on for so long before serious damage is done (I. E. The muffler itself explodes near the gas tank. ) I'm not sure what the NHTSA can do, but any help you can provide is most welcome.

30 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem of the 1999 Chevrolet Tahoe

Failure Date: 08/19/2003

Composite manifold is leaking, cause unknown. Dealer notified.

31 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem of the 1996 Chevrolet Tahoe

Failure Date: 05/17/2003

Intake manifold leaks can lead to any number of very serious, and expensive, problems. While the part itself isn't costly, the labor to repair it is very intensive, and has been quoted around $800 usd (give or take a couple hundred depending on the vehicle). This is in addition to any other costly problem(s) the intake manifold gasket leak may have produced. We are demanding accountability from general motors. A nationwide backorder should be reason enough for gm to assemble a recall. We can only hope that the world's largest vehicle manufacturer who has been the world's automotive sales leader since 1931 will stand up and claim responsibility for a problem that is so prevalent among their vehicles. Recalls should be mandated in all cases of incompetence, not solely when it affects public safety. While some of us have been fortunate enough to have this problem occur within our warranty, there are many others of us that have had to pay for these expensive repairs just after the warranty expires. Because gm has refused to admit liability on this issue, we feel that this will be a repetitive problem. Once this gasket has been replaced, and customers pockets drained, gm service centers everywhere can expect to see consumers returning, for this same problem that hasn't been rectified due to a designing flaw on gm's part. This error should have been corrected, not the first time in for service, but before entering mass production in millions of vehicles. Can one presume this is one way of keeping general motors patrons coming back time after time?.

32 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem of the 1999 Chevrolet Tahoe

Failure Date: 01/01/2003

The manifold leaked water into the engine. The dealer has been made aware of the problem. Ph scc.

33 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem of the 1998 Chevrolet Tahoe

Failure Date: 03/01/1998

Muffler.

34 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem of the 1999 Chevrolet Tahoe

The exhaust manifold was falling out causing vehicle to lose gas mileage. Vehicle experienced pulsated brakes when driving on the hwy at 55 mph. Dealer replaced brakes and surfaced rotors to correct the problem. Brakes failed after serviced. However, the calibers got very hot which boilded the oil in the brakes system which caused the failure.

35 Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe problem of the 1998 Chevrolet Tahoe

Exhaust pipe brace failed.


Other Common Engine And Engine Cooling related problems of Chevrolet Tahoe


Safety Ratings of Tahoe Cars
Fuel Economy of Tahoe Vehicles
Tahoe Service Bulletins
Tahoe Safety Recalls
Tahoe Defect Investigations