FaultScore

2015 Chevrolet Tahoe brake problems

197 of the 892 complaints about the 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe are about the braking system — 22% of everything reported for this model year. Half of the failures with a mileage on record happened before 77,000 miles.

D

197

Complaints

16

Crashes

0

Fires

4

Injuries

Exactly what failed

Service Brakes 185 93.9%
Service Brakes, Hydraulic 10 5.1%
Vacuum 2 1.0%

Brakes across every Chevrolet Tahoe year

1994 10 0.5%
1995 55 2.8%
1996 99 5.0%
1997 129 6.5%
1998 83 4.2%
1999 281 14.1%
2000 150 7.5%
2001 294 14.8%
2002 195 9.8%
2003 118 5.9%
2004 87 4.4%
2005 26 1.3%
2006 13 0.7%
2007 11 0.6%
2009 11 0.6%
2015 197 9.9%
2016 93 4.7%
2017 46 2.3%
2018 19 1.0%
2021 19 1.0%
2022 12 0.6%
2023 20 1.0%
2024 10 0.5%
2025 10 0.5%

What owners said

Filed with NHTSA, in their own words.

at 150,000 miles Akron, OH

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

The contact owns a 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe. The contact stated that the brake pedal would harden upon depression of the brake pedal as the "Service Brake System" warning light would appear on the instrument panel. As the failure persisted, the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic the entire brake system was replaced. The vehicle was taken to other independent mechanic who informed him that the brake vacuum assist pump needed to be replaced. The mechanic informed the contact of NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V645000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) and referred the contact to the dealer for assistance. The dealer was made aware of the failure and the contact was informed that the recall was closed and was no longer covered. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.

NHTSA complaint #11737536 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

White Cloud, MI

SERVICE BRAKES

The park assist enabled flashed and when I brake it studders or I have to slam on my brakes because my car won’t stop. I see this is a recall on other tahoes but not mine!

NHTSA complaint #11731763 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 134,916 miles Chicago, IL

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

The contact owns a 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe. The contact stated that while driving approximately 60 MPH, the braking system's failure message was displayed. The contact stated that the vehicle had stopped independently. The vehicle was turned off and restarted and continued driving, but stated that the warning light was illuminated while driving downhill. The contact had taken the vehicle to a dealer, who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM) had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V761000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic, Service Brakes, Electronic Stability Control (ESC). The contact was advised by the dealer that the recall repair had been completed in June 2020. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 134,916.

NHTSA complaint #11729416 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 134,916 miles Chicago, IL

SERVICE BRAKES

The contact owns a 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe. The contact stated that while driving approximately 60 MPH, the braking system's failure message was displayed. The contact stated that the vehicle had stopped independently. The vehicle was turned off and restarted and continued driving, but stated that the warning light was illuminated while driving downhill. The contact had taken the vehicle to a dealer, who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM) had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V761000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic, Service Brakes, Electronic Stability Control (ESC). The contact was advised by the dealer that the recall repair had been completed in June 2020. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 134,916.

NHTSA complaint #11729416 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 85,000 miles Dallas, TX

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

The contact owns a 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe. The contact stated that while reversing, the brake pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to stop as intended. The contact stated that the brake pedal was difficult to depress. The vehicle eventually stopped. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was persistent. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with brake vacuum assist pump failure. The contact was informed that the brake vacuum assist pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was informed of NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V645000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The dealer was made aware of the failure, and the contact was informed that the recall was closed. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 85,000.

NHTSA complaint #11726635 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 135,436 miles Goodyear, AZ

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

The contact owns a 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds and attempting to depress the brake pedal, the vehicle failed to slow down or stop as intended. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with vacuum pump and brake booster failure. The vehicle was later towed to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed with brake booster failure. The vehicle was not repaired. In addition, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V645000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the warranty had expired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was opened. The failure mileage was approximately 135,436.

NHTSA complaint #11715782 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Oak Forest, IL

SERVICE BRAKES

The brakes have stopped working properly. I have to use my entire force and press the brakes so hard to stop.

NHTSA complaint #11711070 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 169,000 miles Bedford, IN

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

The contact owns a 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed and depressing the brake pedal to stop the vehicle, there was a delayed response, causing the braking distance to be significantly extended. The contact stated that the failure occurred intermittently. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 169,000.

NHTSA complaint #11669629 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Turlock, CA

SERVICE BRAKES

My truck Keeps Shutting off and steering locks up

NHTSA complaint #11642161 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Charlotte, NC

SERVICE BRAKES

Vacuum pump and vacuum pump belt replacement. Experiencing increased brake pedal effort, hard brake pedal, and increased stopping distance. Confirmed by an auto shop and mechanic that this is the issue. There was special coverage given by General Motors to this vehicle to address this issue that expired in November (but I did not know that this existed). The vehicle has not yet hit 150,000 miles. Request to have my Tahoe special coverage warranty extended to address this issue.

NHTSA complaint #11637559 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Merced, CA

SERVICE BRAKES

Service Trailer Brake system message is appearing.

NHTSA complaint #11634016 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 5,000 miles Nazareth, MI 1 injured

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

The contact owns a 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe. The contact stated that while driving from a complete stop and while driving at various speeds, the vehicle made an abnormal whining sound. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where the transmission was replaced. The contact stated that after retrieving the vehicle from the dealer while driving 10-15 MPH, the brake pedal was depressed but was significantly firm and failed to respond. The contact drove into a curb and struck a parking sign pole. The air bags did not deploy. The contact stated that the failure exacerbated pre-existing injuries. The dealer was contacted and advised the contact to restart the vehicle and depress the brake pedal to verify whether the brake pedal was operable. The contact followed the dealer's instructions, and the brake pedal responded as needed; however, the vehicle was towed to the residence because the contact was concerned about driving the vehicle. The vehicle was then towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the vacuum pump needed to be replaced. The dealer replaced the vacuum pump; however, the failure recurred while driving. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the lifters had failed. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was taken to a second dealer, Midway Chevrolet Plainwell Auto Dealer (381 12th St, Plainwell, MI 49080), where it was diagnosed that the fuel pump wires, the transfer case oil and seal, the engine oil coolant hose, the valve cover gasket, and other unknown parts needed to be replaced. Additionally, the dealer determined that the ball joints needed to be replaced, and an alignment needed to be performed. The dealer also determined that the air ride compressor was noisy. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was then taken to a third dealer, Heritage Chevrolet, Inc. (350 W Dickman Rd, Battle Creek, MI 49037), where it was diagnosed with an oil leak.

NHTSA complaint #11630563 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Macomb, IL

SERVICE BRAKES

While driving at low speeds, I am experiencing difficulty with braking. The brake becomes very hard to press down and it takes me longer to stop. I researched this and came across a recall for a vacuum pump issue. I believe this is exactly what is wrong with my vehicle. However, when I input my VIN into the recall website, it says my vehicle is not included in the recall. How can I get this issue covered without having to pay out of pocket (we were quoted over $700). I fear that I may cause an accident if I am unable to stop.

NHTSA complaint #11629323 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Glendale, AZ

SERVICE BRAKES

The vacuum pump has failed once again and it was repaired via a recall in 2019.

NHTSA complaint #11625922 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Peyton, CO

SERVICE BRAKES

Brakes shutter in reverse. Sometimes don’t work when backing out. Almost as if brakes go limp or no connection

NHTSA complaint #11610194 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 49,000 miles Lemoore, CA

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

The contact owns a 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe. The contact stated that while driving or while parked, and attempting to depress the brake pedal, the brake pedal was very stiff and difficult to depress. The ABS warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V645000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The contact stated the vehicle was previously repaired under the recall several years ago. However, the failure persisted. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 49,000.

NHTSA complaint #11593473 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Portland, TX

SERVICE BRAKES

Keeps saying service trailer brake system and does not stop ringing in the dashboard it’s very distracting while driving .

NHTSA complaint #11593124 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Cottageville, SC

SERVICE BRAKES

When trying to brake the Tahoe seems to not want to stop. The Tahoe comes to a rolling stop or like it is in sand trying to stop. It eventually stops but not when you want it to. Happens more at low speeds then high speeds.. no lights have indicated a problem. And doesn’t do it all the time but you as a driver can’t trust the brakes! I have had my mechanic look at it he can’t find a problem because when he drives it the Tahoe won’t do it for him. Hasn’t been in an accident yet

NHTSA complaint #11587703 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Weatland, MI

SERVICE BRAKES

When I am going slow backing up, it feels like I have no breaks. Also, if I am pulling into a parking place real slow, it feels like I have no breaks and the truck continues to roll.

NHTSA complaint #11573220 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Monroe, LA

SERVICE BRAKES

Went to start my vehicle 10min prior to me taking off. Five min into my drive I felt my Tahoe start to lose power stop shifting. Once i was able to pull over to a safe location put the car into park and put the car back into drive and the car will not move.

NHTSA complaint #11566845 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Spokane, WA

SERVICE BRAKES

On Wednesday, 11/15/23, I was sitting in my vehicle while it was parked and running for several minutes. After a few minutes, the alert chime went off and the message "Service Trailer Brake System" was displayed on the dash notifications. This alert persisted for several minutes. Since this initial incident, the same alert has displayed 3 or 4 more times, but while driving. It repeats persistently, causing a major distraction, blocking my speedometer, and disabling bluetooth features. I nearly wrecked because of the distraction and have not been able to tow my trailer because of the risk of of the trailer brakes not working. I have an appointment scheduled with my mechanic on 11/28/23 to get this repaired, but have recently learned of several incidents of this same alert from other GM vehicle owners. This seems to be a defective wire harness and needs to be recalled as it is unsafe and renders the vehicle useless for many intended purposes.

NHTSA complaint #11555866 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Hahira, GA

SERVICE BRAKES

While driving the breaks failed to work. Then when I started pumping the brakes again it took longer than normal to respond and I had to press really hard. I was only going a few miles per hour in a parking lot. Now 5 days later it's happening all the time. It's also making a click noise when I press the pedal.

NHTSA complaint #11552347 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Hershey, PA

SERVICE BRAKES

While driving I periodically receive a notification on the dash to "Service Trailer Brake System". The message just randomly comes up with an abrupt warning noise which is a distraction and startles you until it goes away. I don't tow anything with the vehicle. The notification happens about once a month when driving and eventually goes away after a few minutes. I do mostly interstate driving and when the warning comes up, it startles you and you feel the need to pull over immediately. The notification noise is loud and a distraction. I will be taking it to a Chevrolet dealership. I have an appointment late August. This has been going on periodically for months.

NHTSA complaint #11536234 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Lake Oswego, OR

SERVICE BRAKES

In approximately December of 2015, we purchased a 2015 Chevy Tahoe LT from CARR Chevrolet. We chose GM for the reputation, under the belief if we took care of our vehicle and had it maintained by the dealer, it would last 12-15 years. This was NOT our experience.Three years after we purchased the vehicle, the engine died. We were assured this was an anomaly and GM replaced at "no cost", as it was a "manufacturing error". CARR service convinced me it was “great”, as now my vehicle would last even longer. I did not question and blindly trusted those I viewed as trained, skilled professionals. Fast forward to present time, my vehicle is 7 years old (90,000 mi) and never missed a single service. Out of the blue, the transmission dies. I was initially told this is “normal" and “happens” to a tune of $8400 plus maintenance and other wear and tear for a total of $10,000+. This did not sit well with me and I questioned the validity. I requested that CARR give me a quote to buy back the car and they initially refused to give decent price. I contacted GM to complain. After many more days, I was contacted and offered that GM and CARR would carry 70% of the cost of the transmission. I agreed with intent to sell/trade on my own. After many weeks, I picked up my Tahoe and paid $3,400 and headed back to Lake Oswego. As I entered downtown Lake Oswego on a slight hill, coming to a 4 way stop, my brakes completely failed…. I barely missed careening into the back of a car, as they naturally moved forward. I contacted CARR service supervisor, sobbing and shaking after the events and he immediately arranged for a tow. I then contacted the investigator. After many days, the GM investigator response, “it’s fixed free of charge”. I was told it was “known” that these cars “could” have a problem with the brakes, which is why there was an unlimited warranty should it occur. I expressed that I had zero trust in GM, CARR or the vehicle and expected to be compensated. The contact stated her understanding was that the GM re

NHTSA complaint #11536098 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

West Sacramento, CA

SERVICE BRAKES

There’s a recall for this exact issue, but my vin doesn’t fall under it. But the issue is the brakes suddenly felt different while they maneuvering into a parking spot or slowing for a pedestrian. Happens a lot at very low speeds.

NHTSA complaint #11520148 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Clarksville, TN

SERVICE BRAKES

My taheo keeps giving a warning of Trailer Break System. That started going off out of no where the first time it start I was almost to where I was going so just turned vehicle off. It stated beeping and giving me the same warning have had my breaks changed thought it would fix the problem. It continues to beep every couple seconds and continues to say Trailer Break System. Then read the reason this continues to happen is Wire Harness is defective. It is a safety risk because it is very distracting with the alert chime for the driver

NHTSA complaint #11501679 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Orange, VA

SERVICE BRAKES

Vacuum pump related to the braking system is failing. This has been a repaired recall. The Vac umm pump is failing again. It is my understanding this is a common issue with Chevrolet and GMC and is causing accidents.

NHTSA complaint #11500247 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Fall River, MA

SERVICE BRAKES

I’m pretty sure it’s the vacuum for the breaks because when I park if I put my foot on the brake multiple times it gets stiff solid. But once I put the rpm’s up the brakes get better. I almost hit a parked car because of this because I couldn’t stop

NHTSA complaint #11498162 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 70,000 miles Kalamazoo, MI

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

The contact owns a 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe. The contact stated that while starting and driving the vehicle, there was an abnormal whining noise detected. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. After retrieving the vehicle from the dealer, the contact stated she was driving, and the brake pedal was hard and failed to respond. The contact drove into the curb. The contact called and informed the dealer of the additional failure. The contact also stated that the whining noise persisted. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to her residence. The vehicle was then towed to the local dealer again where it was diagnosed and determined that the vacuum pump had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that while driving after retrieving the vehicle, the vehicle was jerking. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V645000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.

NHTSA complaint #11496108 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Baton Rouge, LA

SERVICE BRAKES

Difficult to brake at low speeds.

NHTSA complaint #11495091 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Other 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe problems

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