Owners have filed 637 complaints
about the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe with NHTSA between 2020 and 2026.
The largest single group is the engine & cooling.
Across this model's run it ranks 6 of 34 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 84
Against the median year of the Chevrolet Tahoe. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 28
5.3% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 74
43% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
How 2021 compares with every other Chevrolet Tahoe
NHTSA files every complaint against a named sub-assembly, not just a
system. This is the difference between knowing it was "the engine" and
knowing which part of it — the list to hand a mechanic.
Warnings
1548.4%
Adaptive Cruise Control
412.9%
Control/Drive Module
26.5%
SRS Malfunction Warning Lamp/Light
26.5%
Warning
26.5%
Automatic Emergency Braking
26.5%
Body
26.5%
Headlights
26.5%
When it fails
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
139.8%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
1813.6%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
1712.9%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
2821.2%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
2619.7%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
1813.6%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
118.3%
150,000+ miles
10.8%
NHTSA crash tests
The agency crash-tested this model year itself. These are its own
photographs and star ratings.
Frontal crash test
Side barrier crash test
Side pole crash test
Photographs taken by NHTSA during its own New Car Assessment Program crash
tests of this model year. Public domain.
Configuration
Overall
Front
Side
Rollover
2021 Chevrolet Tahoe SUV 4WD
21.9% risk
2021 Chevrolet Tahoe SUV 2WD
21.2% risk
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Sep 2020peak 33Sep 2026
NHTSA investigations into the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe
An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough
complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks
something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.
2
investigations are
still open.
EA26005Opened 20 Aug 2026Still openENGINE
Loss of motive power due to engine failure post recall remedy
On January 16, 2026, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Recall Query RQ26001. This investigation was opened to assess the remedy effectiveness of Recall 25V-274. ODI has received complaints alleging engine failure in vehicles after the recall remedy had been completed, whether that remedy involved an oil viscosity change or a complete engine replacement. General Motors (GM) issued Recall 25V-274 to address concerns of engine failure in the L87 engines produced between March 1, 2021 and May 31, 2024. GM cited the root cause as a supplier manufacturing and quality issue. GM’s reca...
EA25007Opened 23 Oct 2025Still openENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL
Loss of motive power due to engine failure
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received 1,157 reports of engine bearing failure failures in the L87 6.2L engine produced by General Motors (GM). Of the 1,157 reports received, 173 are outside of the scope of recall 25V-274. These engines are installed in Model Years (MY) 2019–2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500, and 2021-2024MY Chevrolet Suburban and Tahoe, GMC Yukon/Yukon XL, and Cadillac Escalade/Escalade ESV vehicles. The subject engine failures were investigated as part of a Preliminary Evaluation (PE25001). GM determined that these engine failures were due to...
RQ26001Opened 16 Jan 2026Closed 20 Aug 2026ENGINE
Loss of motive power due to engine failure post recall remedy
On January 16, 2026, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Recall Query RQ26001. This investigation was opened to assess the remedy effectiveness of Recall 25V-274. ODI has received complaints alleging engine failure in vehicles after the recall remedy had been completed, whether that remedy involved an oil viscosity change or a complete engine replacement. General Motors (GM) issued Recall 25V-274 to address concerns of engine failure in the L87 engines produced between March 1, 2021 and May 31, 2024. GM cited the root cause as a supplier manufacturing and quality issue. GM’s reca...
PE25001Opened 16 Jan 2025Closed 23 Oct 2025ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL
Loss of motive power due to engine failure
On January 16, 2025, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Preliminary Evaluation PE25001 after receiving complaints and field reports concerning engine failures in MY2019-2024 GM’s full-size truck and SUV T1XX platform equipped with the L87 6.2L V8 engine. These complainants alleged engine bearing failures resulting in knocking and growling noises from the engine’s bottom end and in some cases more severe consequences such as broken connecting rods leading to engine damage, or engine failure. If the engine fails during vehicle operation, the vehicle will lose propulsion, increasing...
PE21010Opened 9 Apr 2021Closed 24 Aug 2023AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Air Bag Malfunction
On April 9, 2021, the Office of Defects Investigations (ODI) opened PE21-010 to investigate instances of air bag malfunction indicator light (MIL) illumination and potential for frontal air bag non-deployment in several vehicles manufactured by General Motors (GM). The vehicles included model year (MY) 2020 through 2021 CT4 and CT5 passenger cars, Sierra and Silverado trucks (1500/2500/3500 models), XT4 and MY 2021 Escalade, Suburban, Tahoe, Yukon SUVs.Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 21-NA-005, issued in March 2021, addresses air bag MIL illumination with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) B0001...
Recalls on the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
United States — NHTSA
25V619000
FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Cadillac Escalade, 2021, 2023-2024 Chevrolet Tahoe, and 2022 and 2024 GMC Yukon vehicles equipped with a 6-cylinder diesel engine. The original fuel tank may have been replaced with an incorrect fuel tank, which can allow fuel to leak in a rollover crash.
Risk: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a vehicle fire.
25V274000
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, and Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles equipped with a 6.2L V8 gas engine. The connecting rod and/or crankshaft engine components may have manufacturing defects that can lead to engine damage and engine failure.
Risk: Engine failure increases the risk of a crash.
24V797000
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, 2500, 3500, GMC Sierra 1500, 2500, 3500, 2021 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Tahoe, Suburban, GMC Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles equipped with diesel engines. The transmission control valve may fail and cause the rear wheels to lock-up.
Risk: Rear wheel lock-up can increase the risk of a crash.
22V827000
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:LIGHTING CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Yukon, Yukon XL, Chevrolet Tahoe, Chevrolet Suburban, Cadillac Escalade, and Cadillac Escalade ESV vehicles. The daytime running lights (DRLs) may not deactivate when the headlights are on. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Risk: Daytime Running Lights that do not deactivate as intended may cause a glare, reducing visibility and increasing the risk of a crash.
22V617000
SEAT BELTS:CRITICAL FASTENERS
General Motors, LLC (M) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles equipped with third-row seats. The rivet that retains the buckle to the mounting bracket in the left or right side third-row seat belt buckle assembly may have been improperly formed.
Risk: A seat belt with a deformed rivet may not properly restrain an occupant, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
22V036000
POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 GMC Yukon, Yukon XL, Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban, and Chevrolet Tahoe vehicles. The rear wheel driveshaft assemblies may have internal components that were not heat-treated properly, possibly resulting in driveshaft failure.
Risk: Driveshaft failure can cause a sudden loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles. The fuel pump power control module may cause the fuel pump to fail or operate intermittently, which can interrupt fuel flow to the engine, and cause an unexpected engine stall.
Risk: An engine stall increases the risk of a crash.
21V579000
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:ELECTRIC:CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon vehicles. Dealer service technicians may have calibrated the brake system incorrectly, affecting Electronic Stability Control (ESC) , traction control, Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS), and braking while towing a trailer.
Risk: Overall braking performance may be compromised, increasing the risk of a crash.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 202522549,848 units in Canada
Engine
Issue: On certain vehicles, the connecting rods and/or crankshaft components may not have been manufactured properly. As a result, the engine could make abnormal noises and a warning light may turn on. If you continue to drive the vehicle with these symptoms, the engine could fail. Note: This recall only affects certain vehicles equipped with a 6.2 L V8 gas engine. Safety Risk: An engine failure could cause a sudden loss of power to the wheels and increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: General Motors will notify owners by mail and advise you to take your vehicle to inspect and, if necessary, repair or replace the engine. For vehicles that pass the engine inspection, the dealer will replace the oil with a higher viscosity oil, install a new oil fill cap, replace the oil filter, and add an insert to the owner's manual.
Recall 202463752,309 units in Canada
Powertrain
Issue: Over time, the transmission control valve could wear and lose pressure. If this happens, the transmission could shift harshly and could cause the rear wheels to lock up. Note: This recall only affects vehicles equipped with a diesel engine. Safety Risk: Rear wheels that lock suddenly could cause a loss of control and increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: General Motors will notify owners by mail and advise you to take your vehicle to a dealership to update the transmission control module software to detect excess wear in advance of a wheel lock up. If detected, a service engine light would turn on, a message would display in the instrument panel and the vehicle would be limited to fifth gear.
Recall 2024060273,306 units in Canada
Lights And Instruments
Issue: On certain vehicles, a software problem could cause the lower beam headlamps not to turn on as it becomes dark outside if the multi-function switch is in the "OFF" or "PARKING LAMP" position. This could also cause the daytime running lamps (DRLs) to turn off when the vehicle is moving. As a result, the vehicles may not meet certain requirements of Canadian regulations. Safety Risk: Headlamps and/or DRLs that don't turn on could reduce visibility, make the vehicle less visible to others and increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: General Motors will notify owners by mail and advise you to take your vehicle to a dealership to update the body control module (BCM)software.
Recall 2023472163,611 units in Canada
Lights And Instruments
Issue: On certain vehicles, the automatic headlamps may not turn on soon enough as it becomes dark outside. Canadian regulations require automatic headlamps to turn on when the ambient light level drops below a certain point (1000 lux). Safety Risk: Headlamps that don't turn on as it becomes dark outside could reduce visibility and increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: General Motors will notify owners by mail and send a wireless over-the-air software update to eligible vehicles to update the body control module (BCM) software. Alternatively, you may schedule an appointment to have the update performed at a GM dealership.
Recall 202263416,026 units in Canada
Lights And Instruments
Issue: On certain vehicles, the daytime running lamps (DRLs) may stay on when the headlamps are on. Canadian regulations require the DRLs to turn off when the headlamps are on. Safety Risk: Daytime running lamps that stay on could cause glare for oncoming drivers and increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Action: General Motors will notify owners by mail and and send a wireless over-the-air software update to eligible vehicles to update the body control module (BCM) software. Alternatively, you may schedule an appointment to have the update performed at a GM dealer.
Recall 202245630,096 units in Canada
Seats And Restraints
Issue: On certain vehicles, the left and/or right third-row seat belt buckles may not have been attached correctly. As a result, the seat belts could detach in a crash. Safety Risk: A seat belt that detaches in a crash could create an increased risk of injury. Corrective Actions: General Motors will notify owners by mail and instruct you to take your vehicle to a dealership to inspect, and if necessary, replace the left and/or right third-row seat belt buckle assemblies.
Recall 2022027141 units in Canada
Powertrain
Issue: On certain vehicles, parts inside the rear axle shafts may not have been manufactured properly. Over time, this could lead to wear that can cause noise and vibration. If you continue to drive the vehicle with these symptoms, an axle shaft could seize and cause a loss of power to the wheels. Safety Risk: A loss of power to the wheels could increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: General Motors will notify owners by mail and instruct you to take your vehicle to a dealer to replace the left and/or right-rear axle shafts.
Recall 2021583334 units in Canada
Fuel System
Issue: On certain vehicles, a problem with the fuel pump power control module could interrupt fuel flow to the engine. If this happens, you may notice poor engine performance and the check engine light may turn on. This could also result in a sudden engine stall while driving. Safety Risk: A sudden loss of engine power could increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: General Motors will notify owners by mail and instruct you to take your vehicle to a dealer to replace the fuel pump power control module.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
New Berlin, TXCrash
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
I drive a 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe. This occurrence has happened on three separate occasions and each time it was raining outside. The first occurrence, my vehicle was running and parked in the rain after driving approximately 5 miles. While parked my check engine light came on with a series of warnings: service ECS, service traction control, forward collision system unavailable, reduced acceleration drive with care. Two days later it went away. The second occurrence, I was driving in the rain for approximately 22 miles and briefly parked with my vehicle running. I then turned out of a parking lot and began to accelerate to speed up and the check engine light came on along with all the same messages, this time my vehicle acceleration had seized and wouldn’t go faster than 30 MPH. I slowly drove back to the parking lot and turned the vehicle off to let it sit, disconnected the battery and reconnected, and the issues went away. The third occurrence, I was driving on the highway in the rain for approximately 10 miles, I went to merge into a right hand lane, I took my foot off the acceleration peddle to slow down for the merge and as I slightly turned the wheel to the right, my vehicle spun out three times, throwing the back end of the Tahoe into the inner highway wall, which spun me again to face the right direction, next to a highway exit. I then went to accelerate to exit the highway but noticed my vehicle would only coast and realized my engine had cut out at some point. I started the vehicle and exited the highway and parked in a parking lot only feet away from the exit. After I parked I noticed all the same warning lights came back on. Each occurrence happened on [XXX], [XXX], [XXX]. My vehicle was towed to Gunn GMC Collision Center in Selma, Tx and will be looked at on September 3, 2025 around 8:00am. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11684360 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
New Berlin, TXCrash
ENGINE
I drive a 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe. This occurrence has happened on three separate occasions and each time it was raining outside. The first occurrence, my vehicle was running and parked in the rain after driving approximately 5 miles. While parked my check engine light came on with a series of warnings: service ECS, service traction control, forward collision system unavailable, reduced acceleration drive with care. Two days later it went away. The second occurrence, I was driving in the rain for approximately 22 miles and briefly parked with my vehicle running. I then turned out of a parking lot and began to accelerate to speed up and the check engine light came on along with all the same messages, this time my vehicle acceleration had seized and wouldn’t go faster than 30 MPH. I slowly drove back to the parking lot and turned the vehicle off to let it sit, disconnected the battery and reconnected, and the issues went away. The third occurrence, I was driving on the highway in the rain for approximately 10 miles, I went to merge into a right hand lane, I took my foot off the acceleration peddle to slow down for the merge and as I slightly turned the wheel to the right, my vehicle spun out three times, throwing the back end of the Tahoe into the inner highway wall, which spun me again to face the right direction, next to a highway exit. I then went to accelerate to exit the highway but noticed my vehicle would only coast and realized my engine had cut out at some point. I started the vehicle and exited the highway and parked in a parking lot only feet away from the exit. After I parked I noticed all the same warning lights came back on. Each occurrence happened on [XXX], [XXX], [XXX]. My vehicle was towed to Gunn GMC Collision Center in Selma, Tx and will be looked at on September 3, 2025 around 8:00am. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11684360 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
New Berlin, TXCrash
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS
I drive a 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe. This occurrence has happened on three separate occasions and each time it was raining outside. The first occurrence, my vehicle was running and parked in the rain after driving approximately 5 miles. While parked my check engine light came on with a series of warnings: service ECS, service traction control, forward collision system unavailable, reduced acceleration drive with care. Two days later it went away. The second occurrence, I was driving in the rain for approximately 22 miles and briefly parked with my vehicle running. I then turned out of a parking lot and began to accelerate to speed up and the check engine light came on along with all the same messages, this time my vehicle acceleration had seized and wouldn’t go faster than 30 MPH. I slowly drove back to the parking lot and turned the vehicle off to let it sit, disconnected the battery and reconnected, and the issues went away. The third occurrence, I was driving on the highway in the rain for approximately 10 miles, I went to merge into a right hand lane, I took my foot off the acceleration peddle to slow down for the merge and as I slightly turned the wheel to the right, my vehicle spun out three times, throwing the back end of the Tahoe into the inner highway wall, which spun me again to face the right direction, next to a highway exit. I then went to accelerate to exit the highway but noticed my vehicle would only coast and realized my engine had cut out at some point. I started the vehicle and exited the highway and parked in a parking lot only feet away from the exit. After I parked I noticed all the same warning lights came back on. Each occurrence happened on [XXX], [XXX], [XXX]. My vehicle was towed to Gunn GMC Collision Center in Selma, Tx and will be looked at on September 3, 2025 around 8:00am. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11684360 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Houston, TXCrash1 injured
SEAT BELTS
Our vehicle was rear ended and the front passenger seatbelt did not lock or (possibly) locked too late. The front passenger's face hit the dashboard, as well as their knees and feet. The vehicle that hit ours was estimated to be travelling at about 45 mph and we were rolling at around 5 mph in traffic. The failure has not been able to be reproduced by the collision center, the sensor callibration contractor, nor the dealership. No sensors showed any failures and the tension appears to be correct on the seatbelt. We have been unable to determine why the seatbelt failed during this incident and if the vehicle will react appropriately in the event of another collision.
NHTSA complaint #11673303 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Houston, TXCrash1 injured
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Our vehicle was rear ended and the front passenger seatbelt did not lock or (possibly) locked too late. The front passenger's face hit the dashboard, as well as their knees and feet. The vehicle that hit ours was estimated to be travelling at about 45 mph and we were rolling at around 5 mph in traffic. The failure has not been able to be reproduced by the collision center, the sensor callibration contractor, nor the dealership. No sensors showed any failures and the tension appears to be correct on the seatbelt. We have been unable to determine why the seatbelt failed during this incident and if the vehicle will react appropriately in the event of another collision.
NHTSA complaint #11673303 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Bessemer, ALCrash
AIR BAGS
Air bags did not deploy after significant frontal damage. No warning that the air bag sensor was bad.
NHTSA complaint #11631302 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Oakmont, PA
AIR BAGS
I received an automated message from the vehicle stating to service the safety restraint system. I took the car to the local dealer and they ran a diagnostic review. There is a TSB for the vehicle and they say that the problem is coming from the overhead console part number 86575239. This part is not available anywhere. I contacted General Motors and requested assistance. All they have done is escalate it to the parts delay team. When I called today, all they say is they do not have any information available. They can’t even say when the part will be in stock. The dealership was unable to say that the airbag system would work as required or not. The car is unusable due to the passenger air bag system fault.
NHTSA complaint #11764050 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Zimmerman, MN
ENGINE
The number 7 DFM lifter failed and is suspected of failing due to the Active Fuel System. The vehicle is currently at the dealership where it was diagnosed and is awaiting replacement parts that are on GMC back order for a month or longer. The vehicle started shaking on 8/25/26 when idle and the following warning lights were visible: AVS, traction control, and ECU.
NHTSA complaint #11764249 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Linton, IN
ENGINE
DFM (Dynamic Fuel Management) system failure causing collapsed lifters, oil consumption, and complete engine failure. To repair our vehicle it will require a complete engine replacement. This has been a known issue with GM and yet there has been no recall to fix the issue. Now our engine must be replaced.
NHTSA complaint #11763919 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lincoln, NE
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Headlight adjustment broke and headlights point straight down. Can not see anything when driving at night.
NHTSA complaint #11762683 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lincoln, NE
ENGINE
Total engine failure. No warning lights shown and vehicle had been checked numerous times and reported as just fine.
NHTSA complaint #11762682 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Ashland, KY
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Engine failure Transmission failure
NHTSA complaint #11761241 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 118,000 milesPerryville, MO
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe. The contact stated that while driving approximately 70 MPH, the message "Service ESC" was displayed, and the check engine, traction control, and Forward Collision Avoidance warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle started shaking and then lost power. The vehicle was pulled over to the side of the road, parked, and then turned off. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 118,000.
NHTSA complaint #11761231 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 118,000 milesPerryville, MO
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe. The contact stated that while driving approximately 70 MPH, the message "Service ESC" was displayed, and the check engine, traction control, and Forward Collision Avoidance warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle started shaking and then lost power. The vehicle was pulled over to the side of the road, parked, and then turned off. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 118,000.
NHTSA complaint #11761231 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Ashland, KY
ENGINE
Engine failure Transmission failure
NHTSA complaint #11761241 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 118,000 milesPerryville, MO
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS
The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe. The contact stated that while driving approximately 70 MPH, the message "Service ESC" was displayed, and the check engine, traction control, and Forward Collision Avoidance warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle started shaking and then lost power. The vehicle was pulled over to the side of the road, parked, and then turned off. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 118,000.
NHTSA complaint #11761231 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Mckinney, TX
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Driver's side headlamp beam direction is out of alignment.The beam is aiming at the ground which is greatly affecting visibility. I have never adjusted or attempted to adjust the headlamps. It has gone out of alignment due to normal driving use.
NHTSA complaint #11761064 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Bennettsville, SC
ENGINE
The lifters are tapping on my vehicle and the engine also has a shutter to it. I am also not getting 5000 miles per oil change by 5000 miles my vehicle is showing add engine oil and is taking 2qts to get it back showing on the oil stick.
NHTSA complaint #11760686 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Meridian, ID
POWER TRAIN
My vehicle had a pop and loss of power on the highway. After pulling over, I did not have a check engine light but did connect my code reader and found a P308. I felt unsafe to drive so I had it towed to a shop. I later found out the DOD system or lifter on valve #8 has failed and needs replacement. Factory recommends oil change at every 7k miles, I did them at 4K. My oil pressure was up to par with the small window of real time allowable oil pressure. The design was great on paper but one of the worst engines GM has ever made. I sincerely hope there is enough people complaining about these 2021 GM 6.2 & 5.3 engines!!
NHTSA complaint #11760499 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Thousand Oaks, CA
ENGINE
Engine ceased to run. Two rods bent. No power. All engine lights on. Good oil pressure and oil level. Tahoe towed back to Simi Valley Chevrolet for engine replacement.
NHTSA complaint #11760482 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Meridian, ID
ENGINE
My vehicle had a pop and loss of power on the highway. After pulling over, I did not have a check engine light but did connect my code reader and found a P308. I felt unsafe to drive so I had it towed to a shop. I later found out the DOD system or lifter on valve #8 has failed and needs replacement. Factory recommends oil change at every 7k miles, I did them at 4K. My oil pressure was up to par with the small window of real time allowable oil pressure. The design was great on paper but one of the worst engines GM has ever made. I sincerely hope there is enough people complaining about these 2021 GM 6.2 & 5.3 engines!!
NHTSA complaint #11760499 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Meadville, PA
POWER TRAIN
Our Tahoe keeps burning through oil. about 2/3 of the way through an oil changes i have to add 2 more quarts to get to the next oil change. Our tahoe was not part of the initial recall i am not sure why.
NHTSA complaint #11759308 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Fort Wayne, IN
ENGINE
When vehicle is idling the cabin shaking/vibrating. When engine is warm the sound of engine goes away and when it is cool the sound and vibrating comes back.
NHTSA complaint #11759492 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Richmond, VA
ENGINE
Nearly new Chevrolet Tahoe in 2021 with less than 4,000 miles had an engine failure due to defective valve lifters that required a significant repair and lengthy out of service period (replaced valve lifters in one bank). Now in 2026 the same vehicle's engine has failed for the same reason and the engine needed to be replaced.
NHTSA complaint #11759036 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Higginsville, MO
ENGINE
Engine failure of the 6.2L L87. Was 12 hours from home with my family on vacation in Colorado cruising up a 4 lane mountain highway about 700 yards from entering [XXX] thru the mountain and the engine started screaming and knocking. Thank the lord there was a way I could quickly steer my vehicle and family off the 65 mph hwy. Engine had recently passed the recall inspection test. “3,000ish miles ago” dealership confirmed engine failure and it’s sitting in cooorado waiting for a replacement engine. I believe this will be the 3rd engine now in my car. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11758674 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lexington, SC
ENGINE
6.2L engine failure. Camshaft and lifters. My [XXX] wife ([XXX]) was driving and it shut off going down the highway. It is at my local Chevrolet dealer getting repaired. No warnings. No engine light. Vehicle has 88,000 miles on it, I purchased it April 22, 2026 with 84,700 miles on it. My Chevrolet App says there are no issues with the vehicle..it’s in pieces at the dealership. I had higher standards for a high country. Always owned Chevrolets. May be my last one. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11758758 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Brownsburg, IN
POWER TRAIN
The automatic transmission on my 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe (gasoline engine, 10-speed 10L80 transmission) has been exhibiting intermittent slipping/skipping during gear changes, particularly during acceleration and deceleration. The transmission component is available for inspection upon request. The malfunction poses a safety risk as the unexpected hesitation and rough shifting creates unpredictable vehicle behavior at highway speeds and during merging, increasing the risk of a collision with other vehicles. The problem has not yet been formally confirmed by a dealer or independent service center, however a knowledgeable automotive advisor has assessed the likely cause as moisture contamination of the transmission fluid, which degrades lubrication and causes erratic shifting behavior, known issue in several GM vehicles, but the only recall related to this issue is for just Diesel vehicles. I contacted General Motors customer service regarding this issue and was directed to file this complaint with NHTSA, as GM stated they were unable to attach or create a related existing recall to my vehicle. The vehicle has not been inspected by police, insurance representatives, or the manufacturer at this time. I am in the process of scheduling service at a transmission specialist. No warning lamps or dashboard messages appeared prior to or during the shifting malfunction. Symptoms first became noticeable at 85,000 miles, and have continued since.
NHTSA complaint #11756718 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Mckeesport, PA
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Fuel Pump Power Control Module failed. GM Part Number: 13554821 My vehicle immediately became immobilized in a lane of traffic. The engine would crank but not start. It appeared that no fuel was pumped. This was confirmed with engine code P149F. GM diagnostic code P129F indicates a Fuel Pump Driver Control Module (FPDCM) fuel pump speed signal fault… My vehicle with 51,000 miles was serviced on 5/6/2026 for PA inspections, oil change and transmission flush. The VIN has no open recalls. GM has recognized the failure rate of the Fuel Pump Power Control Module, GM Part Number: 13554821 on many 2021vehicles and issued 2 recalls: 21V739000 issued September 23, 2021 And N252516900 issued September 11, 2025 Recall N252516900 was issued as a “phased launch” and yet (per GM) the Reason For This Recall: Certain vehicles may have a condition which can cause the fuel pump power control module to fail. If this were to occur, fuel flow to the engine could be interrupted. And Consequence Summary: An engine stall increases the risk of a crash. The vehicle instantly can become immobilized regardless of its location, in the middle of an intersection or in a lane of traffic. Without the engine running, the Tahoe cannot be shifted out of Park and cannot be pulled, pushed or dragged without causing damage. It must be properly loaded on a flatbed and be hauled from the failure site. GM “phased launched” the September 2025 recall to handle parts shortage. GM realizes how CRITICAL this recall is because a vehicle can become totally immobilized instantly. The dealership says my VIN shows no open recalls and are resistant to making a request for authorization to apply this recall. I think the failure of the Fuel Pump Power Control Module needs to be escalated until recall indicates ALL vehicles involved. I am glad I wasn’t entering a busy intersection when my vehicle became fully immobilized. As it was, vehicles were unable to go around for the 45 minutes I waited for a tow truck.
NHTSA complaint #11755947 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Ofallon, MO
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
I was driving on the highway and my car lost power and then had to shut down. I am now getting error code P129F. which is a known recall for the fuel pump control module. When I put in my VIN, it doesn’t show my car part of it, but it is a 2021 Tahoe experiencing the exact same issue and getting the same error code that is part of the recall. I also read that it is part of the federal emissions warranty, which is eight year 80,000 miles. My car has 59,000 miles on it and I verify that it’s still under warranty from that standpoint. I want to take it into the dealership on Monday, but I need to know what my options are to get it repaired for free under this recall since currently my car is not coming up via this VIN under this recall
NHTSA complaint #11755652 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 67,000 milesCathedral City, CA
AIR BAGS
The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe. The contact stated that the air bag and SRS warning lights were intermittently illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer and the battery was replaced; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the front passenger’s side air bag had failed, and the air bag wiring harness was frayed. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and partially covered the cost of the repair. The failure mileage was approximately 67,000.
NHTSA complaint #11755248 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Annapolis, MD
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
While at a drive thru, my 2021 Chevy Tahoe High Country experienced a total failure with no advance warning where the engine shut down and would not restart despite what appeared to be good electrical power. We tried to jump start the vehicle with both another vehicle as well as a AAA power pack with no luck. The vehicle was not movable and had to be towed using a lift truck to the dealer. The dealer performed an analysis, reproduced the problem, and determined that the engine failed due to a spun bearing despite no documented codes from the analysis. In performing research, this failure appears identical to NHTSA Campaign 25V274 / GM number N252494000 however the car has been deemed to not be covered with mileage at 139,300.
NHTSA complaint #11754638 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
