Last updated: 2026-04-20

2019 Chevrolet Tahoe Reliability Report
The 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe scores 74/100 ("Good"). With 1 recall and 95 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
1
Complaints
95
Complaint Rate
9.4per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$744
Annual Fuel Cost
$3,300–$4,050
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues to Watch
- POWER TRAIN (30)
- ENGINE (12)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (12)
Should You Buy the 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe?
At 74/100, the 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading.
Owners log 95 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.
Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to power train (30). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.
Compared to the 2020 Chevrolet Tahoe, which scored the same. See also the 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +Infrequent unscheduled repairs
- +Low recall count
- +Below-average complaint rate for SUV
Cons
- −Above-average repair costs for its class
- −POWER TRAIN issues reported (30 complaints)
- −ENGINE: 6.2L V8 and 5.3L V8 engines (12 complaints)
Compare 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe With

2019 GMC Yukon
Reliability: 71/100

2019 Dodge Durango
Reliability: 67/100

2019 Ford Explorer
Reliability: 69/100

2019 Chevrolet Suburban
Reliability: 68/100

2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Reliability: 67/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 1 manufacturer recall issued
Other
HIGH RISK- POWER TRAIN (30)
- ENGINE (12)
Recall Overview
1
recall on record
The 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe carries 1 recall — a low count. Authorized dealers repair any open recall free of charge, regardless of warranty status.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
9.4
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 22
Safety Incidents
8
Crashes
0
Fires
6
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 4/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2019 Chevrolet Tahoe Recall Details
1 recall has been issued for the 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC, SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2015-2020 Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe, and GMC Yukon, and 2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 vehicles equipped with a 5.3-liter engine, a 3.08-ratio rear axle and four-wheel drive. If a wheel-speed sensor fails, while the vehicle is traveling between 41 and 60 mph in four-wheel or automatic mode, the Electronic-Brake Control Module (EBCM) software may activate the driveline-protection system.
Consequence
Unintended activation of the driveline-protection system will cause unintended braking on the wheel on the opposite side of the failed sensor, causing the vehicle to pull to one side unexpectedly, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
GM will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the EBCM, free of charge. The recall began December 11, 2019. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-630-2438 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N192261050.
Buying a used 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe? Check its history first
Every 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2019 Chevrolet Tahoe NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 21.9%
Safety Technologies
Chevrolet TahoeRepair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
3.5Maintenance rating: 3.5 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$744
vs $573 avg for midsize SUVs
vs $652 avg for all vehicles
Repair Frequency
0.3
unscheduled repair visits per year
Severe Repair Probability
16%
chance of a major repair
Annual Cost Comparison
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
MPG & Annual Running Costs
Gas
17–18 MPG
Running cost: $4,050–$4,800/yr
Fuel + repair
14–15 city / 21–23 hwy MPG
Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2019 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tahoe C1500 2WD 5.3L 8-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Automatic 6-spd | 15 | 22 | 18 | $3,300 |
| Tahoe C1500 2WD 5.3L 8-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Automatic 6-spd | 15 | 22 | 18 | $3,300 |
| Tahoe K1500 4WD 5.3L 8-cyl | 4-Wheel Drive | Automatic 6-spd | 15 | 21 | 17 | $3,500 |
| Tahoe K1500 4WD 5.3L 8-cyl | 4-Wheel Drive | Automatic 6-spd | 15 | 21 | 17 | $3,500 |
| Tahoe K1500 4WD 6.2L 8-cyl | 4-Wheel Drive | Automatic 10-spd | 14 | 22 | 17 | $4,050 |
| Tahoe C1500 2WD 6.2L 8-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Automatic 10-spd | 14 | 23 | 17 | $4,050 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe.
Inspect transmission for harsh shifting or slipping
Check engine for abnormal noises or misfires
Test fuel system for stalling or hesitation
Verify airbag deployment history in accidents
Inspect electrical system for infotainment or wiper malfunctions
Check for excessive oil consumption or smoke from exhaust
Examine wheels for corrosion and tire condition
2019 Chevrolet Tahoe Common Problems by Component
95 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
POWER TRAIN
30 complaintsOwners report that the 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe commonly experiences power train issues, with frequent complaints about transmission failures and faulty fuel pumps. Symptoms often include stalling, hesitation, harsh shifting, and vehicles becoming inoperable, sometimes accompanied by check engine lights and diagnostic codes such as P2635 and P018B. These issues typically emerge around 88,000 to 130,000 miles, with some vehicles requiring multiple fuel pump replacements, particularly noted by fleet users like the City of Fort Lauderdale Police Department. Safety implications include potential loss of control due to stalling or unexpected vehicle behavior, which could pose risks during operation. Buyers should be aware of these reported issues and consider potential repair costs, especially if purchasing a high-mileage vehicle.
ENGINE
12 complaintsOwners report significant engine issues with the 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe, particularly involving the 6.2L V8 and 5.3L V8 engines. Complaints frequently mention complete engine failure, camshaft and cylinder issues, lifter problems, and active fuel management system complications, often occurring around 41,000 to 128,000 miles. Symptoms include loss of power, abnormal engine noises, misfires, excessive smoke, and oil consumption. Safety implications are noted, with several owners experiencing sudden power loss on highways, creating potentially hazardous situations. Prospective buyers should be aware of these patterns, as they could impact reliability and safety.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
12 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe frequently report issues related to the electrical system, particularly concerning the infotainment center, instrument cluster, and windshield wipers. Symptoms include flickering displays, unintended button activation sounds, and malfunctioning wipers, often linked to moisture exposure. These issues typically appear around 44,000 to 50,000 miles. Safety implications are notable, with one report of a crash involving airbag non-deployment and another describing temporary loss of power and steering control while driving. Buyers should be aware of potential electrical malfunctions and their impact on vehicle usability and safety.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (9 complaints)
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
9 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe frequently report issues with the air conditioning system, including failures of the compressor and condenser, which result in the vehicle not blowing cold air. These problems are often noted around 60,000 miles and beyond, and repairs can be costly, with some parts being on backorder. Additionally, there are multiple reports of transmission failures occurring between 70,000 and 90,000 miles, with owners expressing frustration over the lack of warning signs and warranty coverage. A significant safety concern is highlighted by one report of carbon monoxide entering the cabin, leading to poisoning and requiring medical treatment. These issues are important considerations for potential buyers, especially when evaluating used models with similar mileage.
AIR BAGS (7 complaints)
AIR BAGS
7 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe frequently report issues with airbag non-deployment during crashes, with six out of seven complaints involving collisions. Common symptoms include airbags failing to deploy in front-end impacts, even in severe accidents, and one instance where multiple airbags deployed unexpectedly at low speed. Injuries sustained range from minor bruises to fractured ribs. Complaints are noted across various mileages, with one report at 29,900 miles and another at 212,000 miles. These patterns suggest potential safety implications, particularly in crash scenarios where airbags do not activate as expected.
STEERING (7 complaints)
STEERING
7 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe frequently report sudden and unexpected loss of power steering, often while driving. Complaints indicate this issue can occur at various speeds, including highway speeds, and typically results in the steering wheel becoming difficult to turn. Several owners mention that restarting the vehicle sometimes temporarily resolves the issue, although one owner notes that a longer wait time is occasionally needed. In some cases, the problem is accompanied by a loss of power or failure of other systems, such as brakes or reverse gear functionality. These symptoms suggest potential safety risks, as they can lead to difficulty maintaining control of the vehicle.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (3 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
3 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe report issues with vehicle speed control, often describing sudden and unexpected deceleration. One complaint references a misfire and loss of speed when accelerating to merge onto a freeway, occurring shortly after purchase. Another complaint details a sudden drop in speed from 80 mph to 52 mph in approximately two seconds while using cruise control, causing a near-collision with a semi-truck. These incidents occur shortly after purchase or during regular highway driving, indicating potential safety risks due to unexpected changes in speed and vehicle control. Used car buyers should be aware of these reports, especially when considering vehicles with similar symptoms or those that may be affected by related recalls.
SUSPENSION (3 complaints)
SUSPENSION
3 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe report issues primarily related to the vehicle's suspension system. Complaints frequently mention problems such as shaking, rumbling, and vehicle instability when encountering road bumps, which are linked to alignment and suspension issues. Additionally, multiple owners describe leaking and seized struts, with one report indicating corrosion in the airbag suspension system, leading to the need for replacement. These issues are generally noted around the 63,000-mile mark. While no crashes or loss of control are explicitly reported, the described symptoms suggest potential safety concerns due to the vehicle's compromised handling. These details are crucial for used car buyers considering this model.
WHEELS (2 complaints)
WHEELS
2 complaintsOwners report two primary issues with the 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe's wheels and tires. The first involves internal corrosion of aluminum wheels, leading to improper sealing of the bead, as noted by both dealers and tire shops. The second issue concerns tires, specifically the Continental Cross Contact LX20, showing signs of a slipped belt at approximately 23,000 miles, despite regular rotations. This tire model has been previously recalled on earlier Tahoe and Suburban models. These issues raise potential safety implications, such as the risk of tire failure, though no incidents of crashes or loss of control are reported.
SERVICE BRAKES (2 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
2 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe report issues with the service brakes, with one complaint involving a crash. A common symptom described is a stiff brake pedal that fails to stop the vehicle, as noted in an incident where the vehicle rolled forward and collided with a shop door. Another owner mentions repeated servicing of the trailer brake system, despite not using it, and ultimately having it disconnected due to persistent issues. These complaints occur at varying mileages, with one vehicle having over 80,000 miles. Safety implications include potential loss of control, as evidenced by a near accident and an actual crash.
When Do 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Chevrolet Tahoe Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Chevrolet Tahoe Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Chevrolet Tahoe year is 2025 with a reliability score of 80/100, rated excellent. Other strong picks include 2024 (75/100) and 2020 (74/100).
Chevrolet Tahoe Years to Avoid
The worst Chevrolet Tahoe year is 2021 with a score of 58/100, primarily due to engine (84) issues.
Chevrolet Tahoe Reliability Score Trend
Chevrolet Tahoe reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 71/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 72/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 74/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 74/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 58/100 | Mixed |
| 2022 | 68/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 67/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 75/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 80/100 | Excellent |
Chevrolet Tahoe Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe?
How many recalls does the 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe have?
Is the 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
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How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
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