23. 5th Gen Chevrolet Tahoe

The 5th-generation Chevrolet Tahoe debuted for the 2021 model year on GM’s new GMT T1 platform, shared with vehicles like the Suburban, Yukon, Escalade, and GM’s full-size trucks. The redesign brought major improvements, most notably an independent rear suspension that dramatically improved ride quality while creating more interior and cargo space. Buyers can choose between the familiar 5.3L and 6.2L V8 engines or the 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel inline-six, all paired with GM’s 10-speed automatic transmission. Inside, the Tahoe is exceptionally spacious, comfortable, and versatile, with seating for up to eight people and a cavernous cargo area when the seats are folded. On the road, features like Magnetic Ride Control make the Tahoe remarkably smooth, helping explain why these SUVs have become popular alternatives to traditional luxury vehicles.

Unfortunately, the Tahoe’s impressive refinement comes with some potential reliability compromises. Electrical and infotainment glitches are relatively common, while the sophisticated Magnetic Ride Control and optional air suspension can become expensive to repair as they age. The cooling system, including components like the thermostat and water pump, can also develop problems. The gas V8s use GM’s Dynamic Fuel Management cylinder-deactivation system, whose collapsible lifters have a history of failure that can result in misfires, camshaft damage, and potentially major engine repairs. The 6.2L V8 produced during certain model years has also been subject to a recall for potential crankshaft and connecting-rod bearing failures. Meanwhile, the 10-speed automatic can develop valve-body problems, torque-converter shudder, and fluid-related issues. These problems don’t mean every Tahoe will experience catastrophic failure, but they are important risks to understand before buying one.

Overall, the 5th-generation Tahoe is an excellent vehicle to drive, but its complexity means owners need to be proactive about maintenance. Frequent oil and transmission-fluid changes, paying attention to early warning signs, and addressing problems before they cascade into larger failures can significantly reduce the risk of expensive repairs. For used buyers, I’d pay particularly close attention to electrical glitches, engine ticking or misfires, suspension sagging, and transmission shifting problems. When compared with the other vehicles I’ve covered on the channel, the 5th-generation Tahoe ultimately ranks just above the 3rd-generation Silverado for overall reliability.