2021 Chevrolet Tahoe Powertrain & Transmission Problems

The component at issue is the engine, which suffered a sudden and catastrophic failure due to unknown causes. At no time prior to this incident were there any warnings, symptoms, or indications of an underlying mechanical defect that would have allowed for preventative action. While operating the vehicle on the highway with my family present, multiple warning indicators activated simultaneously, including a blinking check engine light, traction control light, ESC warning, and a forward collision warning. Immediately thereafter, the vehicle experienced a rapid and significant loss of power accompanied by a loud and persistent engine knocking noise, rendering the vehicle unsafe to operate and placing the occupants at risk. It is important to emphasize that traction control and ESC systems are not causally related to an engine misfire condition, further supporting that this event was abrupt and not part of a progressive or diagnosable issue. A diagnostic scan performed at that time identified a misfire in cylinder 1. Upon delivery of the vehicle to the dealership for inspection, it was determined that the engine had suffered complete internal failure and was deemed “blown.” This finding confirms the occurrence of a catastrophic mechanical breakdown. Based on the sudden onset, absence of prior warning, and severity of the failure, there is no reasonable basis to attribute this condition to normal wear and tear, operator misuse, or neglect. Rather, the facts support the conclusion that this was the result of a latent defect or internal mechanical failure beyond the operator’s control. Accordingly, this matter should be addressed under applicable warranty coverage or consumer protection standards.

My Tahoe has 108,000 miles on it. It broke down in the middle of the road and refused to go into gear with zero symptoms prior to this. We had it towed to the dealership and were told it is the Transmission Valve Body. This is a known issue but our VIN isn't covered for some reason so we have to pay out of pocket for this costly repair that is a known problem!

I was driving yesterday and noticed my transmission started to shift hard and unnecessarily. Then I received a warning that propulsion was affected and to drive with care. The check engine light came on. I was able to make it home, but the vehicle wouldn't go into reverse. I had it towed to a dealership today and they identified the issue as being related to the valve body. Apparently a recall was just issued for this on the 2022 Chevy Tahoes. I'm not sure why this isn't being extended to the 2021 model.

Transmission issue -while driving 55 mph the RPM’s revved up and the vehicle felt as it it was in 2nd or 3rd gear. Warning lights came on stating “rapid deceleration use caution” and the engine light came on. The vehicle was able to go into park but upon shifting back into drive, it did not change gears. Sounds as if it is being driven in 2nd or 3rd gear with RPM’s elevated.

Driving down the highway and I lost all the gears it went from driving speed then wouldn’t go over 30 mph. When I got pulled into a business on the side of the road then tried to restart it it then wouldn’t go into reverse. It was dangerous because there was cars behind me going the speed limit then my car just lost speed. No warnings it’s not throwing any codes. Looking on the internet it seems it’s the transmission or valve body

The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. The vehicle lost motive power, and the transmission slammed into gear, and it felt like the vehicle was rear-ended. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with transmission valve body failure. The contact was informed that the transmission valve body needed to be replaced. The contact was later informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was being repaired. The contact stated that the failure was a known failure with the vehicle. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was filed. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 62,000.

While driving my 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe at highway speeds (approximately 60 mph), the transmission suddenly malfunctioned due to what the dealership is telling was a valve body failure. Without warning, the vehicle lost proper propulsion and began to decelerate rapidly in active traffic. I did not receive adequate warning before the failure occurred. The sudden loss of power at highway speed created a very dangerous situation. Vehicles behind me had to brake abruptly, and I was nearly rear-ended. This presented a serious safety risk to me, my three children, and surrounding drivers. The issue was later diagnosed as a transmission valve body failure. A failure of this nature should not occur on a relatively new vehicle, and there Is currently a recall on other 2021 Tahoe’s for this same issues. My car is sitting at the Chevy dealership waiting for a full valve body replacement, which the dealership said they are having issues getting the part and will take over 2 weeks. The cost is around 5k to fix.

The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe. The contact stated that while driving and attempting to slow down to approximately 35 MPH, there was an abnormal clunking sound coming from the vehicle. The contact believed that the sound was caused by ice buildup on the mud flap, but shortly afterwards, the engine revved unexpectedly, with the check engine warning light illuminated, and the message “Reduce Acceleration - Drive with Care” was displayed. The vehicle started to coast unintendedly. The contact stated the vehicle returned to normal operation after a short while. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer to be diagnosed. The mechanics pushed the vehicle out of the parking spot before inspecting the vehicle. The vehicle was diagnosed with transmission valve body failure. The contact was informed that the transmission valve body needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 88,342

The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was a loud grinding sound coming from the rear of the vehicle. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and was diagnosed with failure. The contact was informed that the rear differential assembly needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V036000 (Power Train); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 95,000.

* Sudden Catastrophic Engine Failure. * The car lost power in the middle of a high traffic, very dark country road, forcing her to stay in the middle of the (undivided) road in the dark hoping cars didn't slam into her. A Collin County Sheriff was dispatched to keep her safe until the tow truck arrived almost two hours later." * The vehicle was towed to a dealer where they confirmed that the torque converter, valves, lifters had failed. Dealer didn't disclose that there was any issues for these engines, which there is. It's a 6.2L V8 Tahoe High Country. * It has only been inspected by the dealer, not the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives, etc... * The vehicle indicated a traction control problem, then the engine light came on, and then the engine failed followed by loss of power. All happened in rapid succession WITH NO OPPORTUNITY FOR THE DRIVER TO GET TO A SAFE LOCATION. * There was no warning or other symptoms preceding this. The vehicle has always been faithfully serviced at Chevy dealerships consistent with the manufacturers recommendations.

2021 tahoe with 3.0L diesel engine and 139k miles recently began overheating when on interstate but temp would jump up quickly then quickly back down. Reduced acceleration mode is triggered and AC is turned off automatically. Diagnostic report shows coolant control valve error code and it was explained to me that valve is sticking then as engine pressure rises, it knocks it loose again explaining the quickly jumps and dips in temp. Fan runs constantly from moment it is started too. When looking for the part online to get an idea of repair cost, there was a bulletin about this being a known issue in the 2021 tahoes with the diesel engines and bulletin states GM extended special coverage for 15yrs/150k miles. When I called dealer to schedule service, I was told this bulletin doesnt come up under my vin number despite it having the same issues, error codes, year, make, model, and engine.

AFM lifter collapse on Cylinder 6 Written repair estimate or a Diagnostic report showing P0306 + lifter failure

My Tahoe was making a loud noise, I took it to the dealer to look at it and they said I need to replace the rear driveshaft to the tune of $4000. I don't have $4000 to spend on this. This Tahoe is only 4 years old and was supposed to drive us to Minnesota next week for Christmas and now that is not possible. This is a known issue and a recall, but my VIN not included in that recall. How can this happen - you know it is a known issue in these cars! Power train Recall date 2022-01-27 Recall no. 22V036000 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. Recall consequence Driveshaft failure can cause a sudden loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash. Recall action Dealers will replace the left and/or right rear driveshaft assemblies, free of charge. An owner notification letter mailing date has not been finalized. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed April 15, 2022. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020; Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006 or GMC customer service at [XXX] . GM's number for this recall is XXX INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

I am writing to formally document serious engine defects I have experienced with my 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe equipped with the 5.3L L84 V8 engine. 1.Crankshaft Failure: My Tahoe suffered a catastrophic crankshaft failure that required major repair/replacement. I am aware that GM has recalled certain vehicles equipped with the 6.2L L87 engine for crankshaft and rod-bearing defects. Based on my experience, the same or a very similar defect has also occurred in my 5.3L engine, which is currently not included in that recall. 2.Valve Lifter Failure: In addition, my vehicle has suffered from valve lifter collapse—a well-documented problem in 2021–2022 GM trucks and SUVs with both the 5.3L and 6.2L engines. This caused severe misfiring, drivability issues, and expensive repair needs. Why this is a concern: •Both failures occurred well before what would be expected of a modern engine. •The crankshaft failure raises a safety risk: sudden loss of propulsion while driving could lead to accidents. •The lifter issue is widely reported by other owners and has been the subject of GM service bulletins. •Taken together, these problems suggest systemic defects in the 2021 Tahoe’s 5.3L engine that have not been adequately addressed by GM. Requested Action: •I ask GM to extend recall and warranty coverage to include the 5.3L L84 engine in addition to the 6.2L L87. •I ask NHTSA to consider investigating whether the scope of the current 6.2L recall should be broadened to include 5.3L engines, given failures like mine. •At minimum, I request assistance in covering repair/replacement costs for both the crankshaft and lifter defects, which are clearly not due to normal wear and tear. Vehicle details: •Year/Make/Model: 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe •Engine: 5.3L V8 L84

Issue related to the rear-differential fluid, TSB 21-NA-028. Its a known issue where the rear differential make moan/chatter noises on turning (including at low speeds). Dealers are instructed to service/replace the rear differential fluid and perform procedures to address clutch pack chatter. It is such an issue, the fluid to remedy this is on back order!

Based on dealer inspection, oil was found sitting on top of the #2 piston, and you’ve indicated the failure is originating from the bottom end of the engine—likely involving piston, ring, or cylinder wall damage. Combined with the stored P050D, P0300, and P0302 codes, this represents a clear internal mechanical failure. Vehicle is currently at the dealership. Mechanical failure while driving the vehicle. Sensor light for service ESC and service traction control both showed as the failure was occurring.

My 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe recently displayed a warning message that said “Service Transmission – May Not Be Able to Shift Soon.” The message appeared at approximately 132,754 miles. Since then, I’ve noticed delayed and rough shifting between gears. The vehicle still drives and shifts into gear, but the message and behavior are concerning. I have an appointment scheduled for a diagnostic inspection on Tuesday, which was the earliest available. I have not yet received a confirmed diagnosis, but I’ve seen that many other 2021 Tahoe's and similar GM vehicles have experienced the same transmission problem and were included in recalls. My vehicle’s symptoms match those reports, though my VIN was not included. This situation makes me nervous because I drive with my four children daily. Even though the vehicle hasn’t completely lost the ability to shift, a sudden failure while driving could put my family and others on the road at risk. The warning itself suggests a potential failure is coming soon. The vehicle has been properly maintained and has not had prior transmission work. I’m reporting this because it appears to be part of a larger pattern that should be investigated to determine if more vehicles need to be included in GM’s existing transmission recall.

On the morning of 1 Oct, I had left the house here in Cedartown GA to head to a meeting in Atlanta with a customer. I had started the truck 15 minutes before departing just as we have always done to our vehicles over the years to allow them to warm up properly. I departed Doyle Rd onto Hwy 27 South heading towards interstate 20. About 15 miles from the house I was at a steady cruise speed of 45 MPH, no traffic, acceleration or deceleration and the stability control system light came on, one second later the engine light came on and the engine all of a sudden started making a loud grinding and clunking noise. I was on the inside lane so let the car pass next to me and started to pull over onto the shoulder of the road. I immediately shut off the truck, popped the hood and got out to inspect what might have happened. There was no smoke, I checked all the fluids and all were at the normal ranges. The engine oil was at its full mark as well. The oil was just changed a month early and still of the same color as it was new. After checking, I got back on the truck, attempted to start and it ran for a few seconds then I immediately shut it off after hearing again the loud noise. A Polk county police officer stopped to check on me and offer assistance as well as some tow companies to call. Eventually after about at hour a tow truck showed, we tried to momentarily start the vehicle so it could be put in neutral but the engine had locked up. I’m glad I got off the road when I did, otherwise I feel I could have been driving and experienced that sudden lock up and loss of control which could have been a serious accident with log trucks up and down that highway all day long. This vehicle is my wife’s primary vehicle and always has been maintained to a T just like all of our GM vehicles have. My daughter just graduated and drives our passed down 2005 Tahoe with over 300k miles that we bought in 2006. This has never happened to us and I feel it is a serious safety issue on the 6.2

I have a 2021 Tahoe that while circling a parking lot at my son's football practice. The Tahoe's emergency came on and the Tahoe abruptly stopped. A checked engine light came on. The Tahoe wouldn't release the emergency brakes. I was finally able to get it released. I took the vehicle to a transmission shop because I plugged OBD scan tool on it. It had two transmission codes. One generic and one for the vavle body. The transmission shop said they have had lots of Tahoes with the vavle body's going out. They told me about N242454441. I called Chevrolet and they advised me that wasn't for my Tahoe. I asked why and they said they don't know. If this is effecting the desiel only models then why is mine doing the same thing. Parts cant be ordered either. Please look into this matter.

2021 Tahoe Z71 with 70000 miles making a roaring and whining noise on reverse and turning, especially when cold. Took to shop and they changed the rear differential fluid. Now its worse. Needs a whole new rear end. This veicle is 4 years old and does not tow or use four wheel drive. The shop said there has been so many complaints and services on the same issue. Why is there not a recall on this yet? We spend $70,000 and up and expect a more quality vehicle without having to spend $4000 dollars on repairs.