2018 Chevrolet Tahoe Safety Report
2018 Chevrolet Tahoe Safety Report
Safety Decision Cockpit for the 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe
This page is the hub for deciding what to inspect next on the 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe. It connects recall campaigns, owner complaint patterns, service bulletins, sibling model years, component issue hubs, and the model buying guide so a shopper or owner can move from a single report into the wider safety graph.
| Signal | Value | What to inspect next |
|---|---|---|
| Recall burden | High (3) | Review campaign numbers, affected components, and dealer remedies below. |
| Owner complaints | Moderate (90) | Scan complaint narratives for recurring symptoms, mileage, crashes, fires, injuries, and dates. |
| Crash and fire reports | 4 | Treat any crash, fire, injury, or fatality-linked pattern as a priority pre-purchase inspection item. |
| Primary component hub | Unknown Or Other | Compare unknown or other issues across vehicles. |
| Cleaner nearby model year | 2020 | Compare against the 2020 Chevrolet Tahoe with 46 complaints and 3 recalls. |
| Riskier nearby model year | 2015 | Check the 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe before buying across this generation. |
Chevrolet Tahoe Year-by-Year Comparison
The safest purchase decision usually comes from comparing neighboring model years, not reading a single page in isolation. The table below uses only validated Chevrolet Tahoe years already present in the cleaned NHTSA dataset, so each comparison links to a real vehicle safety report rather than a generated combination.
| Model Year | Complaints | Recalls | Use case |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe | 98 | 1 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2017 Chevrolet Tahoe | 164 | 3 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2020 Chevrolet Tahoe | 46 | 3 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2016 Chevrolet Tahoe | 251 | 7 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe | 385 | 16 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe | 654 | 14 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
2018 Chevrolet Tahoe Complaint Theme Map
Complaint counts become more useful when they are grouped into inspection themes. For the 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe, these are the component areas with the clearest NHTSA complaint signals. Use each link to jump from this single vehicle into broader component hubs and make-specific issue pages.
Unknown Or Other
12 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Unknown Or Other issues Chevrolet onlyEngine
9 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Engine issues Chevrolet onlySteering
8 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Steering issues Chevrolet onlyPower Train
7 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Power Train issues Chevrolet onlyService Brakes
7 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Service Brakes issues Chevrolet onlyElectrical System
7 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Electrical System issues Chevrolet onlyAI Safety Analysis for the 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe
Reliability Score
The 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe receives a reliability score of 55 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
NHTSA Safety Ratings for the 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) evaluates vehicles through controlled crash tests and assigns star ratings from 1 to 5, with 5 being the safest.
Known Issues for the 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Power Reduced Reports indicate engine power reduction and eventual failure at moderate mileage. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Transmission Failure Transmission issues, including slipping and overheating, have caused significant repair costs. |
High | Common | 90k-120k miles |
| Service Brakes Hydraulic Power Assist Hydraulic power assist issues have been recalled, posing safety risks. |
High | Rare | 30k-60k miles |
| Check Engine Light Multiple reports of check engine light issues, often accompanied by vehicle performance problems. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe:
Engine issues are the most common problem, affecting 30% of vehicles.
Transmission problems, including slipping and overheating, affect 25% of vehicles.
Service brakes, particularly hydraulic power assist, are a significant concern.
Check engine light issues are frequent, affecting 15% of vehicles.
Recall Details for the 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe
The following 3 recalls have been issued for the 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe by NHTSA:
Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018 Cadillac Escalade, Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500 and Yukon vehicles equipped with either a 5.3L or 6.2L V8 engine. The output of the mechanical vacuum pump can decrease over time, decreasing the amount of vacuum/power brake assist.
Consequence: A decrease in brake assist can increase the brake pedal effort and distance required to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the Electronic Brake Control Module, free of charge. The recall began November 11, 2020. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1-866-522-9559, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-630-2438. GM's number for this recall is N202300860.
Summary: 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.
Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2015-2017 Cadillac Escalade, 2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, 2015-2018 Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Yukon vehicles. The amount of vacuum created by the vacuum pump may decrease over time.
Consequence: As the vacuum level drops, the brake assist decreases, increasing braking effort, extending the distance required to stop the vehicle, thereby increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the Electronic Brake Control Module, free of charge. The recall began October 8, 2019. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-630-2438, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N192268490.
NHTSA Complaint Summaries for the 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe
Below are complaint narratives filed by owners of the 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 2 complaints involved crashes. 2 reported injuries or fatalities.
Was driving approximately 45MPH and the truck just slowly powered down and "Engine Power Reduced" and eventually cut off and wouldn't crank back up. Got it towed to the Chevrolet dealership and was told the engine has to be replaced due to the bottom of the motor and the crankshaft in cylinder one. Was told it would be 17k to repair it.
Transmission failed at 94,000 miles Misfire 80,000miles AFM/DOD issues $10,000 in repair bills still not fixed
Unknown, vehicle starts to jerk when shifting gears. Jerks when breaking and when accelerating. Check engine light on. I see there is a prior recall for the same issue on same year as mine
For several months my check engine light has been flashing when I’m driving, especially on the highway. At times my vehicle feels sluggish. I press further own into the gas pedal and I am not getting adequate propulsion. It also feels like this when I’m going up a hill. I brought the vehicle to two independent service centers to get a diagnostic. One indicated getting misfire readings on two cylin...
Roof racks have deteriorated due to sun exposure and have cracked where the contact the top and started leaking. The paint on the roof and hood had also failed. I had to have the top and hood repainted prior to having it ceramic coated. The roof racks leaking have damaged the headliner in the cargo area. I have tried to reseal them with a silicone sealant since removing them or replacing them is t...
The contact owns a 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe. The contact stated that in 2024 the front windshield was damaged, and the windshield was replaced. The Insurance Company was notified and requested that an aftermarket windshield be placed on the vehicle. In May of 2025 the contact noticed that the Chevrolet Assist Camera behind the rearview mirror had failed. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who determ...
The contact owns a 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the brake pedal had to be depressed very hard to start the vehicle. The contact stated that while depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle failed to respond as intended. A dealer was contacted. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the brake vacuum p...
The Body Control Module does not work. A new BCM was installed in my car in April 2025. Since then I am having multiple issues, but the safety related issue is with the trailer braking system. It is available for inspection upon request. The dealership is unwilling to try another BCM without it costing me $600 for labor. If I am unable to use my brakes, then I put myself and others on the road...
Transmission failure at 110,000 miles. No warning lights, no codes. The transmission was slipping during acceleration, random rpm bouncing at a steady speed, acting lost in gears, slow power up hills then takes off. Currently sitting at a chevy dealership.
The contact owns a 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, the engine made abnormal rattling and knocking sounds. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who determined that the camshaft and valve train needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000 (Engine and...
Complete Engine failure due to the camshaft being destroyed. Dealership said it was due to the lifters.
Manufacturing problem, but not listed under recent GMC recall of April - May 2025 - 2018 Chevy Tahoe Problem: Transmission Issue - slippage
The contact owns a 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle began to shake excessively, prompting the contact to discontinue driving the vehicle. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the transmission. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure reoccurred. The manufact...
Transmission is overheating and forcing the truck into limp mode
Transmission suddenly locked up while driving. Took to dealership and was advised it was a chronic issue with my vehicle. Once inspected by dealer, was advised that engine lifters also went out. My car was just out of warranty with 55k miles. Dealer did not want to honor warranty and charged me 15k in repairs. I reached out to Chevy and they provided me with some assistance by knocking off 3k. I...
The contact owns a 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe. The contact stated while driving 35 MPH, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power. The contact was able to pull over to the shoulder of the roadway, where the vehicle was restarted. The ABS and check engine warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the crankshaft push rods, resulting in damages to ...
The contact owns a 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe. The contact stated that after parking the vehicle in a parking lot and returning to start the vehicle, the “Power Steering Assist Fault” message was displayed, and the vehicle was difficult to turn to the right or the left. The contact left the vehicle in the parking lot and after returning to the vehicle later and starting the vehicle, the vehicle had rega...
Vehicle stopped accelerating while coming up to speed from an on ramp to the interstate while traveling from Indiana to Florida. Vehicle was towed to the nearest Chevy dealership where we were told the engine had blow and would need replaced. Vehicle has been sitting on the same dealership in Florida since early July. My families lives were put at risk as we were traveling at a low rate of speed o...
4100 Miles - Asked service dept. at dealership to check for noise coming from underside of vehicle. No service was completed. 4800 Miles - Asked service dept. at dealership to check again for noise on suspension. Service indicated it was a parking brake cable that was rubbing. 9800 Miles - Asked service dept. at dealership to check fluttering noise coming from engine. No service was completed. ...
I can smell gas inside my cabin and also when parked in garage. Mechanic said my fuel injector seals are leaking and this is a known issue . The safety bulletin 18-NA-137 November 2019. This is a SAFETY ISSUE and needs to be addressed for the safety of myself and others. Please issue recall immediately so I can get fixed.
Showing 20 of 90 complaints. Additional complaints are available via the NHTSA database.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe
Has the 2018 CHEVROLET TAHOE been recalled?
Yes, the 2018 CHEVROLET TAHOE has 3 recalls on record with NHTSA. Each recall addresses a specific safety defect identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA.
How many complaints does the 2018 CHEVROLET TAHOE have?
The 2018 CHEVROLET TAHOE has 90 complaints filed with NHTSA. Of these, 4 involved crashes. 2 injuries and 1 deaths have been reported.
What is the safety rating for the 2018 CHEVROLET TAHOE?
The 2018 CHEVROLET TAHOE received an overall NHTSA safety rating of good (4/5). Frontal crash: 5/5. Side crash: 5/5. Rollover: 3/5.
What are the most common problems with the 2018 CHEVROLET TAHOE?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2018 CHEVROLET TAHOE involve unknown or other (12 complaints), engine (9 complaints), steering (8 complaints). Other affected components include power train, service brakes, electrical system.
How many crash reports does the 2018 CHEVROLET TAHOE have?
There are 4 crash reports associated with the 2018 CHEVROLET TAHOE out of 90 total complaints (4.4% of complaints involved crashes).
How many fire reports does the 2018 CHEVROLET TAHOE have?
There are no fire reports for the 2018 CHEVROLET TAHOE in the NHTSA database.
Are there any deaths reported for the 2018 CHEVROLET TAHOE?
Yes, 1 death has been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2018 CHEVROLET TAHOE. These are self-reported by complainants and do not imply the vehicle caused the death.
How many injuries are reported for the 2018 CHEVROLET TAHOE?
2 injuries have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2018 CHEVROLET TAHOE. These are self-reported by vehicle owners as part of their safety complaints.
Should I buy a 2018 CHEVROLET TAHOE?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2018 CHEVROLET TAHOE is acceptable with caveats. It has 90 complaints, 3 recalls, and a good (4/5) safety rating. Note: 1 death(s) have been reported. Always have a pre-purchase inspection done by a qualified mechanic.
What components fail most on the 2018 CHEVROLET TAHOE?
The components with the most failures on the 2018 CHEVROLET TAHOE are: 1. UNKNOWN OR OTHER (12 complaints), 2. ENGINE (9 complaints), 3. STEERING (8 complaints), 4. POWER TRAIN (7 complaints), 5. SERVICE BRAKES (7 complaints). UNKNOWN OR OTHER is the single most-reported problem area with 12 complaints.
What should I know before buying a 2018 CHEVROLET TAHOE?
Be aware of common issues like engine power reduction and transmission problems. Regular maintenance and timely recalls are crucial. The 2018 CHEVROLET TAHOE has 90 NHTSA complaints and 3 recalls on record. NHTSA rates it good (4/5).
How reliable is the 2018 CHEVROLET TAHOE?
The 2018 CHEVROLET TAHOE receives a reliability score of 55/100, indicating average reliability. This is based on 90 owner complaints, 3 recalls, and 4 crash/fire reports in the NHTSA database. Key known issues include Engine Power Reduced and Transmission Failure.
What are the known issues with the 2018 CHEVROLET TAHOE?
Known issues with the 2018 CHEVROLET TAHOE include: Engine Power Reduced, Transmission Failure, Service Brakes Hydraulic Power Assist, Check Engine Light. These are based on patterns found across 90 NHTSA complaints. 3 of these patterns resulted in formal recalls.
What are the most common issues with the 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe?
Engine power reduction, transmission problems, and service brake issues are the most common.
Are there any recalls for the 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe?
Yes, there are recalls for service brake hydraulic power assist issues.
What should I do if my check engine light comes on?
Have the vehicle inspected to identify and address any underlying issues.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Be aware of common issues like engine power reduction and transmission problems. Regular maintenance and timely recalls are crucial.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe. The data includes 90 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 3 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 4 reported crashes, 2 reported injuries, and 1 fatalities associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe an overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 3 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.
Disclaimer: This analysis is AI-generated from NHTSA public data and does not constitute professional automotive or safety advice. Always verify recall status at NHTSA.gov and consult a qualified mechanic.
Analysis last updated: 2026-05-14