2021 Chevrolet Tahoe Safety Report

2021 Chevrolet Tahoe Safety Report

385Complaints
16Recalls
★★★★☆Safety Rating
55/100Reliability Score
9Crash Reports
3Fire Reports
9Injuries
Most reported components: Engine (64)Fuel/Propulsion System (51)Power Train (30)Unknown Or Other (18)Fuel System, Gasoline (14)Exterior Lighting (13)Engine,Fuel/Propulsion System (13)Engine And Engine Cooling (12)Electrical System (11)Air Bags (11)

Safety Decision Cockpit for the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe

This page is the hub for deciding what to inspect next on the 2021 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.

2021 Chevrolet Tahoe Safety Signal Summary
SignalValueWhat to inspect next
Recall burdenHigh (16)Review campaign numbers, affected components, and dealer remedies below.
Owner complaintsHigh (385)Scan complaint narratives for recurring symptoms, mileage, crashes, fires, injuries, and dates.
Crash and fire reports12Treat any crash, fire, injury, or fatality-linked pattern as a priority pre-purchase inspection item.
Primary component hubEngineCompare engine issues across vehicles.
Cleaner nearby model year2020Compare against the 2020 Chevrolet Tahoe with 46 complaints and 3 recalls.
Riskier nearby model year2023Check the 2023 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.

Nearby Chevrolet Tahoe Model Years
Model YearComplaintsRecallsUse case
2022 Chevrolet Tahoe 156 4 Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative.
2020 Chevrolet Tahoe 46 3 Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative.
2023 Chevrolet Tahoe 170 5 Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative.
2019 Chevrolet Tahoe 98 1 Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative.
2024 Chevrolet Tahoe 54 3 Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative.
2018 Chevrolet Tahoe 90 3 Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative.

2021 Chevrolet Tahoe Complaint Theme Map

Complaint counts become more useful when they are grouped into inspection themes. For the 2021 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.

Engine

64 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.

All Engine issues Chevrolet only

Fuel/Propulsion System

51 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.

All Fuel/Propulsion System issues Chevrolet only

Power Train

30 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.

All Power Train issues Chevrolet only

Unknown Or Other

18 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.

All Unknown Or Other issues Chevrolet only

Fuel System, Gasoline

14 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.

All Fuel System, Gasoline issues Chevrolet only

Exterior Lighting

13 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.

All Exterior Lighting issues Chevrolet only

AI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe

The 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE has accumulated 385 complaints and 16 recalls in the NHTSA database. It received an overall NHTSA safety rating of good (4/5). Among the complaints, 9 involved crashes and 3 involved fires. There have been 9 reported injuries and 0 reported deaths. The most frequently reported problem areas are engine (64 complaints), fuel/propulsion system (51 complaints), power train (30 complaints). Engine and fuel/propulsion system issues are common, with recalls for hard parts internal/mechanical and software problems. Transmission control module software issues also pose a risk. Exterior lighting and seat belt malfunctions have been reported, including lighting control module software issues and seat belt fasteners that don’t lock properly. Key known issues to be aware of include Engine and fuel/propulsion system, Transmission control module software, Exterior lighting. Be cautious of engine and fuel/propulsion system issues, transmission malfunctions, exterior lighting problems, and seat belt fastener failures. Regular maintenance is crucial.

Reliability Score

The 2021 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 2021 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.

Overall
★★★★☆
4/5
Frontal Crash
★★★★☆
4/5
Side Crash
★★★★★
5/5
Rollover
★★★☆☆
3/5

Known Issues for the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Engine And Fuel/Propulsion System
Recalled for hard parts internal/mechanical and software issues, leading to potential engine failure.
Medium Common 30k-60k miles
Transmission Control Module Software
Recalled for software issues, causing transmission malfunctions.
Medium Common 30k-60k miles
Exterior Lighting
Recalled for lighting control module software issues, leading to headlight malfunctions.
Low Common 30k-60k miles
Seat Belt Fasteners
Recalled for critical fasteners that don’t lock properly, posing a safety risk.
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 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe:

Engine And Fuel/Propulsion System 38% of complaints

Issues with hard parts internal/mechanical and software problems.

Transmission Control Module Software 27% of complaints

Recalled for software issues, causing transmission malfunctions.

Exterior Lighting 14% of complaints

Recalled for lighting control module software issues, leading to headlight malfunctions.

Seat Belt Fasteners 12% of complaints

Recalled for critical fasteners that don’t lock properly, posing a safety risk.

Recall Details for the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe

The following 16 recalls have been issued for the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe by NHTSA:

Fuel System, Diesel:Storage:Tank Assembly
Campaign #25V619000 18/09/2025

Summary: 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.

Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a vehicle fire.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect for the correct fuel tank and replace it, if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 5, 2025. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N252512770. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in thi...

Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Engine And Engine Cooling:Engine:Hard Parts Internal/Mechanical
Campaign #25V274000 24/04/2025

Summary: 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.

Consequence: Engine failure increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect the engine, and as necessary, repair or replace the engine. For vehicles that pass inspection, dealers will add higher viscosity oil, install 6 oil fill cap, replace the oil filter, and update the owner's manual. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 18, 2025. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223, Ch...

Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Power Train:Automatic Transmission:Control Module:Software
Campaign #24V797000 24/10/2024

Summary: 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.

Consequence: Rear wheel lock-up can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will install new transmission control module software, free of charge. GM will provide a special coverage program to cover the repair of transmissions that are identified by the remedy software as containing a defective control valve. Owner notification letters were mailed December 12, 2024. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458...

Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Exterior Lighting:Lighting Control Module:Software
Campaign #22V827000 03/11/2022

Summary: 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."

Consequence: Daytime Running Lights that do not deactivate as intended may cause a glare, reducing visibility and increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will provide an over-the-air (OTA) update for the Body Control Module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 15, 2022. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N222382220.

Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Seat Belts:Critical Fasteners
Campaign #22V617000 11/08/2022

Summary: 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.

Consequence: A seat belt with a deformed rivet may not properly restrain an occupant, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect the rivet head formation on both the left and right side third-row seat belt buckle assemblies and replace seat belt buckle assemblies, as necessary, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed September 28, 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed on November 1, 2022. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service a...

Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Power Train:Driveline:Driveshaft
Campaign #22V036000 27/01/2022

Summary: 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.

Consequence: Driveshaft failure can cause a sudden loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the left and/or right rear driveshaft assemblies, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 14, 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 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N212351030.

Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Fuel System, Gasoline:Delivery:Fuel Pump:Control/Drive Module
Campaign #21V739000 23/09/2021

Summary: 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.

Consequence: An engine stall increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the fuel pump power control module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on October 14, 2021. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020; Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006; or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N212332040.

Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:Power Assist:Electric:Control Module:Software
Campaign #21V579000 29/07/2021

Summary: 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.

Consequence: Overall braking performance may be compromised, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will recalibrate the brake system control module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on August 27, 2021. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1202; GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N212340970.

Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Steering:Steering Control Module
Campaign #21V455000 17/06/2021

Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban, Chevrolet Tahoe, GMC Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles. A software issue may cause a loss of power steering assist at startup or while driving.

Consequence: Increased steering effort, particularly at lower speeds, increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy: The power steering module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 13, 2021. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020; Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006; or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N212333900.

Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Air Bags:Srs Malfunction Warning Lamp/Light
Campaign #21V421000 10/06/2021

Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Buick Envision, Cadillac CT4, CT5, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Tahoe, Corvette, Suburban, GMC Yukon, Yukon XL vehicles. The communications gateway module incorrectly processes a loss of communication with the sensing diagnostic module (SDM), causing the air bag malfunction indicator light to inconsistently illuminate.

Consequence: The air bag malfunction indicator light may fail to warn the driver of a problem with the air bag, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy: The communications gateway module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 1, 2021. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for th...

Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Seat Belts:Rear/Other
Campaign #21V210000 25/03/2021

Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe vehicles. The second-row center seat belt latch may be trapped beneath the trim bezel and therefore inaccessible. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208. "Occupant Crash Protection."

Consequence: A passenger in the second-row center will be unable to wear a seat belt, increasing the risk of injury in the event of a crash.

Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will remove the trim bezel, correctly position the seat belt latch plate, and reinstall the trim bezel, free of charge. The recall began April 14, 2021. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N212329320.

Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Seat Belts
Campaign #21V190000 18/03/2021

Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, GMC Yukon, Yukon XL, Chevrolet Suburban, and Tahoe vehicles with third-row seating. The third-row outboard seat belts may have been entrapped or misrouted behind the outboard seat-folding mechanism, which could result in damaged seat belts.

Consequence: A damaged seat belt can break during a crash, increasing the risk of injury to the occupant.

Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the third-row outboard seat belts, replacing any damaged seat belts, and rerouting them if necessary, free of charge. The recall began on April 21, 2021. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782, and Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N202313000...

Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Fuel System, Gasoline:Storage:Tank Assembly
Campaign #21V064000 11/02/2021

Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon vehicles. The fuel tank assemblies may be missing adhesive between two layers of the fuel tank shell which may result in a fuel leak.

Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.

Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel tank, free of charge. The recall began March 6, 2021. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, and GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N212327720.

Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Seat Belts
Campaign #20V811000 23/12/2020

Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Chevrolet Bolt EV and 2021 GMC Canyon and Sierra 1500, 2500 and 3500, Yukon, Yukon XL, Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV and Chevrolet Blazer, Camaro, Colorado, Equinox, Silverado 1500, 2500 and 3500, Suburban and Tahoe vehicles. Incorrect bolts may have been used at one or more fastening locations to secure the seat belts to the vehicle. If an incorrect bolt was used, the seat belt may not be properly attached to the vehicle.

Consequence: If a seat belt assembly is not properly attached to the vehicle, the seat belt may not properly restrain an occupant in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the suspect bolts, free of charge. The recall began January 29, 2021. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8785, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N202322230.

Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Seat Belts
Campaign #20V792000 17/12/2020

Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500, 2021 Chevrolet Suburban and Tahoe and GMC Yukon XL and 2020-2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 and 3500 and GMC Sierra 2500 and 3500 vehicles. The seat belt brackets may not be secured to the seat frame in the front-row center seating position.

Consequence: If a seat-belt bracket is not secured, the seat belt may not properly restrain an occupant in the front-row center seat position, increasing the risk of injury in a crash.

Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect left-side and right-side front-row center seat-belt bracket attachments and reassemble it correctly as necessary, free of charge. The recall began January 26, 2021. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N202314670.

Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Seats
Campaign #20V735000 25/11/2020

Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Chevrolet Suburban and Tahoe and GMC Yukon and Yukon XL vehicles. During general assembly, a repair involved removal of one or both front seats. The attachment bolts for the front seats may not have been properly reinstalled after the repair was completed.

Consequence: If an occupied front seat has loose or missing attachment bolts, it may move during a crash, increasing the risk of injury to the seated occupant.

Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the seat attachments for both front seats and install attachment bolts as needed, free of charge. The recall began December 21, 2020. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, and GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267. GM's number for this recall is N202312720.

Manufacturer: General Motors LLC

NHTSA Complaint Summaries for the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe

Below are complaint narratives filed by owners of the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Electrical System
03/24/2026

The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was a breach in communication with the OnStar system. The contact believed that the brakes failed, and several other safety systems became inoperable due to a failure with the OnStar system. The dealer was notified of the failure, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufact...

ODI #11726696
Seat Belts
03/24/2026

Seat belt 3rd row dont work properly doesn’t lock

ODI #11726587
Engine
03/18/2026

I was driving down I-5 at 75mph and the truck shut off while driving. Couldn’t get to start. Paid over $1k for a new battery cause dealership couldn’t replicate problem. Next day doing 75mph on freeway engine through a rod.

ODI #11725417
Electrical System,Engine,Fuel/Propulsion System
03/15/2026

Since March of 2025 I have identified a critical safety defect with my vehicle. When driving and without warning, the vehicle unexpectedly shifts to neutral, experiences a loss of propulsion, and the engine shuts off. This has occurred multiple times in which I narrowly escaped collisions with other vehicles or objects. If this would occur at a high rate of speed, it would certainly result in se...

ODI #11724504
Engine And Engine Cooling
03/11/2026

The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe. The contact stated that the engine was consuming an excessive amount of oil, and there was an abnormal knocking sound coming from the engine. Additionally, the vehicle hesitated and failed to accelerate as needed, with blue smoke coming from the exhaust pipes. The check engine warning light was intermittently illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer...

ODI #11723551
Power Train
03/09/2026

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 i...

ODI #11723103
Electrical System,Engine,Forward Collision Avoidance
03/07/2026

My truck was driving perfect and I went to pull into a parking lot in Arkansas where I live in long story short it started acting funny trying to idle out and then I heard a knocking noise. It happened twice. Then my service ESV light come on next my motor light come on then my auto for a collision system failure light come on. It’s on the dash anyway my vehicle is not running around. It has hardl...

ODI #11722698
Engine And Engine Cooling
03/06/2026

The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the Forward Collision Avoidance message was intermittently displayed. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where a computer module was replaced. While driving at various speeds, there was an intermittent knocking sound coming from the engine, with the check engine warning light illuminated. While drivin...

ODI #11722487
Electrical System
03/05/2026

The sound in my entire truck goes in and out. Even my blinker signal does not make sound and I have to look down to ensure my blinker is on which could lead to an accident.

ODI #11722367
Power Train
03/02/2026

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...

ODI #11721561
Power Train
03/02/2026

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 di...

ODI #11721469
Power Train
03/02/2026

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.

ODI #11721408
Steering,Power Train,Engine
03/01/2026

#1 ) el motor presento esta fallas en las 98mil millas, el motor empezó con un alto consumo de aceite de 5 cuartos de aceite cada 3 mil millas, en repetidas ocasiones estábamos de viaje junto a mi familia, mi esposa, [XXX]. Un dia Hicimos una para frente a un semáforo, y en seguida el vehículo empezo a tirar una gran cantidad de humo blanco por la salida de los escapes, mis hijas entraron en pánic...

ODI #11721272
Power Train
02/28/2026

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 create...

ODI #11721164
Exterior Lighting
02/25/2026

Drivers side head lamp adjuster broke inexplicably. I noticed while driving that the headlight was pointing down towards the ground. No warnings of any kind. I made no attempts to adjust the headlight either before or after the issue was noticed. It is difficult to drive at night because there’s essentially only one headlight working properly. The vehicle has never been in an accident. I took it...

ODI #11720423
Engine
02/23/2026

My 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe engine seized while I was driving on the highway. All I heard was a loud clunk then there was a sudden power loss while I was driving before I could even get to the side of the road. I had to pay, out of pocket, to get a tow because the vehicle failed to crank or start. I had the vehicle towed to the Chevy dealership in Paramus, NJ just to find that this is a known recalled...

ODI #11720030
Fuel System, Gasoline
02/20/2026

The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe. The contact stated that while driving approximately 25 MPH, the accelerator pedal was depressed, and the vehicle started losing motive power. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle stalled and was unable to be restarted. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the fuel module had failed and needed to ...

ODI #11719431
Engine
02/15/2026

While driving home late at night, the vehicle experienced a sudden mechanical failure in the engine. I was traveling approximately 2 miles per hour while slowing to stop at a stop sign when there was a loud “clunk,” followed by an abrupt stop of the vehicle. Immediately after this occurred, multiple dashboard warning lights illuminated, and a knocking sound began coming from the engine. The vehicl...

ODI #11718169
Power Train,Vehicle Speed Control,Engine
02/13/2026

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 “Reduc...

ODI #11717741
Engine
02/11/2026

The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe. The contact stated that while his wife was driving out of the driveway and driving approximately 20 MPH, the driver became aware of an abnormal flapping sound that became louder as the vehicle accelerated. Additionally, the contact stated while his wife was driving approximately 60-65 MPH on another occasion, the check engine warning light illuminated. The ...

ODI #11717347

Showing 20 of 385 complaints. Additional complaints are available via the NHTSA database.

NHTSA Defect Investigations for the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe

NHTSA defect investigations are higher-signal than ordinary complaints because they indicate the agency opened a formal review of a potential safety defect. Some investigations later connect to recall campaigns; others close without a recall after review.

Loss of motive power due to engine failure post recall remedy
NHTSA RQ26001 Open

Component: Engine

Opened 2026-01-16

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received 36 Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs) alleging engine failure in vehicles subject to Recall 25V274. In each VOQ, the engine had the recall remedy completed prior to the reported failure incident. Recall 25V-274 addresses vehicles equipped with a L87 6.2L V8 gas engine that experienced engine damage or failure. Recall 25V-274’s remedy includes an engine inspection.  Based on the results of the inspection the vehicle will receive an oil chang...

Loss of motive power due to engine failure
NHTSA PE25001 Closed Recall 25V274

Component: Engine And Engine Cooling:Engine:Hard Parts Internal/Mechanical

Opened 2025-01-16 · Closed 2025-10-23

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...

Air Bag Malfunction
NHTSA PE21010 Closed

Component: Air Bags:Frontal:Driver Side:Inflator Module

Opened 2021-04-09 · Closed 2023-08-24

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,...

Loss of motive power due to engine failure
NHTSA EA25007 Open

Component: Engine And Engine Cooling:Engine:Hard Parts Internal/Mechanical

Opened 2025-10-23

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 ...

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe

Has the 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE been recalled?

Yes, the 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE has 16 recalls on record with NHTSA. Each recall addresses a specific safety defect identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA.

How many complaints does the 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE have?

The 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE has 385 complaints filed with NHTSA. Of these, 9 involved crashes. 9 injuries and 0 deaths have been reported.

What is the safety rating for the 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE?

The 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE received an overall NHTSA safety rating of good (4/5). Frontal crash: 4/5. Side crash: 5/5. Rollover: 3/5.

What are the most common problems with the 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE?

The most commonly reported problems with the 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE involve engine (64 complaints), fuel/propulsion system (51 complaints), power train (30 complaints). Other affected components include unknown or other, fuel system, gasoline, exterior lighting.

How many crash reports does the 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE have?

There are 9 crash reports associated with the 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE out of 385 total complaints (2.3% of complaints involved crashes).

How many fire reports does the 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE have?

There are 3 fire reports for the 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE out of 385 total complaints. Fire reports are among the most serious safety concerns tracked by NHTSA.

Are there any deaths reported for the 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE?

No deaths have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE.

How many injuries are reported for the 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE?

9 injuries have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE. These are self-reported by vehicle owners as part of their safety complaints.

Should I buy a 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE is proceed with caution. It has 385 complaints, 16 recalls, and a good (4/5) safety rating. Always have a pre-purchase inspection done by a qualified mechanic.

What components fail most on the 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE?

The components with the most failures on the 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE are: 1. ENGINE (64 complaints), 2. FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (51 complaints), 3. POWER TRAIN (30 complaints), 4. UNKNOWN OR OTHER (18 complaints), 5. FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE (14 complaints). ENGINE is the single most-reported problem area with 64 complaints.

What should I know before buying a 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE?

Be cautious of engine and fuel/propulsion system issues, transmission malfunctions, exterior lighting problems, and seat belt fastener failures. Regular maintenance is crucial. The 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE has 385 NHTSA complaints and 16 recalls on record. NHTSA rates it good (4/5).

How reliable is the 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE?

The 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE receives a reliability score of 55/100, indicating average reliability. This is based on 385 owner complaints, 16 recalls, and 12 crash/fire reports in the NHTSA database. Key known issues include Engine and fuel/propulsion system and Transmission control module software.

What are the known issues with the 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE?

Known issues with the 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE include: Engine and fuel/propulsion system, Transmission control module software, Exterior lighting, Seat belt fasteners. These are based on patterns found across 385 NHTSA complaints. 16 of these patterns resulted in formal recalls.

What are the most common safety issues with the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe?

Common issues include engine and fuel/propulsion system problems, transmission malfunctions, exterior lighting issues, and seat belt fastener failures.

Are there any recalls for the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe?

Yes, there are recalls for engine and fuel/propulsion system issues, transmission control module software, exterior lighting, and seat belt fasteners.

What should I do if I experience transmission issues in my 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe?

Contact your dealership immediately to have the transmission checked and potentially repaired or replaced.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Be cautious of engine and fuel/propulsion system issues, transmission malfunctions, exterior lighting problems, and seat belt fastener failures. Regular maintenance is crucial.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe. The data includes 385 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 16 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 9 reported crashes, 3 fire incidents, 9 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

The NHTSA has assigned the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe an overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 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