Buying the 2015 Chevy Tahoe is a Risky Gamble
The 2015 Chevy Tahoe is one of the worst ranking model years due to having a variety of problems reported by owners. Plus, it has already racked up 11 recalls. Now the Chevy Tahoe is facing an investigation by the NHTSA due to equipment defects.
Avoid the 2015 Chevy Tahoe
According to Car Complaints, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHSTA) has an open investigation on the 2015 Chevy Tahoe due to its brake vacuum pump failure. The investigation opened on November 20, 2018.
After the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) received 111 reports of hard brake pedal effort and extended stopping distance, it was time to take a deep dive to assess this issue. They found a correlation between the General Motors’ (GM) light truck K2XX platform and the deterioration of the engine0driven brake assist vacuum pump.
The platform was used on 2014 to 2016 trucks and SUVs, including the Silverado, Sierra, Suburban, Yukon, Tahoe, and Escalade. Also, there are nine reports of these vehicles becoming damaged during collisions at low speeds due to this issue.
The brake assist vacuum pump is driven by an accessory belt on the engine and serves as the power brake vacuum. The pump’s ability to generate vacuum may deteriorate over time, leading to reduced braking power and longer stopping distances.
There isn’t a recall yet, but a preliminary evaluation has been opened to assess the scope, frequency, circumstances, and safety consequences caused by the alleged defect. As of 2019, the number of these reports increased to 487.
More 2015 Tahoe problems
The 2015 Chevy Tahoe actually has about 768 reports of problems listed by drivers. Along with brake problems, a majority of complaints were about the electrical system. One driver experienced a total loss of power while going through an intersection.
Another driver noticed that their air conditioning system would only blow hot air. The dealership was aware that the air conditioning system was prone to leaking, and the air conditioning condenser needed to be replaced, but it wasn’t covered under warranty.
Owners of the 2015 Chevy Tahoe also experience steering problems. One driver had their power steering randomly go out, making it difficult to turn in traffic. Other drivers noticed clicking and loud popping sounds when turning. Also, it could be difficult to steer at lower speeds.
2015 Tahoe Recalls
Some of the problems with the 2015 Chevy Tahoe have been addressed by recalls. The recall for the temporary loss of electric power steering addresses over one million vehicles, including the Chevy Silverado 1500, Tahoe, Suburban, Sierra, Yukon, and Escalade. The fix involved updated the EPS module software free of charge.
There were two recalls because the frontal airbags may not deploy. This issue also included multiple Chevrolet and GMC models. The front airbags or seat belt pretensioners may not deploy during a crash, increasing the risk of injuries. The fix involved reflashing the SDM software or replacing the SDM.
There was another recall for nearly half a million vehicles because transmission oil leaks could lead to fires. If the transmission oil cooler line wasn’t properly secured, oil could leak from the fitting and catch on fire if it came into contact with a hot surface. The fix involved inspecting the oil cooler line and repairing it if necessary.
