29 complaints reported

2021 Chevrolet Tahoe Power Train

Owner-reported problems and safety issues filed with NHTSA. Review common failures, severity levels, and complaint trends over time.

Reports
29
Crashes
0
Fires
0
Injuries
0

Complaint Timeline

Chronological view of owner reports

Jun 2026

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.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE, Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Incident: Dec 2026
Apr 2026

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.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE, Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Incident: Apr 2026
Feb 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 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.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE, Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Incident: Feb 2026
Feb 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 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.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE, Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Incident: Feb 2026
Feb 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 just issued for this on the 2022 Chevy Tahoes. I'm not sure why this isn't being extended to the 2021 model.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE, Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Incident: Jan 2026
Feb 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.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE, Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Incident: Feb 2026
Dec 2025

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)

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE, Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Incident: Dec 2025
Dec 2025

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.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE, Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Incident: Jan 2025
Dec 2025

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!

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE, Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Incident: Jan 2025
Dec 2025

The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe. The contact stated that upon attempting to reverse out of a parking spot, the vehicle failed to respond and there was an abnormal rattling sound coming from the rear end of the vehicle. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the transmission had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 53,000.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE, Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Incident: Dec 2025
Oct 2025

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.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE, Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Incident: Oct 2025
Oct 2025

Statement of Safety Issue for 2021 Tahoe Transmission Vehicle Information: Make and Model: 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe VIN: [XXX] Issue Description: I have been receiving the warning message "Service Transmission. Unable to Shift Soon." multiple times, specifically on [XXX] and again on [XXX]. This issue is particularly concerning as there is an existing recall on the 2021 Tahoe for a transmission problem that can cause the rear wheels to lock up or result in the vehicle suddenly losing the ability to shift, as explained by a GMC transmission technician. Attempts to Resolve: I have contacted multiple dealerships to attempt to get my transmission diagnosed. Unfortunately, all dealerships within my area are backed up with transmission work for 4-6 weeks. I have spoken to multiple dealership service departments and have been informed that there are numerous vehicles currently experiencing this same exact issue. Some vehicles are continuing to drive, while others are being stranded on the side of the road, unable to shift. Safety Concern: The safety concern, as stated in the recall, is that my rear wheels may lock up or my vehicle may suddenly lose the ability to shift. This is particularly alarming for me as I have to drive over a large steep bridge every day to go to work, and there is no emergency lane while traversing the bridge. I am terrified to continue driving, but I only have one vehicle for my family (this 2021 Tahoe) and no dealership has a loaner vehicle available due to the high quantity of transmission errors. Conclusion: Given the severity of the issue and the potential safety risks, I urgently request assistance in addressing this transmission problem as soon as possible. The current situation is untenable and poses a significant danger to my safety and the safety of others on the road. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE, Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Incident: Apr 2025
Sep 2025

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.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE, Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Incident: Sep 2025
Sep 2025

The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted to a lower gear. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the transmission valve body had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 39,000.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE, Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Incident: Sep 2025
Jul 2025

In May 2025, my 2021 Chevy Tahoe experienced transmission failure related to the valve body. The vehicle has now been at the dealership (Richard Chevrolet in Cheshire, CT) for over 2 months with no timeline for repair due to a national backorder on the part. This issue is widely reported among 2021 Tahoes and other GM vehicles, and appears to be a systemic transmission defect. I was never notified of any recall or service bulletin, and I’m still making monthly payments on a vehicle that is inoperable. The rental provided does not suit my family’s needs, and GM has been unable to offer a resolution or clear update. This type of critical drivability failure should be classified as a safety concern, especially considering the volume of similar complaints and the absence of repair parts. I am requesting NHTSA investigate this issue further and take action if warranted.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE, Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Incident: May 2025
Jun 2025

Recall issued by GM (N25249000/NHTSA 25V274) on powertrain/crankshaft and took car to GM dealer and was refused service or safety inspection. Told that they were told by GM not to inspect or service vehicle at this time. How can a safety recall be issued but GM not be ready to inspect or remedy issue?

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE, Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Incident: Jun 2025
May 2025

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.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE, Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Incident: Oct 2025
May 2025

This is an amendment to campaign 11684444 as there is some inaccurate info as it pertains to the diagnostic- 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe, Driving 25 MPH, in the neighborhood, my Tahoe kicked into neutral and abruptly stopped in the middle of the street. I immediately tried to restart it, however it would not start. After about 15 minutes, we tried again and it started enough to make it back to my in laws house, where it remains parked today. We did a diagnostic test and received the code for Fuel Pump Control Module failure. Contacted the Chevrolet dealership I bought my vehicle from and they indicated this is a common issue and the part is on back order. This is a very dangerous risk to safety and should be covered under a recall. I've seen where GMC issued a recall for the exact same issue, but only for Tahoes with 6.2L V8 engine; Mine is 5.3L. I am confused why that matters as it poses the same safety risk across the board. Very dangerous. Please consider this as a recall.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE, Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Incident: Aug 2025
Apr 2025

My vehicle has a little over 15000 miles on it. On Thursday April 3rd, while driving 35 mph in town, my RPMs shot up to 4 and the vehicle would not respond to accelleration. A few seconds later the engine light appeared. I managed to get the vehicle home going no faster than 42 mph off and on. Upon arriving home I realized I had no reverse in the vehicle. I immediately called the dealership and was told to bring it in. They didn't look at it until the following Monday April 7th when they determined the Transmission Control Module went out. GM told them they "couldn't find that part anywhere". Thr vehicle still sits behind the dealership and GM has no answers and has already hinted that it may be at least 60 days. This is unacceptable.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE, Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Incident: Mar 2025
Apr 2025

Purchased vehicle 10/30/2024 with approximately 65,000 miles. 4 months later at 69,100 miles transmission failed and replaced.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE, Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Incident: Feb 2025
Mar 2025

Rapid deceleration at 55mph on highway, followed by console message "reduced acceleration" with check engine light. Fortunately rolled into dealer within a mile. After analysis, they stated the transmission valve body and electronic control component needs replacement over $3,000. after tax. No warning signs prior. NTSB recall N24254441 covers only diesel engines not gas with same problem in 10 speed transmission.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE, Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Incident: Aug 2025
Feb 2025

The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe. The contact stated that while his wife was driving 45 MPH, the vehicle hesitated. In addition, while attempting to shift the into drive, the gear shifter failed to respond as needed. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the dealer was contacted. The vehicle was towed to a dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the valve body assembly needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V797000 (POWER TRAIN). The manufacturer was notified of the failure but offered no assistance. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was 68,000.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE, Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Incident: Feb 2025
Feb 2025

Valve body for 10 speed transmission suddenly malfunctioned while driving on I-95 at 60mph causing rear wheels to lock up for couple of seconds. Then, Engine rpm went to 5000. Error message displayed"reduced acceleration, drive with care" and "Unable to shift soon, service transmission soon". Upon taking to dealer, service advisor mentioned that it could be valve body issue. which is very common for these vehicles. After diagnosis from dealer, there were two codes: P0770 and P0776. Upon some research it was found that these issues are indeed very common for 10speed GM transmission. But, GM hasn't done much to address it. GM acknowledged the issue in their Oct, 2023 bulletin. This is a safety issue especially at highway speeds.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE, Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Incident: Feb 2025
Feb 2025

Vehicle just lost propulsion and would not move. Engine was running but just came out of gear and went into neutral at 70mph. Pulled off highway and vehicle would not go back into drive. Would not go into any gear except park. After a while it went into drive and would not go over 30mph. Limped into a nearby dealership and dropped it off. It took GM 47 days to figure out the issue yet the new part was installed immediately. Some sort of computer calibration glitch and GM didn't know the answer till I threatened a lawsuit. Still not confident it was repaired correctly. Dealership was fine and informative but GM blew me off.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE, Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Incident: Dec 2024
Jan 2025

i have a 2021 Tahoe with 68,000 miles on it. On March 14 my transmission started slipping while driving. the RPM would rev up, the car would jerk forward and then the RPM would fall back down. did this to me 6 times while driving. i got my car home, called the dealership. went to drive it to the dealership and the car would no longer go in reverse. had to have the car towed to the dealership.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2021 CHEVROLET TAHOE, Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Incident: Mar 2025

Trend Over Time

Complaints by year

Quick Summary

The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe has 29 Power Train complaints on file. Review the timeline above for detailed owner experiences.