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Chevrolet Tahoe jerking problems

166 of the 10,079 owner complaints about the Chevrolet Tahoe describe jerking or lurching, most of them for the 1997 model year.

owner complaints
166
worst model year
1997
typical repair cost reported
$1,100
typical mileage
68,223
Is there a fix? There are 9 recalls for this area of the car. See below

By model year

What owners say

Filed Oct 26, 2026 · Acceleration · FL

Vehicle accelerating on its own. It is not in cruise control mode. Accelerating without any pressure on the pedal. Engine revs when in park. Really jerky when coming to a stop

Filed Oct 14, 2026 · Engine, Transmission · VA

Vehicle is a 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe Premier with under 50,000 miles. The vehicle experienced a sudden and complete loss of reverse gear, accompanied by violent lurching, sputtering, and dangerous hesitation/stuttering while accelerating between gears at speed. A certified dealership inspection physically diagnosed the vehicle with multiple stuck valves inside the transmission control valve body, requiring a complete valve body replacement. This exact mechanical failure completely mirrors the known safety defects outlined in GM Special Coverage Program N242454441, which details transmission pressure losses causing gear engagement conflicts and potential rear-wheel lock-up hazards. The replacement transmission component installed by the certified dealer failed catastrophically within four miles of pickup, again causing severe transmission sputtering and shifting failures that render the vehicle entirely unroadworthy and a safety hazard on public roads. The dealership has been forced to order an entirely new replacement valve body assembly under warranty due to a consecutive failure. General Motors Corporate Customer Assistance acknowledged that the vehicle is physically experiencing this transmission valve defect, but refused a voluntary warranty override solely because the vehicle's automated database VIN block falls just outside their pre-programmed list for Special Coverage N242454441. The corporate case representative explicitly instructed the consumer to file this federal safety report with the federal safety agency due to the systemic component failure.

Filed Sep 23, 2026 · Engine, Transmission · SD

While driving the vehicle at highway speeds the vehicle starts to lurch or randomly lose power. Eventually, within a few minutes, the lurching gets worse and the check engine light starts flashing. In a GM vehicle, a flashing check engine light is critical engine failure. After pulling the vehicle to the side of the road, the check engine light stops flashing and stays on constantly. After about 10-15 minutes, the check engine light turns off completely. The GM dealership can read the history and says it's P0300 error code for General Engine Misfire in cylinder #6. GM warranty refuses to fix anything because the light isn't on when the car comes into the dealership. The car has been to two different dealerships, with both of them telling me it has the same error code. GM customer service told me without the check engine light being on when the vehicle is brought into the dealership, they would not be able to help me. This is being told to me even though everyone agrees that the check engine light has been on. I was told by GM to continue to drive the vehicle. It has been into the shop 4 times since January for the same issue. This is not safe as the engine has suffered a critical issue. I don't feel safe driving the vehicle. My GM Customer Service case is 110460594.

Filed Jul 21, 2026 · Transmission · NC

Rear wheels suddenly lock up momentarily during downshift at 30-50 mph (most reproducible 35-40). Transmission in a high gear (8th-10th); any throttle input commanding a downshift can trigger it: as the downshift executes, rear wheels briefly stop, skid with an audible chirp, vehicle jerks violently. Reproducible on demand, multiple times per drive, on video. Highest-speed event ~50 mph, family aboard. NO advance warning: no check engine light, no message, no stored code, no gradual onset. Traction control sometimes activates at the instant of the skid, sometimes not — always reacting to traction already lost, never before. A driver has no opportunity to anticipate or react. THIS IS A LOSS-OF-CONTROL HAZARD. It is especially dangerous in a turn, on wet pavement, or in traffic. Onset May 2026. Pursued repair since, across three shops: an independent, twice (no codes/leaks/abnormal findings; MAF replaced; unresolved; referred to dealer), then a GM dealer 3 days (test drove 34+ miles, no codes, fluid good, all shifts correct; declined recommended control-module recalibration, cause unconfirmed). Lockup recurred within 5 miles of leaving, same day; I returned immediately, asked for a tech ride-along while fresh — did not occur. Next day, a second GM dealer: tech note said fluid was low, though the same RO's inspection passed that fluid and found no leak; no leak ever identified anywhere. Paid $672 for a fluid exchange — unresolved. Days later, same dealer measured 265F on a 30-mile road test and condemned the transmission. Full replacement underway, largely out of pocket. Symptom matches recall 26V‑085 (momentary rear wheel lockup, worn control valve, 10-speed/ETRS) covering 2022 models. My 2023 is not included. I am not asserting a diagnosis — no one has established the cause — but I ask ODI to consider whether that campaign should include additional model years. The failed transmission is available for inspection; videos available on request.

Filed Jul 1, 2026 · Engine · FL

After driving the vehicle for 5000 miles, the check engine light appeared. We brought the vehicle to dealership and were told that a cylinder was mistimed. They replaced a bank of lifters and returned the vehicle to us. A few weeks later, the check engine light reappeared and we noticed the engine was making some odd sounds. It wa brought back to the dealership and they replaced the fuel pump and hose. The vehicle was returned to us but the check engine light reappeared. The dealership stated that they couldn’t reproduce the problem after testing. The vehicle was returned to us but we noticed that it would periodically lose power upon driving and would have lurching sensation while driving. The check engine light came on intermittently and it is now being brought back to them for the fourth time.

Filed Jun 23, 2026 · Acceleration, Transmission · NC

Chevrolet has a recall on some vehicles for a bad transmission valve body, but my vehicle isn’t a part of the recall and I’m having the exact same issues. Currently my only vehicle that I have to transport my 7 month old is a complete safety risk. My check engine light is on and the code its throwing is to replace transmission valve body assembly. My Tahoe is shifting very harshly when driving normally, it feels like it slams into gears causing the whole car to jerk. When sitting at a red light that turns green, Tahoe is slipping, barely wanting to move through an intersection with vehicles all around me. I’ve been advised to not drive my Tahoe at all because if I do I will certainly have severe drivetrain damage and rear wheel lock up. Like I said, Chevrolet already has a recall for this issue on some of their vehicles, but my specific Tahoe does not. This is my only vehicle for myself and my baby and I cannot drive it due to its safety issues.

Filed Jun 19, 2026 · Transmission · MS

Rear end makes noise when turning, been flushed based on current bulletin. Still makes noise but not as bad. Now transmission is jerking at multiple gears

Filed Jun 13, 2026 · Transmission · SC

My 2017 Chevrolet Tahoe equipped with a 6L80 transmission began experiencing transmission-related drivability issues at approximately 130,000 miles. The vehicle jerked on takeoff, had delayed/slow shifting, produced a whining noise, and later had intermittent shuddering/surging while driving. During service, metallic debris/shavings were found in the transmission fluid. The transmission ultimately required replacement at my expense. I am aware of GM Technical Service Bulletin 20-NA-142, “Shudder/Surging While Driving,” which includes 2015–2022 Chevrolet Tahoe models equipped with MYC/MYD transmissions and discusses conditions that may be identified as torque converter shudder. My vehicle’s 6L80 transmission corresponds with GM RPO MYC, and the symptoms/repair findings appeared consistent with the bulletin. I am filing this complaint to document the transmission failure and related safety concern, as the jerking, delayed shifting, and shuddering affected normal vehicle operation.

Filed May 20, 2026 · Fuel system, Transmission · VA

My vehicle started having stuttering/shifting issues back in August 2025, I was advised the vehicle did not need new engine but upgraded oil. I continued to have the issues and have continued to bring back to dealer for constant software updates - cannot duplicate issue meanwhile the stop sale order was issued and I was not advised. The vehicle then experienced very hard jerking- stall- that lead to the dealership putting an AWD IN 2WD calling it a fix! Just got vehicle back again after a complete stall at a stop sign- causing vehicle to roll back and cut back on! Dealer stated the vehicle showed the stall/shutter but could not duplicate on road test. This is a serious safety issue!!

Filed May 12, 2026 · Engine, Transmission · 39,000 miles · TX

The contact owns a 2023 Chevrolet Tahoe. The contact stated that while driving at 75 MPH, the vehicle shut off without warning. Due to the failure, the contact used excessive force to steer the vehicle off to the shoulder of the highway where the vehicle was then towed to a dealer. After the vehicle remained in the dealer's possession for over a week, the vehicle was diagnosed with an engine failure. The contact was then informed that the vehicle was placed under recall the federal safety agency Campaign Number: 25V274000 (Engine) and that the engine would be replaced. Despite the engine repair, the contact stated that an abnormal, rattling sound would emit from the vehicle upon start of the engine. In addition, the contact stated that the vehicle would violently jerk upon depression of the accelerator pedal while at a complete stop. The failure started intermittently; however, the contact stated that overtime the failure became more persistent. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where they claimed that the transmission was four quarts low on transmission fluid; they then informed the contact that they could not guarantee that remedy would repair the failure. The contact stated that failure improved; however, she would still experience a slight hesitation upon depression of the accelerator pedal. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but offered no assistance. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 39,000.

Related recalls

Power train: transfer case (4-wheel drive)Reported May 7, 2026 · 66 vehicles affected
What is wrong
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2026 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, and Tahoe, and GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles with four-wheel (4WD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), and certain 2015-2020 Suburban, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Yukon, Yukon XL, and Tahoe vehicles. A component missing from the drivetrain transfer case may cause the front and/or rear wheels to lock up without warning to the driver.
Risk
Front or rear wheel lockup increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Owners are advised not to drive their vehicle until the remedy is completed. Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the transfer case assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 18, 2026. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1‑800‑462‑8782, Chevrolet customer service at 1‑800‑222‑1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1‑800‑333‑4223. GM's number for this recall is N262557620. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on on May 7, 2026.

Recall number 26V289000 · Recall details

Power train: automatic transmission: fluid/lubricant: valves/valve bodyReported February 13, 2026 · 43,743 vehicles affected
What is wrong
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2022 Chevrolet Tahoe, Chevrolet Suburban, GMC Yukon, GMC Yukon XL, Cadillac Escalade, and Cadillac Escalade ESV vehicles equipped with 10 Speed Transmission with ETRS (Electronic Transmission Range Select). The transmission control valve may fail and lock up the rear wheels.
Risk
Rear wheels that lock up while driving increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will install new transmission control module (TCM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 7, 2026. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1‑888‑988‑7267, Cadillac customer service at 1‑800‑458‑8006, GMC customer service at GMC 1‑800‑462‑8782 or Chevrolet customer service at 1‑800‑222‑1020. GM's number for this recall is N252536750. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on on February 12, 2026.

Recall number 26V085000 · Recall details

Power train: automatic transmission: fluid/lubricant: valves/valve bodyReported October 24, 2024 · 463,295 vehicles affected
What is wrong
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.
Risk
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 1‑800‑458‑8006, GMC customer service at GMC 1‑800‑462‑8782 or Chevrolet customer service at 1‑800‑222‑1020. GM's number for this recall is N242454440.

Recall number 24V797000 · Recall details

Power train: driveline: driveshaftReported January 27, 2022 · 1,789 vehicles affected
What is wrong
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.
Risk
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.

Recall number 22V036000 · Recall details

Power train: transfer case (4-wheel drive)Reported June 27, 2014 · 392,459 vehicles affected
What is wrong
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2014-2015 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra vehicles, and model year 2015 GMC Yukon and Chevrolet Suburban and Tahoe vehicles. In the affected vehicles, an electrical signal short may cause the transfer case to shift to neutral without the driver's input.
Risk
If the transfer case switches to neutral while the vehicle is parked and the parking brake is not in use, the vehicle may roll away increasing the risk of injury to bystanders. If the transfer case switches to neutral while the vehicle is being driven, the vehicle would lose drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
GM will notify owners, and dealers will re-program the software in the transfer case control module, free of charge. The recall began in early August 2014. Owners may contact General Motors customer service at 1‑800‑222‑1020 (Chevrolet), or 1‑800‑462‑8782 (GMC). GM's number for this recall is 14192.

Recall number 14V374000 · Recall details

Power train: automatic transmission: cooling unit and linesReported March 31, 2014 · 489,936 vehicles affected
What is wrong
General Motors LLC (GM ) is recalling certain model year 2014 Chevrolet Silverado Light Duty Regular Cab, Double Cab, and Crew Cab 1500 series and model year 2015 Suburban and Tahoe; GMC model year 2014 Sierra Regular Cab, Double Cab, and Crew Cab 1500 Series and model year 2015 Yukon and Yukon XL vehicles equipped with a 6-Speed Automatic Transmission (feature code MYC). The subject vehicles may have a transmission oil cooler line that is not securely seated in the fitting.
Risk
If the line is not securely seated and transmission oil leaks from the fitting, the oil could contact a hot surface and cause a vehicle fire.
Remedy
GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the transmission oil cooler line connection and repair the vehicles, as needed, free of charge. The recall began on May 19, 2014. Owners may contact Chevrolet at 1‑866‑694‑6546 or GMC owners may contact GMC at 1‑866‑996‑9463. GM's number for this recall is 14121.

Recall number 14V152000 · Recall details

Power train: automatic transmissionReported January 2, 2013 · 54,686 vehicles affected
What is wrong
General Motors (GM) is recalling certain model year 2013 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, and Escalade EXT; Chevrolet Avalanche, Express, Silverado HD, Silverado LD, Suburban, and Tahoe; and GMC Savana, Sierra HD, Sierra LD, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles, manufactured between November 7, 2012, through December 18, 2012, for failing to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 102, "Transmission Shift Lever Sequence, Starter Interlock, and Transmission Braking Effect", and FMVSS No. 114, "Theft Protection and Rollaway Prevention." The vehicles may have been built with a fractured park lock cable or a malformed steering column lock actuator gear in the lock module assembly.
Risk
As a result, the vehicle may shift from Park with the ignition key removed or the ignition key in the OFF position. The vehicle may also shift out of Park without application of the brake pedal while the key is off. Either of these scenarios may cause the vehicle to roll away after the driver has exited the vehicle, resulting in a possible vehicle crash and/or injury.
Remedy
GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the affected vehicles and replace the steering column as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on January 21, 2013. Chevrolet owners may call 1‑800‑630‑2438. Cadillac owners may call 1‑866‑982‑2339. GMC owners may call 1‑866‑996‑9463.

Recall number 13V001000 · Recall details

Power train: manual transmission: shift pattern indicatorReported February 14, 2005 · 7,194 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Certain sport utility vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission, fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 102, "transmission shift lever sequence, starter interlock and transmission braking effect." under certain vehicle starting conditions, the shift lever position indicator located in the instrument panel cluster may not illuminate. If the shift lever position indicator does not illuminate, the driver may not know which gear the vehicle is in.
Risk
The vehicle may move in an unintended direction resulting in possible injury to others outside of the vehicle.
Remedy
Dealers will reprogram the instrument panel cluster free of charge. The recall began on february 14, 2005. Owners may contact cadillac at 1‑866‑982‑2339, chevrolet at 1‑800‑630‑2438, and gmc at 1‑866‑996‑9463.

Recall number 05V055000 · Recall details

Power train: automatic transmissionReported July 26, 1995 · 36,641 vehicles affected
What is wrong
The transmission shift-cable lock clip can back out of its installed position resulting in a loss of cable adjustment. When the shift lever is placed in the "park" position, the "park" indicator light may not illuminate.
Risk
The vehicle can move unintentionally if the driver does not notice that the indicator light is not on and does not apply the parking brake.
Remedy
Dealers will adjust the shift cable and install a lock clip.

Recall number 95V139000 · Recall details

Questions about the Chevrolet Tahoe jerking

Which Chevrolet Tahoe years have jerking or lurching problems?

The model years with the most reports are 1997 (26 complaints), 1999 (13 complaints) and 2015 (12 complaints).

How much does it cost to fix jerking or lurching on the Chevrolet Tahoe?

Owners who mentioned a price put the repair at about $1,100 (median of 12 complaints that include a dollar amount). Costs vary with mileage, warranty and where the work is done.

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