1998 Chevrolet Tahoe Lt 4dr 4x4 review from North America
"Lemon or Lemonade?"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
More recently the intake manifold gasket has started to leak. This vintage is notorious for it from the research I have done... especially between 60 and 80 thousand.
Factory oil cooler lines leak considerably. Always have, but have gotten worse recently.
Front differential passenger side output seal is leaking - always has. $5 seal and a $200 axle, not to mention the time to replace... gear lube is pretty cheap in comparison.
Two exhaust manifold "donuts"...Cheap parts, but annoying recurring problem.
Belt tensioner is going as are bearings in the idler pulley and alternator.
Idle has gotten rough, even after full tune up.
Transmission is acting up, even having done recommended fluid changes. A rebuild may be in its future.
Quick connect heater fitting on manifold leaks, very common.
Shocks needed replacement around 70K.
Leather setas are pretty cheap... seams are pulling, and are not that comfortable in the long haul.
Assorted creeks and rattles, but only noticeable in the colder months.
General comments?
The interior and exterior have been holding up fairly well, but I've had better. Overall I can't complain because it hasn't stranded me...yet.
The once impressive drive line is now a thorn in my side, and I fear my check book soon. I am afraid it will only get worse.
The engine still runs strong and gets acceptable fuel economy, even if it leaks oil and coolant on my garage floor.
Parts for tune up were expensive, thank goodness they are not required often.
It just seems that from vehicle to vehicle the quality and reliability are so random.
Overall I don't think the money for these things is justified.
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| I would buy another one.. |
| Comfortable and trustworthy |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1998 |
| First year of ownership | 2000 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 5.7 V8 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 8 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 6 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 38000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 73000 miles |
| Previous car | Ford Ranger |
| Date of Entry | 25th February, 2003 |