The Good
The 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe offers a compelling mix of advantages. Performance from the V8 engines is strong, offering good towing capability. Reliability is generally good for its age. Comfort is a highlight with a spacious interior. The design is classic SUV, appealing to those seeking a traditional look. While not the most efficient, it delivers acceptable fuel economy for its class. Value-wise, it provides a lot of SUV for the money, especially on the used market.
The Bad
The 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe has some known weaknesses. Fuel economy is a common complaint. Transmission issues, particularly with higher mileage, should be investigated. Rust can be a problem, especially in northern climates. Suspension components may wear out. The interior plastics can feel dated and prone to wear. Watch out for oil consumption issues with certain engines. Also, the Autoride suspension (if equipped) can be costly to repair.
2005 Chevrolet Tahoe: Quick Overview
Key specifications for the 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe include:
- Engine Options:
- 4.8L V8 (285 hp, 295 lb-ft of torque)
- 5.3L V8 (295 hp, 335 lb-ft of torque) - Most common
- 5.3L V8 (320 hp, 340 lb-ft of torque) - Available in certain trims with specific packages
- Horsepower: Ranging from 285 to 320 hp depending on the engine.
- Fuel Economy:
- 4.8L V8: Approximately 15 mpg city / 19 mpg highway
- 5.3L V8: Approximately 14 mpg city / 18 mpg highway (slightly better with 2WD)
- 0-60 Times: Around 8-9 seconds depending on the engine and drivetrain.
- Towing Capacity: Up to 7,700 lbs depending on configuration (2WD vs. 4WD, engine).
- Trim-Level Features:
- LS: Standard features included cloth upholstery, air conditioning, power windows and locks, and a basic audio system.
- LT: Added features like leather upholstery, upgraded audio system, dual-zone climate control, and alloy wheels.
- Z71: Off-road oriented trim with skid plates, off-road suspension, and unique styling cues.
2005 Chevrolet Tahoe Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2005 |
| Make | Chevrolet |
| Model | Tahoe |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 2WD |
| Type | Sport Utility Vehicle |
| Category | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | ARLINGTON |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 4975 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 6500 pounds |
| Overall Height | 74.80 inches |
| Overall Length | 198.80 inches |
| Overall Width | 78.80 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 116.00 inches |
| Standard Seating | 6 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 4.8-L V-8 OHV 16V |
| Engine Size | 4.8L |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 4-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Recirculating |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $35,915 |
| Invoice Price | $31,426 |
| Delivery Charges | $850 |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe Have?
Electrical issues, such as problems with the door locks and windows, are also sometimes reported. The Autoride suspension system, if equipped, can be expensive to repair or replace when components fail.
While recalls may have been issued over the years, it's essential to check the NHTSA website with the VIN to determine if any open recalls apply to a specific vehicle. Long-term reliability concerns revolve around the durability of the engine and transmission, as well as rust prevention. Maintaining the vehicle with regular servicing and addressing minor issues promptly can significantly extend its lifespan. Some owners have reported issues with the fuel pump and fuel level sensors over time. Ensuring that all maintenance records are available and inspecting the vehicle thoroughly before purchase are very important.
How long will the 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Safety features included standard front airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS), and optional side-impact airbags. Some models also included OnStar, providing emergency assistance and remote diagnostics. The Tahoe lacked many of the advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) common in newer vehicles, such as lane departure warning or automatic emergency braking.
Crash test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) generally show good results for frontal impact protection. However, side-impact protection ratings were more variable, depending on whether the vehicle was equipped with optional side airbags. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) ratings provide a different perspective and should also be considered.
Optional features that added to the technology and convenience included power-adjustable pedals, heated front seats, and automatic climate control. While not cutting-edge, the available features provided a reasonable level of comfort and safety for the era.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2005 Chevrolet Tahoe Prices and Market Value
2005 Chevrolet Tahoe Cost of Ownership
2005 Chevrolet Tahoe Fuel Efficiency
2005 Chevrolet Tahoe Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2005 Chevrolet Tahoe Recalls & Defects
Power Train:manual Transmission:shift Pattern Indicator
AIR Bags:frontal
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:pedals and Linkages
Seat Belts:rear/Other
Fuel System, Gasoline
Wheels:hub
Electrical System
2005 Chevrolet Tahoe Warranty
Basic
Powertrain
Rust
2005 Chevrolet Tahoe Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?
Reliability is a mixed bag; some Tahoes are very reliable, while others experience common GM issues like transmission problems. The Ford Expedition is a close competitor, with similar pros and cons. The Nissan Armada offered more standard horsepower, but its styling was more polarizing. The GMC Yukon is essentially a rebadged Tahoe with slightly different styling and trim options.
In terms of price on the used market, the Tahoe is generally competitively priced. If reliability is a primary concern, a well-maintained Toyota Sequoia from a similar year might be a better alternative, although it could be more expensive. The Ford Expedition is a similar alternative in terms of price and features. Consider the specific needs and priorities when deciding between these options, focusing on condition and maintenance history.
Ranks #1053 SUV
| 1 | 2023 Toyota 4Runner | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus GX | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Subaru Crosstrek | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW iX | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Bronco Sport | (3.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2024 Chevrolet Trax | (5.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Audi A4 allroad | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Kona N | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan ARIYA | (5.0★) |
| 1053 | 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?
Carl on August 12, 2024
By far the best car I've owned.Exterior 5.0
5.3 lover on March 15, 2024
A very reliable vehicleMy thaoe has been in my family for a while she was bought used I can’t remember how many miles but it now has 260k miles and it has been the most reliable vehicle we have owned it has never broken down on the side of the road or left me stranded it always crank up first try it never complains when I get on the gas pedal it’s always responsive and only recently I have had engine problems the aluminum heads cause problems sometimes with the spark plug threads and after putting a new head on the truck has since blew it’s radiator even after it blew up on me the truck still drove 10 miles home going highway speed and only barely overheated when I pulled in my driveway the truck has always towed my tractors heavy loads of scrap metal and other things it’s a good tow rig family vehicle and over all just good vehicle it does what it needs and is very reliable it has never done me wrong not left me stranded so it’s a very reliable vehicle and really good first vehicle just be careful with the pedal since the 5.3l is not the easiest on gas usage.
Tahoe Trev on November 22, 2023
Chevy built to Last a lifetime!!!!!One of the Best Chevy Trucks Ever Built! 200,000 + miles and still going strong . Very good on gas â›½ï¸ ðŸ‘👠Braking system is superb stops on a dime . Double ply steel Body for extra protection, shatter proof windshield ac front rear & 3rd row seats cruise control . Hands down the Best Chevy Built SUV out there.
Rick_in_STL on May 19, 2023
Well built 5.3L 4wd tahoe that stands up @115k18 years and still going strong. We got our LS Tahoe 4WD new and it's been really reliable. The kids are grown up and gone and my wife still wants to keep it because she feels safe. The tahoe still looks great, drives nicely down the road. About 115k miles and we have had to do some work over the years. The typical tires replaced at 30-35k miles, brake service 2x. Recently we dealt with the brake lines rusting. That was expensive about 3k to redo all the lines/calipers/rotors. This year was probably the most expensive with the brake lines than we have spent in 10 years. Hopefully we can get another 10 years out of the Tahoe!
Hunter on December 9, 2020
Most Realizable car its still run even in dune santhe car need to change the Fuel Pump starting is a mess every time i start i have to overcome the vibration after a few seconds it will accelerate perfectly
Don34 on March 1, 2020
Overall, this car has been an exceptional suvI bought my 2005 Tahoe Z71 while the we’re trying to get rid of last year models. So I got a really good deal on it. The z71 package was super loaded with just about ever feature you would want. The ride is comfortable and has great pick up with the 5.3 liter V8. It also gets about 17.8 miles per gallon while driving. The best thing about the car was that it was just so dependable and I have never had second thoughts on its purchase. I would buy another one if I could, it’s been a great suv with 230000 miles and still ticking.
Power Family on January 21, 2020
Worth the money!This car is very reliable. It gets good gas mileage for being a big SUV, we have had it ever sense it was brand new. Its turn is very good for its size. And it got to 273,867 miles before i had small engine problems. The seats are very nice.
Rob Fm WV on December 13, 2019
Best SUV to buy cash - No CAR PMT!!!Bought the Tahoe to replace the Family Minivan as I needed Towing Capacity for a scout trailer. A little thirsty avging about 16 MPG in mixed driving, but starts up every time, the little bit Ive needed to fix, takes no time and parts are cheap. It dosent have ALL the technology but hey, when in the end you have a 0$ a month car note... Its worth it!
NoBS on December 7, 2019
Best Vehicle I've Owned...I just gotta say that no vehicle has brought me as much owner satisfaction as my 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe... by far the best vehicle I have ever owned! Just wish my 2015 Tahoe performed as well!
Chevy Girl on October 22, 2019
Love my Tahoe!I bought my 2005 Tahoe LS 2WD used with 84,000 miles on it in 2012. It is now 2019 and she has 126,000 miles on her. I love this truck and hope to drive it until it falls apart under me. It's comfortable, roomy, drives like a road car, and doesn't argue with me when I hit the gas pedal. Gas mileage is what I expected in a vehicle this big. Surprisingly, the seats and interior fittings (except the headliner and center console lid as noted below) still look brand-new. ALL vehicles will need items repaired/replaced over time and you're kidding yourself if you think yours won't. This one is no exception. Aside from regular maintenance, I've had to replace the water pump, the brakes, the belts, and I've been through two replacement center console lids. Currently the EVAP system needs service (going to the mechanic next week), the rear passenger window motor needs replacing (we just don't use it for the time being), an airbag sensor needs to be replaced (I drove cars w/o airbags for many years before this and I'll be just fine until it's fixed), the headliner needs to be re-glued around the edge of the windshield (easy repair). None of which turns me off of this truck or prevents me from driving it. All of that will be repaired for a lot less money than what the repair of any of the useless bells and whistles in a new car would cost. What's more important to me is the engine and transmission which have been flawless. When I was shopping for a vehicle back in 2012 and I asked my trusted mechanic which he would recommend, he said to buy anything with this engine in it. He was right.