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2012 Chevrolet Tahoe Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

Rating: 4.80
Based on 41 Owner Reviews ▶
Simon A | March 31, 2025
The 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe is a full-size SUV, part of the Tahoe's third generation (2007-2014). Known for its truck-based ruggedness and spacious interior, it appeals to families needing ample seating and towing capacity. Key trims include the LS, LT, and LTZ. New, the Tahoe ranged from approximately $40,000 to $55,000. It’s popularity stems from its blend of capability, comfort, and traditional SUV styling, making it a versatile choice.
The Good

The 2012 Tahoe offers a blend of power and practicality. Its V8 engine provides strong towing and acceleration, appealing to those needing capability. Its spacious, comfortable interior makes it a practical choice for families. Solid, traditional SUV styling appeals to buyers who value a classic aesthetic. Good reliability for its class provides peace of mind.

The Bad

The 2012 Tahoe's weaknesses include relatively poor fuel economy, a common issue for full-size SUVs. Some owners have reported issues with the Active Fuel Management (AFM) system, leading to oil consumption problems. The interior plastics can feel cheap in some areas. Rust can be a concern in colder climates, so inspect thoroughly.

2012 Chevrolet Tahoe: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options:
    • 5.3L V8 (Standard on LS and LT): 320 hp, 335 lb-ft of torque
    • 6.2L V8 (Standard on LTZ, Optional on some other trims): 403 hp, 417 lb-ft of torque
  • Horsepower: 320 hp (5.3L), 403 hp (6.2L)
  • Fuel Economy (5.3L, RWD):
    • City: 15 mpg
    • Highway: 21 mpg
  • Fuel Economy (6.2L, RWD):
    • City: 14 mpg
    • Highway: 18 mpg
  • 0-60 Times: Around 7.8 seconds (5.3L), Around 6.5 seconds (6.2L) (estimates vary)
  • Towing Capacity: Up to 8,500 lbs (depending on configuration and equipment)
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • LS: Cloth upholstery, tri-zone climate control, Bluetooth connectivity, OnStar, CD player, power windows and locks.
    • LT: Adds leather upholstery, heated front seats, Bose audio system, rear parking sensors, automatic headlights, fog lamps.
    • LTZ: Includes features like heated and cooled front seats, navigation system, rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, power-folding mirrors, 20-inch alloy wheels.
    • Other: Available features included a sunroof, rear-seat entertainment system, and four-wheel drive on all trims. The Z71 package offered off-road enhancements.

2012 Chevrolet Tahoe Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2012
Make Chevrolet
Model Tahoe
Trim -
Style -
Type Sport Utility Vehicle
Category Minivan Medium Truck
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City ARLINGTON
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight -
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height 74.8 inches
Overall Length -
Overall Width 79 inches
Wheelbase Length 116 inches
Standard Seating 8
Engine & Performance
Engine Gas/Electric V-8 6.0-L
Engine Size 6L
Engine Cylinders 8
Transmission Automatic 6-Speed
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds 6-Speed
Drivetrain Four-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System 4-Wheel
Steering Type Power
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) $54,775
Invoice Price -
Delivery Charges -

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What Problems Does the 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe Have?

Frequently reported problems for the 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe often revolve around the Active Fuel Management (AFM) system. This system can lead to excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs and potentially causing engine damage over the long term. Some owners have reported transmission issues, including hard shifting or failure, though this is less common. Another area of concern can be the air conditioning system, with reports of compressor failures or leaks. Electrical issues, such as problems with the door locks, power windows, and the radio, also surface in owner complaints.
Recalls for the 2012 Tahoe have included issues related to the electronic stability control (ESC) system, which could potentially fail to activate properly in certain situations, and concerns regarding the side-impact airbags. Check the NHTSA website for the most up-to-date recall information.
Long-term reliability concerns generally center on the aforementioned AFM system and potential transmission issues. Regular maintenance, including timely oil changes and transmission fluid flushes, is crucial to mitigating these risks. Rust can also be a factor in colder climates, so inspecting the undercarriage is vital. Some minor interior trim pieces and electrical components may be prone to wear and tear over time.

How long will the 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe last?

With good maintenance, a 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe can easily reach 200,000 miles or more. Many owners report 10-15 years of service. Longevity depends heavily on consistent oil changes, transmission fluid maintenance, and addressing issues promptly. The engine and transmission are generally durable, but the AFM system is a known weakness that can shorten engine life if not properly managed. Rust prevention is also important for maximizing long-term durability, particularly in areas with road salt.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe offered a decent array of tech and safety features for its time. Standard tech included a CD player, auxiliary input, and OnStar connectivity. Higher trims added a Bose audio system and a navigation system. An optional rear-seat entertainment system with a DVD player was available for keeping passengers occupied on long trips.
Driver-assistance features were relatively basic. Rear parking sensors were standard on the LT and LTZ trims. The LTZ also offered features like blind-spot monitoring, which was a relatively advanced feature for that era. A rearview camera was optional on some trims and standard on the LTZ.
Safety features included antilock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a suite of airbags (front, side, and side curtain). The 2012 Tahoe received good crash-test ratings from the NHTSA. The IIHS also gave it generally good ratings, though results can vary based on the specific test and model year.
It's worth noting that by today's standards, the 2012 Tahoe lacks many modern tech features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control or lane-keeping assist. However, it offered a solid foundation of essential tech and safety for its time.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Black
Summit White
Silver Ice Metallic
Graystone Metallic
Black Granite Metallic
Crystal Red Tintcoat
Blue Ray Metallic
Sheer Silver Metallic
Dark Blue Metallic
Gold Mist Metallic
Interior Colors
Ebony
Light Cashmere
Cocoa/Dark Cashmere

2012 Chevrolet Tahoe Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe ranged from approximately $40,000 to $55,000, depending on the trim level and options. As of today, used market prices typically range from $10,000 to $20,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location. The Tahoe has experienced significant depreciation, common for large SUVs. Factors affecting resale value include the vehicle's condition, mileage, service history, and the presence of desirable options like four-wheel drive or a rear-seat entertainment system. Models with lower mileage and a clean title command higher prices.

2012 Chevrolet Tahoe Cost of Ownership

The 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe is generally considered moderately costly to own. Insurance rates are average for a full-size SUV. Fuel costs are high due to its poor fuel economy. Maintenance can be moderate if regular servicing is performed, but repairs, especially related to the AFM system or transmission, can be expensive. Long-term ownership costs can be significant due to potential repairs and ongoing fuel consumption. It's not an economical vehicle compared to smaller or hybrid options.

2012 Chevrolet Tahoe Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity 25 gallons
City Mileage 20 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage 23 miles/gallon

2012 Chevrolet Tahoe Safety Rating

NHTSA
Overall Rating
Overall Frontal Star Rating
Side Overall Star Rating
Overall Rollover Star Rating
Combined Front Seat Rating
Combined Rear Seat Rating
Overall Frontal Star Rating
Frontal Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Overall Side Star Rating
Side Barrier Star Ratings
Side Pole Star Rating
Combined Side Barrier And Side Pole Star Ratings Not Tested
Rollover Resistance Star Rating

2012 Chevrolet Tahoe Recalls & Defects

Electrical System:ignition
Recall date 2014-12-30
Recall no. 14v827000
Source NHTSA
Summary General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2011-2012 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade Esv, Escalade Ext, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado HD, Silverado LD, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra LD, Sierra HD, Yukon, and Yukon XL Vehicles. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE Ignition Lock Actuator MAY Bind, Making Turning THE KEY Difficult or Causing THE Ignition TO GET Stuck IN THE "start" Position.
Consequence IF Stuck IN THE "start" Position, THE Ignition MAY Suddenly Snap Back Into THE "accessory" Position, Causing A Loss OF Engine, Steering, and Braking Power, Increasing THE Risk OF A Vehicle Crash. IF THE Vehicle IS IN A Crash, THE AIR Bags MAY NOT Deploy, Increasing THE Risk OF Occupant Injury.
Remedy GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect and Replace THE Ignition Lock Housing, AS Necessary, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON February 12, 2015. Owners MAY Contact GM Customer Service AT 1-800-458-8006 (Cadillac), 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), or 1-800-462-8782 (gmc). Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 14696 FOR THE Original Equipment, and 14912 FOR THE Service Replacement Parts.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2021-02-05
Recall no. 21v054000
Source NHTSA
Summary General Motors, LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain 2014 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade Esv, Chevrolet Silverado 2500, Silverado 3500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 2500, Sierra 3500, Yukon, and Yukon XL Vehicles Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN THE States OF AL, CA, FL, GA, HI, LA, MS, SC, TX, PR, AS, GU, THE MP, and VI or "zone A." Additionally GM IS Recalling Certain 2011-2014 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade Esv, Chevrolet Silverado 2500, Silverado 3500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 2500, Sierra 3500, Yukon, Yukon XL and 2011-2013 Cadillac Escalade Ext, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado 1500, and GMC Sierra 1500 Vehicles Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN THE States OF AZ, AR, DE, DC, IL, IN, KS, KY, MD, MO, NE, NV, NJ, NM, NC, OH, OK, PA, TN, VA, and WV or "zone B." Additionally, GM IS Recalling Certain 2010-2014 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade Esv, Chevrolet Silverado 2500, Silverado 3500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 2500, Sierra 3500, Yukon, and Yukon XL and 2010-2013 Cadillac Escalade Ext, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado 1500, and GMC Sierra 1500 Vehicles Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN THE States OF AK, CO, CT, ID, IA, ME, MA, MI, MN, MT, NH, NY, ND, OR, RI, SD, UT, VT, WA, WI, and WY or "zone C." These Vehicles ARE Equipped With Non-desiccated Passenger Frontal Inflators Containing Phase-stabilized Ammonium Nitrate (Psan) Propellant. These Inflators MAY Explode DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO High Absolute Humidity, High Temperatures, and High Temperature Cycling.
Consequence AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants, Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Front Passenger AIR BAG Inflator With AN Alternate One, Free OF Charge. Interim Letters Notifying Owners OF THE Safety Risk Were Mailed ON February 25, 2021. Second Notification Letters Will BE Mailed Once THE Remedy IS Available. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed TO 40 VIN Owners ON MAY 11, 2021. A Second Owner Notification Letter WAS Mailed TO All Other Owners ON January 24, 2022. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020; Cadillac Customer Service AT 1-800-458-8006; and GMC Customer Service AT 1-800-462-8782. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS N212328800.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2021-02-05
Recall no. 21v051000
Source NHTSA
Summary General Motors, LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain 2012 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade Esv, Escalade Ext, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado 1500, Silverado 2500/3500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Sierra 2500/3500, Yukon, and Yukon XL Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN THE States OF Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, THE Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and THE U.s. Virgin Islands or "zone A." These Vehicles ARE Equipped With Non-Desiccated Passenger Frontal Inflators Containing Phase-Stabilized Ammonium Nitrate (psan) Propellant. These Inflators MAY Explode DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO High Absolute Humidity, High Temperatures, and High Temperature Cycling.
Consequence AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants, Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Front Passenger AIR BAG Inflator With AN Alternate One, Free OF Charge. Interim Letters Notifying Owners OF THE Safety Risk Were Mailed ON February 22, 2021. Second Notification Letters Will BE Mailed Once THE Remedy IS Available. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed ON MAY 11, 2021. Owners MAY Contact Cadillac Customer Service AT 1-800-458-8006; Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020; and GMC Customer Service AT 1-800-462-8782. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS N212328770.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.

2012 Chevrolet Tahoe Warranty

Basic
Original warranty 36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired
Corrosion
Original warranty 72 months / 100,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired
Drivetrain
Original warranty 60 months / 100,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired
Roadside Assistance
Original warranty 60 months / 100,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired

2012 Chevrolet Tahoe Insurance

Insurance for a 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sport Utility Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?

The 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe competes with other full-size SUVs like the Ford Expedition, Nissan Armada, and Toyota Sequoia. In terms of performance, the Tahoe's V8 engines are comparable to the competition, offering ample power for towing and hauling. Feature-wise, the Tahoe is generally competitive, though some rivals may offer more advanced tech features, especially in higher trim levels.
Reliability can be a mixed bag. The Sequoia is generally considered more reliable long-term, while the Tahoe's reliability is average for its class. The Expedition can have similar reliability concerns. Price-wise, the Tahoe typically falls in the middle of the pack.
Alternatives to the 2012 Tahoe include:
  • Toyota Sequoia: Known for its excellent reliability, but may lack some of the Tahoe's features.
  • Ford Expedition: Offers a similar blend of capability and comfort, but reliability can be a concern.
  • GMC Yukon: Essentially a more upscale version of the Tahoe, offering similar performance and features.
Depending on priorities, the Sequoia might be a better choice for long-term reliability, while the Expedition could be considered for a potentially lower price point, understanding the risks. The Yukon offers a slightly more luxurious experience.

Ranks #944 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 (5.0★)
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★)
944 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe (5.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?

The 2012 Chevrolet Tahoe is ideal for families needing a spacious SUV with strong towing capability and a traditional truck-based design. It's worth buying if you prioritize these attributes and are willing to accept the compromises in fuel economy and potential maintenance costs. A used 2012 Tahoe can be a good value, but a thorough inspection is crucial, especially checking for AFM-related issues and rust. Consider the LT trim for a good balance of features and price. If reliability is a top concern, explore alternatives like the Toyota Sequoia.

2012 Chevrolet Tahoe Owner Reviews

4.80
Consumer Rating, Based on 41 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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TL McRae on August 26, 2022

2012 Tahoe great experience

I came here looking to trade in my ford explorer. Shane was very helpful and took his time to answer all of my questions. I was able to get the truck i wanted for the price that i wanted it without putting any money down!

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Ingle party!! on February 24, 2021

Most cleanest car iv ever bought.

This car worked great for me and my family. A mom of 2 boys I couldn’t have found a better car plenty of room for me, my fiancé and the children.

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ROCK on October 8, 2020

Love the comfort and style

LTZ Tahoe has all the creature comforts and ride we could ever want. We used to have a Suburban with our 6 children. Now that they are grown the Tahoe was the next choice. DVD is a hit with the grandchildren now. Tahoe holds it value quite well

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J Morris on August 29, 2020

Great suv

I’ve only owned this year less than a year but I have bet had any troubles and it’s been super nice and reliable It’s spacious and has all the fun extras

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Sharwood on August 2, 2020

Best vehicle I’ve ever owned. Smooth ride!

Roomed rude, safe and very comfortable! Big enough to own the road, feel very secure and safe driving this car. The kiddos won’t fight in the back there’s plenty of room for all of them. This means the world to have a calm ride!

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ryanhunt0725 on May 9, 2020

Best vehicle we've ever owned, hands down!

Since 2005, we have owned 3 Chevy Tahoes. I am more of a truck guy, but my wife loves the Tahoe. We have always purchased a model with three rows of seating and 2nd-row captain seating. The fantastic thing is that Chevrolet continues to improve the model every year. We most recently had 2012 that had options that the competition is just adding to their top trim level (equivalent to Chevy's LTZ). One of my favorite options offered in 2012 we owned was an onboard hard drive that stored music. You could record any CD that you put into the CD player and also plug a flash drive into the USB port and download over 1,000 hours of MP3 music. It also included a fantastic Bose sound system with a subwoofer built into the center console. Out of the 3 Tohoes we have owned since 2005, I became most attached to the 2012 LTZ. I would still rate all three as 5-star vehicles with phenomenal ownership experiences. I can't imagine not having seating for seven, and the creative creature comforts that Chevy continues to add as the Tahoe evolves. You can't go wrong with the Tahoe if you are looking for an SUV that is both luxurious and practical. They can be pricey, but they are worth it. If you can't stomach the price of a new one, this is the one car I am comfortable buying used with 100,000 miles.

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Tavis “Fox” Winters on March 16, 2020

Finally found the vehicle that I wanted

I’m excited about having such a nice ride, and this one covered all of the bases. Everything about this truck was right; color, interior color, leather, sunroof, spacious and a nice set of chrome rims!

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KSP917 on January 29, 2020

Chevrolet Tahoe SSV

I had a special need for a low mileage, heavy duty vehicle. I have bought a 27 foot Airstream RV, this vehicle is perfect for this task.

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Dwhokie on January 16, 2020

Love, love LOVE my Tahoe

I bought this used in 2019 with 48,000 miles on it, and it was so well taken care of that it still seems brand new! I absolutely love this vehicle. Its leather seats are roomy and comfortable and it has all the amenities I wanted, plus more. I bought it for the towing power, but it is my daily driver. I must say, I can travel anywhere, any distance comfortably. Even with the Z71 suspension package, this truck’s ride is smooth and cushy. My biggest complaint? The running boards are plastic and their color has faded. FYI, Bluetooth only works for phone; the technology wasn’t advanced enough to play Pandora or anything else from my phone through the sound system.

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jasmin1991 on January 8, 2020

I love my Tahoe!

I love my Tahoe so much it’s got everything I wanted and more and the previous owner took such amazing care of it and it looks brand new inside and out!

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Simon A

Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.