1998 Chevrolet Tahoe Lt 4dr 4x4 5.7 V8 from North America
Summary:
Lemon or Lemonade?
Faults:
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.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 25th February, 2003
7th Dec 2004, 21:01
Yep, I blew a manifold gasket on the passenger side.. at about 68,500 and as I sit here right now, with 73,600, my truck is in the shop with a blown third member. Sounded like "Black Cat" fireworks went off under the back seat. I was pretty sure it wasn't my truck.. maybe something in the road I didn't see... then boom...the ass end blew up... not to fun.