The 2006 Tahoe can last over 300,000 miles with only some liftgate and steering noise issues. At $6,075 – $9,350, it’s expensive, but worth it for a very dependable large SUV.
The Good
The cabin is very spacious, visibility is great given its size and the towing capacity is higher than rivals.
The Bad
Interior materials on the base model are cheap, the suspension rides like a truck and both engines use a lot of fuel.
Is the 2006 Chevrolet Tahoe a Good Used SUV?
Yes, 2006 is one of the best years for the Tahoe. Owners praise the low ownership costs, size, and power.
Reliability ratings are great. Tahoe models from 2004-2006 are all good, with a spike in complaints in 2007.
Performance is good from both V8 engine choices.
The Tahoe is a safe SUV, earning 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests.
Fuel economy is poor at up to 16 MPG combined.
Positive Owner Reviews
Gia B
It's a great looking Tahoe and has a sunroof.
It is a great SUV. Drives well and comfortable. The only thing I don't like is the gas mileage.
Dawn B
Nothing much has changed on the vehicle but the price has doubled in 10 years
This vehicle has been the best I've ever owned. Few if any repairs (light bulbs or a belt). It has a few bells and whistles that were new to the industry when we first purchased the vehicle that have now become standard like Onstar and GPS maps to find an address. I was very lucky to get this vehicle when we did. My only complaint is the clear coat finish is starting to peel on the front bumper.
Justin R
It has plenty of room for everyone to sit and still have a little room to move around. Plus it does well off road
I love the space in the Tahoe. It has plenty of room for everyone to sit and still have room to move. And if I go one big trip I can lay the seats down
George G
Dependable, comfortable and family friendly
I love my Tahoe due to its dependability, and it's also low maintenance. My family is very comfortable in it when we travel.
Loretta H
The one most important thing others should know is that the size is great.
I like the size of the vehicle. I like the how easy it is to remove and replace the seats if needed.
Teethina O
The tahoe is a wonderful vehicle for a family.
It is a great family vehicle. Lots of room and comfortable. Lots of storage in back. My grandkids love it.
Wyatt J
The Joe Gibbs special edition is a unique and stylish vehicle inside and out.
My vehicle is the Joe Gibbs special, with special engine, bumpers, color, and interior. Vehicle is roomy, stylish, and very comfortable. Engine has power, and special engine that is very economical on gas. Great stereo, solidly built, and quiet. Vehicle always get a second glance because of its stylish looks, and my family feels safe in it.
Jessica S
Multiple overhead rear air conditioning vents for faster cooling or heating of the vehicle to make it more comfortable on really hot or cold days.
My 2006 Chevy Tahoe seats 8 comfortably, the plush seats are nice, and we have really not had any major problems out of it at all. It's also nice having such good rear air conditioning, especially in the Florida heat.
Negative Owner Reviews
Mary V
Bluetooth. Huge trunk. Great gas mileage.
I love the comfort of the car. Has lots of legroom for back people. The trunk is huge and has enough room for everything. I really like the gas miles it is wonderful and have not had any problems with the car. I get like 500 miles per full tank. The Bluetooth feature is really nice I can play the music that I like as well as take care of any calls that I have had coming in. I would like if the passenger set would adjust. It does not move up or down just forward and backward and my mom who is only 5'4 cant see over the dashboard if she is riding.
Amber W
I love the heated seats and the separate heat and air controls for each section.
It keeps running hot, but we cannot seem to find the problem. Hopefully that will be fixed in the near future. Little things keep messing up, but so far there have been no major problems with the car in the time that I have had it, which is about three years.
Emily S
It does not have good gas mileage but it makes it up with it is versatility.
This car is very tough, spacious and comfortable. It can sit up to 9 people, have removable third row seats and collapsible second row seats which opens up the possibilities to pack the car for moving or shopping.
Trisha K
Four wheel drive is amazing, extended version is the best.
Love the room and four wheel drive. Dislike the high vehicle repair costs. Great family vehicle for all of our travels.
Jennifer C
It's a sound vehicle that makes you feel safe while riding in it.
It's a sound vehicle that makes me feel safe, but it can be fairly unreliable. There are issues with the battery regularly going dead, and mechanics don't even know why.
cara e
Dependable vehicle and durable, will go long miles
Needs a lot of maintenance and upkeep that I was not expecting as my last vehicle was kept up to my liking.
Vanessa Q
Reliable SUV with no major issues.
My vehicle performs pretty great, haven't had any issues with it since purchasing it. Other than normal wear and tear I haven't had to replace any parts other than my tires, oil, and air filter. It comfortably fits my family of three and occasional guests.
Heidi H
2006 Chevy Tahoe has little room
My 1006 Chevy Tahoe was used when I bought it. The heater core leaked, water pump leaks, an oil leak in the rear main seal all this started within months of purchase. I didn't have a mechanic look at it before purchase major regret. It rides 8 people easily but there's no 'trunk' room for like grocery bags, suitcases, etc. I have to put the last row of seats down, I lose those seas I can only take 3 riders with me. My bags get stepped on if u put them on the floor not good for groceries at all. We had more leg room, more comfortable in our 2003 Chevy extra cab truck
What Do Critics Say About the Tahoe?
Consumer Reports finds the Tahoe to have a responsive engine and transmission, with good owner satisfaction scores.
Edmunds gives the Tahoe a 4.9/5 and likes the strong engines, but notes some build quality issues.
Kelley Blue Book users rate the Tahoe 4.6/5 and enjoy the 4WD system, but complain about fuel efficiency.
What Common Problems Does the 2006 Chevrolet Tahoe Have?
Problems with the 2006 Tahoe are relatively minor and include liftgate issues, steering noises, as well as burnt out headlights.
Liftgate problems are the most common complaint at around 100,000 miles. Owners report the tailgate does not open properly due to a lock issue. Replacing the lock assembly costs about $150.
Excessive steering noise is another issue showing up in the first 15,000 miles. The most common source of the issue is the steering shaft, which costs about $400 to replace if the problem shows up later out of warranty.
Premature headlight failure is another problem that shows up about every 20,000 miles in some vehicles. The original bulbs tend to burn out quickly, and replacing them with a higher quality bulb costs about $70.
There are 4 relatively serious recalls including the power steering hose and wheel hub, which can both increase the chances of an accident
How Long Will the 2006 Chevrolet Tahoe Last?
A properly maintained 2006 Tahoe will last over 300,000 miles, which is over 100,000 miles longer than the popular Dodge Durango. Regular annual maintenance costs are average for a large SUV, at around $525 per year, according to Repair Pal.
Most Tahoes from 2006 will have over 100,000 miles, so buyers should be prepared to replace the fuel sending unit for $800, the starter motor costing $400, and the crankshaft position sensor which costs $200.
Bridget S
The 2006 Chevrolet Tahoe is very reliable. It has no problems at all until years later down the road if a window battery gave out or something
Molly P
The Chevy Tahoe is very reliable. We have hardly had to make any repairs to it. When it does need to have repairs, they are cheap and easy fixes.
How Much Is the 2006 Chevrolet Tahoe Worth?
Blue book values range from $6,075 – $9,350, making the Tahoe around $2,000 more expensive than a Ford Expedition or Nissan Armada. When new, the price range was $34,015 to $39,145. Depreciation is better than average, losing about 7% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Tahoe?
There are three models of the Tahoe available. Technology is very outdated, with a complete redesign coming for the 2007 model year with an all-new infotainment system.
The base engine is a decently powerful 4.8L V8 which makes 285 horsepower and gets up to 16 MPG combined.
An optional upgrade is the slightly more powerful 5.3L V8, which offers 295 horsepower and also gets up to 16 MPG combined. Towing performance is good for an SUV, at up to 6,500 pounds.
What Colors Does the Tahoe Come In?
How Big Is the Tahoe?
The 2006 Tahoe is a smaller full size SUV which has a shorter wheelbase than a Chevy Suburban or Ford Expedition. Passenger room is good throughout the cabin, but the third row is a bit cramped for adults.
Cargo space is similar to rivals, but smaller with the third row up at only 16.3 cubic feet, increasing to 63.6 with the seat folded flat, and maxing out at 104.6 with both rows folded.
How Does the Tahoe Compare to the Competition?
The GMC Yukon is a popular competitor costing about $1,000 less. Both SUVs are built on the same platform from GM, but the Yukon is more luxurious and powerful. We recommend the Tahoe, since the reliability ratings are higher with fewer mechanical issues.
The Toyota Sequoia is another top-rated competitor, which is about $1,000 more. Passenger room is better in the Sequoia, but there are higher quality interior materials available in the Tahoe. We recommend the Sequoia with lower ownership costs, but both are great SUVs.
Ranks #3 Full Size SUV by Owners
1
2006 Toyota Sequoia
4.55
2
2006 GMC Yukon
4.37
3
Tie
2006 Chevrolet Tahoe
4.36
Do Owners Recommend the Chevy Tahoe?
Aaron H
Yes, the 2006 Chevrolet Tahoe is a good vehicle. It has been over 9 years and it’s still in very good condition
Amanda R
Yes it is a very good vehicle. It is reliable and dependable. It has rarely needed to be fixed. It has great features such as a built in DVD player and heated seats.
I love the space that my car provides for myself and passengers
I love that my vehicle is higher than other cars. It has a lot of space for riders and when moving people.
Edwin V
on April 2, 2021
That not all SUV are just for moms!
Well my Tahoe is my only ride, it has 266k miles on it, has original motor and trans! I have changed the water pump a handful of times! It does have a clean title! I do the oil change every 3000 miles so the motor will not knock! Since it is lifted the ride is not the smoothest! I had to cancel the back heater cores because they had gone bad!
Candace N
on February 6, 2021
10 years with the best car ever!
My Chevy Tahoe was a gift to me for my junior year in has. I have had my truck since 2008 and it has been a reliable car for me throughout my adult life. I have had my truck for 10 years! It has lasted me trips from co to fl. From ca to co. It has been a great car and I am thankful that it is still a reliable car for me!
Amber W
on February 4, 2021
I love the heated seats and the separate heat and air controls for each section.
It keeps running hot, but we cannot seem to find the problem. Hopefully that will be fixed in the near future. Little things keep messing up, but so far there have been no major problems with the car in the time that I have had it, which is about three years.
Christina E
on January 30, 2021
The Tahoe is a great family SUV.
I have a 2006 tan Chevrolet Tahoe. I love my Tahoe its reliable, great family car and when need can fit most anything in it. I drive a lot, I get great gas mileage in town and on the freeway. I would buy another Chevy Tahoe.
Penny T
on January 12, 2021
It is a great family car.
Large has heated seats drive well holds lots of people and stuff. Good on gas never needs fixing, no complaints.
Linda H
on December 29, 2020
I would say it's that the oil pump is in the engine. If that breaks then you need a new engine.
I like that the SUV is high and I can see well when driving. It is very comfortable and I feel safe. I do not like that the oil pump is in the engine and if that breaks it can't be fixed.
Robert B
on December 16, 2020
Great Tahoe for family usage.
This tahoe has been great miner problems but fixable. We take it everywhere.Nic3 and roomy we get the whole extended family in it. Great for long drives on vacation. Extreme good shape. Easy to put seats down for more cargo space. Sits 7 of our family.
Alma C
on November 27, 2020
Fun in the Tahoe,our many vacations and many more to take.
My Tahoe has so many extras, sunroof is one of my favorites. It has a lot of comfortable space, DVD player to entertain the kids. Lots of storage behind the seats, fun to drive, great for long trips and four wheel drive for those snow days. I really enjoy my Tahoe.
cara e
on November 26, 2020
Dependable vehicle and durable, will go long miles
Needs a lot of maintenance and upkeep that I was not expecting as my last vehicle was kept up to my liking.
Trisha K
on November 17, 2020
Four wheel drive is amazing, extended version is the best.
Love the room and four wheel drive. Dislike the high vehicle repair costs. Great family vehicle for all of our travels.
D H
on November 9, 2020
It runs great no problems here love how you can haul a lot of stuff
Love it no complaints here you can haul a lot of stuff.
BRITTANY R
on November 4, 2020
It is a great family vehicle, and with the rear entertainment system, it will keep kids occupied with movies while on a trip!
I love that is it has all the options I wanted. The only thing not available was 4x4. The only thing I don't like about it is it's not the exact year I wanted.
Lys B
on October 13, 2020
Comfort, family friendly, 4-wheel drive,
It's amazing. It has no issue, as I have it checked and maintained on a regular basis. It is comfortable and reliable. I'll buy another when this one no longer works.
Wyatt J
on October 11, 2020
The Joe Gibbs special edition is a unique and stylish vehicle inside and out.
My vehicle is the Joe Gibbs special, with special engine, bumpers, color, and interior. Vehicle is roomy, stylish, and very comfortable. Engine has power, and special engine that is very economical on gas. Great stereo, solidly built, and quiet. Vehicle always get a second glance because of its stylish looks, and my family feels safe in it.
Loretta H
on October 8, 2020
The one most important thing others should know is that the size is great.
I like the size of the vehicle. I like the how easy it is to remove and replace the seats if needed.
gilda g
on September 21, 2020
Paid off, completely mine, like brand new, long haul perfect
It's a big and brawny vehicle. It's very practical and easy to drive 1love it and the kids love it
Diana H
on September 12, 2020
Vehicle is in good condition also has rims.
I own a Chevrolet Tahoe year 2006, it is in good condition, does not have a cup holder in the front, it was removed by previous owner, also the truck has a small hit on the left side, runs perfectly, a/c works good, truck is color dark blue, also has rims, it can hold up to 8 passengers.
Logan S
on September 6, 2020
Chevy's are a great pick.
The Tahoe is a nice car for a large family. There is plenty of room for transporting either people or objects. The seats are easily removable. The Tahoe is a large truck so it can be viewed as a safer way to travel than smaller cars. The front seats have awesome adjustable gears to provide the most comfortable experience. The only major downside is the fact that this car eats up gas extremely fast.
Angela T
on August 28, 2020
Chevrolet Tahoe are the best SUV.
Chevrolet is the best make of any vehicle. Their vehicles are very dependable & have less maintenance work. As long you keep your vehicle service like you suppose to there will be less problems that anyone would have. Chevrolet Tahoe's are the best SUV & the maintenance are reasonable price to have fixed.
Dawn B
on July 24, 2020
Nothing much has changed on the vehicle but the price has doubled in 10 years
This vehicle has been the best I've ever owned. Few if any repairs (light bulbs or a belt). It has a few bells and whistles that were new to the industry when we first purchased the vehicle that have now become standard like Onstar and GPS maps to find an address. I was very lucky to get this vehicle when we did. My only complaint is the clear coat finish is starting to peel on the front bumper.
Benny F
on July 19, 2020
That it is a Chevy and it is a very reliable SUV.
All around I love my vehicle I do not have any complaints. The only dislike is that it is a v8 engine, which means it eats a lot gas.
Kayla S
on July 5, 2020
Lots of room and reliable Tahoe.
I love my Tahoe. It has plenty of room for all kids and groceries. It drives smooth. Thought the only problem I am having is the gauges keep going out. It is very reliable gets me everywhere I need to go and never has broke down.
Veronica O
on June 26, 2020
Although I love the car it waste a lot of gas. It waste to much gas on trips and with gas so expensive you waste about 500 a month.
I love the way it looks. The car looks nice and drives smooth. Easy maintenance with the vehicle and has never done me wrong. Love the size of the vehicle.
Kati M
on June 17, 2020
It's been well loved. My family has had lots of laughs and good times in my car.
I have no complaints. I love my car. It runs great and can hold my family. We take it on all our family vacations.
Larry G
on June 13, 2020
It was well taken care of.
I like everything so far. . . Just the mileage takes some getting used to. I used to have a Suzuki which got better mileage. . . Still like the Tahoe very much though.
Rob Beaudry
on June 12, 2020
Horse power
Like every truck they are all gd
Shanna D
on May 26, 2020
Comfortable and reliable 4 wheel drive
I drive a 2006 Chevy Tahoe. This vehicle is so very comfortable. It rides smooth. It is safe and reliable. When I go outside in the morning to leave for work I am confident that my Tahoe will get me there safely, and take me anywhere I need to go; anytime of the year. It does excellent in the snow.
Heidi H
on May 22, 2020
2006 Chevy Tahoe has little room
My 1006 Chevy Tahoe was used when I bought it. The heater core leaked, water pump leaks, an oil leak in the rear main seal all this started within months of purchase. I didn't have a mechanic look at it before purchase major regret. It rides 8 people easily but there's no 'trunk' room for like grocery bags, suitcases, etc. I have to put the last row of seats down, I lose those seas I can only take 3 riders with me. My bags get stepped on if u put them on the floor not good for groceries at all. We had more leg room, more comfortable in our 2003 Chevy extra cab truck
Andrea H
on May 8, 2020
It is the perfect vehicle for any size family.
I like size, turning radius, versatile. I dislike sensors due to having to replace them. Did not realize there were so many of them in a vehicle.
Courtney K
on April 2, 2020
It's a white 2006 Chevy Tahoe. 4WD, very reliable car, and is very spacious.
Very reliable vehicle. I use it for recreational purposes as well as daily errands. The only issue I have is gas mileage is somewhat poor. It costs around $60 to fill a tank and only gets 13 miles to the gallon. Other than that, it works great. Amazing first car.
Zachary E
on March 22, 2020
It has 2 zone air conditioning!
Love the size and feel of the car. Would be nice if it got better gas mileage but it's worth it as I need it to tow things from time to time. Very spacious if you plan on having kids and you feel safe driving it.
DeShanti M
on March 15, 2020
A very good reliable truck
Overall a good vehicle. I would recommended this vehicle to anybody. Could be better on gas. Good truck.
Cyndi M
on February 11, 2020
The Tahoe is a nice, roomy, and reliable family vehicle.
I love the Tahoe! It is roomy enough for my very tall family but is easy to drive for a shorter mom. The Bose sound system is great. The SUV still runs great with close to 200,000 miles.
Ashley K
on February 4, 2020
Lots of space with easy access
Never had a major issues, just the normal wear and tear. Keep up with oil changes and fluids and tires. All parts are easy to access and do yourself. Love being up higher than most SUVs and the all around view is great with the large windows, don't have any blind spots. Reliability is a comfort.
Bob G
on January 18, 2020
Do not think twice about long trips it's that dependable.
Tahoe is approaching 180k pretty much trouble free. Just normal maintenance. It is full size so I feel quite safe in it have gone thru many storms & hurricane with it. If I need it 4wd is ready to go at push of a button. Pulls boats and trailers with ease. Very roomy inside.
Nancy W
on January 12, 2020
It's roomy and can fit 3-4 kids comfortably with the third row seats.
I like the room for our kids, dog and stuff when we travel. We like a lot of car around us when traveling for safety. We don't like how the tire doesn't drop down. We've had to get a tow.
Ted S
on December 18, 2019
For a 12 year old vehicle it still performs like new. The paint and interior are still in great shape. Really like the vehicle.
The vehicle only has 100,000 miles and still works great. I dislike that it is old. No new technology such as back up camera.
Maria G
on November 27, 2019
I like how in less than 5 minutes my car gets toasty warm!
My vehicle is fairly fast. Breaks are in great condition. I have not had a problem with my transmission. Heater and freezer are great! The only issue I have with my vehicle is the tires. For some reason they keep running out of air fast, but other than that everything else is in perfect condition.
Gia B
on November 23, 2019
It's a great looking Tahoe and has a sunroof.
It is a great SUV. Drives well and comfortable. The only thing I don't like is the gas mileage.
Justin R
on November 19, 2019
It has plenty of room for everyone to sit and still have a little room to move around. Plus it does well off road
I love the space in the Tahoe. It has plenty of room for everyone to sit and still have room to move. And if I go one big trip I can lay the seats down
Jas B
on November 14, 2019
The most important thing others should know is it is a great size.
I like the size of the vehicle. I like the convenience seats in or out. I don't like having to replace things in it.
Christi B
on November 4, 2019
Very reliable drive. Poor gas mileage but very few maintenance issues.
My Chevy Tahoe has been extremely reliable. Only issues at year 13 are with sensors and light bulbs. My gas mileage is bad (13 miles per gallon) but I have a short commute and use the space for transporting things often. It has literally moved adult children a dozen times. I do love the simplicity of the instruments and console.
Kyle R
on October 31, 2019
Vehicle for a large family and gives you an experience of riding in style.
It is economically safe and room wise perfect for the whole family of six we have. Fuel wise, we cannot complain. Twenty five miles to the gallon and rides smoothly on any highway along with the four wheel drive option giving you an all terrain option to drive through or on.
Jennifer C
on October 22, 2019
It's a sound vehicle that makes you feel safe while riding in it.
It's a sound vehicle that makes me feel safe, but it can be fairly unreliable. There are issues with the battery regularly going dead, and mechanics don't even know why.
Erin W
on October 11, 2019
Dependable with enough space to go on vacation and carry kids to their practices
Car is great! Call it my tank. Worked well for us
Amy L
on September 16, 2019
That it is a very reliable car.
I love that it fits my whole family. Lots of room. I hate how much gas it uses. Could use a newer model.
Christy L
on September 7, 2019
Great passenger vehicle for families.
What I like best about my Tahoe is the power of the engine. However, it is a gas hog. It has powered seats, including heated driver and passenger. The motors for both the back windows have given out, that is a pain. Besides that I like the space it provides me for toting passengers and groceries.
Maria T
on August 18, 2019
Very dependable, reliable, comfortable, high performance vehicle!
The performance of this vehicle is very good handles very well. It is great for long family trips. Very spacious has room for carrying heavy loads. Never had to be towed, very reliable vehicle. All seats fold down for cargo space or sleeping in the back. Very comfortable seating legroom also. The only bad thing was we had to replace the transmission once after 10 years. I would buy another Tahoe again!
Dawn B
on August 16, 2019
It's faster than it looks
Love the size of the truck and very trustworthy in the winter time
Alex is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. He brings a wealth of knowledge to Vehicle History as our Staff Writer and has written hundreds of used car reviews helping buyers make informed purchasing decisions. He is a member of the Automotive Press Association, and keeps up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry. Over the years, he has driven hundreds of cars, working on many of them. His mechanical experience evolved from modifying off-road trucks as a teen to focusing on automotive electrical systems as he got older. He now specializes in reviewing used cars as an automotive journalist.
Some of his favorite brands are Toyota and BMW. The Toyota Land Cruiser is one of his favorite vehicles of all time since they’re built to last forever and can go anywhere. One of his current cars is a Lexus LX570, built on the same platform as the 200-series Land Cruiser, but it’s a better value in the used market.
