Dealer visit checklist

2025 Chevrolet Tahoe checklist

Print it or keep it on your phone. Tick each item as you go so nothing gets missed.

Inspect the car

Check every panel gap and look for mismatched paint (signs of past accident repair)
Look at the tires: even wear, matching brands, at least 4/32" tread
Check under the car and engine bay for oil, coolant or other leaks
Start the engine cold; listen for knocks, ticks or squeals and watch for smoke
Test every window, lock, seat, light, the A/C, heat and infotainment
Test drive on city streets and highway: straight braking, smooth shifts, no pulling
Ask for the service records and a vehicle history report
Have an independent mechanic do a pre-purchase inspection (about $100–$200)

Infotainment screen freezes or reboots intermittently on the 13.4-inch GMC-platform system, a known soft spot across the GMT1XX platform
Active Fuel Management (AFM)/Dynamic Fuel Management cylinder deactivation can cause lifter failures on the 5.3L V8, particularly after 60,000–80,000 miles — a costly repair averaging $2,500–$4,500
Rear air suspension (optional) is prone to compressor wear and air bag leaks after 60,000 miles, with repairs ranging $800–$2,000
Magnetic Ride Control shocks wear faster than conventional units, running $300–$600 per corner at replacement
Fuel economy in real-world driving often falls 1–2 MPG below EPA estimates in city-heavy use, increasing fuel costs beyond projections

WHEELS:HUB: General Motors, LLC is recalling certain 2025–2026 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban 1500, Tahoe, GMC Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles with 24-inch wheels.

Know the typical price: about $56,500 for this model year
Negotiate the out-the-door price, not the monthly payment
Get the full price with every fee listed in writing before you sign
Bring your own loan pre-approval so the dealer has a rate to beat
Say no to add-ons you didn't ask for (paint protection, VIN etching, nitrogen tires)
Negotiate your trade-in separately, after the car's price is agreed
Be ready to walk away; another listing is usually a click away