The 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe was the best-selling fullsize SUV in the US market. Thanks to its size and rugged construction, the '05 Chevy Tahoe captured the market and the imaginations of drivers who wanted an SUV that could handle off-road adventures as well as everyday carpool chores.
Three trim levels were offered for the 2005 Chevy Tahoe: LS, LT, and sporty Z71. All trims were available with a choice of rear-wheel or four-wheel drive. The 4WD models were especially popular with people looking for something a little more rugged.
And the '05 Chevrolet Tahoe didn't sacrifice comfort for toughness. The cabin and interior were well-appointed on the entry-level LS trim, and a number of fancy touches were added for the LT and Z71 choices.
Under the hood, the 2005 Tahoe LT and Z71 came standard with the powerful 5.3 liter, 295-horsepower Vortec 5300 engine, which put out 330 lb.-ft. of torque. The LS came off the line with the 4.8 liter Vortec 4800, clocked at 285 horsepower and 295 lb.-ft. of torque, but buyers could upgrade to the 5300.
While we highlight specific author bylines where possible, sometimes our content results from the combined efforts of several members of the CarGurus editorial team. As with all our editorial content, you can expect high levels of automotive insight and expertise delivered in a style that is approachable and free from jargon.
I bought my 2005 tahoe brand new , its 2024 and my transmission went out and oil pump just this last month. I paid 2200 for transmission and oil pump mind you this is the ONLY problems my tahoe has ever had. I got oil changes a day before it was needed every tune up as well shes got 220308 miles on her and the mechanic told me the engine is immaculate for its age and miles and that the engine is still very good. I cant complain at all as I paid the 2200 with a smile on my face. So many people have asked me if I want to sell it . I love my tahoe and I can say Ill never get rid of it. I took super good care of her maybe I over did it at times if I could post a picture of the day I bought to now inside and out I would . People if you take care of your cars unless of re calls Im sure your car will be good to you.. Apr 07, 2024
by DALLAS M
Sep 03, 2022
Excellent price for a Tahoe of this quality....friendly staff. Sep 03, 2022
by trice o
Aug 06, 2022
Great value and amazing look cant go wrong with a Tahoe Aug 06, 2022
User rating:
by Alicia R
Apr 07, 2024
I bought my 2005 tahoe brand new , its 2024 and my transmission went out and oil pump just this last month. I paid 2200 for transmission and oil pump mind you this is the ONLY problems my tahoe has ever had. I got oil changes a day before it was needed every tune up as well shes got 220308 miles on her and the mechanic told me the engine is immaculate for its age and miles and that the engine is still very good. I cant complain at all as I paid the 2200 with a smile on my face. So many people have asked me if I want to sell it . I love my tahoe and I can say Ill never get rid of it. I took super good care of her maybe I over did it at times if I could post a picture of the day I bought to now inside and out I would . People if you take care of your cars unless of re calls Im sure your car will be good to you.. Apr 07, 2024
by DALLAS M
Sep 03, 2022
Excellent price for a Tahoe of this quality....friendly staff. Sep 03, 2022
by trice o
Aug 06, 2022
Great value and amazing look cant go wrong with a Tahoe Aug 06, 2022
by Brian C
Jan 10, 2022
There a very good vehicle . Ive had several for years and driving a 2004 now.Jan 10, 2022
by Mark A
May 16, 2021
I thought the features were awsome and the price was very reasonable. May 16, 2021
by rick r
Nov 01, 2020
Well by the looks of it, it does look good. I have a GMC Yukon 2001 and it has been great and does great when we travel. I wont trade or sell it until I am sure I dont need it anymore. So these vehicles are pretty solid.Nov 01, 2020
by Michelle W
Aug 19, 2020
It a good looking car love to have now Aug 19, 2020
by Don K
Apr 20, 2020
The trucks and large SUVs from Chevrolet and GMC that were built on the GMT800 platform (1999-2006; Silverado, Sierra, Suburban, Yukon XL, Tahoe, Yukon, Escalade, Avalanche) will probably become known as the last best trucks GM ever bullt. They are still a great value if you can find a clean one. Apr 20, 2020
by Anonymous
Oct 29, 2014
Dislike gas mileage but knew that going in. Better mileage than my 2002 Tahoe though, and wow, the upgrades they made to the Tahoe since 2002 are outstanding. Riding on 20" tires is very different but i like it very much. This vehicle is smooooth.Oct 29, 2014
by Yaacov L
Jun 16, 2014
This car is great to take on vacation, or go to the beach even tow your boat or trailer. Otherwise I wouldn't recommend this "TRUCK". But thats what it is built for. If you live in the country or in snow areas this truck is absolutely great.Jun 16, 2014
by Anonymous
May 28, 2014
I can't recall how we ended up with this.. But one thing is for sure.. everyone wanted to see my cleaning techniques when it came to this Chevy. The dealership could get over the fact that I treated this Tahoe like a cream puff. No dents or dings. still looked and smelled show room fresh.. My wife and I were laughing at each other when salesmen after salesmen came over to look at the Tahoe.. and asking afterward.. "Did you just buy this?" "Looks brand new". Mayeb it was the dealership just trying to make us feel important.. Never the less, we had a bargaining chip that put us into that Corvette Z06May 28, 2014
by Ryan O
Feb 20, 2014
This was a sexy ride with it's all black style (wheels and deep-tinted windows included) and the 5.3L V8 Vortec gave it the power to get up and go (when getting on the highway or passing people, it felt like a much smaller car). It had all the premium trim options for its year of release, including an in-dash 6 Cd changer-- archaic novelty for some, but I loved having it, as I love spinning some cds.
The fuel economy was pretty bad, although it being a z-71 2WD gave it a slight advantage over the normal z-71 with a 4x4 drivetrain included. This was one reason I needed to downsize in these $3+/gallon times. The ride was also noisy and not terribly smooth (partially due to the oversized A/T tires), but this was only an issue on old road and highways. The safety and confidence the vehicle inspired made up for any lack in comfort.
Most maintenance could be handled anywhere. but price-wise, the later repairs (it was over 145,000 mi when I traded it in) started to climb in price. That being said, the engine will probably last another 60,000 mi.
Tahoe's have notoriously soft brakes (have to really press them down before you start to get a response.
All in all, it was a really great ride, a joy to drive and own, but it was time to downsize and get something that would go easier on my pocketbook fuel-wise and had lower mileage.Feb 20, 2014
by Anonymous
Nov 26, 2013
Very happy with the Tahoe. Extremely reliable less a one time electrical gremlin, otherwise flawless. The 5.3L has 295 horsepower and 330 foot pounds of torque. Love the heated leather seats, the sunroof, dual climate control, and the smoothness of a cadillac with a Chevy logo on the grill. The push button 4x4 in and back to 2wd is VERY nice.
Nov 26, 2013
by Anonymous
Jun 11, 2013
Pretty happy that we got it used with just 30K miles on it. Local one-owner trade in that replaced a 2001 Durango that had 149K miles on it. Had previously owned a 2001 Tahoe and always said I wanted to get back into one.Jun 11, 2013
by Anonymous
Jan 30, 2013
I'm not a big GM person, but this vehicle has been great,one of the best vehicles i've ever owned..I use it for my daily driver,for family trips,towing my boat,quads/atvs,my 7 year old daughter is playing soccer,could fit 7 people compfortibly..I LOVE this vehicleJan 30, 2013
by Jeff H
Jan 15, 2013
Couldn't ask for a better full size SUV. My only complaints are with outdated technology. Upgrading soon for better fuel economy in a 2014 with direct injection (Gen V) small block. Low maintenance cost and very reliable. 130K miles and still running strong.Jan 15, 2013
by Anonymous
Jun 20, 2012
I would say that this is a great car, for the price. It runs great, and it is very enjoyable to have for a big or small family, that just likes extra room. If you like taking road trips, this is def. the car for you. Check it out!!!Jun 20, 2012
by Amy B
Mar 28, 2011
I love my Tahoe. With a family of five, it carries all of us and friends. I would prefer to get better gas mileage but don't want to sacrifice the space! No major mechanical issues. Would highly recommend if you need the space!Mar 28, 2011
by Jacob V
Oct 20, 2010
Its a nice suv nothing is really too special about it actually i raced with it once but that was a one time deal and it was dumb.. but its fun to drive i feel pretty rich while i drive it ha Oct 20, 2010
by Dimitri M
Oct 25, 2008
I don't dislike anything about the car. It's perfect. It runs good, air conditioning is good. XM Radio, CD Player, Radio in the back seat, seat warmers. This car is really fun to drive especially when going fast because you don't feel like bumps you feel that rush of awesomeness.Oct 25, 2008
by Lisa Kay M
Sep 15, 2008
great family vehicle...superb on family trips...tires are expensive...gas mileage could be much much much better...only gets about eighteen miles per gallon on the highway...if you need a family car this is a nice one to have. love the ONSTAR and the navigation system has saved me several times.Sep 15, 2008
by Andy L
Jul 14, 2008
My family and I most hate the Gas mileage it's 17-18 mpg! Proformance is alright except emargency handiling is poor. We like Leather seats, its roomy, oh and yes it is a fun car to drive! Also, it clunks!! When ever you sit at a red light you hear and sometimes feel a clunk!! It also clunks every time you start it. Road noise is awful!! It is so loud sometimes you can't even talk. I would not reccomend this car. And lastly, It's black!! Very hard to see and gets hotter in the summer than most cars!! Jul 14, 2008
by Zachary B
Jun 29, 2008
This is a 2005 Tahoe Z71 with the 5.3L and 3.42 gears. Grey leather, all the options except DVD Nav up front. Power everything you can think of. So far no big trips but it has towed our camper very well and it still rides great even with the addition of some Load "E" rated tires. I take in on vacation in a few weeks, full review after.Jun 29, 2008
by Maria S
Jun 06, 2008
The car has tons of room and is very comfortable... Jun 06, 2008
by George H
Jun 01, 2008
Drove my neighbors 05 Tahoe with 28,000 miles. Like all American SUV'S.(BIG, UGLY, SLOW) but it had a lot of room for carring stuff that was nice. Poor MPG, it was built good because it is soo large. Jun 01, 2008
by Ryan R
May 24, 2008
Moms ride... decked out inside and outMay 24, 2008
by Anonymous
May 20, 2008
hoe-beast is the best and that's all there is to say.May 20, 2008
by Anonymous
Apr 21, 2008
Great ride, but transmission went out with only 46,000 miles!Apr 21, 2008
by Dylan T
Apr 15, 2008
Its an overall great truckApr 15, 2008
by Hani A
Apr 15, 2008
economic, strong, powerfull, space, more and moreApr 15, 2008
by Sheri M
Mar 22, 2008
My Tahoe is the most amazing truck I have ever owned. It drives like a sports car in the hills, corners like a dream. It is FULLY loaded--leather seats, DVD, BOSE stereo, quad seating, 20" rims. I chose the 2WD over 4X4 because I don't go 4 wheeling in it and it has plenty of traction-control for light snow and rain which is the only weather conditions I will likely encounter living here in Cali.Mar 22, 2008
I have an 05 tahoe. Yesterday I thought the car was overheating. but once I opened the hood it didn't appear to be overheated. I waited until this morning to go out and see what was going on. When I started the car I noticed the temp gauge was already showing about 120 degrees. The car had not even run for a minute so I know it wasn't overheated. I believe the gauge is bad and it's not the sending unit. Your thoughts and suggestion on repairing or replacing the gauge. Thank you for your help. Duane
Replaced engine in my 05 Tahoe LT 4x4 and now truck will crank but will not start. I have good fuel pressure at fuel rail. I have brand new battery, alternator, plugs, coils, wires. Also all new AC Delco sensors to include Crankshaft and Camshaft position sensors. I checked power at each main coil harnesses with key to ON position and have power on pink wire on each side. But no power on any other wire while key is in ON position and also while attempting to start engine.
2005 Chevy Tahoe 2WD 4.8L 4L60e transmission goes into third gear but slips. Has a hard time going into 4th gear. Suggestions before replacing transmission again?
Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones · Automatic climate control rear air conditioning · Dual rear air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · AM/FM radio · Rear audio: rear volume control
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Adjustable pedals: power · Center console: front console with storage · Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones · Automatic climate control rear air conditioning · Dual rear air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · AM/FM radio · Rear audio: rear volume control
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Center console: front console with storage · Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones · Automatic climate control rear air conditioning · Dual rear air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: diversity · Single disc in-Dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · AM/FM radio · Rear audio: rear volume control · Satellite Radio: SiriusXM
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Adjustable pedals: power · Center console: front console with storage · Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Front wipers: intermittent · Rear wiper: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones · Automatic climate control rear air conditioning · Dual rear air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags
Audio System
6 disc in-dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · AM/FM radio · Rear audio: rear volume control
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Adjustable pedals: power · Center console: front console with storage · Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones · Automatic climate control rear air conditioning · Dual rear air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: diversity · Single disc in-Dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · AM/FM radio · Rear audio: rear volume control · Satellite Radio: SiriusXM
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Adjustable pedals: power · Center console: front console with storage · Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
