I'm test-driving a 2009 Tahoe Hybrid tomorrow and have been doing as much research as I possibly can on them. I currently have a 2007 GMC Envoy Denali with 124,500 miles and nothing wrong with it. I just want something bigger and a couple years newer. The 2009 HyHoe has 90k miles and the dealership is asking $24k. They just got it so I know I can get more knocked off the price. This thing is in absolute PRISTINE condition. The previous owner babied this thing, it looks brand new. Clean carfax. Had friend who is GM technician run the VIN and no major work has been done, he said it's clean.

So here's my internal debate in a nutshell:

PROS
- Larger vehicle
- 2 years newer
- Better MPG
- 35k miles less
- Always wanted a Tahoe/Yukon

CONS
- Nothing wrong with Envoy (current vehicle)
- TONS of issues/bugs with 2008 Hybrid Tahoe, same with 2009?
- Gamble taking on new issues (as with any used car purchase)
- EXPENSIVE to fix problems on Hybrid Motors? Try to do as much work as I can myself
- All but 1 warranty expired (battery warranty up in 10k miles)

Any thoughts, advice, opinions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

 

it is hard to say at 90k miles. the 2009 onward is the best year of the hybrid. if you have the maintenance records usually can be provided by dealer as to what oil was used(needs to be mobil1 synthetic) then you're good. I have 169k miles with nary a problem. But I bought it since new and have used only pure mobil 1 synthetic and top dollar dealer serviced.

 

Thanks evois. I test drove it yesterday and will be going a different direction. I like the concept of the hybrid system but ultimately don't want to take on the risk of huge repair bills seeing as it has 90k miles.

 

It is a very reliable vehicle make no mistake and since it has only 90k miles you can have them check it thouroughly and anything they find will be covered. Like shocks, front suspension bushings, water pump, hydraulic brakes, electrical head unit, etc.

 

I drove myself crazy researching I finally just did it and other then a sound from my air conditioning that just started one LOVED it the millage allone is great but remember this technology is not new the big city busses use the same technology batteries I believe will easily go 250000 miles
Which was my concern the transmission are HEAVY duty and based on solid history get them down a little and go for it.
Tip of the day you can find the previous owner with little effort I did and found out mine has a brand new motor dealer installed at 7500 dollars the dealer I bought mine from had no idea.