Toyota Convert with Questions

[brodeyo]

Hi guys. I recently purchased a new 2012 Tahoe LT 4x4 with Allstar edition and love it. I have a couple of questions that I was hoping I could get some advice on.

My first question is on the MPG. I baby the Tahoe and I don't believe there is any way I'll ever be able to get 15 MPG in the city. I understand this is simply an EPA number... I'm wondering if this has to do with the engine break in period or not. I've got about 700 miles on it and believe I'm around 12 in the city. I upgraded from a Toyota Tundra, so this isn't a huge issue for me

I've also noticed that when the engine drops to V4 mode at 20 mph with about 1000 rpms and a little gas is applied, I'm getting vibration and rattling noise (sounds like a tensioner) until either the rpms get up a bit or it transfers back to v8. Once in V8 is sound great. Even on the highway in v4, I can feel the vibration (not strong). It doesn't sound like a brand new engine in v4 mode.

Any experiences from you guys would be great. I was simply going to put some more miles on it and see if the mpg and noise improves. Other than those minor concerns, it seems to be a great vehicle.

Thanks in advance

 

[clkelley]

Welcome to the neighborhood!

I believe what you are experiencing with the vibration while in V4 mode is just the 4 cylinders attempting to pull that heavy truck even when just cruising, kind of like a manual shift vehicle does when you don't down shift at the right time and you "lug" the engine, the harmonics will change a bit with the labored power level at the lowered rpms in a higher gear.

As for mileage, with just 700 miles on it, I would expect it to get better with time and use. I would also recommend changing the oil at around 1000-1500 miles to get the "break-in" oil out of her. Obviously putting full synthetic oil back in her, etc.

Congrats on the new ride! Let's see some pics...

 

[brodeyo]

Thanks for the reply. That's exactly what it seems like....driving a manual in third gear when you should be in first...

I'll definitely swap the oil as you indicated. Thanks again.

Pic attached.

 

[clkelley]

That is a great lookin' Tahoe Sir!

If you haven't already, check out AMSOIL, you can use the link below to learn more about their products and the capacities, etc for your truck. The second link is a free online maintenance tool to help you keep up with the maintenance of the truck and any other vehicles or toys you have.

Auto & Light Truck Lookup Guide

MyAMSOILGarage™

 

[Ned's LTZ]

Congrats! From your pic it looks like you got Mocha Steel? Maybe black interior? Very nice looking (same combination I ordered). Good luck with it, they are great trucks!

 

[20Tahoe12LT]

Congrats!!! I am a Toyota convert also!!

 

[brodeyo]

Ned's - Yep, Mocha with ebony interior.

Love it, but wish there was a little more consideration placed on interior storage. My manuals barley fit in glove compartment

One more question: I like the 20 inch wheels, but I'm not crazy about the center caps covering the lug nuts. Are there options out there to replace the center caps?

 

[Ned's LTZ]

you can use the lower door storage for excess stuff instead of the glove box. GM does make a console storage tray that helps alot with the small stuff and keeping it organized. We sell them for $35. I have them in both the tahoe and silverado, and have sold a bunch to customers once they see them. Your local chevy dealer should be able to get you one. Center caps...hmmm, I have not seen any options that are designed to fit the GM wheels. Maybe someone else has. sorry.

 

[Spar]

Congrats!!! I am a Toyota convert also!!

I saw "Toyota Convert", and all I could think was someone whacking you with a Bow Tie emblem on a staff, screaming "COME OUT, FOUL TOYOTA DEMONS ! RENOUNCE YOUR SINFUL WAYS AND EMBRACE THE TAHOE TRUTH !" :ROFLJest:

 

[20Tahoe12LT]

I saw "Toyota Convert", and all I could think was someone whacking you with a Bow Tie emblem on a staff, screaming "COME OUT, FOUL TOYOTA DEMONS ! RENOUNCE YOUR SINFUL WAYS AND EMBRACE THE TAHOE TRUTH !" :ROFLJest:

LOL! I have seen the light & the Tahoe truth!!

 

[brodeyo]

Well done!

 

[RFoster130]

Im also kinda curious about the MPG. My new 2012 gets right at 13 average. Im not complaining too much. Just expected a bit better. My 2005 Avalanche did better at 14 with old technology that didn't shut off half the cylinders.

As far as the center caps, you can get replacements that don't have the bow tie if you don't like it. But, i haven't seen anything that exposes the lug nuts. Search the internet or ill try to find you a link.

 

[RFoster130]

Here are the center caps. $75 for all 4 without the bow tie.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/SETOF4-CHEV...010&hash=item337280bb51&vxp=mtr#ht_963wt_1398