In the 2017 Chevrolet Tahoe Premier, the Accessory AC & DC Power Control Module is essentially a 150‑watt inverter integrated into the center console assembly. It provides:
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A 120 V AC outlet (if equipped with the 84181077‑style module), supplying up to 150 W at 60 Hz, or
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A 230 V AC outlet variant (84181078) for export‑market vehicles with 50 Hz service GM Wholesale Direct+2Scoggin Dickey Parts Center+2Reddit+2Auto Parts Express+6GM Wholesale Direct+6Auto Parts Express+6eBay+6GM Parts Giant+6Auto Parts Express+6.
It interfaces with the vehicle’s accessory power system to convert 12 V DC from the vehicle’s battery and charging system into usable AC power for devices plugged into the cabin.
2. Technical Specifications & Fitment
Part Numbers and Fitment
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GM part 84181077 covers 2015–2019 Tahoe models in North America, offering a 120 V AC outlet at 150 W GM Wholesale Direct+12040 Parts+1.
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GM part 84181078 is the 230 V version configured for vehicles with 50 Hz outlets. GM Parts GiantGM Parts Giant.
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Part 26309062 replaced earlier versions starting around 2017 and is used through 2024; it’s plug‑and‑play within the center console F‑module position and replaces 26202961 GM Wholesale Direct+6GM Wholesale Direct+6Auto Parts Express+6.
Expect retail pricing between $100 and $190 new, depending on source and part number, with manufacturer warranty typically 12–24 months. Scoggin Dickey Parts CenterGM Wholesale DirectAuto Parts Express.
Location & Installation
The module is located in the lower portion of the center console, near the mid‑ship floor area. Installation is usually plug‑and‑play for models with compatible console wiring harnesses and brackets, though alignment and cable routing require interior panel removal.
3. Function and System Integration
Power Conversion
This module converts the vehicle’s 12 V DC into AC power for use with standard household-style sockets. It is rated at around 150 watts, sufficient for small electronics like laptops, chargers, small tools, or accessories.
Control & Safety
The module includes safety features such as
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Overload protection,
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Short‑circuit detection,
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Thermal shutdown,
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Idle power‑off when no load is detected.
General Motors designed the module to integrate seamlessly with the Tahoe’s Body Control Module (BCM) and Engine Control Module (ECM), ensuring proper operation and disabling when the vehicle is off or overheated.
4. Common Symptoms & Failures
Frequently Reported Issues
Although not extremely common, here are typical symptoms tied to module or inverter malfunctions:
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Outlet not powering or shutting off abruptly,
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Intermittent faults or no‑load issues,
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Dashboard or console lights staying on after shutdown (indicating possible module stuck in lit state) Reddit,
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Strange 12 V behavior: since GM uses regenerative voltage control, the charging system may vary voltage significantly—including dropping below normal levels or shutting off the alternator temporarily—which may affect module operation Reddit+1Reddit+1.
Related HVAC or Electrical Anomalies
Although separate from the power inverter, HVAC-related failures (like compressor non-engagement or climate control malfunctions) often occur alongside electrical faults in this platform. For example, cracked condensers or low-pressure switch issues can cause the AC to stop functioning, misdiagnosed as inverter faults on Reddit.
5. Diagnostics & Testing
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Approach
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Check outlet operation: Plug in a known working small load (e.g., phone charger). No power indicates a likely module or fuse issue.
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Inspect related fuses/relays: In many cases fuse #60 under the hood or the console fuse may feed the inverter—verify continuity.
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Scan for DTCs: Use a capable OBD‑II scanner. Module or inverter diagnostic trouble codes (similar to power inverter fault codes in hybrids like P1F63) may appear Reddit.
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Visual inspection: Ensure all wiring harness connectors, ground straps, and module mounting are corrosion‑free and well‑seated.
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Swap or replace module: Because the module is self‑contained, replacement is often the only fix if internal electronics fail.
Testing Behavior
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Check that the outlet energizes only when ignition or accessory mode is on.
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Monitor module heat; overheating can trigger thermal shutdown.
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Confirm load detection logic (module powers off when device is unplugged).
6. Replacement and Cost Considerations
OEM vs. Third‑Party Listings
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OEM GM parts (e.g. 84181077 or 26309062) run between $100–$190, depending on seller and part number RedditAuto Parts Express+9GM Wholesale Direct+9GM Wholesale Direct+9.
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Used or salvaged units are sometimes listed below $50 (e.g. 84181077 on used parts markets) but carry unknown wear and may lack warranty on 2040 Parts.
Installation Notes
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Little mechanical skill is needed; remove the console panel, unplug the old module, unbolt, swap, reassemble.
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No reprogramming is required when replacing with the same part number (plug‑and‑play).
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If vehicle had prior console components changed (e.g., seat‑heater module or wireless charger), ensure compatible harness and orientation.
7. Broader Charging System Context
GM Regulated Voltage Control (RVC)
The Tahoe’s charging system uses RVC where the alternator is modulated—or turned off entirely—to reduce fuel use. This design causes voltage swings from around 12 V to as high as 15.5 V under load, controlled via BCM and ECM communications via the GMLAN network Reddit.
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Such voltage swings can influence inverter performance or cause module protective shutdown if voltage records spike or drop unexpectedly.
Body Control and HVAC Interactions
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The BCM also monitors battery state-of-charge (SOC), temperature, current sensor signals, and external load request triggers—such as HVAC high fan speeds or defogger use—that may prompt higher generator output or charging interventions. Reddit+2Reddit+2Reddit+2.
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However, HVAC failures in real-world cases (e.g., faulty condensers or sensors) can mimic electrical symptoms but are actually separate subsystems.
8. Illustrative Case Studies
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On Reddit and forum threads, users with inverter issues often describe outlets that stopped functioning after compressor or climate control work; sometimes replacing the climate control module inadvertently resolved symptoms that seemed electrical in origin (Reddit).
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Another user described the dash and radio lights staying on after shutdown—the power inverter module or BCM is likely not disabling exit, draining the battery on Reddit.
9. Maintenance Tips
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Keep connectors clean and tight; check periodically during interior detailing or repairs.
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If you rarely use the AC outlet, plug in a small load occasionally—this prevents capacitor degradation or module inactivity symptoms.
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Ensure cooling ventilation inside the console is unobstructed—heat buildup can reduce module life.
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Monitor dashboard battery/charging messages; even mild fluctuation might precede inverter anomalies.
10. Summary & Guidance
The AC & DC Power Control Module in your 2017 Tahoe Premier is a robust OEM component providing up to 150 watts of AC power for in‑vehicle electronics. Its typical GM part numbers include 84181077, 84181078, and 26309062 depending on region and voltage frequency GM Wholesale Direct+9GM Parts Giant+9GM Wholesale Direct+9.
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When failures occur—no outlet power, lingering console lights, or erratic behavior—most diagnostics start with fuse/relay checks, scanning for DTCs, inspecting harnesses, and, if necessary, replacing the module with a new GM part.
Take care when distinguishing HVAC or charging‑system issues from module malfunctions; they can appear related but often stem from separate failures.
OEM modules typically cost between $100 and $190, with used replacements available cheaper but without warranty. Installation is generally straightforward and doesn’t require programming changes.
For 2017 Tahoe Premier owners, understanding how this module interacts with the accessory system, battery charging logic, and central vehicle electronics will help you troubleshoot or maintain it more effectively.