Common Chevrolet Corvette Failures: Problems And Disadvantages
The Chevrolet Corvette is an iconic American sports car that boasts supercar-like design and performance along with an affordable entry price. But like every car, it has its problems and here you will learn about the common failures of the Chevrolet Corvette.
There are eight generations of this wonderful sports car, however, like all vehicles, there are some common issues to be aware of if you are interested in purchasing this beautiful car.
Common failures of the Chevrolet Corvette
The Chevrolet Corvette is a car that has been very popular for its design, safety and excellent reliability features. But for now let’s dive into the common faults that have been reported by drivers of this vehicle.
1. Problem with the fuel level sensor
There are many modern model years of the Chevrolet Corvette that have a fuel level sensor that cannot read the fuel level correctly. To correct the condition, the fuel sensor will need to be replaced. On higher mileage models, it is recommended to replace the entire fuel pump module.
This problem can occur anywhere between 5,000 to 60,000 miles (8,000 to 97,000 km). However, the average mileage for these problems is around the 55,000 mark.
Affected model years include 1991, 1993, 1998, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2012, 2014, and 2015.
Repair Pal recommends that the entire fuel pump system be replaced on higher mileage models. The cost of this service with parts and labor will vary depending on where you are.
2. Check engine light due to problem with tank cap
A check engine light can be activated due to various problems. This includes a missing, worn, or loose gas cap. According to the Repair Pal, it’s common for Corvette models to have a worn or loose gas cap around the 53,000 mile mark.
However, these problems can arise between 12,000 and 155,000 miles (20,000 to 250,000 km). Affected model years include 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, and 2013.
You need to check the engine light. This service can range from $80 to $115 (depending on where you are).
3. Steering column service locked due to anti-theft system failure
On several Corvette models, drivers have reported that the service steering column lock message may appear. This problem is due to a bug in the anti-theft system. To correct this problem, the anti-theft system and steering column may need to be checked.
This fault may affect Corvette models between 17,000 and 155,000 miles (27,000 to 250,000 km). However, the average mileage for this problem is around the 73,000 mile (117,000 km) mark.
A general diagnostic service is recommended.
4. Water pump leak
Drivers have reported that a coolant leak may develop from the water pump. If this problem persists, the vehicle is at risk of overheating. Therefore, technicians recommend that a leaking water pump be replaced as soon as possible.
This problem can occur between 19,000 and 122,000 miles (30,000 to 196,000 km). However, the average mileage for this issue is around the 66,000 mile (106,000 km) mark.
5. The position of the steering wheel can fail
The steering wheel position sensor may fail. While this issue will not cause any major disruption to the vehicle’s performance, you will notice a general diagnostic light come on. When this happens, it is recommended that you take your vehicle to a general diagnostic service.
This problem can occur between 24,000 and 100,000 miles (38,000 to 160,000 km). However, you will likely notice it around the 68,000 mile (109,000 km) mark. It is recommended that drivers experiencing this problem get a general diagnosis.
6. Extended Life Liquid Contamination
Extended life fluid will become contaminated before the 100,000 mile (160,000 km) mark. When this happens, the vehicle may not be able to cool the engine properly. This could lead to overheating of the motor. Therefore, it is important to get a coolant change service.
Long-lasting fluid contamination can occur around the 28,000 mile (45,000 km) mark. To correct this problem, it is recommended that the vehicle receive a coolant change.
7. Check engine light with code P1870
Your vehicle’s check engine light may come on with code P1870 due to wear of the hole for the TCC isolator and throttles in the valve body. When this happens, you should take the vehicle in for a check engine diagnosis.
At that time, the technician may recommend valve body replacement. On average, this problem will affect the vehicle around the 51,000 mile (82,000 km) mark.
This fault has been reported on the following model years: 1996-2000, and 2007.
Valve body replacement is recommended.
8. Extension box joints can leak
If you have a Corvette between the years 1990 and 1996, you may notice transmission leaks under the vehicle. This could be caused by a leak in the extension case seals. This is to be expected on vehicles that are over 20 years old.
There is no average mileage at which this problem typically occurs. Model years affected include the 1990-1995 and 1996 Corvettes.
Technicians recommend that the vehicle receive a housing seal replacement. Also, the vehicle may need to have its transmission fluid changed.
9. Detachable roof panel can be separated from the frame
Some owners have reported that the removable roof panel can detach while the vehicle is in motion. If this happens then the roof panel will need to be replaced. Replacement cost can be a bit high.
10. Engine stalling or low idle speed due to fouled throttle body
A dirty throttle body will cause the vehicle to idle lower than normal and potentially stall. Corvettes tend to have this problem around the 21,000 mile (33,800 km) mark.
This fault affects Corvette models from 2005 to 2007. Technicians recommend that the vehicle receive a throttle body service. The average cost of this service will vary depending on where you are.
The good and the bad of the Chevrolet Corvette
Just like any other vehicle, there are good and bad things for the current model Chevrolet Corvette.
Here are some reasons to drive the Chevrolet Corvette, as well as some reasons why it may not be the best vehicle for you:
Advantages of the Chevrolet Corvette:
After reading about the common failures of the Chevrolet Corvette, it is convenient that you also know about the benefits.
1- Affordable starting price
Although the Chevrolet Corvette isn’t conventionally affordable, it is one of the best deals in the world of sports cars. For its asking price, you get performance that rivals most supercars.
2- Upper transmission
The Chevrolet Corvette is designed primarily for performance. That’s why Corvette’s M1L 8-speed dual-clutch transmission is one of the best in any car under six figures.
3- Excellent exterior design
The Corvette can easily be mistaken for a supercar like a Ferrari or a McLaren. The mid-engine layout of the current model looks especially unique and aggressive.
Disadvantages of the Chevrolet Corvette:
The most relevant cons of the Chevrolet Corvette are the following:
1- Low visibility
Due to the elegant design of the Corvette, you will have to deal with the fact that there is extremely low visibility. Therefore, only the most experienced drivers should consider this vehicle.
2- Blocking the storage space
With its mid-engine layout, the Corvette has both a rear-mounted truck and front-mounted storage space. However, the combined capacity of both storage areas is only 12.6 cubic feet.
3- Strange passenger seat
The interior of the Corvette is specially designed around the driver. That means the passenger will find themselves in an uncomfortable space with the high center console and limited space.
What do the Corvette reviews say?
The comments and opinions surrounding the Chevrolet Corvette are good, among them are:
“With supercar performance, an affordable price and striking styling, the 2023 Chevrolet Corvette lives up to its decades-long automotive icon status, but with a mid-engine twist.”
“The price-defying performance numbers for the Corvette C8 raised eyebrows and demanded headlines at its launch, and it remains a very impressive sports car. In our first test, an example equipped with the Z51 performance package achieved a 0-60 in 2.8 seconds and a quarter mile in 11.1 seconds at 123.2 mph.”
Final Thought on the Chevrolet Corvette
The Chevrolet Corvette is an ideal choice for those who love performance and supercar styling. However, some mechanical issues may need to be addressed. Those who love intense speed are more than likely living with these common problems.
