The C6 Corvette is a great car – one of the most impressive sports cars you can own at the moment. It flaunts a typical flashy exterior build as expected of supercars and the engine is quite massive. But not all C6 Corvettes are “perfect,” there are some model years you should avoid.
So, what are the C6 Corvette years to avoid?
There are nine model years of the Corvette C6, out of which 2005, 2008, and 2015 models have the highest number of lodged complaints – so, these particular three model years are considered the worst.
If you’re considering purchasing a C6 Corvette, it is important that you know about the worst model years and common problems faced by people who have owned – and probably still own – this ride.
C6 Corvette Overview
The C6 is the sixth generation model of the Chevrolet Corvette supercar series; production for the C6 started in 2004 for the 2005 model year and ended after the 2013 model year. C6 Corvettes introduced “exposed headlamps” to replace the “hidden headlamps” design used since the 1962 model.
Chevy Corvette C6 models included the Z06, ZR1, Grand Sport, and 427 Convertible. There is also a “racing” variant, C6.R, which won the American Le Mans Series GT1 championship and 24 Hours of Le Mans GTE-Pro. As a landmark, the C6 Corvette came with a refined V8 engine and the wheelbase got increased by 1.2 inches.
The new LS2 engine on the C6 puts out a whopping 400 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 400lb-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm. C6 Corvette sold about 215,223 units in its nine years of active production – not so impressive.
C6 Corvette Years to Avoid
Our judgments here are based on the data collated by CarComplaints and other noteworthy forums where verified users air their minds and review various car models. Looking at the information from various sources, there are three worst model years for the C6 Corvette supercar.
These model years are considered “worst” because they typically break down earlier than others. But, notwithstanding, there are still people who own and drive these C6 models. Hereunder is a quick list of the C6 model years to possibly avoid.
- 2005
- 2008
- 2015
There were quite a high number of complaints for the 2007 model year, but it’s still considered a good choice, thanks to the reliability scores and rating across reputable websites like RepairPal and JD Power. Out of the three model years mentioned above, the 2008 model is considered the “WORST.”
Even so, the 2008 C6 Corvette is also ranked as the overall worst model year for the Chevrolet Corvette series. This means you should avoid the 2008 C6 whether you are still lucky to find a brand new one or got a great deal for a used one.
Some of the problems linked with this Corvette model year include fuel system faults, seat belt/airbag problems, and engine issues.
Why You Should Avoid 2005, 2008, and 2015 C6 Corvette Models
1. Transmission Problems
- Mostly reported for the 2005 and 2015 models
- Typically occurs before 50k miles
Transmission problems such as jerking, shuddering, shifter getting stuck in “Park,” and fatal failures were reported for the 2005 and 2015 C6 models.
The worst of it is that these issues occur even before 50,000 miles. Transmission issues are among the costliest repairs to do on a car, and for C6s, it costs an average of $3,200; if the transmission failed completely, that’s a $6k+ fix.
Due to the frequency of transmission failures in the 2005 and 2015 C6 Corvettes, coupled with the high cost of repairing such, it is advisable that you avoid these models. Transmission jerking or shuddering means the car makes a shake whenever it changes gear, which can be a big problem if you’re on a busy road.
2. Steering and Drivetrain Problems
- Mostly reported for the 2005 and 2015 models
- Occurs at low mileage
Again, the 2005 and 2015 C6 models had the most complaints regarding the steering and drivetrain systems. Owners’ remarks indicate that these issues occur at low mileage – mostly before 45k miles. The most commonly reported issues are bad vibrations at sharp turns or at 1300rpm and powertrain failure.
The average cost of fixing the C6 drivetrain or steering wheel issue is $700. Notwithstanding, some fixes could reach up to $1,000 – most especially if there are parts to be replaced.
2005/2015 C6 Corvette drivetrain issues are pretty disturbing and cost quite high to fix. You would want to avoid these C6 models when buying one.
3. Fuel System Problems
- Mainly reported for the 2008 models
- Costs an average of $2,000 to fix
The 2008 C6 models seem to have a serious problem – a strong fuel door. Quite many owners of the 2008 C6 allege that the fuel door feels so tough to open, which makes them skeptical every time they have to go to a fuel station. As simple as this issue may seem, it costs up to $2,200 to get it fixed.
Another common issue reported by 2008 C6 owners is fuel propulsion; a situation whereby they always perceive fuel scents while driving. Apparently, it appears like there’s a leak in the fuel system. These fuel issues are quite critical because it puts you in a position of thinking your car would explode.
4. Electrical Faults
- Reported in 2005, 2008, and 2015 models
- Possibility of causing the car to explode
There are over 100 electrical fault complaints recorded for 2005, 2008, and 2015 C6 models. These problems include dimmed headlights, sensor problems, and exterior lighting problems.
The average cost of fixing C6 Corvette electrical faults is $2,000, and these problems reportedly happen before 40k miles.
5. Body and Paint Problems
- Mostly reported on 2005 and 2015 models
- These problems happen quite often
You wouldn’t love to wake up and find out that your supercar, which hasn’t lasted for two years is already peeling off paint.
Body and paint problems were recorded for the 2005 and 2015 C6 models, and the number of complaints recorded calls for cautiousness when planning to buy any C6 produced in the indicated years above.
Frequently Asked Questions
What C6 Corvette Years are Best to Buy?
The C6 Corvette was produced from 2004 to 2014 – take out 2005, 2008, and 2015 models, and then you can comfortably buy other years. This means that 2006, 2007, 2009 – 2014 C6 Corvette models are safe to buy. It is important to avoid the worst years if you’re buying a high-mileage used C6.
Do C6 Corvettes Have Engine Problems?
Actually, there are a few complaints regarding the engine in some C6 models, but the complaints weren’t too many. Notwithstanding, here are the common engine problems recorded for the C6 Corvette: engine components issues and fatal engine failure.
How Much Does a C6 Corvette Cost?
On average, the C6 costs around $50,000. However, you can find used model deals around $40,000 or even less, depending on multiple factions, including the mileage. C6 Corvettes are inarguably flashy, superior, and comfortable to drive.
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