If you’re thinking about buying a Corvette C7, you should be cautious about certain model years and know which years to avoid. Specifically, the 2015, 2017, and 2019 models have been known to have problems like engine overheating, transmission issues, and electrical system troubles.
These problems can be expensive to fix and might take away from your driving pleasure.
So, which years should you consider instead? Let’s look into the best model years and some key buying tips to make sure you make a smart choice.
Key Takeaways
- Stay away from the 2015, 2017, and 2019 Corvette C7 models because of known problems.
- These years often have engine overheating issues.
- The 2015 and 2017 models have a lot of transmission problems.
- The electrical systems in the 2015 and 2017 models often fail.
- The infotainment systems in the 2017 and 2019 models frequently glitch.
Common C7 Corvette Issues
When thinking about a C7 Corvette, it’s important to know about some common problems. Cracked and warped wheels can really affect how the car drives and can be expensive to fix.
You might also see issues like paint chipping, electrical problems, and suspension failures. Water leaks, engine misfires, and unreliable electronics are also frequently reported in certain model years.
Bluetooth connectivity issues and inaccurate sensors can add to the frustration. Another big issue is the front-end lift at high speeds, which can mess with handling and safety.
Knowing about these problems can help you decide which C7 Corvette model years might be the best fit for you.
Engine Overheating Problems
Engine overheating is a big problem in some Corvette C7 models, especially those from 2015, 2017, and 2019. This is often because of design issues or cooling systems that aren’t good enough.
You’ve probably heard that these overheating problems can mess with the car’s performance and even cause damage. Many owners say their engines overheat even when they’re just driving normally, not only when pushing the car hard.
This ongoing problem is due to the car’s design flaws or weak cooling systems that can’t keep the engine cool. It’s a good idea to stay away from these specific Corvette C7 years to avoid these problems and expensive repairs. You’d be better off choosing model years with better cooling systems.
Transmission Complications
While engine overheating is a big problem, transmission issues in some Corvette C7 models, especially the 2015 and 2017 versions, can also seriously affect how the car drives and how reliable it is.
The 2015 Corvette C7 often has problems with the transmission jerking and hesitating, making driving unpredictable and uncomfortable. These issues are usually due to design flaws in the 8-speed automatic transmission.
On the other hand, the 2017 Corvette C7 tends to have vibrations at highway speeds, also due to transmission issues. These ongoing problems not only make driving less enjoyable but also raise concerns about the car’s long-term reliability.
If you’re thinking about getting a Corvette C7, it’s best to avoid the 2015 and 2017 models to avoid these transmission problems.
Wheel and Brake Concerns
If you’re thinking about getting a Corvette C7, it’s important to know about some common wheel and brake problems, especially in the 2015, 2017, and 2019 models.
For the 2017 models, many owners had issues with warped wheels, which caused vibrations at highway speeds and flat tires from cracked rims.
In 2019, there were about 150 complaints, mostly about warped wheels, engine overheating, and steering issues.
The 2015 models are known for brake problems, with drivers often experiencing front-end shaking during sharp turns because of the factory-installed tires.
These issues can affect how the car drives and its safety, so make sure to check these model years carefully if you’re looking at a Corvette C7.
Electrical System Failures
When looking at a Corvette C7, you should know about the electrical problems that affected certain years, like 2015 and 2017. These issues caused things like jerky transmissions and hesitation.
In 2015, the factory-installed tires led to electrical problems, making the front end shake during sharp turns.
The 2017 models also had issues, with vibrations at highway speeds and flat tires caused by cracked rims due to electrical problems.
These electrical issues didn’t just make driving less enjoyable; they also led to significant recalls for serious problems, including suspension and airbags.
Infotainment System Glitches
If you’re looking at a Corvette C7, especially the 2017 and 2019 models, you should know that many owners have reported problems with the infotainment system.
Common issues include screens going black, freezing up, and touchscreens not responding. These glitches can really mess with your driving and entertainment experience.
Things like navigation, audio control, and connectivity mightn’t work right, which can be super annoying. A lot of Corvette C7 owners say these problems take away from the car’s high performance and luxury feel.
Paint and Body Defects
Paint and body defects are big problems in some Corvette C7 model years, especially 2015 and 2017. Common issues include paint chipping, peeling, and uneven finishes, which can hurt the car’s looks and lower its resale value. Owners of the 2015 models often see paint chipping and peeling, while the 2017 models have problems with uneven finishes on the body.
Some typical paint and body issues are:
- Paint chipping on the front bumper and hood
- Peeling paint around the edges and corners
- Uneven finish across different body panels
- Visible flaws under certain lighting conditions
- Premature fading of paint in areas exposed to the sun
Steering clear of these model years can help keep your Corvette looking good and save you money on repairs.
Suspension and Handling Issues
While paint and body issues can be annoying, suspension and handling problems in some Corvette C7 model years are more serious for driving performance and safety. For example, 2015 models have issues with the transmission jerking and hesitation, which can really affect your driving experience. In 2017 models, owners have reported vibrations at highway speeds and flat tires due to cracked rims, which can compromise handling and safety.
| Model Year | Suspension Issues | Handling Issues |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | Transmission jerking | Hesitation during acceleration |
| 2016 | Minor suspension complaints | Improved handling |
| 2017 | Vibration at highway speeds | Flat tires from cracked rims |
| 2018 | Fewer reported suspension issues | Improved driving dynamics |
| 2019 | Further improved suspension | Excellent handling |
Steering clear of these problematic years can help you avoid potential driving discomfort and safety risks.
Customer Service Complaints
Many Corvette C7 owners are frustrated with dealership service due to problems with communication, timeliness, and repair quality. Here are the main complaints:
- High repair costs: Many owners say repair bills are very high, causing financial stress.
- Resale value: Owners worry about losing money when they sell their car.
- Limited aftermarket support: There aren’t many options for upgrades and customization.
- Vibrating rims and defective tires: These issues keep happening even after multiple service visits.
- Dealership responses: Many owners feel dealerships are slow to fix problems and don’t respond well.
These problems make owning a Corvette C7 less enjoyable for many people.
Lawsuits Against GM
You should know that GM has been sued by Corvette C7 owners because of cracked and warped wheels, which many believe are due to poor materials.
These lawsuits usually center on the company’s refusal to fix these problems under warranty.
This raises major concerns about GM’s product quality and how they treat their customers.
Cracked Wheel Allegations
Owners of C7 Corvette models are suing GM, claiming that the wheels on their cars crack and warp easily because of poor-quality materials. These lawsuits bring to light the issues faced by 7th Generation Corvette owners.
The main points of the legal action are:
- Cracked wheels: Owners say the wheels crack too easily, posing safety risks.
- Warped wheels: They also allege that the wheels can warp even with normal driving.
- Poor materials: Plaintiffs argue that GM used low-quality materials to make the wheels.
- Compensation demands: The lawsuits seek money to cover repair costs.
- Ongoing cases: While some claims have been dismissed, many about wheel defects are still active.
Knowing about these claims helps in understanding the potential risks of owning a Corvette C7.
2. Warranty Coverage Denials
GM’s decision to refuse warranty coverage for Corvette C7 owners dealing with cracked and warped wheels has led to several lawsuits. Affected owners are now turning to the courts to get their money back. They claim that GM’s refusal to fix faulty wheels has caused them significant financial strain. The lawsuits focus on GM’s choices about the wheel materials and their denial of warranty claims for Corvette C7 models. For example, a man from Texas filed a lawsuit citing multiple problems with his Corvette C7 and GM’s poor handling of his warranty claims.
Here’s a quick overview of the situation:
| Issue | Description | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Cracked Wheels | Owners report wheels cracking during normal use | Safety and Costs |
| Warranty Denial | GM refuses to cover wheel-related issues | Financial Burden |
| Legal Actions | Owners suing GM to get their money back | Ongoing Legal Battles |
High Repair Costs
When thinking about getting a Corvette C7, watch out for the high repair costs with some model years.
You could end up paying a lot for new wheels, especially with cracked rims in the 2017 models, and pricey transmission repairs in the 2015 models due to jerking and hesitating problems.
Plus, there have been reports of frequent engine overhauls, which can also be expensive.
Expensive Wheel Replacements
Some Corvette C7 models, especially from 2017 and 2019, are known for their high repair costs because their wheels often crack or warp. Owners frequently have to replace these wheels, which can get very expensive.
If you’re thinking about getting a Corvette C7, keep these problems in mind. The cost of replacing the wheels can add up fast.
Here’s why these costs are so high:
- Weak materials: The wheels might crack easily.
- Bad roads: Poor road conditions can make the problem worse.
- Flawed design: Some wheel designs are just more likely to fail.
- Repeated fixes: Having to replace wheels often gets expensive.
- Aftermarket wheels: Sometimes, you have to buy non-factory wheels, which can be costly.
Knowing these issues can help you decide if a Corvette C7 is right for you.
Costly Transmission Repairs
Some 2015 Corvette C7 models have had issues with the transmission that can lead to expensive repairs. Owners have reported problems like jerking and hesitating, which aren’t just annoying but can also cost a lot to fix. These high repair costs can seriously affect your budget and make owning these cars less attractive.
It’s important to be aware of these issues and avoid the problematic model years if you can. By doing so, you can save yourself from costly repairs and enjoy a better ownership experience.
Frequent Engine Overhauls
In addition to transmission problems, the 2008, 2015, and 2017 Corvette C7 models often need frequent engine overhauls, which can be expensive and frustrating for owners. Engine failures are common in these years, making them particularly troublesome. Here’s what you might face:
- Strong fuel smells from a bad fuel pump in 2008 models, which might mean engine repairs.
- Transmission jerking and hesitation in 2015 models, which could lead to engine overhauls.
- Vibrations at highway speeds and flat tires due to cracked rims in 2017 models, leading to expensive fixes.
- More frequent maintenance, increasing your costs.
- Higher chances of engine failures, resulting in major financial burdens.
It’s best to avoid these years to keep repair costs down.
Resale Value Depreciation
When thinking about the resale value of Corvette C7 models to avoid, it’s crucial to know how reported problems and recalls can really hurt how people see these cars and what they’re worth. Models like the 2015, 2017, and 2019 C7s often have lower resale values because of these issues.
| Model Year | Main Problems |
|---|---|
| 2015 | Frequent recalls |
| 2017 | Engine issues |
| 2019 | Transmission problems |
Knowing how these problems affect depreciation can help you make smarter choices. High repair and maintenance costs can scare off potential buyers, leading to big financial losses. Doing your homework and avoiding years with known issues can ensure better resale value and reliability, protecting your investment.
Worst C7 Model Years
Understanding how resale value drops because of certain issues helps us pinpoint the worst Corvette C7 model years to avoid. The 2015, 2017, and 2019 models stand out due to major problems affecting performance and reliability.
Here’s what to look out for:
- 2015: The transmission hesitates and jerks.
- 2017: Vibrations at highway speeds and cracked rims causing flat tires.
- 2019: Warped wheels, engine overheating, steering problems, and an airbag recall.
These problems not only make driving less enjoyable but also lower the resale value, making these years the least desirable. Prospective buyers should be cautious and consider avoiding these specific model years for a better experience with a Corvette C7.
Best C7 Model Years
If you’re looking at the best Corvette C7 years, check out 2014, 2016, and 2018.
The 2014 model has very few issues.
The 2016 is known for its decent reliability and good reviews.
The 2018 model is the top pick, offering great performance and reliability with only a few small problems.
Top Reliable Models
Among the Corvette C7 models, the 2014, 2016, and 2018 are the most reliable and well-liked by drivers. These years have the best reliability scores, making them the top picks if you want a dependable car.
Here’s why they stand out:
- 2014: Second-best in reliability with only a few minor issues reported.
- 2016: Offers decent reliability, ranking between the best and worst years.
- 2018: Rated the best in the series, though it still has a few minor problems.
- Avoid: 2015, 2017, and 2019 as they’ve more significant issues and recalls.
- Driver Feedback: Positive experiences are common for these top years.
These points help you choose the best C7 models for a reliable and enjoyable drive.
Yearly Performance Highlights
The best Corvette C7 model years—2014, 2016, and 2018—stand out for their great performance and driver satisfaction.
The 2014 Chevy Corvette is a solid second choice, known for its reliability with only a few minor issues.
If you’re looking for a good balance, the 2016 model offers decent reliability and positive reviews.
The 2018 Corvette C7 is the top pick, with the highest ratings and very few problems.
On the other hand, you should avoid the 2015, 2017, and 2019 models because they’ve many reported issues and recalls.
Choose wisely to enjoy the iconic performance of the Chevy Corvette.
Buying Tips for C7 Models
If you’re looking to buy a Corvette C7, it’s important to do your homework and check out the model years with the best reliability and performance. Try to avoid the 2015, 2017, and 2019 models, as they’ve had several problems.
When buying a C7, keep the following tips in mind:
- Check for Recalls: Make sure any recalls have been taken care of.
- Inspect the Transmission: Ensure it shifts smoothly, especially for the 2015 model.
- Examine Rims and Tires: Look out for cracks and wear, which are common issues in the 2017 model.
- Review Maintenance Records: Verify that the car has been regularly serviced and repaired.
- Test Drive: Listen for any vibrations or strange noises.
When looking at performance cars, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Corvette C5, Corvette C4. Knowing which model years to target and which to avoid is crucial. Our expert reviews break down these models, providing insights into the years that are celebrated for their engineering excellence and driving satisfaction, as well as those that are best to avoid due to potential issues.
Conclusion
If you’re thinking about getting a Corvette C7, it’s smart to avoid the 2015, 2017, and 2019 models. These years have a lot of problems with the engine, transmission, brakes, and electrical systems, which can end up costing you a lot of money.
Instead, look for models from other years that are known to be more reliable. This way, you’ll have a better experience and protect your investment. Remember, being informed is your best ally when dealing with high-performance cars.
