I'm looking for a 96 coupe & wondering what "issues" I need to be looking for. My 90 coupe was a great car with the usual issues popping up along the way. Other than those it was a great car that I have missed since it drove away :cry So now I'm coming back to the American Legend where I belong. I hope that's the last time I have to do without a Vette in my garage again. :nopity Oh well. Any info is appreciated. Thanks. :chevy


[Modified by 87TRex, 5:09 PM 6/24/2002]

 

Biggest problem is the LT4. Its a brute. If you're not careful you'll get tickets :) I've heard the 96 is the best in terms of build quality, even over the 95.

Eric

 

Just the typical C-4 stuff you should already know like the window scratches from old window bumpers, etc.

 

The only problem with my '96 is rear tire wear!!! :yesnod:

 

AC only blow thru defroster vents due to bad programmer or controller:
OBDII problems - check engine light comes on

Otherwise I believe the 96 is better from the BSR (buzz, squeak, rattle)standpoint than earlier C4's.
FrankLT4CE

 

Since I recently purchased a 96 I know what you mean. The biggest problem is determining what you want. Automatics only came with the LT1. GS packages and all other 6 speed manuals came with the LT4s. I HIGHLY recommend the LT4. There is also a Collector's Edition that only came in silver, with various engine packages. Try to also find a z51 suspension (came with the FEE3 - sport ride), its worth it.

The LT4 is listed at 330 hp, but testing of the engines has lead to varible hp/torque discoveries. Out of 124 LT4's tested at Auto Performance Test Lab in Atlanta (go to http://www.corvetteactioncenter.com to see results) less than 24% of the vettes actually had less than 345 hp. Most of them averaged 350 to 360 hp.

Another questionable performance stat is the auto mags 0-60 times of 5.1 and 5.2. With most tests, the LT4 has a 4.8 0-60 time. The probable was that GM didn't want to "steal the thunder" from the C5, and some believe a "lesser" car was provided to the auto mags for testing.

The fact is, the LT4 is has undergone lots of testing that show much better performance #s than what GM or magazines do. Ask any LT4 owner, and they will tell you that a stock LT4 will stay ahead of a C5 unitl about 105, 110 and then the C5 will pass and begin to pull away. However, with some mods, you will stay ahead the entire way!!

:yesnod:

I have had no problems with mine over the past 6 months/ 5,000 miles, but I have heard of minor oil leaks and other stuff. There were two recalls on the LT4, both dealt with the performance cam (I believe).
Just let me know if you want other performance data or info.

 

Just think, chevy had 12 years to work out the C4 bugs before 96 rolled around!

If its an LT4, check to see if the roller rocker pin was replaced.

And then buy it!!! :cool:

 

I appreciate all the feedback. I've been a Vette guy since I was born. I still have the scar on the bottom of my foot from my dad's 66 side pipe. The C4 is my favorite gen by far. I have read that all 96's got the 13 inch ZR1 brakes & autos got improved shifting. Also I heard the Z51 was a great autocross suspension, but made the car ride quite stiff. I had the touring suspension on my 90, and it rode like a dream. I want an LT4 but I'm going to drive it daily, so I'm concerned about my bum clutch knee. My friends Z06 had a pretty heavy clutch, especially in stop n go traffic. Man would that thing fly! He was kind(or crazy) enough to let me take my wife to lunch in it one day. It is true what they say: that car can easily lose a man his licence. Oh well, if I can find the right LT4 I'm going for it. If not I'll be happy with a cruiser LT1. First I just have to sell my T-type or the wife will hurt me. . At least until there is a Vette in the garage again. :chevy


[Modified by 87TRex, 8:26 PM 6/24/2002]


[Modified by 87TRex, 9:37 PM 6/24/2002]

 

My CE LT4 has been trouble free aside from two glitches. I had to replace the water pump and it looks like I'll have to replace the climate control computer. Both are apparently pretty much standard failures.
The engine is (so far) bullet proof and runs very strong. My friend's 2001 C5 (with Breathless and PRt's) gets past it at about 125. Until that speed, it's a dead heat. All in all, I can't say enough good about the car. I love it. Let us know what you had to pay. I spent $19K for mine with 50,000 miles in excellent condition five months ago. Cire96

 

The only problems you'll have are the urge to drive way past legal speeds, and you'll have flocks of women wanting a ride in your car, and who knows what else :jester

btw in all seriousness I've only replaced my batter and heater core, no other problems

 

I paid $24K for mine with 27,000 miles and in mint condition 3 months ago. Cire96, do you belong to any local corvette clubs? I'm in Ft. Thomas vette club.

 

ALl4c4lt4 ... I sure do. I was at the FTCC cruise in last Wednesday. I heard you'd joined and I looked for you. Maybe next time! Cire96 :cheers:

 

try http://www.alldata.com....for service bulletins and recalls :cheers:

 

Let's review the warranty history of my late '96... I bought it used (was a one owner car) so some of 'em are mysteries..

24 miles... roof (replaced... weird)
24 miles... right rear tire pressure sensor
9494 miles... radio replaced
9494 miles... wiper arm replacement
20298.... air check valve replacement
20298..... A/C programmer replacement
20298..... Oxygen sensor replacement
30556.... repair/replace weatherstrip AGN (dunno which one this is)
30556.... water pump gasket replacement
30556.... battery replacement
34147..... rear glass shade replacement (the pullout shade)
34147..... replace horn
35692..... driver door window switch replacement
35692..... evap emission canister purge control solenoid replacement
67462..... fuel pump replacement (wow, what a mileage stretch).

This was the year GM got "aggressive" on quality control... :) :) :)

All I can say is that since I've had the car, half the LTPWS sensors have had to be replaced, put on a new EGR valve, and have had to put up with the typical (minor) GM fluid leaks.

The car runs strong despite GM's lack of attention to details.


[Modified by Dan Parker '96, 10:01 PM 6/25/2002]