So what's so advantageous about it. Any disadvantages to it? Is it in any C5 or is it just a C6 thing???

 

All C5's are drive by wire.

 

It just makes sense on a vehicle that has interrelated sophisticated computer systems that require throttle control by those computers. For example, the “ABS”, "Traction Control" and “Active Handling” systems are interrelated and work together to control throttle and brake under real time conditions.

 

Also, less moving parts. Better for long term reliability.

 

More forthe dealer to charge you for wnen it s BROKEN! ! !

 

Unfortunately, it seems that the non-moving parts (ie computers...) are the parts that have the most problems.

 

I never really decided to get aquainted with the electronics on my C5. The just seem downright intimidating and the complexity level is quite high! But one day I shall read up on what the LS1 has to offer and hopefully learn more about the Gen 3-4.

Though I'm from the C4 crowd, I feel like the electronics on the early L98 C4s are much easier to deal with. I worked on many Chevy cars way before I got my driver's license.

 

I would rather get a FSM from Helms in addition to the correct tools than to even let a dealer touch my car. I learned the hard way. I had a Jetta once and I feel as if the dealer purposefully misdiagnosed the problem in order to make some money off me.

 

Many of the new cars are drive by wire now. The new Jeep Wrangler has it. What is cool about it is when your in low range it changes how the throttle responds so it is less jerky on a rough trail when you getting tossed around.

 

On a more serious side. I started working on cars when I was six. Old school was easy to learn, diagnosis and repair. In the late 70's GM started integrating electronics on the old school platforms. Along with my superior mechanical skills, I enjoyed working with basic electronics and it was easy to figure out how HEI Distributors worked.

Then came the early electronically controlled carbs, O2 sensors, OBD1 and closed loop operation. I broke out the books and figured it out because I refused to take my stuff to the dealer! I hate getting ripped off!!!

I like to take stuff apart to see how it works. A fuel injector sounds complicated but, if you dismantle one, there quite simple.

Now, C4 seems like cave man stuff and C5 OBD II is easy. I have yet to step into C6 OBDIII. I even have a C6. It pisses me off that they took away the self diagnosis features like the C5 has. Now I have to purchase an expensive scanner to figure out whats going on.

If your interested in fixing your own C5, you will need:

Factory Service Manual
Digital Volt Meter
metric tools
SAE tools
Basic Electronics Knowledge
Some basic books on electronically fuel injected systems.

As soon as my C6 goes out of warranty, I'll start fixing it myself.

BC

 

My 5.3L Trailblazer is also DBW. Just another two hundred dollar electrical, non-returnable part to break.

 

Do they even have a FSM for the C6 Vettes yet?

 

Aren't factory service manuals the same that the service guys use at the dealership? I would've guessed that they are available as soon as the car hits the sales lot.

 

Duhhh .... how would a dealer fix one if there was no Service Manual ??? The manuals are published and available BEFORE the car comes out on dealer lots.

Maker of the manuals for GM is Helms, you can order the manuals (C5, C6, whatever) by specifying what year, or you can the GM CD manual that covers multiple years .....

Go to http://www.helminc.com if you want to order them.