Hi guys. I hope you can give me some advice. A few months ago, my 2002 Vette's warning displays for: Service ABS, Service Traction System and Service Active Handling came on and went back off after I turned my car off. I have read where this happens sometimes. I could feel that the back end would get squirrely though, so I took it into the dealer and had them check it out. They told me that it was nothing, that I may need to check into getting new tires. I knew it wasn't my tires, but I accepted that it was in my mind. Yesterday, the lights all came on again and have stayed on. I took it into the dealer this morning and they say the it is all bad including the EC?? something that I have read about. Anyway, the entire bill is $5,100. I only have 87,000 miles on the car and I ordered it in the fall of 2001, so I know that it has been babied and serviced regularly. This is my main source of transportation and I will also be needing tires in a couple of months. So, I am considering trading in and getting a new one. My questions are these:

1) Is this a common problem with Corvettes?

2) The dealer is only offering a trade of $9,000 un-repaired. I was thinking this was crazy, but the KBB trade-in value in excellent condition is around $13,700, so the car is worth less than I thought it would be. What do you all think is a fair trade-in? South Alabama is where I am dealing.

3) The dealer incentives are much better on the 2009 than the 2010, but in the long run, are the savings for the 2009 worth the price difference of a 2010?

Thank you in advance for any and all advice.

 

Pull the codes from the DIC and post them. Might be simple, might be expensive, the codes will help tell. The ECBM is a known issue, go to www.absfixer.com to read about it. If you SEARCHED with the SEARCH FUNCTION on the top for AH/TC problems you would have seen how common.

 

The first thing I would do is find out what the problem is for my self. You can easily access the DTC codes by following the directions in the link below.

http://web.archive.org/web/200306042...D=25&TopicID=1

The parts could possibility cost from 0 to $2000 and be installed for 300 – $400.

 

I don’t know that I would call it a common problem, but it does happen. It could be as simple as a bad wheel sensor to Brake control module. To fix a bad wheel sensor or wire going to it might only cost couple hundred bucks. If you don’ do your own work I would suggest finding a Corvette specialty shop in your area and have them take a look at it. Do you know how to pull the DIC codes? If yes, post them here.

 

Thank all of you for your help. The car is at the dealer and I have no way of getting the codes. It is undriveable too, so I had to take it in. The service guy said it was the computer if I understood him correctly. I am getting it fixed because I have found no other place other than the dealer that will work on Corvettes around here. I am thinking of trading in or selling my car and getting another Vette. But, if this is something that I have a good chance of dealing with again with anothr Vette, I don't know that I want to get another. I had several other things that have happened over the life of my car that I don't feel should have gone wrong like 4 motors for my headlights, 2 power window motors and now this. All but 1 of the headlight motors were covered under warranty and 1 of the power window motors was covered too. But, these are things that I don't feel should be going wrong with a car like this. I love my car and I love to drive it. So this is really a hard decision to make. So if any of you know of these problems being widespread or just my rotten luck, I would really appreciate your information.

Thanks.

 

Pscott,

If you are planning on getting a New Corvette, I’d say go for it. I don’t think you will ever have to worry about the head light issue again with current model Corvette for obvious reasons. I would also like to think the quality has improved as well, at least the warranty has.

I’m personally partial to C5’s, but the truth is, it is what I can afford. If I had the funds my butt would be in a C6 and if funds were really good, a ZR1. (Hey, we have to dream a little). So, if you have any thoughts at all of a new Corvette, man, go for it. You won’t be disappointed.

 

I am sorry for not seeing the other posts on this problem, but to be honest, I had no idea what this problem was called. I had to get back to the service manager to see what was being replaced and not only is my EBCM bad, but he also said something about a Brake valve and also some other valves. (My check engine light also was on) Anyway, a total of $5,100 for parts and labor. They just called me back and are now offering me $17,700 trade in. I am just clueless (can I use the girl card here?) as to how cars work and how to work on them and I am pretty much at the mercy of the dealer. The car has always been serviced at the dealer and always on time or before it is due. Again, my apologies on not using the SEARCH correctly. I really do appreciate the help though.

 

Eric, I can see where the headlight problem won't be an issue again, but what about the EBCM? Is this still the same on the C6?

Edited to add that I also have the Rocking Seat problem. I just didn't want to pick my car apart, but now I see that a bunch of you have this too.

 

Pscott,
The headlight motor/gear problem is common. The plastic gears inside wear out. If it is your only car, then I can see it happening more often.

The EBCM has been a problem for a few cars including mine. I had my EBCM sent out for repair a few years ago and it has been fine ever since. The repair only cost me $200.00. I didn't think the window motors were common, but the wiring in the door has been a problem area. You seem to have avoided the other problems Unfortunately, you may be getting treated unfairly because of your gender.

A C6 with a warranty and everything might be good for you if you can't do your own work.

 

BUD,,,your getting a ROYAL SCREWING and there not even going to use any LUBE! That repair price is friggen insane and unjustified!!! I hope you have not locked in on giving them any money yet!!

Please call me! PM SENT!

Bill Curlee