4 C6 Corvettes - exactly ONE problem....
Thread Starter
Team Owner
Joined: Jun 2001
Posts: 26,714
Likes: 344
From: Houston, TX
4 C6 Corvettes - exactly ONE problem....
Anyone else tired of all the threads recently about problems "plaguing" various Corvettes? Well, so am I. Apparently some folks don't realize that the nature of forums is that it tends to magnify problems because there aren't many threads bragging about how good the C6 is. So here is mine.
Seven years ago I bought a 2005 C6 two months after they came out. Admittedly, I only kept that one 7 months and traded it for another 05. I kept that one two years and put about 10,000 miles on it. Then I bought a 2008 and kept it for just over a year. Traded it on my current 2009 - now three years and two months ago.
I drive all my cars fast. They go out on the back roads on average two Sunday mornings a month for about a 140 mile ride. On those rides, they see redline a few times, frequently see speeds I can't even begin to mention on the forum, and get pushed through some curves pretty hard.
Punch line? On those four C6's combined there has been exactly one problem - my 08 had a gas gauge problem where it went to empty and stayed. It took about 30 minutes to fix it (reflash the ECU and a bottle of Techron). That's it - no other problems.
I can't control what people will post on this thread, but how about we see how many people can post that their C6 has been very reliable!
Seven years ago I bought a 2005 C6 two months after they came out. Admittedly, I only kept that one 7 months and traded it for another 05. I kept that one two years and put about 10,000 miles on it. Then I bought a 2008 and kept it for just over a year. Traded it on my current 2009 - now three years and two months ago.
I drive all my cars fast. They go out on the back roads on average two Sunday mornings a month for about a 140 mile ride. On those rides, they see redline a few times, frequently see speeds I can't even begin to mention on the forum, and get pushed through some curves pretty hard.
Punch line? On those four C6's combined there has been exactly one problem - my 08 had a gas gauge problem where it went to empty and stayed. It took about 30 minutes to fix it (reflash the ECU and a bottle of Techron). That's it - no other problems.
I can't control what people will post on this thread, but how about we see how many people can post that their C6 has been very reliable!
Le Mans Master
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 6,412
Likes: 1,295
From: Bluffton, SC
Jim, I honestly think you've had exceptional luck with your cars. I've had two C6's, a 2005 coupe and my current 2009 vert. My 2005 had several of the issues associated with that model year, including DBS, muting radio, roof recall, broken hatch button, and a defective speaker. After all was finally sorted out, a process which took two years and many trips to the dealer, it turned into a very reliable vehicle. (The crank pulley TSB was done proactively.)
My 2009 vert went through the roof header recall and the torn liner TSB. I also had my Delco battery completely fail after 12 months. I replaced that with an Optima Yellow Top. Other than the two issues with the top and the one battery issue, the car has been rock solid and has been 100% trouble free for the past two years.
It is interesting to note that even Consumer Reports has upgraded the reliability rating for the C6, which has gone from worse than average to average. The Z06 has gone to above average reliability.
Although the reliability of the C6 has gotten considerably better since its introduction in 2004, various problems do keep popping up. I think you've been really fortunate to have lucked into such trouble free cars.
My 2009 vert went through the roof header recall and the torn liner TSB. I also had my Delco battery completely fail after 12 months. I replaced that with an Optima Yellow Top. Other than the two issues with the top and the one battery issue, the car has been rock solid and has been 100% trouble free for the past two years.
It is interesting to note that even Consumer Reports has upgraded the reliability rating for the C6, which has gone from worse than average to average. The Z06 has gone to above average reliability.
Although the reliability of the C6 has gotten considerably better since its introduction in 2004, various problems do keep popping up. I think you've been really fortunate to have lucked into such trouble free cars.
Pro
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 523
Likes: 0
From: Oak Harbor (Whidbey Island) WA
Can't complain. 2008 with only 2 issues.
1. Drivers seat cover. Warn prematurely. (Replaced)
2. Top squeaking. (Resolved)
Still on the original battery after 3 years.
1. Drivers seat cover. Warn prematurely. (Replaced)
2. Top squeaking. (Resolved)
Still on the original battery after 3 years.
Last edited by RedRider1; Sep 24, 2011 at 09:00 AM.
Le Mans Master
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 6,640
Likes: 279
From: Muscle Shoals, AL
Cruise-In VI Veteran
Cruise-In VII Veteran
I've probably had more than one problem. I had an ECU go out on an 08 coupe that left me stranded for about 30 minutes until it started.
I've had numerous C6's with the popping top.
I had the Service Active Handling warning with an 05 1SB (telescopic wheel).
But considering the fact that I've had 8 different C6's, I'm well pleased with the reliability of my C6's.
I've had an 05 Coupe, an 07 Coupe, an 07 Pace Car Vert, two 08 coupes, a 2010 GS Coupe, a 2011 GS Coupe, and now a 2012 GS Coupe. (never more than two at a time, though)
I've put anywhere from 3000 miles (I only kept my 2011 GS for two months....a record for me) to 22K miles. I drive about 15K miles a year in my Vettes.
These cars are so rock solid, that I have no problem trading in a perfectly good Vette on another new perfectly good Vette. (except for the money thing, lol)
The guys at BG have my complete confidence that a new Vette is going to be great.
I've had numerous C6's with the popping top.
I had the Service Active Handling warning with an 05 1SB (telescopic wheel).
But considering the fact that I've had 8 different C6's, I'm well pleased with the reliability of my C6's.
I've had an 05 Coupe, an 07 Coupe, an 07 Pace Car Vert, two 08 coupes, a 2010 GS Coupe, a 2011 GS Coupe, and now a 2012 GS Coupe. (never more than two at a time, though)
I've put anywhere from 3000 miles (I only kept my 2011 GS for two months....a record for me) to 22K miles. I drive about 15K miles a year in my Vettes.
These cars are so rock solid, that I have no problem trading in a perfectly good Vette on another new perfectly good Vette. (except for the money thing, lol)
The guys at BG have my complete confidence that a new Vette is going to be great.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 3,271
Likes: 20
From: Georgia
2008 c6 I am not the original owner so I can't speak on any problems he may have had. But with 17k miles on it. I've only had problems with the battery being dead after it sat for a month in my parent's garage. After I replaced the battery it fired right up and no problems sense.
Great car!! I love it
Great car!! I love it
Burning Brakes
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 933
Likes: 0
From: FL
Have owned only 1 Vette, 2007 coupe. Have nearly 50K miles on it as a DD. Have had the rear diff fluid changed ( clunking noise ) , both headlite units ( spider cracks ) , & the battery in my FOB. All under warranty !
So, would I buy another Vette....HELL YES !!!!
So, would I buy another Vette....HELL YES !!!!
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Drifting
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 1,983
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From: Seguin Tx
Advanced
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 60
Likes: 0
Vet owners sometimes expect perfection for their money and are known by industry to be the most picky of all new car owners. A tiny smudge on a headlight lens is a big deal for a vet owner but not such a big deal on a toyota.
Replacing a top that was recalled before it disintegrated is not what I would call a problem. My 05 has almost 75K on it and is still on the same battery. The HUD innards crumbled due to intense sunlight but I replaced it myself with one I got off ebay for 50 dollars. Took almost 2 hours, not a big deal. The car was still using the original battery after 5 years, I replaced it with a yellow top just because I like gel cell tech. I expect minor issues to crop up on any new car, thankfully I've not had any major issues but I don't think that it's just because I'm lucky.
All of my Japanese and German cars have had major problems, leaving me stranded several times but hey maybe that's just my luck with those brands. You may like them, I don't.
If you're dissatisfied with your C6 don't buy another one, buy what's best for you. Mine runs great, I can't wait till I can buy another.
Replacing a top that was recalled before it disintegrated is not what I would call a problem. My 05 has almost 75K on it and is still on the same battery. The HUD innards crumbled due to intense sunlight but I replaced it myself with one I got off ebay for 50 dollars. Took almost 2 hours, not a big deal. The car was still using the original battery after 5 years, I replaced it with a yellow top just because I like gel cell tech. I expect minor issues to crop up on any new car, thankfully I've not had any major issues but I don't think that it's just because I'm lucky.
All of my Japanese and German cars have had major problems, leaving me stranded several times but hey maybe that's just my luck with those brands. You may like them, I don't.
If you're dissatisfied with your C6 don't buy another one, buy what's best for you. Mine runs great, I can't wait till I can buy another.
Team Owner
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 45,279
Likes: 8,555
From: Rochester, NY
When I first joined the forum prior to ordering my Vette I almost got cold feet reading about all the problems. But happy to say I placed the order and took delivery in March 2008.
Since then I have driven it hard each and every time. I love the HP and the Torgue and that is two big reasons I bought the Vette.
Just yesterday while on a short cruise with the Wife, I blasted it from a roll (TC Off) in first gear and man you gotta love the wheel spin and the wiggle of the back end when you hit second gear at redline That is how I drive the Vette each time, hard and fast. I am pleased as hell to say I have not had one single problem with my Vette in now over 3 years of owning it.
Waiting patiently for the C7 to see what it will offer under the hood, as I have no quality fears of owning a Vette.
Since then I have driven it hard each and every time. I love the HP and the Torgue and that is two big reasons I bought the Vette.
Just yesterday while on a short cruise with the Wife, I blasted it from a roll (TC Off) in first gear and man you gotta love the wheel spin and the wiggle of the back end when you hit second gear at redline That is how I drive the Vette each time, hard and fast. I am pleased as hell to say I have not had one single problem with my Vette in now over 3 years of owning it.
Waiting patiently for the C7 to see what it will offer under the hood, as I have no quality fears of owning a Vette.
Last edited by dvilin; Sep 24, 2011 at 09:06 AM.
Team Owner
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 22,709
Likes: 1,697
From: South Carolina
Drove my 07 for 40 month and almost 40k miles...It had several issues like the top and the seat but I never took it to the dealer after the 1st day. I have empirical evidence they are very well made cars as a whole. I recently traded for an 11 and I can also say there are some things that are not any better. Panel alignment being one for sure as well as the normal rattles are still there and yes including the top lol. (tough it isn't quite as bad)
If comparing with other cars though I say for what they are they are really very well built cars. The design and function for the cost are outstanding imo...Better than anything out there.
If comparing with other cars though I say for what they are they are really very well built cars. The design and function for the cost are outstanding imo...Better than anything out there.
Instructor
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 158
Likes: 0
From: Brenham Texas
On my third one. First one had a leak in the rear end seal and cracks in the clear targa roof.
The 08 had the squeaky roof and it was replaced.
This 2011 has been a dream. (so far)
I have not been plagued with "gremlin" electrical issues, fault codes or any of the forum posts. I cannot complain. I read this forum just to get educated as a consumer. I think I may be lucky but really I think our vettes are well made and remember they are mechanical objects.
The 08 had the squeaky roof and it was replaced.
This 2011 has been a dream. (so far)
I have not been plagued with "gremlin" electrical issues, fault codes or any of the forum posts. I cannot complain. I read this forum just to get educated as a consumer. I think I may be lucky but really I think our vettes are well made and remember they are mechanical objects.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 3,327
Likes: 166
From: Summerton SC
Tech Contributor
You could call mine Mr. Reliable, only probs ever w/2 vettes was a battery and a gas tank filler leak. Far less probs than with previous cars though. I think there are alot of probs reported that relate to mods as well.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 2,262
Likes: 3
From: One of them
I have had 2 C6's. My 05 has been an awesome car. No problems with it. Had took it in for the service active handling recall. Other than that Great problem free car in over 4 1/2 years of ownership.
Racer
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 314
Likes: 3
From: Baltimore Md
New owner of a low mileage '05 with 20K miles when I bought 7 months ago. I have had 2 problems that were identified by TSB's (erratic fuel gauge & loose crank bolt). My 2 issues should have been identified by previous owner, but I'm guessing he/she wasn't a member of this great forum of information.
I got a car at a good price with all the options and accepted the used car risk that I may have some problems, but all things considered I'm happy!!
I got a car at a good price with all the options and accepted the used car risk that I may have some problems, but all things considered I'm happy!!
Team Owner
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 46,295
Likes: 2,596
From: Northern, VA
St. Jude Donor '15
"In honor of jpee"
I'd say my '08 has been average to good, Jim. Not exceptional but not bad either in 34K miles of driving with a convertible (which some might say is more prone by design to negative issues), bought new, detailed by the Museum, and picked up in Aug., '07---so now 4+ full years old.
And I have some good, industry-leading, car standards (other makes of vehicles owned simultaneously) to compare it with.
But some of the advice and insights on here have been priceless. Such as, when you modify a car you may get better performance but it may be at a price which exceeds the original price for whatever it was. Mine isn't modified, so all issues of which there've probably only been about a half dozen, or a few more, are all on a stock car.
Am I displeased at the level or number of problems on the car over the four year term? No. And that's not considering the initial (some say high) price of the car. It's considering the perfomance level and everything else you get with the car. In other words, taking the car as a whole, no other car is better imo for what this one gives me and what it asks of me in return (relatively minor, relatively infrequent, relatively non-costly, repairs or warranty items).
And I have some good, industry-leading, car standards (other makes of vehicles owned simultaneously) to compare it with.
But some of the advice and insights on here have been priceless. Such as, when you modify a car you may get better performance but it may be at a price which exceeds the original price for whatever it was. Mine isn't modified, so all issues of which there've probably only been about a half dozen, or a few more, are all on a stock car.
Am I displeased at the level or number of problems on the car over the four year term? No. And that's not considering the initial (some say high) price of the car. It's considering the perfomance level and everything else you get with the car. In other words, taking the car as a whole, no other car is better imo for what this one gives me and what it asks of me in return (relatively minor, relatively infrequent, relatively non-costly, repairs or warranty items).