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I’ve owned a C5 for years and do ALL my own work. I bought a set of Quick Jacks and never had any issues. They are a little cumbersome to set up if you store them away when not in use but make underneath work a breeze.
I added my 21 Z51 3LT about a month ago. Oil changes look to be as easy if not easier than the C5. Air filter is buried on the C8 but not hard to replace. Trans filter looks to be a pretty simple change. It’s just a car with bolts like any other.
Warranty is what it is. Don’t limit yourself by only looking at cars you can get GM extended coverage. If the things are that susceptible to failure, I wouldnt even buy one. For the most part I think it’s just people afraid of new technology and stories they’ve heard about. My 21 only had 1400 miles so I couldn’t get the Platinum extended coverage. The dealer adds 5 year powertrain coverage on all the vehicles they sale. I’m gonna maintain it like the book says and if I happen to have an issue, it’ll get towed to the dealer.
I wouldn't say the maintenance is over complicated but you need to have the right setup in your garage. Proper jacks and or a portable lift to get underneath the car. The problem is getting older and even the simplest of tasks are now difficult on the body and more time consuming to complete! I also don't trust the dealers technicians to do the job proper unless I'm watching them. Fortunately, my Dealership allows me full access whenever the C8 is in for service.
I wouldn't say the maintenance is over complicated but you need to have the right setup in your garage. Proper jacks and or a portable lift to get underneath the car. The problem is getting older and even the simplest of tasks are now difficult on the body and more time consuming to complete! I also don't trust the dealers technicians to do the job proper unless I'm watching them. Fortunately, my Dealership allows me full access whenever the C8 is in for service.
Some excellent points, as long as my C8 is under warrantee, and it will be during the complete ownership period, I will let the dealership handle all maintenance and warrantee work. I don't check their work simply because I feel I don't have too, if they screw something up, they have to fix it, its under warrantee.
I already used the Lemon Law process to return a C8 that was never repaired correctly, have no problems doing it again.
I do respect those that have the skills, tools and knowledge to do maintenance work themselves, however I get a bit frustrated sometimes when some ignorant clown tells me I am not a true auto enthusiast because I don't "work" on my cars.
One time with my C6, I took it to a dealer cause I had a problem with a flapper valve control by the computer. Other than that, not understanding the issue, not knowing how to fix it, not knowing… I had to go back three times to get it fixed. They kept giving it to the same mechanic saying he screwed it up. He has to fix it.
I currently have no Corvette. Previously owned C4 (1995) automatic. Then C6, 2006, Z51, 6 speed manual. I like doing my own maintenance. Oil changes on ramps was easy. Manual trans fluid change was also easy with ramps in rear. I drove a 2020 Z51 C8 last weekend. It was amazing. Do any of you find the complexity with the C8 is a pain, especially if you like DIY maintenance? Looking at the DCT trans maintenance requirements , it looks almost impossible to change the external filter or fluid without a lift? And the 30 or so bolts needing to be removed and reinstalled on the chassis shields to access the DCT filter and drain? I’m suspicious of dealer maintenance as a friend had lift damage to his C6 years ago. Also details like over-torquing an oil drain plug would drive me crazy. I guess the solution is to get to know the dealer C8 technicians and only use that person once trust is established? I want a C8. I am reading about GM engine issues with valve failures related to “cylinder de-activation” mainly in truck engines. Also some crankshaft bearing failures related to manufacturing tolerances? Any high level advice on acquiring a C8? I have looked for a C7 Grand Sport with 7 speed manual trans. I found one with low miles but it’s $66K. The C8 2020 Z51 is the same price? Well I am new again to the forum. I am definitely a Corvette fan. My wife and I are planning a Corvette Museum visit this month. I saw there is a driving experience at the NCM Motorsports track next door. I can drive a C8 around the track 4 laps in a lead and follow routine, for $316. If we go, I’m definitely doing it.
I had two C4s, a C6 Z51, two C7 including a Grand Sport that i did all my own maintenance. GM Free oil change offers (up to 5 with the C7) was not worth it to me. As like you did not trust the large Chevy dealer in town. They have ~30 servcie bays and one oil change bay with usually a newbie tech who may have been flipping burgers the month before. Of Interest they also sell/servcie BMW and Mercedes and for those cars have separate mechanics that also do the oil changes. BUT all others go to the Oil Charge Bay!
Don't like ramps, one always moved with my C6 as I drove up on them. So gave mine to a friend who needed to lift on grass! Below are some Pics on my changing oil on a C7. IF I had not found a great C8 Trained Tech at a small dealer ~30 miles from my home I would be doing myself. However the DCT requires a Flush prior to the DCT filter change. It's done by the GM Service Computer. Looks like now you can buy a device that works to do it! Could not initially so I looked to find a Dealer Tech I trussed. I have and let him do everything.
PS: The GM issue with the LT2 is with Trucks that use a different crank. This issue was blamed on crack tolerance. None issue with Vette. Same with lifters not a significant issue with Vette's in some minds BUT no evidence. I had V8/V4 in two C7s, in my 2020 C8 Z51 and now E-Ray. IMO a none issue. It is totally transparent when I use MY Mode. Don't hear or feel anything, Some do BUT I and many others do not.
My C7 like my C6 needed to be level when changing oil to drain most oil.
I follow the advise of a Warning on a pair of jack stands I have what say "Only Use On One End of the Car At A Time." Safer to Use Wheel Stanchions On One End.
I spent over a month on my shop floor crawler when i built my street rod. Worth the two step jacking that required to get up on my commercial 12 inch high wheel Stanchions. Sill have them BUT PIA to jack that high. The 8" high I suggest are high enough to jack the C8 for oil changes and should be OK to remove the rear aero panel shear plate. to make a DCT filter change AND fluid change.
With the C8 drain plug in the front of the engine just lifting the rear will get most oil out. The 8" stanchions I suggest or the commercial 10 inch high from race ramps will work. I would use two jacks in GM oval jack lifts with jack pads and jack evenly.
I had C4, C5, C6. But no C7 because I thought GM had taken the front engine concept about as far as it could go.
When C8 came around I was all in. Two years later, no regrets. I love my C8 and would never consider going back to a C6 or C7.
I am a DIY guy also. No worries about maintenance. Yes, the car is way more complex that previous years, so what. That makes it interesting.
There have been many posts about jacking up the car. One side a time, no problem.
There is a spot front and back where you put the jack stand. That is not where you put the jack. The jack goes in basically at the back of the door, then the car raises front and back wheels equally.
Then put the jack stands in the right spots. One side up on jack stands; take the jack to the other side; repeat the lift for side two.
Jacking from front or back looks near impossible to me. Using two jacks totally unnecessary.
I have had the under engine panel off two times to find dropped tools. It's no big deal.
Last edited by C5racecar; Aug 19, 2025 at 01:23 AM.
Ok, so jacking from 1 side lifts both front and back simultaneously. Place jack stands, then repeat other side? When you Jack the 2nd side of the car , the car says stable even though cocked at an angle ? That’s good. Once the 2nd side tires are off the ground, I was wondering if it would be stable. Are the yellow floor jack locations where the lift pucks would go? I thought I saw a Utube stating the round hole “shipping tie-down” locations are not safe hacking points? I assume the green locations are those shipping tie-down points? This looks like a great plan to get needed clearance for maintenance. I wasn’t aware this could be done.
1. Engine Oil/filter- change whenever the Oil Life System says so, but at least once a year whichever is first. And never more than 7,500 miles since the last change.
2. DCT external canister filter - must be changed between 7000-8000 miles even if done earlier, then 22,500 miles, then every 22,500 miles after. GM is very picky about this, having sent reminder letters to most all owners about it. And it does apply all the way back to 2020.
3. Transmission Fluid - change it when the fluid life system says so, or every 45000 miles, or at least every three years, whichever is first. Again, GM is picky about this.
Brings up a question. Oil changes and even a DCT filter change is not rocket science. If you do this stuff yourself, how do you document it for warranty? Given that GM is looking for ANY reason to void our warranties. Dealer told me $1400 to do the 7000 mile DCT service, which as far as I can tell, is a filter change. Does the filter cost $1200, because it can be changed in an hour, maybe two taking your time.
Brings up a question. Oil changes and even a DCT filter change is not rocket science. If you do this stuff yourself, how do you document it for warranty? Given that GM is looking for ANY reason to void our warranties. Dealer told me $1400 to do the 7000 mile DCT service, which as far as I can tell, is a filter change. Does the filter cost $1200, because it can be changed in an hour, maybe two taking your time.
Not supposed to be an issue. Use your own judgment. Both the Owners Manual and the Warranty Manual say if you do DIY, keep receipts and records.
Here is some language from the Warranty Manual:
"As the vehicle owner, you are responsible
for the performance of the scheduled
maintenance listed in your Owner’s Manual.
GM recommends that you retain all
maintenance receipts for your vehicle,
but GM cannot deny warranty coverage
solely for the lack of receipts or for your
failure to ensure the performance of all
scheduled maintenance."
However GM can deny coverage if damage is cause by lack of maintenance:
"Damage caused by failure to follow
the recommended maintenance schedule
intervals and/or failure to use or
maintain proper fluids, lubricants, or
refrigerants between maintenance intervals
recommended in the Owner's Manual is
not covered. Vehicle"
And here is the language about receipts:
"Retain receipts covering performance of
regular maintenance. Receipts can be
especially important if a question arises as
to whether a malfunction is caused by lack
of maintenance or a defect in material or
workmanship. These receipts and records
should be transferred to each subsequent
owner of this vehicle.
A “Maintenance Record" is provided in the
maintenance schedule section of the Owner's
Manual for recording services performed.
The servicing dealer should provide a copy of
any warranty repairs for your records."
Not supposed to be an issue. Use your own judgment. Both the Owners Manual and the Warranty Manual say if you do DIY, keep receipts and records.
Here is some language from the Warranty Manual:
"As the vehicle owner, you are responsible
for the performance of the scheduled
maintenance listed in your Owner’s Manual.
GM recommends that you retain all
maintenance receipts for your vehicle,
but GM cannot deny warranty coverage
solely for the lack of receipts or for your
failure to ensure the performance of all
scheduled maintenance."
However GM can deny coverage if damage is cause by lack of maintenance:
"Damage caused by failure to follow
the recommended maintenance schedule
intervals and/or failure to use or
maintain proper fluids, lubricants, or
refrigerants between maintenance intervals
recommended in the Owner's Manual is
not covered. Vehicle"
And here is the language about receipts:
"Retain receipts covering performance of
regular maintenance. Receipts can be
especially important if a question arises as
to whether a malfunction is caused by lack
of maintenance or a defect in material or
workmanship. These receipts and records
should be transferred to each subsequent
owner of this vehicle.
A “Maintenance Record" is provided in the
maintenance schedule section of the Owner's
Manual for recording services performed.
The servicing dealer should provide a copy of
any warranty repairs for your records."
Ok?
A couple days ago I disconnected the battery to change brake pads. When I reconnected the battery, I had a "Service transmission now. Unable to shift soon." message. I called to dealer and told them and asked if they could plug in a clear the code. They said they would have to "diagnose" it and that because it was caused by me disconnecting the battery, warranty may not cover it. Really, so what if the battery dies and you have to replace it. They said, that's different because the battery died. Sounds pretty retarded, I know, but evidence that they are looking for ANY reason to deny warranty service.
Fortunately, after driving the car for 10 miles or so, the code cleared itself.
So if I changed the DCT filter at 7500 miles, then at 15000 mile the transmission takes a dump, I wouldn't be surprised if they tried to void the warranty. I guess that's what lawyers are for.
A couple days ago I disconnected the battery to change brake pads. When I reconnected the battery, I had a "Service transmission now. Unable to shift soon." message. I called to dealer and told them and asked if they could plug in a clear the code. They said they would have to "diagnose" it and that because it was caused by me disconnecting the battery, warranty may not cover it. Really, so what if the battery dies and you have to replace it. They said, that's different because the battery died. Sounds pretty retarded, I know, but evidence that they are looking for ANY reason to deny warranty service.
Fortunately, after driving the car for 10 miles or so, the code cleared itself.
So if I changed the DCT filter at 7500 miles, then at 15000 mile the transmission takes a dump, I wouldn't be surprised if they tried to void the warranty. I guess that's what lawyers are for.
Understood. The dealer should not be saying, without doing diagnostics, that disconnecting a battery may result in denial of a warranty claim. Not all dealers are like that. The Owner's Manual discusses conditions that may arise when a battery is disconnected, such as windows needing to be indexed, and what to do when that happens. So, if an owner disconnects a battery but then goes to the dealer to have the windows indexed, they might not cover that under warranty. But that's not damage due to a defect.
And another thing. The manual actually gives instruction for disconnecting the battery to service the brakes. I do no know why, but it also says do not disconnect the battery during storage.
Techs and service writers are not always the best communicators - and they may have mean that they need to diagnose the problem before deciding how to proceed, and if the issue was caused by the battery being disconnected, it may not be covered under warranty. But...it does not seem possible that disconnecting the battery caused any damage. If you like the dealer you might have a discussion about what they really meant. There's really no advantage for them to be avoid a valid warranty repair. But still there are reports of exactly that from time to time .....
Understood. The dealer should not be saying, without doing diagnostics, that disconnecting a battery may result in denial of a warranty claim. Not all dealers are like that. The Owner's Manual discusses conditions that may arise when a battery is disconnected, such as windows needing to be indexed, and what to do when that happens. So, if an owner disconnects a battery but then goes to the dealer to have the windows indexed, they might not cover that under warranty. But that's not damage due to a defect.
And another thing. The manual actually gives instruction for disconnecting the battery to service the brakes. I do no know why, but it also says do not disconnect the battery during storage.
Techs and service writers are not always the best communicators - and they may have mean that they need to diagnose the problem before deciding how to proceed, and if the issue was caused by the battery being disconnected, it may not be covered under warranty. But...it does not seem possible that disconnecting the battery caused any damage. If you like the dealer you might have a discussion about what they really meant. There's really no advantage for them to be avoid a valid warranty repair. But still there are reports of exactly that from time to time .....
Well said. I think they would have just cleared the code and called it a day. Maybe drove it make sure it was shifting fine. I think the service guy was doing a CYA. I do like the dealer. I think next time I'm there I might ask the cost of a 7000 mile DCT service again, and question that. At $1400 I assumed filter, flush and fluid change, but according to GM, it's a simple filter change at 7000 miles.
Well said. I think they would have just cleared the code and called it a day. Maybe drove it make sure it was shifting fine. I think the service guy was doing a CYA. I do like the dealer. I think next time I'm there I might ask the cost of a 7000 mile DCT service again, and question that. At $1400 I assumed filter, flush and fluid change, but according to GM, it's a simple filter change at 7000 miles.
Yep, $1400 is 40% more than I paid for all three services (~$400/$990) for my year 3 servcie with just under 8000 miles of:
Engine oil/filter
All DCT Fluid
DCT filter with GM specified flush (that took about 15 minutes this time versus only 10 minutes year one when I had ~3000 miles and it was done on GM's Dime.) Took ~5 minutes for Tech to connect to GM Service Computer that actually does all the work! Must have been a buzzy day!
Granted it was in August 2023 but I'd bring a copy of my bill and ask why so much?
