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C6 Corvette: Car Value and Buying Guide

Learn crucial information that can pay off big time when shopping for a C6 Corvette.

By Jerry Perez - February 4, 2015
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This article applies to the C6 Corvette (2005-2013).

The "right" C6 Corvette means different things to different people. There are many complex variables that decide the value of a Corvette, but some are fairly simple and straightforward. The biggest factors are and have always been model year, mileage, and the vehicle's condition. Finding a good deal on a solid C6 Corvette won't necessarily be a walk in the park, but it's far from impossible.

Figure 1. Don't overlook the engine bay and the undercarriage.

Engine

Figure 2. This is a great example of a dirty engine and is a sign of an oil leak.

Don't let a shiny paint job fool you: the engine is the heart of the Corvette. Factors like scheduled maintenance and mileage play a huge role in the overall value of the car. Always pop the hood and inspect the engine bay for the following warning signs before going on a test drive.

  • Greasy engine and components - Run a paper towel through the engine cover. If it becomes wet, then there may be an oil or fluid leak that needs repair.
  • Dirt or mud buildup in the engine bay - While a dirty engine isn't necessarily a bad engine, an excessively dirty engine could be a telltale sign of little to no maintenance on the owners behalf.
  • Low level of vital fluids - You should check the engine oil dipstick, open the engine coolant or antifreeze container, check brake and power steering fluid containers. Low level of any of these fluids are definite red flags telling you to proceed with caution, or not proceed at all.

Pro Tip

C6 Corvettes suffer issues with chatter from the rear differential, so make sure to ask if this issue has been serviced before, and when the last differential lube service was done.

Appearance

  • Figure 3. For accidents like this, make sure to check for undercarriage and frame damage.
  • Figure 4. Inspect the panel gap of the front bumper for signs of front end damage.
  • Figure 5. While this is not a C6 Corvette, this is a great example of a repainted surface and it's texture (commonly referred to as "Orange Peel").

The beauty of the Corvette lays in its sleek and toned body. While finding your favorite color car is important, there are other details to keep in mind while shopping around. Whether it's the wheels, underbody condition or body gaps, always look closely and take your time; it could reveal valuable information. Remember that appearance is like a first impression, and the overall look of the car has a direct impact on its value.

  • Doors and fenders - Corvettes are fast cars, and that means some of them end up on ditches or other undesired places. Always take the time to open the hood, doors and trunk. Vehicle accident reports are great to have, but they may not always tell the full story or any story at all.
  • Body gaps or misaligned body panels - Its always good to inspect for repaired or replaced body work by looking at how well the body panels fit together. While this may require a trained eye, its simple to tell if the doors are "hanging" or if the hood latches wrong.
  • Paint - While you may be a fan of red corvettes, remember that when buying a Corvette one should give the mechanical and structural components higher priority than aesthetics. Even if a white Corvette is less attractive to you, but the engine and drivetrain are immaculate, it may be a better value purchase than an abused yellow Corvette.

Pro Tip

Some reports of roof delamination have been reported for the C6 Corvette, so make sure to ask if this has been an issue, and if it has been resolved. Look for signs of paint over spray in the engine bay or replaced body panels.

Warranty

Figure 6. An example of Certified Pre-Owned Warranty benefits.

While a new Corvette includes a manufacturers warranty, some pre-owned Corvettes may have Certified Pre-Owned Warranties from the manufacturer. Such warranties extend the original warranty by the number of miles, years and also add an enormous value to your Corvette.

Shop Around

Figure 7. Online sales have created an extremely competitive market.

One of the best ways to ensure you get the best value on a C6 Corvette is by knowing what the local market looks like. Make sure you review websites (like CorvetteForum.com), newspapers and magazines to compare pricing. That way you will know when something sounds too good to be true.

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