A proven performer and long-time staple under the hood of many General Motors vehicles, the LS1 350 is in most regards bullet-proof, and shouldn't pose any headaches albeit the odd speeding ticket.
Concerns noted under the hood dealt with accessory belts and a commonly corroded rear knock sensor which could trip the check engine light. Leaky batteries plagued early models, since the area around the terminals can crack and allow acid to leak down on the battery support. In extreme cases, the acid can burn into wiring harnesses, the engine control module, or even into the vehicle's frame- which may then require repair. Once Chevrolet identified this problem, batteries were switched to a leak-proof type, though potential buyers are advised to inspect the area around the battery regardless.
Corvettes are also known for corroded grounds, which can cause electrical headaches according to online forums.
But most used Vette complaints come from the inside. Squeaks, leaks and rattles were the most common, and despite the traditional sports-car looks, it was a machine with scarcely better build-quality than a Cavailer from the same era. Owners often complain of delicate seats which move slightly during acceleration and cornering, and premature wear of seating surfaces due to the low-quality leather used in their construction. Before purchase, ensure that the seats operate properly and aren't showing excessive signs of wear.
Safety recalls dealt with seatbelts, fuel-tank seals and the rear suspension- specifically the control arms which could become separated and drag against the rear wheels. They're big wheels too- great for creating grip and harnessing the engine's power, though expensive to repair or replace if damaged by curbing or an accident. Tires are the same story.
This is the sort of used car where the ownership story can go one of two ways. The first is a story of a long-time Vette enthusiast who has owned several examples, driven them cautiously to Sunday night car shows, and respected the machine for its power and nostalgic value.
The second story is one where the owner lacks this respect and subjects the vehicle to frequent hard driving, donuts, power-slides, bumps against the rev-limiter, and abusive shifting before failing to perform maintenance work on time. This sort of treatment will generally show up, so you shouldn't have trouble finding a good used example. Always be sure to have it inspected at a local dealership- as most owners will have formed a relationship there.
Check service records for recall work, have a thorough inspection of the electrical system, undercarriage, engine and transmission carried out, and then head off to the bank. Find yourself a good deal on one of these, and you'll have a striking piece of history to provide you with driving thrills for years to come.
photo:General Motors
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Concerns noted under the hood dealt with accessory belts and a commonly corroded rear knock sensor which could trip the check engine light. Leaky batteries plagued early models, since the area around the terminals can crack and allow acid to leak down on the battery support. In extreme cases, the acid can burn into wiring harnesses, the engine control module, or even into the vehicle's frame- which may then require repair. Once Chevrolet identified this problem, batteries were switched to a leak-proof type, though potential buyers are advised to inspect the area around the battery regardless.
Corvettes are also known for corroded grounds, which can cause electrical headaches according to online forums.
But most used Vette complaints come from the inside. Squeaks, leaks and rattles were the most common, and despite the traditional sports-car looks, it was a machine with scarcely better build-quality than a Cavailer from the same era. Owners often complain of delicate seats which move slightly during acceleration and cornering, and premature wear of seating surfaces due to the low-quality leather used in their construction. Before purchase, ensure that the seats operate properly and aren't showing excessive signs of wear.
Safety recalls dealt with seatbelts, fuel-tank seals and the rear suspension- specifically the control arms which could become separated and drag against the rear wheels. They're big wheels too- great for creating grip and harnessing the engine's power, though expensive to repair or replace if damaged by curbing or an accident. Tires are the same story.
This is the sort of used car where the ownership story can go one of two ways. The first is a story of a long-time Vette enthusiast who has owned several examples, driven them cautiously to Sunday night car shows, and respected the machine for its power and nostalgic value.
The second story is one where the owner lacks this respect and subjects the vehicle to frequent hard driving, donuts, power-slides, bumps against the rev-limiter, and abusive shifting before failing to perform maintenance work on time. This sort of treatment will generally show up, so you shouldn't have trouble finding a good used example. Always be sure to have it inspected at a local dealership- as most owners will have formed a relationship there.
Check service records for recall work, have a thorough inspection of the electrical system, undercarriage, engine and transmission carried out, and then head off to the bank. Find yourself a good deal on one of these, and you'll have a striking piece of history to provide you with driving thrills for years to come.
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photo:General Motors