Owners have filed 718 complaints
about the 2005 Chevrolet Corvette with NHTSA between 2004 and 2026.
The largest single group is the stability & traction control.
Across this model's run it ranks 4 of 33 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 100
Against the median year of the Chevrolet Corvette. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 28
5.4% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 70
41% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
How 2005 compares with every other Chevrolet Corvette
NHTSA files every complaint against a named sub-assembly, not just a
system. This is the difference between knowing it was "the engine" and
knowing which part of it — the list to hand a mechanic.
Roof AND Pillars
3243.8%
Body
1621.9%
Belts AND Associated Pulleys
68.2%
Column
68.2%
12V/24V/48V Battery
56.8%
Headlights
45.5%
Pressure Monitoring AND Regulating Systems
22.7%
Hoses, Lines/Piping, AND Fittings
22.7%
When it fails
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
71.1%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
578.9%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
7912.3%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
22034.3%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
11517.9%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
8913.9%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
6810.6%
150,000+ miles
71.1%
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Nov 2004peak 20Aug 2026
NHTSA investigations into the 2005 Chevrolet Corvette
An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough
complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks
something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.
EA13007Opened 23 Aug 2013Closed 24 Jun 2014EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Simultaneous Loss of Low-Beam Headlights
On May 14, 2014, General Motors (GM) submitted a Part 573 defect information report initiating NHTSA Safety Recall 14V-251 to remedy the subject vehicles.GM will remedy a defect condition in the underhood bussed electrical center (UBEC) by modifying the vehicle's electrical harnessing.GM also announced a customer satisfaction bulletin to address this issue on model year (MY) 2008-2013 Chevrolet Corvettes.Both programs will be conducted free of charge.According to GM, when the engine heats up and cools down (from normal use), the plastic material in the UBEC housing expands at a different rate...
PE13013Opened 6 May 2013Closed 26 Aug 2013EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Loss of Low Beam Headlights
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this investigation based on 30 reports from consumers alleging that, after driving for a short time (5 to 30 minutes), both low beam headlights stopped working simultaneously and without warning. The low beam headlights remained inoperative for the remainder of the drive cycle, however no other lighting is affected.General Motors (GM) provided information in response to ODI's information request letter explaining that the loss of headlights is caused by a fractured low beam circuit wire in the underhood bussed electrical center (UBEC), a device...
EA09002Opened 14 Jan 2009Closed 11 May 2010ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL
Electronic Stability Control
On April 26, 2010, at NHTSA's request following this investigation, General Motors submitted a Defect Information Report to NHTSA to correct a defect associated with the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system in approximately 40,000 Model Year (MY) 2005 and 2006 Chevrolet Corvette vehicles (NHTSA Recall No. 10V-172).According to the report, these vehicles may have a problem with the Steering Wheel Position Sensor (SWPS) connector created by a fretting condition in the connector (small movement of the pins back and forth creating a residue build up) which could change the electrical resistance...
PE08056Opened 17 Sep 2008Closed 14 Jan 2009ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL MALFUNCTION
ON SEPTEMBER 17, 2008, ODI OPENED PRELIMINARY EVALUATION PE08-056 TO INVESTIGATE ALLEGATIONS OF INAPPROPRIATE ACTIVATION OF THE ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) SYSTEM IN MODEL YEAR (MY) 2005 AND 2006 CHEVROLET CORVETTE VEHICLES.SOME REPORTS RECEIVED BY ODI AND SOME REPORTS TO GENERAL MOTORS (GM) CONTAINED IN GM'S RESPONSE TO PE08-056 ALLEGE THAT THE ESC SYSTEM MALFUNCTIONED CAUSING A SUDDEN AND INAPPROPRIATE BRAKING ACTION WITHOUT ILLUMINATION OF THE BRAKE LIGHTS AND CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO SWERVE LEFT OR RIGHT UNEXPECTEDLY. GM ISSUED A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN IN JANUARY 2006, LATER REVIS...
Recalls on the 2005 Chevrolet Corvette
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
United States — NHTSA
14V251000
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2005-2007 Chevrolet Corvette vehicles manufactured March 29, 2004, through June 22, 2007. In the affected vehicles, the underhood bussed electrical center (UBEC) housing can expand and cause the headlamp low beam relay control circuit wire to bend. If the wire is repeatedly bent, it may fracture causing a loss of low beam headlamp illumination.
Risk: The loss of low beam headlamp illumination will decrease the driver's visibility, as well as the vehicle's conspicuity to other motorists, increasing the risk of a crash.
10V172000
STEERING:COLUMN
GM IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005 AND 2006 CHEVROLET CORVETTE PASSENGER CARS MANUFACTURED BETWEEN MARCH 2004 AND JANUARY 2006 EQUIPPED WITH A TILT AND TELESCOPING STEERING COLUMN (RPO N37). IN RARE CASES, REPEATED MOVEMENT OF THE STEERING COLUMN MAY CAUSE A SIGNAL INTERRUPTION WITHIN THE COLUMN. IF THIS OCCURS, THE MESSAGE, "SERVICE ACTIVE HANDLING SYSTEM" WILL APPEAR IN THE DRIVER INFORMATION CENTER, AND ONE OR MORE OF THE BRAKES MAY APPLY, POSSIBLY CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO PULL TO THE RIGHT OR LEFT.
Risk: IF THE DRIVER DOES NOT RESPOND TO THE CHANGE IN VEHICLE MOVEMENT, A CRASH COULD OCCUR.
09V491000
STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS
GENERAL MOTORS IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005 THROUGH 2007 CORVETTE VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A REMOVABLE ROOF AND MODEL YEAR 2006 AND 2007 CORVETTE Z06 VEHICLES. THE ADHESIVE BETWEEN THE ROOF PANEL AND THE FRAME MAY SEPARATE. IF THERE IS A PARTIAL SEPARATION, THE DRIVER MAY NOTICE ONE OR MORE SYMPTOMS, SUCH AS A SNAPPING NOISE WHEN DRIVING OVER BUMPS, WIND NOISE, POOR ROOF PANEL FIT, ROOF PANEL MOVEMENT/BOUNCE WHEN A DOOR OR HATCH IS CLOSED, OR A WATER LEAK IN THE HEADLINER.
Risk: IF THERE IS A COMPLETE SEPARATION, THE ROOF PANEL MAY DETACH FROM THE VEHICLE. IF THIS WERE TO OCCUR WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS BEING DRIVEN, IT COULD STRIKE A FOLLOWING VEHICLE AND CAUSE INJURY AND/OR PROPERTY DAMAGE.
06V181000
STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS
ON CERTAIN 2005-2006 CHEVROLET CORVETTES EQUIPPED WITH PAINTED ROOFS, THE ADHESIVE BETWEEN THE ROOF PANEL AND THE FRAME MAY SEPARATE.
Risk: IF THERE IS A COMPLETE SEPARATION, THE ROOF PANEL MAY DETACH FROM THE VEHICLE AND IT COULD STRIKE ANOTHER VEHICLE AND CAUSE INJURY AND PROPERTY DAMAGE.
05V455000
STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST:HOSE, PIPING, AND CONNECTIONS
CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES MAY HAVE BEEN BUILT WITH A POWER STEERING HOSE THAT IS NOT TO SPECIFICATION. UNDER EXTREME STEERING MANEUVERS, SUCH AS TURNING THE STEERING WHEEL FULLY TO THE LEFT OR RIGHT WHILE BRAKING, THE HOSE MAY FRACTURE AND LEAK FLUID.
Risk: IF THIS WERE TO OCCUR, POWER STEERING ASSIST WOULD BE LOST AND INCREASED STEERING EFFORT WOULD BE REQUIRED. ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH HYDRO-BOOST POWER BRAKES, IT COULD ALSO RESULT IN LOSS OF POWER BRAKE ASSIST AND INCREASED BRAKING EFFORT WOULD BE REQUIRED. IF THE POWER STEERING FLUID SPRAY WERE TO SPRAY ONTO HOT ENGINE PARTS, AN ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE COULD OCCUR.
04V525000
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES WERE PRODUCED WITH ONE OR BOTH REAR BRAKE HYDRAULIC LINES THAT CAN COME IN CONTACT WITH OR BE AFFECTED BY HEAT FROM THE LEFT ENGINE EXHAUST MANIFOLD AND THE LEFT EXHAUST PIPE. THE BRAKE FLUID COULD REACH ELEVATED TEMPERATURES AND BOIL.
Risk: IF THE BRAKE FLUID BOILS IN A REAR BRAKE LINE, THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE REAR BRAKE SYSTEM WOULD BE REDUCED WHICH COULD RESULT IN A BRAKE LINE LEAK AND LOSS OF BRAKE FLUID. IF ENOUGH FLUID LEAKS FROM THE REAR BRAKE SYSTEM SO THAT BRAKE PEDAL APPLICATION CAN NO LONGER BUILD PRESSURE TO THE REAR BRAKES. THE OPERATOR OF THE VEHICLE WILL EXPERIENCE LIMITED BRAKING WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 20141743,054 units in Canada
Lights And Instruments
On certain vehicles, wiring within the underhood fuse panel wiring may break, causing intermittent low beam function. This could compromise driver visibility and increase the risk of a crash causing injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will replace the underhood fuse panel.
Recall 20101341,459 units in Canada
Brakes
Certain vehicles equipped with tilt and telescoping steering column may have an intermittent or open condition in a connector in the Steering Wheel Position Sensor (SWPS) circuit located in the steering column. If this intermittent or open condition occurs, the “SERVICE ACTIVE HANDLING SYSTEM” message is displayed, and a short-duration brake apply may occur if the signals for steering wheel rotation or ground are corrupted. The manufacturer assessed the brake application as observable, but controllable and vehicle handling is maintained by minor corrections in steering, however, if the driver does not respond to the change in vehicle movement, it could result in a crash causing property damage, personal injury or death. Correction: Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, install a terminal position assurance clip to the connector.
Recall 2009362972 units in Canada
Other
On certain vehicles equipped with a removable roof, the adhesive between the roof and the frame may separate. If there is a complete separation, the roof panel may detach from the vehicle and should this happen while driving, it could result in a crash causing property damage, personal injury or death. Correction: Dealers will install a new design roof panel.
Recall 2006123693 units in Canada
Other
On certain vehicles with a painted roof, the adhesive between the roof panel and the frame may separate. As a result, the roof panel may detach from the vehicle and strike a road user, causing injury and property damage. Correction: Dealers will inspect and, if required, replace the roof.
Recall 20052966,487 units in Canada
Steering
Certain vehicles may have been built with a power steering hose that is not to specification. Under extreme steering manoeuvres, such as turning the steering wheel fully to the left or right while braking, the hose may fracture and leak fluid. If this were to occur, power steering assist would be lost and increased steering effort would be required. On vehicles equipped with hydro-boost power brakes, it could also result in loss of power brake assist and increase braking effort would be required. If power steering fluid were to spray onto hot engine parts, an engine compartment fire could occur. Correction: Dealers will inspect the power steering hose(s) for two suspect date codes and replace them if required.
Recall 2004389290 units in Canada
Brakes
Certain vehicles were produced with one or both rear brake hydraulic lines that can come in contact with or be affected by heat from the left engine exhaust manifold and the left exhaust pipe. Also, on some 2005 vehicles, the crossover brake line to the right rear brake can come in contact with the rear differential case. In both cases, a half system brake failure could occur, resulting in increased stopping distances. Correction: Dealers will repair/reposition the rear brake lines.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
Coweta, OKCrash2 injured
AIR BAGS
This lead to an injury accident which totaled the car. I have documentation stating that the recall was fixed, but after I moved to Germany with the Army, the recall regularly activated the active handling when not needed (e.g parking) but then when we started slipping, the active handling did not engage and we crashed, totaling the car. The airbags did not engage even though the car played pinball on both sides of the autobahn. If we were going any faster, we would have died.
NHTSA complaint #11629385 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Coweta, OKCrash2 injured
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
This lead to an injury accident which totaled the car. I have documentation stating that the recall was fixed, but after I moved to Germany with the Army, the recall regularly activated the active handling when not needed (e.g parking) but then when we started slipping, the active handling did not engage and we crashed, totaling the car. The airbags did not engage even though the car played pinball on both sides of the autobahn. If we were going any faster, we would have died.
NHTSA complaint #11629385 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 44,310 milesSAN Juan, PRFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
A STRONG FUME ODOR ENTER MY HOUSE AS IF SOMETHING WAS BURNING, MY CORVETTE WAS IN MY GARAGE IT HASNT BEEN USED IN MORE THAN 3DAYS.....I NOTICED IT WAS COMING FROM THE BOTTOM OF THE CAR, AND IN EFFECT IT WAS! CONTACTED MY MECHANIC AND HE ADVISED ME THAT IT WAS THE ABS SYSTEM CAUGHT ON FIRE DAMAGING THE CONECTOR, MODULE AND REGULATOR. HE FOUND A LEAK OF BRAKE FLUID THRU THE MODULATOR THAT CAUSE THE MODULES CABLES BURNED THE CONNECTOR. HAD TO CHANGE ALL THE ABS SYSTEM SINCE CHEVROLET MODIFIED THE PREVIOUS ABS SYSTEM CAUSE IT WAS DEFECTIVE. HOWEVER NO RECALL HAS BEEN MADE TO THIS SYSTEM. AN APROX $3500. IN REPAIRS FOR A SYSTEM THAT THEY KNOW IS DEFECTIVE. WE WERE LUCKY NOTHING ELSE IN OUR GARAGE/HOUSE GOT DAMAGE IT WAS AN SCARY SITUATION.
NHTSA complaint #10732323 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 44,310 milesSAN Juan, PRFire
SERVICE BRAKES
A STRONG FUME ODOR ENTER MY HOUSE AS IF SOMETHING WAS BURNING, MY CORVETTE WAS IN MY GARAGE IT HASNT BEEN USED IN MORE THAN 3DAYS.....I NOTICED IT WAS COMING FROM THE BOTTOM OF THE CAR, AND IN EFFECT IT WAS! CONTACTED MY MECHANIC AND HE ADVISED ME THAT IT WAS THE ABS SYSTEM CAUGHT ON FIRE DAMAGING THE CONECTOR, MODULE AND REGULATOR. HE FOUND A LEAK OF BRAKE FLUID THRU THE MODULATOR THAT CAUSE THE MODULES CABLES BURNED THE CONNECTOR. HAD TO CHANGE ALL THE ABS SYSTEM SINCE CHEVROLET MODIFIED THE PREVIOUS ABS SYSTEM CAUSE IT WAS DEFECTIVE. HOWEVER NO RECALL HAS BEEN MADE TO THIS SYSTEM. AN APROX $3500. IN REPAIRS FOR A SYSTEM THAT THEY KNOW IS DEFECTIVE. WE WERE LUCKY NOTHING ELSE IN OUR GARAGE/HOUSE GOT DAMAGE IT WAS AN SCARY SITUATION.
NHTSA complaint #10732323 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 44,310 milesSAN Juan, PRFire
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
A STRONG FUME ODOR ENTER MY HOUSE AS IF SOMETHING WAS BURNING, MY CORVETTE WAS IN MY GARAGE IT HASNT BEEN USED IN MORE THAN 3DAYS.....I NOTICED IT WAS COMING FROM THE BOTTOM OF THE CAR, AND IN EFFECT IT WAS! CONTACTED MY MECHANIC AND HE ADVISED ME THAT IT WAS THE ABS SYSTEM CAUGHT ON FIRE DAMAGING THE CONECTOR, MODULE AND REGULATOR. HE FOUND A LEAK OF BRAKE FLUID THRU THE MODULATOR THAT CAUSE THE MODULES CABLES BURNED THE CONNECTOR. HAD TO CHANGE ALL THE ABS SYSTEM SINCE CHEVROLET MODIFIED THE PREVIOUS ABS SYSTEM CAUSE IT WAS DEFECTIVE. HOWEVER NO RECALL HAS BEEN MADE TO THIS SYSTEM. AN APROX $3500. IN REPAIRS FOR A SYSTEM THAT THEY KNOW IS DEFECTIVE. WE WERE LUCKY NOTHING ELSE IN OUR GARAGE/HOUSE GOT DAMAGE IT WAS AN SCARY SITUATION.
NHTSA complaint #10732323 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 110,000 milesPoplar Bluff, MOCrash2 injured
AIR BAGS
I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY SERVICE HANDLING TRACTION SYSTEM LIGHT CAME ON AND CAR WENT TO RIGHT AND L RAN IN A DITCH 11000 DOLLARS IN DAMAGE AND NOT ONE AIR OPEN.
NHTSA complaint #10616252 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
at 123,000 milesCedar Hill, TX
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
The contact owns a 2005 Chevrolet Corvette. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the low-beam headlights malfunctioned and failed to illuminate as needed. The contact stated that the failure was intermittent. The vehicle was taken to the local mechanic, who was unable to duplicate the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The local dealer and manufacturer were notified of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V251000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, EXTERIOR LIGHTING). The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was 123,000.
NHTSA complaint #11754498 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 123,000 milesCedar Hill, TX
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2005 Chevrolet Corvette. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the low-beam headlights malfunctioned and failed to illuminate as needed. The contact stated that the failure was intermittent. The vehicle was taken to the local mechanic, who was unable to duplicate the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The local dealer and manufacturer were notified of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V251000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, EXTERIOR LIGHTING). The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was 123,000.
NHTSA complaint #11754498 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Fargo, ND
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Sometimes (intermittently), when I push the start button to start the car, it just makes a "click" sound, the car does not start and the steering wheel will lock and all other functions of the car will be disabled. "CHECK COLUM LOCK" will be displayed on the screen. I have to take a battery cable off to reset the software before I can once again start and drive the car.
NHTSA complaint #11692336 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
As I'm driving, the brakes are deployed "hard" without any action on my part. "CHECK ACTIVE HANDLING SYSTEM" shows up on the screen. I have not het had the vehicle inspected.
NHTSA complaint #11692326 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Coweta, OKCrash2 injured
AIR BAGS
This lead to an injury accident which totaled the car. I have documentation stating that the recall was fixed, but after I moved to Germany with the Army, the recall regularly activated the active handling when not needed (e.g parking) but then when we started slipping, the active handling did not engage and we crashed, totaling the car. The airbags did not engage even though the car played pinball on both sides of the autobahn. If we were going any faster, we would have died.
NHTSA complaint #11629385 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Coweta, OKCrash2 injured
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
This lead to an injury accident which totaled the car. I have documentation stating that the recall was fixed, but after I moved to Germany with the Army, the recall regularly activated the active handling when not needed (e.g parking) but then when we started slipping, the active handling did not engage and we crashed, totaling the car. The airbags did not engage even though the car played pinball on both sides of the autobahn. If we were going any faster, we would have died.
NHTSA complaint #11629385 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Graniteville, SC
SEATS
The active handling applies itself with normal non aggressive driving. When activated the brakes apply and lock up, this has happened in low speed turns at intersections and even when driving straight. I have had the vehicle to the dealership to resolve as this is a major safety concern leaving the car locked up in the middle of an intersection. They stated it was the sensor behind the steering wheel and they fixed it but the problem still persists. Secondly the driver seat has begun moving on its own and inching me closer to the steering wheel with no interference with the button while driving. I have since disconnected the seat fuse to prevent collision from improper driver positioning.
NHTSA complaint #11626781 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Graniteville, SC
SERVICE BRAKES
The active handling applies itself with normal non aggressive driving. When activated the brakes apply and lock up, this has happened in low speed turns at intersections and even when driving straight. I have had the vehicle to the dealership to resolve as this is a major safety concern leaving the car locked up in the middle of an intersection. They stated it was the sensor behind the steering wheel and they fixed it but the problem still persists. Secondly the driver seat has begun moving on its own and inching me closer to the steering wheel with no interference with the button while driving. I have since disconnected the seat fuse to prevent collision from improper driver positioning.
NHTSA complaint #11626781 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 80,000 milesNew Orleans, LA
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
The contact owns a 2005 Chevrolet Corvette. The contact stated while driving 45 MPH, the headlights were flickering and then became inoperable. The fuse box was melted. There was smoke detected from underneath the hood. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V251000 (Electrical System, Exterior Lighting). The vehicle was towed to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the fuse box needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, and informed the contact that the part was no longer produced. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000.
NHTSA complaint #11603964 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 80,000 milesNew Orleans, LA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2005 Chevrolet Corvette. The contact stated while driving 45 MPH, the headlights were flickering and then became inoperable. The fuse box was melted. There was smoke detected from underneath the hood. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V251000 (Electrical System, Exterior Lighting). The vehicle was towed to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the fuse box needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, and informed the contact that the part was no longer produced. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000.
NHTSA complaint #11603964 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Mountain top, PA
STEERING
steering wheel lock car cannot start and this can happen while driving and could cause a accident chevy knows of problem and has been recalled but has not solved the problem knowed as steering wheel lock
NHTSA complaint #11563372 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Aurora, CO
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
I bought this2005 corvette 3months and when i park it in the garage it fills up with gas fumes and could spark a fire.I have investigated this problem and its related to the gas tanks plastic parts.
NHTSA complaint #11544403 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 30,458 milesSpring, TX
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
The contact owns a 2005 Chevrolet Corvette. The contact stated that the low-beam headlight failed to function properly. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed with needing the fuse box to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. Upon investigation, the contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V251000 (Electrical System, Exterior Lighting) however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 30,458.
NHTSA complaint #11540806 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 30,458 milesSpring, TX
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2005 Chevrolet Corvette. The contact stated that the low-beam headlight failed to function properly. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed with needing the fuse box to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. Upon investigation, the contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V251000 (Electrical System, Exterior Lighting) however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 30,458.
NHTSA complaint #11540806 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Placerville, CA
SUSPENSION
I purchased my 2005 Corvette C6 from a used car dealership on 4/30/2023. The car was fine for the first week. The second week I began getting a lot of error codes specifically: Service Active Handling System Service Traction Control Service ABS Shocks Inoperative Service Fuel System. At times it would go into limp mode. I would find a safe place to pull off. I would shut the car off and it would not restart. I would check the relays under the hood and the passenger floorboard. Eventually it would restart and drive again until the next time. I have replaced the following components: Battery cables with factory replacement New Battery, twice New high output alternator and a new belt. These items solved the many codes. Now I get Service Traction System, and the traction control shuts off. When this happened last, I got a P0101 MAF sensor error. Replaced the MAF Sensor 8/13. Has not happened as of yesterday. I have checked all of the grounds, added a new ground system called the Big Three. I should not have to put all this work into a well documented issue not only in the C6 but other models.
NHTSA complaint #11538384 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Placerville, CA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I purchased my 2005 Corvette C6 from a used car dealership on 4/30/2023. The car was fine for the first week. The second week I began getting a lot of error codes specifically: Service Active Handling System Service Traction Control Service ABS Shocks Inoperative Service Fuel System. At times it would go into limp mode. I would find a safe place to pull off. I would shut the car off and it would not restart. I would check the relays under the hood and the passenger floorboard. Eventually it would restart and drive again until the next time. I have replaced the following components: Battery cables with factory replacement New Battery, twice New high output alternator and a new belt. These items solved the many codes. Now I get Service Traction System, and the traction control shuts off. When this happened last, I got a P0101 MAF sensor error. Replaced the MAF Sensor 8/13. Has not happened as of yesterday. I have checked all of the grounds, added a new ground system called the Big Three. I should not have to put all this work into a well documented issue not only in the C6 but other models.
NHTSA complaint #11538384 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Placerville, CA
SERVICE BRAKES
I purchased my 2005 Corvette C6 from a used car dealership on 4/30/2023. The car was fine for the first week. The second week I began getting a lot of error codes specifically: Service Active Handling System Service Traction Control Service ABS Shocks Inoperative Service Fuel System. At times it would go into limp mode. I would find a safe place to pull off. I would shut the car off and it would not restart. I would check the relays under the hood and the passenger floorboard. Eventually it would restart and drive again until the next time. I have replaced the following components: Battery cables with factory replacement New Battery, twice New high output alternator and a new belt. These items solved the many codes. Now I get Service Traction System, and the traction control shuts off. When this happened last, I got a P0101 MAF sensor error. Replaced the MAF Sensor 8/13. Has not happened as of yesterday. I have checked all of the grounds, added a new ground system called the Big Three. I should not have to put all this work into a well documented issue not only in the C6 but other models.
NHTSA complaint #11538384 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Sherwood, WI
POWER TRAIN
Brake transmission interlock failed. Car wouldnt shift out of park.
NHTSA complaint #11536670 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 92,000 milesNicholasville, KY
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FLUID
The contact owns a 2005 Chevrolet Corvette. The contact stated while driving approximately 20-25 MPH down a steep hill, he depressed the brake pedal however, the vehicle failed to stop as needed. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the brakes failed. The contact stated that brake fluid was leaking from the vehicle. The contact then saw thick smoke coming from the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not under recall and that the report would not be covered. The failure mileage was approximately 92,000.
NHTSA complaint #11508723 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 92,000 milesNicholasville, KY
SERVICE BRAKES
The contact owns a 2005 Chevrolet Corvette. The contact stated while driving approximately 20-25 MPH down a steep hill, he depressed the brake pedal however, the vehicle failed to stop as needed. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the brakes failed. The contact stated that brake fluid was leaking from the vehicle. The contact then saw thick smoke coming from the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not under recall and that the report would not be covered. The failure mileage was approximately 92,000.
NHTSA complaint #11508723 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Nipomo, CA
STEERING
2005 Corvette coupe, manual trans, Z51. Intermittent problem: Electronic steering column will not unlock when attempting to start or will not lock on shutdown. Vehicle inoperable, sometimes in potentially hazardous situations e.g., late night in parking lot, and compromised anti-theft feature. Possibly relevant: When parked but steering failed to lock, continuous battery draw is 4 amps, which might contribute to the "dead battery syndrome" that 2005 M6 Corvettes are known for. Hard to separate the two issues since either way the starter will not engage. Problem has existed since new (2005) but has gotten progressively worse. GM nonresponsive to multiple owner complaints. Aftermarket "Column Lock Bypass" work-arounds have been sold for this problem, but they are potentially dangerous since they simply spoof the BCM into thinking that the lock is fully released when it is simply unpowered and can easily move into a partially locked position with vibration and time. This is what I recently observed that motivated this safety complaint. GM finally issued a recall in 2018 (13 years after MY) for this problem, but for some reason did not include manual transmission cars in the recall, possible because production was small compared with automatics. But from internet forums, it is clear that this problem affects all 2005 M6 Corvettes.
NHTSA complaint #11500018 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
East Hampton, CT
STRUCTURE:BODY
Vehicle has open recall 09v491 for roof panel separation. The roof on the vehicle has separated and come apart in pieces leaving the front seal exposed. Gengras Chevrolet in Ct has ordered and received the replacement panel which has now been sitting at their dealership for approximately 2.5 weeks because they refuse to send it to paint until they rectify the outdated paint supply reimbursement cost with GM. In the meantime I have not had a spot for the vehicle inside and if I dont know its going to rain or dont get the car inside somewhere in time the water leaks down the windshield post and into the body control module. Currently the car drains the battery, gauges intermittently do not work as well as the power windows, starter button etc. from a recent pop up storm. Ive been back and forth with the dealer and spoke to a GM rep, niehter of which have proven useful in the situation. I just keep getting pushed off and told that I have to wait for them to figure it out with GM, even though it could potentially take 2 or more weeks to paint the top once the body shop actually gets it. This whole process has started approximately August 1st.
NHTSA complaint #11486595 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Columbia, SC
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
My car has been broken for over a year now. It has been to the dealership for the main engine wiring harness part number 19115750 which is unique to the 2005 and 2006 corvette. The failure causes several different problem. It keeps the TCM from which is the traction control module which adjust speed and traction to the wheels which is design to help drivers keep their cars under control. Without this system the car will loose traction and can cause it to go off the road. The second issue with the harness is it can put the car limp mode which restricts the speed to under 40mph which if you are driving and trying to excel into traffic this system will come in without notice and put you into a situation where if you are trying to merge or just go when the light changes it will only go like 5 mph causes the cars behind you to run into the rear of your vehicle and when if fail and you are pulling into traffic it causes your car to be in a direct line of impact with oncoming vehicle. The engine harness also provides power to the transmission via the ECM which keeps it from providing enough power to run the transmission control computer. This will make your car not go into gear or make it go completely out so without a transmission your car won’t move at all. This happens without notice. Now GM doesn’t make a replacement harness anymore making your vehicle unusable. GM also wants between 7k and 10k to make a harness for the vehicle. This doesn’t include installation. This makes the owners like myself have to seek other means to repair the vehicle. Like having a custom harness made for vehicle. Since GM only made this harness for 2 years it has been impossible for me to get my vehicle repaired at any cost. Making owner to make decisions that are unfair to owners. Like sell the car for scrap Paid the expensive repair which is like half the value of the car. Trade the car and lose thousands of dollars if you can find a dealership willing to take it
NHTSA complaint #11484749 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Columbia, SC
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
My car has been broken for over a year now. It has been to the dealership for the main engine wiring harness part number 19115750 which is unique to the 2005 and 2006 corvette. The failure causes several different problem. It keeps the TCM from which is the traction control module which adjust speed and traction to the wheels which is design to help drivers keep their cars under control. Without this system the car will loose traction and can cause it to go off the road. The second issue with the harness is it can put the car limp mode which restricts the speed to under 40mph which if you are driving and trying to excel into traffic this system will come in without notice and put you into a situation where if you are trying to merge or just go when the light changes it will only go like 5 mph causes the cars behind you to run into the rear of your vehicle and when if fail and you are pulling into traffic it causes your car to be in a direct line of impact with oncoming vehicle. The engine harness also provides power to the transmission via the ECM which keeps it from providing enough power to run the transmission control computer. This will make your car not go into gear or make it go completely out so without a transmission your car won’t move at all. This happens without notice. Now GM doesn’t make a replacement harness anymore making your vehicle unusable. GM also wants between 7k and 10k to make a harness for the vehicle. This doesn’t include installation. This makes the owners like myself have to seek other means to repair the vehicle. Like having a custom harness made for vehicle. Since GM only made this harness for 2 years it has been impossible for me to get my vehicle repaired at any cost. Making owner to make decisions that are unfair to owners. Like sell the car for scrap Paid the expensive repair which is like half the value of the car. Trade the car and lose thousands of dollars if you can find a dealership willing to take it
NHTSA complaint #11484749 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Columbia, SC
ENGINE
My car has been broken for over a year now. It has been to the dealership for the main engine wiring harness part number 19115750 which is unique to the 2005 and 2006 corvette. The failure causes several different problem. It keeps the TCM from which is the traction control module which adjust speed and traction to the wheels which is design to help drivers keep their cars under control. Without this system the car will loose traction and can cause it to go off the road. The second issue with the harness is it can put the car limp mode which restricts the speed to under 40mph which if you are driving and trying to excel into traffic this system will come in without notice and put you into a situation where if you are trying to merge or just go when the light changes it will only go like 5 mph causes the cars behind you to run into the rear of your vehicle and when if fail and you are pulling into traffic it causes your car to be in a direct line of impact with oncoming vehicle. The engine harness also provides power to the transmission via the ECM which keeps it from providing enough power to run the transmission control computer. This will make your car not go into gear or make it go completely out so without a transmission your car won’t move at all. This happens without notice. Now GM doesn’t make a replacement harness anymore making your vehicle unusable. GM also wants between 7k and 10k to make a harness for the vehicle. This doesn’t include installation. This makes the owners like myself have to seek other means to repair the vehicle. Like having a custom harness made for vehicle. Since GM only made this harness for 2 years it has been impossible for me to get my vehicle repaired at any cost. Making owner to make decisions that are unfair to owners. Like sell the car for scrap Paid the expensive repair which is like half the value of the car. Trade the car and lose thousands of dollars if you can find a dealership willing to take it
NHTSA complaint #11484749 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.