1983 Chevrolet Camaro problems

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The Chevrolet Camaro is a mid-size American automobile manufactured by Chevrolet, classified as a pony car. It first went on sale on September 29, 1966, for the 1967 model year and was designed to compete with the Ford Mustang. The Camaro shared its platform and major components with the Firebird, produced by General Motors' Pontiac division that was also introduced for 1967.

Four distinct generations of the Camaro were developed before production ended in 2002. The nameplate was revived on a concept car that evolved into the fifth-generation Camaro; production started on March 16, 2009.

The Camaro was discontinued at the end of the 2024 model year. Production ended in December 2023. However, Chevrolet has stated, "This is not the end of Camaro's story."

1983 Chevrolet Camaro

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Common 1983 Chevrolet Camaro problems

Based on the complaints from owners of the Chevrolet Camaro 1983, here are some common problems associated with this car:

  • Interior Deterioration: Complaints include faded interiors, damaged headliners, torn seats, and sun-rotted rear seatbacks. These issues can affect the comfort and aesthetics of the car, requiring restoration or replacement of interior components.
  • Paint and Rust: Owners have noted bad paint quality, particularly in silver-colored cars, leading to flaking and rust in areas where the paint has deteriorated. Rust can compromise the structural integrity and appearance of the vehicle, necessitating rust treatment and repainting.
  • Steering Issues: Problems with loose steering and slow response have been reported, even after replacing the steering gear box. Excessive play in the steering wheel and slow response to turning can affect the handling and safety of the vehicle. Potential causes may include issues with the steering column or other steering components.
  • Suspension and Strut Problems: Complaints about suspension issues, including strut lock-ups and the need for replacement, have been raised. Addressing suspension problems is crucial for maintaining ride quality, stability, and overall vehicle performance. Replacing worn suspension parts with quality components is essential.
  • Electrical Problems: Owners have mentioned electrical issues such as shorts in the turning signals and window switches. Electrical problems can affect the functionality and safety of the vehicle. Identifying and repairing electrical faults promptly is important to ensure proper operation of essential systems.
  • Transmission Concerns: Some owners have reported transmission issues, including problems with shifting gears. Symptoms like hard shifts or gear slippage can indicate transmission problems that may require inspection and potential repairs. Regular maintenance and timely transmission fluid changes can help prevent transmission issues.

These common problems highlight the importance of regular maintenance, thorough inspections, and prompt repairs to keep the Chevrolet Camaro 1983 in optimal condition. Addressing these issues proactively can help owners maintain the performance, safety, and longevity of their vehicles.

1983 Chevrolet Camaro engine

What is the most common problem with Camaros?

Most of the time, the issue concerned the Camaro's water pump system. It's possible for fifth-gen engines to produce loud noises, stall or shut down completely due to a lack of coolant. You could notice this Chevy Camaro issue somewhere around the 80,000-mile mark.

What year Camaro is most reliable?

Here are the most reliable choices available for the Chevrolet Camaro:

  • 2000 Chevrolet Camaro.
  • 2001 Chevrolet Camaro.
  • 2018 Chevrolet Camaro.
  • 2019 Chevrolet Camaro.
  • 2020 Chevrolet Camaro.
  • 2021 Chevrolet Camaro.

How many 83 Camaros were made?

1983 Camaro Production:

9,924 4-Cyl. 54,332 V6. 90,123 V8. 154,381 Total.

How much did a Camaro cost in 1983?

Three models were offered: The Camaro Sport Coupe attracted 63,806 buyers, with prices starting at $8,036; the Berlinetta drew 27,925 orders from $9,881 and the Z28 found 62,650 enthusiasts at prices from $10,336.

What is the most common problem with Camaros?

Most of the time, the issue concerned the Camaro's water pump system. It's possible for fifth-gen engines to produce loud noises, stall or shut down completely due to a lack of coolant. You could notice this Chevy Camaro issue somewhere around the 80,000-mile mark.

How fast is a 1983 Camaro?

At speed, you can feel the difference: the Camaro is stable and calm (aside from the front windows' pulling away from the body) at its top end of 134 mph, while the Mustang feels nervous and on tiptoe at its 128-mph peak.

Did they make a 1983 Camaro?

Significant mechanical improvements arrived with the 1983 Chevrolet Camaro, an indication that manufacturers, including GM, were easing back to performance.

What year Camaro is most reliable?

Here are the most reliable choices available for the Chevrolet Camaro:

  • 2000 Chevrolet Camaro.
  • 2001 Chevrolet Camaro.
  • 2018 Chevrolet Camaro.
  • 2019 Chevrolet Camaro.
  • 2020 Chevrolet Camaro.
  • 2021 Chevrolet Camaro.

1983 Chevrolet Camaro car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Chevrolet Camaro problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Structure problems
  • Seat belts problems
  • Parking brake problems
  • Fuel system problems
  • Gasoline problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1983 Chevrolet Camaro vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1983 Chevrolet Camaro complaints

The NHTSA has received 23 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1983 Chevrolet Camaro.

2006-06-20

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1901-01-01
  • VIN: 1G1AP87H6DN
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: CONSUMER DOES NOT HAVE TITLE FOR VEHICLE. *TS THE CONSUMER PURCHASED A USED CAMARO FROM A PRIVATE PARTY. THE PRIVATE PARTY HAS NOT TURNED OVER THE BILL OF SELL. *NM
2004-12-30

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2004-12-30
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: 1G1AP8724DL
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: NORMAL DRIVING CONDITIONS. ELECTRICAL FIRE IN THE DASH CAUSING THE ENTIRE CAR TO BURST INTO FLAMES BEING A TOTAL LOSS. NOTHING CAN BE DONE TO CORRECT THIS CAR IT IS A TOTAL LOSS.*AK
2004-11-29

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2004-11-28
  • VIN: 1G1AP87H1DN
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: THE BRACKETS FOR THE HOOD BROKE WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AT 60 MPH. THE HOOD SKIN BLEW OFF. MANUFACTURER STATED NO RECALL FOR THIS DEFECT.*AK
2001-02-15

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2001-02-12
  • VIN: 1G1APH87XDL
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: BOTH FRONT SEAT RETRACTORS MALFUNCTIONED, WILL NOT ALLOW BELTS TO RETURN TO RETRACTORS. BOTH FRONT OCCUPANTS WERE WITHOUT ANY RETRAINTS. DEALER/MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED AT THIS TIME. FEEL FREE TO PROVIDE ANY FURTHER DETAILS ON THIS MATTER. *AK
2000-02-03

PARKING BRAKE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2000-01-21
  • VIN: 1G1AP87H9DN
  • Components: PARKING BRAKE
  • Summary: EMERGENCY BRAKE DOESN'T WORK AT ALL. VERY EASY TO ROLL. DEALER WILL NOT REPAIR. *AK
1999-12-03

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 1G1AP87H7DL
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: THE REAR AREA OF THE VEHICLE FREQUENTLY SMELLS STRONGLY OF GASOLINE AFTER DRIVING, ESPECIALLY IN WARM WEATHER, REGARDLESS OF THE QUANTITY OF FUEL IN THE TANK. NO FUEL LEAK CAN BE VISUALLY DETECTED, BUT THE ODOR PERSISTS, ESPECIALLY IN THE AREA OF THE FILLER NECK.
1999-10-19

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 1G1AP871XDL
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: I JUST PURCHASED THIS CAR OCT 17, AND WAS TOLD THE SEAT BELTS HAD BEEN RECALLED. I NEED TO FIND OUT IF THEY WERE AND WHAT SHOULD I DO. *AK
1999-09-30

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1983-01-01
  • VIN: 1G1AP8710DL
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: THE FUEL CARBURETOR MALFUNCTIONED, CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO NOT RUN PROPERLY OR STALL. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. *AK
1999-09-29

SEAT BELTS,STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1999-01-01
  • VIN: 1G1AS87H9DL
  • Components: SEAT BELTS,STRUCTURE
  • Summary: SHOULDER BELT ON PASSENGER'S SIDE ISN'T RETRACKTING. ALSO, ALL FOUR SHOCKS THAT HOLD THE HOOD TO THE HATCHBACK UP BROKE. *AK
1999-07-19

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1999-03-13
  • VIN: 1G1AP87H7DL
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: FIBERGLASS HOOD SEPARATED AT 65 MPH, SPLINTERING AND SENDING APPROX. 1/2 THE HOOD ACROSS FREEWAY CENTER MEDIAN AND INTO ONCOMING TRAFFIC LANES,. *AK
1998-08-24

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 1G1AS87H90L
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: HOOD SHOCKS FAILED, ALLOWING HOOD TO FALL.
1998-08-24

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 1G1AS87H90L
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: HATCH BACK SHOCKS FAILED, ALLOWING HATCH BACK TO FALL.
1998-08-24

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 1G1AS87H90L
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: SEAT BELTS INOPERATIVE. QCAW
1998-04-22

SEAT BELTS,STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 1G1AF87H9OL
  • Components: SEAT BELTS,STRUCTURE
  • Summary: ALL SEAT BELTS DO NOT RETRACT AND STICK. OWNER VERY CONCERNED FOR SAFETY. VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN TAKEN TO DEALER. ALSO SHOCKS THAT SUPPORT FRONT HOOD ARE FAULTY. *AK
1995-04-03

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-01-01
  • VIN: 1G1AP871XDN
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: SHOULDER BELT FAILED TO RETRACT DUE TO DISLOCATION OF A SPRING COVER PRIOR TO RECALL, RECALL REPAIRS REFUSED, NO REASON GIVEN. *AK
1995-04-03

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1985-07-25
  • VIN: 1G1A587H20N
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: FRONT END MISALIGNED, CAUSING PREMATURE TIRE WEAR. *AW
1995-04-03

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1985-07-25
  • VIN: 1G1A587H20N
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: REPLACED FRONT BRAKE ROTORS DUE TO VIBRATION.
1995-04-03

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1985-07-25
  • VIN: 1G1A587H20N
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: TRANSMISSION SLAMS HARD INTO GEAR.
1995-04-03

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1985-08-19
  • VIN: 1G1A587H20N
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: PASSENGER'S SEAT BELT FAILS TO RETRACT.
1995-04-03

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1985-07-25
  • VIN: 1G1A587H20N
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: RIGHT REAR DOOR OUT OF ALIGNMENT.
1995-02-03

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-02-01
  • VIN: 1G1AS87H4DL
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: SHOULDER BELT RETRACTOR RECALL REPAIRS REFUSED. MANUFACTURER INSISTED THAT REPAIRS WERE ALREADY DONE (85V-106). *AK
1995-02-03

PARKING BRAKE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-02-01
  • VIN: 1G1AS87H4DL
  • Components: PARKING BRAKE
  • Summary: REAR PARKING BRAKE FAILED. *AK
1995-01-31

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1994-07-30
  • VIN: 1G1AS87H9DL
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: CRACK IN THE FRAME THAT SUPPORTS STEERING BOX MECHANISM. TT

1983 Chevrolet Camaro recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 1983 Chevrolet Camaro.

2007-10-24
  • Manufacturer: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL, INC.
  • Components: EQUIPMENT
  • Summary: CERTAIN HONEYWELL FRAM RACING BRAND HP4 AND HP8 OIL FILTERS THAT WERE MANUFACTURED FROM MAY 25, 2006, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 14, 2007, AND SOLD FOR USE AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR VEHICLES LIST ABOVE. THE AFFECTED FILTERS ARE MARKED WITH A DATE CODE A61451 THROUGH A72571 SEQUENTIALLY. THE DATE CODE AND PART NUMBER APPEAR ON THE FILTER HOUSING. FRAM RACING HP4 AND HP8 OIL FILTERS NOT BEARING A DATE CODE IN THIS RANGE ARE NOT AFFECTED BY THIS RECALL. THE GASKET OF THE OIL FILTER BECOMES MORE PLIABLE UNDER HIGH TEMPERATURES AND PRESSURES.
  • Consequence: THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE INADEQUATE SEALING AND LOSS OF ENGINE OIL, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A FIRE.
  • Remedy: HONEYWELL WILL REPLACE THE AFFECTED OIL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN DURING NOVEMBER 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE TOLL-FREE AT 1-800-890-2075.
1991-04-11
  • Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  • Components: PARKING BRAKE:CONVENTIONAL
  • Summary: PARKING BRAKE ADJUSTER FAILS TO OPERATE AND DO NOT WORK AFTER BRAKE PAD WEAR.
  • Consequence: PARKING BRAKES WILL NOT COMPLETELY HOLD A PARKED VEHICLEWHEN PARKED ON A SLOPE, CAUSING UNINTENDED VEHICLE ROLLAWAY WHICH COULD RESULTIN A VEHICLE ACCIDENT.
  • Remedy: REPLACE NONFUNCTIONING PARKING BRAKE ADJUSTERS.
1985-12-20
  • Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  • Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:WEBBING
  • Summary: DISLOCATION OF A SPRING COVER WILL NOT ALLOW THE SHOULDER BELT TO RETRACT AFTER BEING EXTENDED. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: ALTHOUGH INERTIAL FEATURE THAT LOCKS THE LAP BELT AND SHOULDER BELT IN THE EVENT OF AN ACCIDENT ARE NOT AFFECTED, IF SLACK IS MORE THAN RECOMMENDED IN OWNERS MANUAL, INJURIES TO UPPER BODY AND HEAD WOULD BE INCREASED IN AN ACCIDENT.
  • Remedy: INSTALL RETAINING SPRINGS ON SPRING COVER OF FRONT SHOULDER BELT RETRACTOR AND, WHEN REQUIRED, RETRACTORS WILL BE REPLACED.
1983-05-02
  • Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  • Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:HOOD
  • Summary: THE INNER AND OUTER PANELS OF THE FIBERGLASS HOOD COULD SEPARATE DURING VEHICLE OPERATION.
  • Remedy: DEALER WILL INSPECT THE HOOD AND, IF NECESSARY, INSTALL A NEW ONE AT NO CHARGE.
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