1981 Chevrolet Corvette problems

General information about Chevrolet-Corvette
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

The Chevrolet Corvette is a line of American two-door, two-seater sports cars, manufactured and marketed by General Motors, under the Chevrolet marque, since 1953.

Over the course of eight generations, indicated sequentially as C1 to C8, the Corvette is noted for its performance, distinctive styling, lightweight fiberglass or composite bodywork, and competitive pricing. Since the cessation of Ford and Chrysler's competitors, the Corvette is the only two-seat sports car produced by a major United States auto manufacturer and serves as Chevrolet's halo car.

Since its introduction in 1953, the two-seater has steadily moved upmarket. Originally a relatively modest, lightweight 6‑cylinder convertible, subsequent introductions of V8 engines, competitive chassis innovations, and rear mid-engined layout have positioned the Corvette in the supercar class. The first three Corvette generations (1953–1983) employed body-on-frame construction, and since the C4 generation, introduced in 1983 as an early 1984 model, Corvettes have used GM's unibody Y‑body platform. All Corvettes used front mid-engine configuration for seven generations, through 2019, and transitioned to a rear mid-engined layout with the C8 generation.

In 1953, GM executives accepted a suggestion by Myron Scott, then the assistant director of the Public Relations department, to name the company's new sports car after the corvette, a small maneuverable warship. The first model, a convertible, was introduced at the 1953 GM Motorama as a concept car; production models went on sale later that year. In 1963, the second generation was introduced in coupe and convertible styles. Originally manufactured in Flint, Michigan, and St. Louis, Missouri, the Corvette has been produced in Bowling Green, Kentucky, since 1981, which is also the location of the National Corvette Museum.

The Corvette has become widely known as "America's Sports Car." Automotive News wrote that after being featured in the early 1960s television show Route 66, "the Corvette became synonymous with freedom and adventure," ultimately becoming both "the most successful concept car in history and the most popular sports car in history."

Social links

Common 1981 Chevrolet Corvette problems

The 1981 Chevrolet Corvette, while technically advanced for its time, is known to have several common problems based on complaints from owners.

Camshaft issues: The camshaft is a critical component of the engine, and problems with it can lead to knocking noises, especially when the car reaches 55 miles per hour or more.

Digital engine controls: The 1981 Corvette was the first year all Corvettes had digital electronic engine controls, which were leading-edge technology at the time but can now be slow and unreliable by today's standards. These systems can be difficult to troubleshoot and may require specialized knowledge and tools to repair.

Carburetor problems: The 1981 Corvette was the last year for carburetors, and some owners have reported issues with the Rochester Quadrajet four-barrel, E4M-series carburetors, which were introduced in 1979. These carburetors can be difficult to tune and may require frequent adjustments.

Rust issues: Rust is a common problem in older cars, and the 1981 Corvette is no exception. Owners should check for rust in the frame, kick-ups, bird cage, windshield pillars, body mounts, radiator support, and other areas prone to rust. Rust can be expensive to repair and can significantly impact the car's value.

Vacuum system issues: Vacuum system issues are common in the 1981 Corvette, and owners may experience problems with the vacuum system, including slow or incomplete opening of headlights and wiper doors.

Maintenance and repair costs: The 1981 Corvette is known for having high maintenance and repair costs, especially for older cars with high mileage. Owners should be prepared to invest in regular maintenance and repairs to keep the car in good condition.

In summary, the 1981 Chevrolet Corvette is known for several common problems, including camshaft issues, digital engine controls, carburetor problems, rust issues, vacuum system issues, and high maintenance and repair costs. Owners should be aware of these issues and be prepared to invest in regular maintenance and repairs to keep the car in good condition.

How reliable is a 1981 Corvette?

The car while a VERY thirsty beast is very reliable. The engine if you change the oil regularly and do all the other normal maintenance will run forever. Chevy small block 350's are that good. The Transmissions on the Vettes of this era(say 78-81) are also durable and reliable.

What year was the bad Corvette?

What is the worse Corvette of all time? 1975. The body was degraded from the original 1968 shark design with energy-absorbing boat anchors on each end. The engine was a sluggish 350 with only 165 hp, hardly enough to run the quarter in 16.1 seconds at 87.4 mph.

What to look for when buying 81 Corvette?

Here's a few things to look for: Check for rust in the frame and kick-ups (in front of rear tire, part of frame that goes over the rear suspension) & bird cage. Surface rust is ok. When you lightly tap it with a hammer it should have a metallic ping.

What are the problem years for Corvette?

Years to Avoid

1997 – A Rocky Start. The inaugural year of the C5 Corvette was plagued with issues, including seven recalls. ...
1998 – High Complaints and Steering Issues. ...
2001 – A Mixed Bag. ...
2004 – Fuel System Woes.

Is a 1981 Corvette a good car?

What year was the bad Corvette?

What are the problem years for Corvette?

Years to Avoid

1997 – A Rocky Start. The inaugural year of the C5 Corvette was plagued with issues, including seven recalls. ...
1998 – High Complaints and Steering Issues. ...
2001 – A Mixed Bag. ...
2004 – Fuel System Woes.

What to look for when buying 81 Corvette?

1981 Chevrolet Corvette car problems categorized by type of issue

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

Fuel system problems
Gasoline problems
Power train problems
Steering problems
Suspension problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1981 Chevrolet Corvette vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1981 Chevrolet Corvette complaints

The NHTSA has received 6 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1981 Chevrolet Corvette.

2018-12-18

STEERING,SUSPENSION,WHEELS PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2018-06-12
VIN: 1G1AY8764BS
Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,WHEELS
Summary: I'VE HAD AN UPPER CONTROL ARM BOLT COME OUT 4 TIMES ON MY CAR CAUSING THE WHEEL TO TUCK UNDER THE CAR. I ALSO HAD A LOWER CONTROL ARM BOLT COME OUT ONCE. I'VE BEEN LUCKY, IT'S ALWAYS HAPPENED WHEN I WAS TURNING AROUND OR GOING SLOW. HOWEVER, THE FIRST TIME IT HAPPENED, I WAS PULLING AWAY FROM THE CURB IN FRONT OF MY HOUSE, AND IT SOUNDED LIKE A ROCK SHOT OUT FROM UNDER THE TIRE. I STOPPED AND TOOK A LOOK AT THINGS AND LOOKED AT THE STREET BUT DIDN'T SEE A IT OR BOLT OR ANYTHING, AND FIGURED IT WAS A ROCK. IT DROVE FINE, GOT ON THE FREEWAY AND MY CAR SEEED TO DRIFT TO THE RIGHT. I GAVE IT A NORMAL SMALL CORRECTION AND SHOT HALF WAY ACROSS THE LANE NEXT TO ME THEN BACK ACROSS MY LANE. LET'S JUST SAY I ALMOST LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. SCARED ME! NOW I KNOW WHY THEY CALL THEM CONTROL ARMS! I WAS WONDERING IF THE CONTROL ARM BOLTS COMING LOOSE ARE AN INHERENT PROBLEM WITH THESE VEHICLES, BECAUSE I'VE HAD MY CAR FOR ABOUT 15 YEARS AND IT'S BEEN A REAL PROBLEM WITH MINE. VERY DANGEROUS AND I'VE BEEN VERY LUCKY. A COUPLE OF TIMES I JUST GOT OFF THE FREEWAY A FEW MINUTES BEFORE IT CAME APART. ONCE I WAS COMING TO A STOP AT A STOP SIGN WHEN IT HAPPENED. IT FELT LIKE I GOT A FLAT TILL I LOOKED AT MY WHEEL ALL CROOKED ON MY CAR. ONCE PULLING AWAY FROM A CURB. THE OTHER TIMES I WAS GOING SLOW MAKIN A TURN. VERY LUCKY! I DON'T HAVE RECEIPTS FOR THE REPAIRS OR PICTURES. I'VE BEEN LUCKY IT JUST MADE THE WHEEL TUCK UNDER AND DIDN''T DO DAMAGE TO ANYTHING ELSE. BUT IF I HAD BEEN GOING FAST, WHO KNOWS THE DAMAGE IT COULD HAVE CAUSED? I SEE THIS AS SUPER DANGEROUS! I'VE ASKED A MECHANIC IF THE BOLTS COULD BE DRILLED AND A CASTLE NUT AND PIN BE USED TO PREVENT THIS FROM HAPPENING AGAIN? I DON'T REMEMBER THE ANSWER. I HAVE A DIFFERENT MECHANIC WHO HELPS ME WITH MY CAR. I NEED TO ASK HIM WHAT HE THINKS THE BEST SOLUTION TO THIS PROBLEM IS, BECAUSE I'M BEYOND TIRED OF IT. THANKS!

Add Complaint

2001-10-11

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Summary: I AM THE ORIGINAL OWNER OF THIS VEHICLE. IT HAS BEEN IN STORAGE SINCE 1982 AND HAS 4900 ORIGINAL MILES. THE VEHICLE IS IN NEW SHOWROOM CONDITION. I AM NOW PLANNING TO TRANSPORT THE VEHICLE TO FLORIDA AND DIRVE IT ON OCCASION. I WAS NOTIFIED OF THIS RECALL IN 1983 AND HAVE MISPLACED THE NOTIFICATION DUE TO THE CAR BEING IN STORAGE. I WOULD APPRECIATE ANY ASSISTANCE IN GETTING THIS RECALL DONE, WORKING WITH A DEALER NEAR WHERE IT IS STORED IN BURLINGTON, VERMONT. THEY SAY THEY HAVE NO ACCESS TO OBTAINING THIS INFOFRMATION AND UNLESS I CAN PROVIDE THE NOTICE, THEY ARE UNABLE TO HELP ME. I WOULD LIKE TO ARRANGE THIS FOR EARLY IN NOVEMBER WHEN I RETURN TO VERMONT AND WILL WORK WITH SHEARER CHEVROLET TO ACHIEVE THE BEST SOLUTION POSSIBLE. NO SAFETY DEFECT MENTIONED. *AK

Add Complaint

1998-02-26

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1997-12-15
VIN: 1G1AY876185
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Summary: FUEL TANK WHICH IS MADE OF A STEEL OUTER SHELL WITH AN INNER LINER OF HIGH DENSITY POLYETHYLENE DEVELOPED A CRACK IN BOTH FRONT LOWER CORNERS. THIS PERMITTED FUEL TO ENTER BETWEEN THE STEEL TANK AND THE LINER. THE CONDENSATION IN THE FUEL RUSTED THE OUTER TANK, RESULTING IN A FUEL LEAK. *AK

Add Complaint

1998-01-26

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
VIN: 1G1AY876185
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN
Summary: FUEL TANK'S PLASTIC LINER CRACKED IN THE FRONT LOWER CORNERS CAUSING THE FUEL TANK'S OUTER STEEL SHELL TO RUST AND CAUSE A LEAK.

Add Complaint

1998-01-26

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
VIN: 1G1AY876185
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN
Summary: FUEL TANK'S PLASTIC LINER CRACKED IN THE FRONT LOWER CORNERS CAUSING THE FUEL TANK'S OUTER STEEL SHELL TO RUST AND CAUSE A LEAK.

Add Complaint

1998-01-26

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
VIN: 1G1AY876185
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN
Summary: FUEL TANK'S PLASTIC LINER CRACKED IN THE FRONT LOWER CORNERS CAUSING THE FUEL TANK'S OUTER STEEL SHELL TO RUST AND CAUSE A LEAK.

Add Complaint

1981 Chevrolet Corvette recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1981 Chevrolet Corvette.

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.

2003-05-12

Manufacturer: CARDONE INDUSTRIES, INC.
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, AIR:DISC:CALIPER
Summary: REMANUFACTURERD REAR BRAKE CALIPERS, PART NOS. 18-7019, 18-7020, 16-7019, AND 16-7020, MANUFACTURED FROM FEBRUARY 1, 2002, TO APRIL, 25, 2003., AND FOR USE ON 1965 THRU 1982 CHEVROLET CORVETTES. THE SUBJECT BRAKE CALIPERS WERE MANUFACTURED USING IMPROPERLY MANUFACTURED PISTON SEALS. THESE SEALS ARE INTENDED TO PREVENT FLUID LEAKAGE BETWEEN THE CALIPER HOUSING AND THE PISTONS. THESE BRAKE CALIPERS ARE FOR USE ONLY ON 1965 THRU 1982 CHEVROLET CORVETTE VEHICLES. THIS RECALL DOES NOT INVOLVE GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION OR ANY OF ITS PRODUCTS.
Consequence: UNDER THESE CONDITIONS, THE VEHICLE OPERATOR MAY NOT BE ABLE TO STOP THE CAR, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy: CARDONE WILL NOTIFY ITS CUSTOMERS AND ALL UNSOLD INVENTORY WILL BE REPURCHASED AND WILL PROVIDE A FULL REFUND TO CUSTOMERS. OWNER NOTIFICATION IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING MAY 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT CARDONE AT 215-912-3000.