1997 Chevrolet Corvette problems
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."
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Common 1997 Chevrolet Corvette problems
The 1997 Chevrolet Corvette, known as the C5, has several common issues that owners have reported. These problems include leaking batteries, steering column locking, seat issues, wind noise and creaking with the removable roof, and fuel gauge inaccuracies.
- Leaking Battery: Many 1997 Corvettes came with AC Delco Freedom batteries that had a tendency to experience exterior cracking near the battery posts. This can lead to battery acid leaks, which can damage the surrounding area and cause electrical issues. It is recommended to replace the battery with a more reliable brand or model to avoid this problem.
- Steering Column Locking: All C5 Corvettes, especially those equipped with a manual transmission, are known to have an issue with the steering column locking after ignition is disengaged and remaining locked after the vehicle operator starts the vehicle again. In rare instances, it has also been reported that the steering column has locked during vehicle operation. Chevrolet dealerships are able to disable the locking mechanism by replacing the current locking plate with a modified locking plate. At present, this is the only known method to resolve this issue.
- Seat Issues: The C5 Corvette seats have several known issues that can occur if improper use and or improper maintenance occurs. Sliding hard across the bolster (the raised/contoured sections of the sitting area on either side of the central seat pad) can break it, causing it to flap from side to side. This area is also the most common area of the seats to experience leather wear/tearing as a result of having the most abrasive contact with the occupant as they enter/exit the vehicle. The wire springs in the seat bottom, and the bars in the bolsters are sometimes known to wear thru the foam and leather. This situation can be fixed by placing a layer of burlap between the springs and the foam padding. Another common seat issue often identified with many early C5 Corvettes is that both the driver and passenger seats tend to rock back and forth by about a 1/4” during hard acceleration and braking. This issue can be repaired, but is not currently identified as an actual issue with General Motors.
- Wind Noise and Creaking with the Removable Roof: Many C5 Corvette Coupes with the removable roof tend to create a fair amount of wind noise and creaking during normal vehicle operation. While there is no known solution to completely eliminate the wind noise, the creaking can be reduced/eliminated by adding a lubricant to the weatherstriping seal around the roof. A dielectric or petroleum based grease is recommended and will doubly protect the weatherstrip by keeping it from drying out.
- Fuel Gauge Inaccuracies: In certain instances, some types of gasoline (especially those with a high sulfur content) will cause the fuel gauge to falsely read empty. In some instances, running a fuel system cleaner through the gas tank has been known to resolve this issue.
It is important to note that these issues are not universal to all 1997 Chevrolet Corvettes, and individual vehicles may vary in their specific problems. However, these common issues are important to consider when purchasing, owning, or maintaining a C5 Corvette.
Is 1997 a good year for Corvette?
The 1997 Corvette is among the best true sports cars your money can buy.
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 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 is the most reliable year for the Corvette?
The 1963 Corvette is widely regarded as the most reliable Corvette of all time. Much of the reliability comes down to its reuse of the transmission offerings from the 1962 Corvette, which were already well known for their dependability, especially in regards to the 4-speed manual.
Is 1997 a good year for Corvette?
The 1997 Corvette is among the best true sports cars your money can buy.
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 is the most undesirable year for a Corvette?
What year Corvette is the least desirable? There were many problems with the performance of the Corvette in 1953, 1975, and 1979, getting listed as the worst years.
What year was the most reliable Corvette?
The 1963 Corvette is widely regarded as the most reliable Corvette of all time. Much of the reliability comes down to its reuse of the transmission offerings from the 1962 Corvette, which were already well known for their dependability, especially in regards to the 4-speed manual.
1997 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:
- Steering problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Seats problems
- Fuel system problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Chevrolet Corvette vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1997 Chevrolet Corvette
The NHTSA has received 167 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Chevrolet Corvette. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1997 Chevrolet Corvette vehicles.
2020-04-01
SEATS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-03-03
- VIN: 1G1YY22G6V5
- Components: SEATS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: DRIVER SEAT ELECTRIC FASTENING MOUNTING WEAR IS TOO DEFECTIVE AND HAS TO BE REPLACES. IT MOVES IN AND OUT , SEAT IS MOVING BACK AND FORTH IN ALL POSITIONS. GM REFUSES TO RECALL THEIR PROBLEM.
2019-12-27
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-12-21
- VIN: 1G1YY22GXV5
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: FILLED GAS TANK..NEXT DAY GAS LEAKING WITH HEAVY GAS FUMES..MOVED CAR OUT OF GARAGE AND PARKED IN THE STREET..
2014-10-10
STEERING,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-09-13
- VIN: 1G1YY22G1V5
- Components: STEERING,ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 CHEVROLET CORVETTE. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO DRIVE IN REVERSE, THE ENGINE STALLED AND THE STEERING WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE FAILURE OCCURRED ON MULTIPLE OCCASIONS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY SERVICED ACCORDING TO NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 04V060000 (STEERING). THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 86,000.
2014-10-02
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-01-18
- VIN: 1G1YY22G9V5
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 CHEVROLET CORVETTE. THE CONTACT SMELLED A STRONG FUEL ODOR COMING FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO STATED THAT THE GASKETS AROUND THE FUEL PUMP WERE LOOSE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 133,000.
2014-05-28
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-06-25
- VIN: 1G1YY22G5V5
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: THE CHEVROLET CORVETTE WAS STARTED IN THE COURTHOUSE PARKING LOT MOVING IN REVERSE WITH THE STEERING WHEEL LOCKED IN PLACE NARROWING AVOIDING PEDESTRIANS. THE VEHICLE COULD BE MOVED IN EITHER DIRECTION, BUT THE STEERING WHEEL COULD NOT BE UNLOCKED AND SUBSEQUENTLY TRANSPORTED TO PRINCETON CHEVROLET [FORMERLY KNOWN AS SUPERIOR CHEVROLET] IN LAWRENCEVILLE, NEW JERSEY FOR REPAIR. DURING PREVIOUS SERVICE, THE VEHICLE WAS INSPECTED FOR RECALLS INCLUDING THE STEERING DEFECT WITH THE MANAGER STATING THAT ALL RECALLS WERE COMPLETE. THE JUNE 26, 2013 DEALER STEERING REPAIR INVOICE MAKES NO MENTION OF THE SERVICE RECALL, THE MANAGER EXPLAINING THE JUNE 25, 2013 INCIDENT WAS UNRELATED TO THE STEERING DEFECT AND SAFETY RECALL. THE DEALERSHIP HAS REFUSED TO ACKNOWLEDGE OR RESPOND TO OUR INQUIRIES REFERENCING THE "ELECTRONIC COLUMN LOCK SYSTEM" PRODUCT SAFETY RECALL [04006C] WHICH STATES;" GENERAL MOTORS HAS DECIDED THAT A DEFECT, WHICH RELATES TO MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY, EXISTS IN CERTAIN 1997-2004 MODEL YEAR CHEVROLET CORVETTE VEHICLES.WHEN THE VEHICLE IS STARTED, IT UNLOCKS THE STEERING. TWO CONDITIONS CAN PREVENT STEERING WHILE THE VEHICLE IS MOVING: ... IF ONE OF THESE CONDITIONS OCCURS, A CRASH COULD OCCUR WITHOUT WARNING." [PG 1 RECALL BULLETIN NO.: 04006C] THE RECALL SPECIFICALLY WARNS DEALERS; "WHENEVER A VEHICLE SUBJECT TO A RECALL ... IS IN YOUR DEALERSHIP FOR SERVICE ... YOU MUST TAKE THE STEPS NECESSARY TO BE SURE THE RECALL CORRECTION HAS BEEN MADE BEFORE ... RELEASING THE VEHICLE." [PG 28 RECALL NO.: 04006C] WE REQUEST NHTSA INVESTIGATE THE FAILURE OF GENERAL MOTORS TO PROMPTLY ALERT OWNERS WITH THE LOCKING STEERING DEFECT, WHY THE VEHICLE WAS RELEASED BY THE DEALER WITHOUT VERIFYING THE RECALL STEERING STATUS, AND WHETHER THE REPAIR PERFORMED AT PRINCETON CHEVROLET ON JUNE 26, 2013 WAS THE REPAIR PROCEDURE OUTLINED IN GM SERVICE BULLETIN NO. 04006C. *TR
2012-09-06
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-09-01
- VIN: 1G1YY22G6V5
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 CHEVROLET CORVETTE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE STEERING LOCK BOX WAS NOT OPERATING PROPERLY AND THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE CONTROL STEERING LOCK WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER PREVIOUSLY FOR REPAIRS UNDER RECALL NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 04V060000 (STEERING:COLUMN LOCKING:ANTI-THEFT DEVICE). THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE DEALER WAS CONTACTED WHO EXPLAINED THAT THE MANUFACTURER WAS ONLY REQUIRED TO PAY FOR RECALL REPAIRS ONCE. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 40,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 268,000.
2011-10-07
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-08-15
- VIN: 1G1YY22G7V5
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 CHEVROLET CORVETTE C5. THE CONTACT WAS TRAVELING 55 MPH WHEN THE VEHICLE DECELERATED INDEPENDENTLY AND FAILED TO ACCELERATE OVER 30 MPH. THE SERVICE ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ALSO ILLUMINATED INTERMITTENTLY. THE FAILURE WAS RESOLVED TEMPORARILY WHEN THE ENGINE WAS RESTARTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER, BUT THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 48,000.
2011-04-10
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-04-10
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: THERE APPEAR TO BE MANY VERIFIED COMPLAINTS ABOUT THE SEATS MOVING UNDER ACCELERATION AND/OR BRAKING IN THE 1997-2004 CORVETTES. WHY HAVEN'T YOU REQUIRED CHEVROLET TO FIX THIS? *TR
2010-09-17
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-09-17
- VIN: 1G1YY22G9V5
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
- Summary: THE GAS GAUGE IN THE 1997 CORVETTE, AS WELL AS ALL OTHER C5 CORVETTES BUILT FROM 1997 THROUGH 2004, WILL SUDDENLY FALL TO EMPTY WITH NO WARNING, EVEN THOUGH THERE IS FUEL REMAINING. DRIVING ON HIGHWAYS WITHOUT THE ABILITY TO QUICKLY STOP FOR FUEL CAN CAUSE A SERIOUS PROBLEM SINCE THE DRIVER WILL NOT KNOW IF THEY ARE ABOUT TO RUN OUT OF FUEL WITHOUT WARNING. CHEVROLET AND GM HAVE KNOWN ABOUT THIS PROBLEM FOR MANY, MANY YEARS AND REFUSE TO FIX IT WITHOUT EXPENSIVE REPAIRS THAT COULD COST AS MUCH AS $1800 WITH NO ASSURANCE THAT THE PROBLEM WILL BE CORRECTED. I BELIEVE THIS ENTIRE RANGE OF VEHICLES SHOULD BE RECALLED TO CORRECT THIS SERIOUS SAFETY DEFECT. *TR
2010-09-17
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-09-17
- VIN: 1G1YY22G9V5
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: THERE IS A DEFECT IN THE SEAT TRACKS OF THE 1997 CORVETTE THAT CAUSE THE SEAT TO LURCH FORWARD ABOUT 1 INCH UNDER FIRM BRAKING. THIS SUDDEN CHANGE IN THE SEAT POSITION CAN CAUSE THE DRIVER TO LOSE CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. THIS PROBLEM IS REPORTED TO EXIST IN ALL CORVETTES MANUFACTURED FROM 1997 THROUGH 2004. CHEVROLET AND GM HAVE LONG BEEN AWARE OF THIS PROBLEM BUT WILL NOT PROVIDE A REPAIR UNLESS THE CUSTOMER PAYS OVER $500 FOR THE REPLACEMENT OF THE SEAT TRACK. THESE VEHICLES SHOULD BE RECALLED AND CHEVROLET SHOULD BE ORDERED TO CORRECT THIS SERIOUS SAFETY DEFECT. *TR
2010-09-04
TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-09-03
- VIN: 1G1YY22G9V5
- Components: TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM
- Summary: TRACTION SYSTEM CHECK ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON, NO POWER STEERING,ENGINE WILL NOT RUN ACTS LIKE ITS OUT OF GAS . ON 4 OCCASIONS THE SAME SYSTEM HAS OCCURRED 1ST OCCURRENCE 5/06 REPLACED SHORTED AIR PUMP ASSEMBLY 2ND OCCURRENCE 1/07 REPLACED SHORTED AIR PUMP ASSEMBLY UNDER WARRANTY 3RD OCCURRENCE 6/09 REPLACED BAD TB SENSOR AT TBI 4TH OCCURRENCE 9/10 REPLACING ACCUMULATOR MODULE I WORK NIGHTS AND FREEWAY WAY DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 45 MINUTES EACH WAY MY QUESTION WHAT COULD HAPPEN IF THIS SYSTEM WOULD HAVE OCCURRED DURING RUSH HOUR. ( LUCKY FOR ME THIS PROBLEM HAPPEN AFTER A STOP.) OR IS MY LUCK GOING TO RUN OUT? *TR
2010-07-20
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-07-01
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: LOOSE SEAT TRACKS ON C5 CORVETTES (1997-2004). CHRONIC ISSUE WITH THAT MODEL OF CORVETTE. LEAVES SEATS IN A "ROCKING CHAIR" MOOD AND AFFECTS SAFETY BY DISTRACTING DRIVER AND SEAT NOT BEING SECURE IN CRASHES. SEATS HAVE TO BE REMOVED FROM CAR TO GET TO TRACKS. THEN TRACKS HAVE TO BE REMOVED AND RUBBER BUSHINGS THAT DETERIORATE EASILY AND THEY HAVE TO BE REPLACED MORE DURABLE BUSHINGS OF A DIFFERENT MATERIAL. *TR
2010-05-17
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-02-10
- VIN: 1G1YY22G2V5
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FUEL LEAKING FROM THE GAS TANK ALONG WITH STRONG ODOR OF GAS. I PURCHASED THIS VEHICLE IN FEB 2010 I DO SEE A RECALL FOR OTHER CORVETTES SAME YEAR, BUT DIFFERENT VIN#'S. I AM CONCERNED THERE ARE MORE VEHICLES WITH THE SAME PROBLEM THAT THE GM HAS NOT LOOKED AT . THIS CAR WAS MADE IN THE SAME PLANT AS THE OTHERS AND MY CAR HAS OTHER RECALLS THAT HAVE BEEN TAKEN CARE THAT WERE FROM THAT PLANT BOWLING GREEN PLANT CODE 5. I AM CERTAIN THAT THOSE VIN #'S ARE NOT THE ONLY VEHICLES WITH THIS PROBLEM. *TR
2008-08-26
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-06-04
- VIN: 1G1YY22G1V5
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 CHEVROLET CORVETTE. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED ACCORDING TO NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 04V060000 (STEERING:COLUMN LOCKING:ANTI-THEFT DEVICE); HOWEVER, THE CONTACT IS NOW EXPERIENCING THE SAME FAILURE STATED IN THE RECALL. WHEN THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO BACK OUT OF HIS DRIVEWAY, THE VEHICLE COMPLETELY SHUT OFF. ALSO, A WARNING MESSAGED APPEARED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL, STATING THAT THE STEERING WHEEL WAS LOCKED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE STEERING BOX MOTOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE SAME FAILURE HAS BEEN REPAIRED FIVE TIMES PRIOR TO THE MOST RECENT INCIDENT. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 105,000.
2008-02-28
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-02-21
- VIN: 1G1YY22G0V5
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: SERVICE BULLETIN 05081 JUST PERFORMED ON MY CORVETTE TO FIX A STEERING COLUMN LOCK PROBLEM. AFTER WORK PERFORMED I GET A MESSAGE TO REMOVE KEY AND WAIT 10 SEC. TGM COMPLETED A SERVICE BULLETIN ON MY CAR THAT LEAVES ME WITH A CAR THAT STALLS IMMEDIATELY AFTER STARTING. IN THE MANY YEARS I OWNED THE CAR I HAD ONLY GOTTEN THE MESSAGE ONCE, WHICH RELATED TO THE STEERING COLUMN LOCK. NOW SINCE THE SERVICE BULLETIN WAS DONE TO FIX THE PROBLEM I GET THE MESSAGE EVERY OTHER TIME I START THE CAR. I FEEL AS THOUGH THE CAR IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE I HAVE ALREADY HAD ONE OCCASION WHERE I DID NOT SEE THE INFO MESSAGE. I PROCEEDED TO PULL OUT OF A PARKING SPACE ONLY TO HAVE THE CAR STALL AND ALMOST GET HIT BY A TRUCK. FORTUNATELY THE TRUCK WAS ABLE TO STOP BEFORE A COLLISION OCCURRED. THE TRUCK DRIVER WAS NOT VERY PATIENT AND PROCEEDED TO GIVE ME A FEW CHOICE WORDS WHILE I HAD TO GO THROUGH THE FAMOUS 10 SECOND DRILL 2 TIMES BEFORE I COULD GET THE CAR TO RUN. WHAT I REALLY EXPECT IS A SERVICE BULLETIN THAT FIXES A PROBLEM NOT CAUSES ONE I NOW HAVE AN UNSAFE CAR. MY WIFE REFUSES TO DRIVE IT FOR FEAR IT WILL STALL WHEN MOVING FROM A PARKED POSITION INTO TRAFFIC. THIS NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED IMMEDIATELY. THE CAR HAS STALLED 3 TIMES IN THE LAST WEEK! VERY UNSAFE. *TR
2007-09-12
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-09-09
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 CHEVROLET CORVETTE. WHILE DRIVING IN REVERSE AT 2 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL FAILED TO TURN AND THE STEERING COLUMN SERVICE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INSPECTED BY A DEALER, HOWEVER, IT WAS REPAIRED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 04V060000 (STEERING:COLUMN LOCKING:ANTI-THEFT DEVICE) TWO YEARS AGO. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 29,191.
2007-08-08
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-08-04
- VIN: 1G1YY22G2V5
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: GM STATES THAT THE RECALL ON MY 1997 CORVETTE HAS PREVIOUSLY BEEN RESOLVED, WHEN I PRIOR HAD NO ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF THE RECALL. AFTER PERSISTENTLY GIVING THEM THE RECALL NUMBER THEY FINALLY ADMITTED TO THE RECALL APPLYING TO MY VEHICLE, BUT STATED THAT THE RECALL HAD BEEN PERFORMED TO SPECIFICATIONS, WHEN IN FACT ALL THEY DID WAS RESET THE COMPUTER FOR A TEMPORARY FIX. THEY SAID THAT THE RECALL WAS CLOSED AND ALL COST INCURRED WOULD BE MY OUT OF POCKET EXPENSE. I REALLY FEEL THAT A RECALL FOR THIS SEVERE OF AN OCCURRENCE SHOULD STAY OPEN UNTIL THE PROBLEM IS COMPLETELY REMEDIED. THIS IS A VERY DANGEROUS FAULTY PART THAT THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD REQUIRE AN OPEN RECALL ON. *JB
2006-04-27
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-04-27
- VIN: 1G1YY22GXV5
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THE STEERING WHEEL LOCKED WITH THE KEY IN THE IGNITION. A NHTSA RECALL, # 04V060000 WAS PERFORMED ON THE VEHICLE CONCERNING, THE STEERING HOWEVER, THE RECALL DID NOT REMEDY THE PROBLEM. THE DEALERSHIP WOULD NOT OFFER A SECOND REPAIR WITHOUT CHARGE UNDER THE RECALL. THE MECHANIC DETERMINED A NEW COLUMN LOCK PLATE WAS NEEDED. UPDATED 5/10/2006 - THE STEERING WHEEL LOCK FAILED TO UNLOCK THE STEERING COLUMN WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS STARTED. THE ONLY REMEDY WAS TO REPLACED THE STEERING COLUMN LOCK ASSEMBLY. THE MANUFACTURER IS AWARE OF THE PROBLEM BUT REFUSES TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM. THE MANUFACTURER PROVIDED A RELAY THAT DID NOT WORK. *NM
2005-08-31
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-07-15
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: CRACK WHEELS IN THE OUTBOARD AREA OF THE INNER PORTION OF RIM. *NM
2005-08-17
STEERING,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-08-11
- VIN: 1G1YY22G4V5
- Components: STEERING,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: ON 12/21/04 I BROUGHT MY 1997 CORVETTE TO THE DEALERSHIP TO GET SERVICED FOR THE "#4006 ELECTRONIC COLUMN LOCK SYSTEM" RECALL. LAST THURSDAY (8/11/05) MY VEHICLE'S STEERING LOCKUP UP WHILE MOVING OUT OF MY PARKING SPOT. IT WAS TOWED IN TO BYERS DUBLIN CHEVROLET DEALERSHIP (614-793-4800) THE NEXT DAY. I WAS TOLD THAT THIS WAS NOT COVERED BY THIS RECALL AND THAT I NEEDED TO PURCHASE ANOTHER STEERING LOCK ACTUATOR FOR $475. I HAVE READ ON VARIOUS NEWSGROUPS THAT THIS TYPE OF LOCKUP CAN HAPPEN OVER AND OVER AGAIN IF THE LOCK PLATE IS STILL IN PLACE. I HAVE REQUESTED TO THE DEALERSHIP TO JUST REMOVE THIS LOCK PIN AND I WOULD BE HAPPY TO PAY FOR THEIR LABOR TO DO SO, BUT THEY REFUSE TO DO IT. I'VE TALKED TO CHEVROLET CORPORATE (TICKET # 1-355691956) AND THEY STILL REFUSE TO PUT IN A BYPASS OR TO REMOVE THIS LOCK ALTOGETHER. CAN YOU GIVE ME SOME ADVISE ON HOW TO RESOLVE THIS SO THAT I AM NOT DRIVING AROUND IN A CAR THAT COULD HAVE THE STEERING COLUMN LOCK UP AT ANY GIVEN TIME? IT IS A HAZARD FOR ME AND A LIABILITY TO CHEVROLET. THANKS, -KEVIN. *JB
2005-04-25
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-02-11
- VIN: 1G1YY22G8V5
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: CONSUMER'S VEHICLE HAVING THE SAME PROBLEMS A MENTIONED IN RECALL 97V105000 CONCERNING SENDING UNIT. DEALERSHIP WILL NOT REPAIR FREE OF CHARGE BECAUSE THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. *AK THERE WAS GAS LEAKING FROM THE TOP OF THE TANK. THERE WAS NO EVIDENCE OF HOSE FAILURE. *JB *NM
2005-03-17
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-04-13
- VIN: 1G1YY22G3V5
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: THE POWER SEAT MOTORS UNDER THE DRIVERS SEAT CAME LOSE AND CAUSED THE SEAT TO ROCK BACK AND FORTH AND ALSO SLIDE FRONT TO BACK.*AK
2005-01-12
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-03-01
- VIN: 1G1YY22G4V5
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: RECALL CAMPAIGN:04V060000 THE CONSUMER EXPERIENCED SYMPTOMS OF THE STEERING RECALL PRIOR TO RECEIVING NOTIFICATION. THE CONSUMER REQUEST REIMBURSEMENT FOR THE REPAIRS. *NM THE STEERING COLUMN LOCKED. *SC *JB
2004-11-15
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-10-09
- VIN: 1G1YY22G0V5
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: THE STEERING COLUMN LOCKED WITHOUT WARNING. A RECALL HAS BEEN ISSUED, HOWEVER THE VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER WAS OUTSIDE OF THE REMEDY SCOPE. *JB THE CONSUMER STARTED THE VEHICLE AND THE COMPUTER READ PULL KEY WAIT 10 SECONDS. THE COMPUTER THEN READ SERVICE COLUMN LOCK. RECALL# 04V060000. *SC
2004-07-21
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-06-01
- VIN: 1G1YY22G0V5
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: NHTSA RECALL 04V-060000, ELECTRONIC COLUMN LOCK. VEHICLE EQUIPPED WITH AN ECL COLUMN LOCK SYSTEM, WHEN THE VEHICLE IS STARTED THE STEERING COLUMN WOULD NOT UNLOCK. DEALER WAS NOTIFIED. DEALER INFORMED THE CONSUMER THAT BECAUSE HIS VEHICLE HAD A MANUAL TRANSMISSION IT WAS NOT COVERED UNDER THE SCOPE OF THE RECALL. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION. *LA
1997 Chevrolet Corvette recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 7 recalls for different components of the 1997 Chevrolet Corvette.
2009-05-11
- Manufacturer: DOPE, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
2009-04-07
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
2004-02-09
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: STEERING:COLUMN LOCKING:ANTI-THEFT DEVICE
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH ELECTRONIC COLUMN LOCK SYSTEMS (ECL), WHEN THE IGNITION SWITCH IS TURNED TO "LOCK," THE ECL SYSTEM PREVENTS TURNING OF THE STEERING SYSTEM. WHEN THE VEHICLE IS STARTED, THE ECL UNLOCKS THE STEERING SYSTEM. THE VEHICLE IS DESIGNED SO THAT IF THE COLUMN FAILS TO UNLOCK WHEN THE VEHICLE IS STARTED AND THE CUSTOMER TRIES TO DRIVE, THE FUEL SUPPLY WILL BE SHUT OFF SO THAT THE VEHICLE CANNOT MOVE WHEN THE VEHICLE CANNOT BE STEERED. IF VOLTAGE AT THE POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE IS LOW OR INTERRUPTED, HOWEVER, THE FUEL SHUT OFF MAY NOT OCCUR AND THE VEHICLE CAN BE ACCELERATED WHILE THE STEERING SYSTEM IS LOCKED. ALSO WHEN THE CONTROL SYSTEM SHOWS THAT THE ECL IS UNLOCKED AND THE VEHICLE IS BEING DRIVEN, THE LOCK PIN LOCATION CAN VARY. DEPENDING ON THE LOCATION OF THE LOCK PLATE RELATIVE TO THE SWITCH TRANSITION POINT, THERE COULD THEN BE CONTACT BETWEEN THE LOCK PLATE AND PIN CAUSING THE STEERING TO LOCK WHILE DRIVING .
- Consequence: IF THIS OCCURS, A CRASH COULD OCCUR WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AN AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION, THE DEALER WILL DISABLE THE STEERING COLUMN LOCK BY REMOVING THE COLUMN LOCK PLATE. WHEN THE IGNITION KEY IS REMOVED, THE TRANSMISSION SHIFTER WILL LOCK BUT THE STEERING COLUMN WILL NOT LOCK. ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A MANUAL TRANSMISSION, THE DEALER WILL REPROGRAM THE POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE, PERFORM A DIMENSIONAL CHECK OF THE COLUMN LOCK AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE LOCK PLATE. THE STEERING COLUMN ON THESE VEHICLES WILL CONTINUE TO LOCK WHEN THE KEY IS REMOVED. OWNER NOTIFICATION TO OWNERS OF 1997 VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS BEGAN ON APRIL 26, 2004. OWNERS OF 1998 THROUGH 2004 VEHICLES (EXCEPT 1997-1998 MANUAL TRANSMISSION VEHICLES) WILL BE NOTIFIED BEGINNING ON AUGUST 2, 2004. THE REMAINING OWNERS (1997-1998 MANUAL TRANSMISSION VEHICLES) WILL BE NOTIFIED LATER IN 2004, WHEN PARTS ARE AVAILABLE. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438.
2000-04-17
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE LAP BELT WEBBING CAN TWIST ALLOWING THE WEBBING TO BECOME JAMMED IN THE RETRACTOR.
- Consequence: WHEN THE BELT WEBBING BECOMES JAMMED IN THE RETRACTOR, THE SEAT BELT MAY BE UNUSABLE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL INSERTS TO THE BELT WEB GUIDE OF EACH LAP BELT RETRACTOR.
1997-06-28
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:ANCHORAGE
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE SEAT BELTS IN THESE VEHICLES INCORPORATE AN ENERGY MANAGEMENT LOOP. THIS LOOP IS INADEQUATE TO ABSORB THE NECESSARY FORCES THAT CAN BE EXERTED ON IT. THEREFORE, THE VEHICLES FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 208, "OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION."
- Consequence: IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH, THE ENERGY MANAGEMENT LOOP WILL NOT ABSORB ENOUGH ENERGY, AND INJURY TO THE SEAT OCCUPANT CAN OCCUR.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE SEAT BELT RETRACTOR ASSEMBLIES.
1997-06-23
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE VEHICLES HAVE A TORN FUEL TANK SENDING UNIT/PUMP SEAL. THIS CAN CAUSE FUEL ODOR AND/OR LEAKAGE AT THE ATTACHMENT LOCATION.
- Consequence: FUEL LEAKAGE FROM A TORN SEAL CAN RESULT IN A FIRE IF AN IGNITION SOURCE IS PRESENT.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE LEFT AND RIGHT HAND FUEL TANK ASSEMBLIES (INCLUDING FUEL SENDING UNIT AND PUMP).
1997-03-20
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: SUSPENSION:REAR
- Summary: THE REAR SUSPENSION TIE ROD ASSEMBLY CAN FRACTURE.
- Consequence: IF THIS WERE TO OCCUR WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION, LOSS OF DIRECTIONAL CONTROL CAN RESULT INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE LEFT AND RIGHT-HAND REAR SUSPENSION TIE ROD LINKS.
Positive 1997 Chevrolet Corvette car reviews
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Chevrolet Corvette problems:
Is 97 C5 a good year to buy? - CorvetteForum - Chevrolet Corvette ...
https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums/c5-general/4243816-is-97-c5-a-good-year-to-buy.html
Feb 19, 2019 ... With the miles the C5 in question has though and some known issues, about $7k tops I would have thought. And be prepared to pay the "Corvette ...
1997 Chevrolet Corvette Problems and Complaints - 10 Issues
https://repairpal.com/1997-chevrolet-corvette/problems
Problem with your 1997 Chevrolet Corvette? Our list of 10 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1997 Chevrolet Corvette.
Common Problems on 98? - CorvetteForum - Chevrolet Corvette ...
https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums/c5-general/994278-common-problems-on-98-a.html
Jan 18, 2005 ... '97's and maybe '98's had a problem with noisy fuel pumps. It caused a whine behind the driver. It was fixed under warranty. There were also ...
1997 Corvette Common Issues
https://www.corvsport.com/1997-corvette-common-issues/
Aug 9, 2021 ... 1997 Corvette Common Issues · Leaking Battery. Many C5's came with AC Delco Freedom batteries that had a tendency to experience exterior cracking ...
Most Common Issues With C5 LS1 Vette - CorvetteForum ...
https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums/c5-tech/699856-most-common-issues-with-c5-ls1-vette.html
Nov 27, 2003 ... CorvetteForum - Chevrolet Corvette Forum Discussion ... C5 Corvettes, 1997 - 2004; /; C5 Tech. Most ... Problem in all 97's 99- CD changer replaced ...
Other years of Chevrolet Corvette
Are you having problems with your 1997 Chevrolet Corvette?
Cade McGlynn 2025-01-08
This car is truly amazing! It's perfect for hobby drivers who want to cruise on the weekends or for everyday use. The interior is not only functional but also very convenient. The Bose sound system is fantastic and makes you feel like you're at a concert. The power seats are my favorite feature as they allow drivers of all sizes to sit comfortably. Moving to the exterior, the car sits on beefy 19-inch rims that reflect like mirrors. The sleek angles and designs of the vehicle make heads turn at every corner. Punching the accelerator leaves everything in the rearview. I highly recommend this car, it has always been my dream car and has lived up to every expectation!
Horace Blanda 2025-01-08
Great driving fun! Good comfort in a sports car. Attention to detail is excellent. Truck space better than most passenger cars. It's hard on tires. Electronics need overall improvement and are expensive to repair. For the first model year of a completely redesigned car, it is Grandpa's dream come true! I would buy another Corvette in a heartbeat!
Austen Donnelly 2024-10-08
After 26000 miles, the only part that needed to be replaced was the handbrake lever. I was pleasantly surprised to find that this 6-speed car gets 34 miles to the gallon on interstate travel and 23 miles to the gallon around home.
Josue Price 2024-09-12
You've got yourself an excellent value there! This sports car is a great choice for the money.
Turner Pollich 2024-08-21
The front chin spoiler may be a bit rough, especially considering how low to the ground this baby rides.