2003 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 2003 Chevrolet Corvette problems
The Chevrolet Corvette C5, produced from 1997 to 2004, is known for its performance and technological advances. However, not all model years are equal, and some common problems have been reported by owners of the 2003 Corvette C5.
- Electrical System Issues: Grounding wires behind the headlights can become corroded, affecting various systems such as traction control. To fix this issue, you may need to disassemble and thoroughly clean the ground connectors.
- Engine Oil Burning: The C5 Corvette's engine can burn oil due to piston ring instability at higher RPMs, allowing oil into the combustion chamber. This doesn't seem to cause long-term damage, but it's best to keep an eye on the oil level.
- Steering Column Lock: The steering column lock can defy the driver at will, causing lockups. A dealership can provide a different locking plate or a kit, but they aren't 100-percent effective. It's best to take it to a dealer or an experienced Corvette mechanic to have them sort it out.
- Leaking Differential: A leaking differential can cause detrimental issues and may render the car undrivable. The best way to tackle this problem is to prevent it from happening by using the right kind of anaerobic sealant to create a proper seal with the differential cover.
- Valvetrain Noises: The LS1 engine's rockers have needle bearings that often fail, causing bearings to fall out and stick to the oil drain plug. The best solution is to have a reputable shop rebuild them with upgraded bearings or buy a set of upgraded bearings.
While these problems have been reported, it's essential to note that the 2003 Corvette C5 is still regarded as a reliable car for a long time, especially when compared to earlier model years. When considering purchasing a Corvette C5, it's crucial to research the specific model year and be aware of any known issues.
How many miles does a 2003 Corvette last?
A modern Chevy V8, properly maintained, is typically good for around two hundred thousand miles an up without needing any serious work. Some of them are still running fine well past three hundred thousand miles.
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.
Do C5 Corvettes have problems?
Many C5's came with AC Delco Freedom batteries that tend to have the case crack near the battery posts. The leaking battery acid would drip down the side of the battery, down the funnel-like battery support, straight down onto the PCM and the wiring loom.
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.
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.
How many miles does a 2003 Corvette last?
A modern Chevy V8, properly maintained, is typically good for around two hundred thousand miles an up without needing any serious work. Some of them are still running fine well past three hundred thousand miles.
Are Corvettes high maintenance?
The Chevrolet Corvette Reliability Rating is 3.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 23rd out of 24 for midsize cars. The average annual repair cost is $737 which means it has average ownership costs.
What is the weakness of the C5 Corvette?
Weaknesses: Steering column lock, Delco battery, fuel guage system, "rumble noise" with A4 transmission, "marbles in the can" noise with the 6-speed transmission, premature seat cover wear, and a variety of other common problems (just read this forum for a while).
2003 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
- Electrical system problems
- Power train problems
- Electronic stability control (esc) problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2003 Chevrolet Corvette vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2003 Chevrolet Corvette
The NHTSA has received 110 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Chevrolet Corvette. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2003 Chevrolet Corvette vehicles.
2022-10-28
STEERING,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-12-15
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1g1yy32g135
- Components: STEERING,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Gm refuse to repurchase below is a overview. they are refusing engineering assitance to the dealership to fix the problem. Next week the car will be there a month again. This is the 7th time on this repair which was a recall by your org. The last repair last 153 days. This problem make the car unsafe to drive the dealer also agrees it is unsafe to drive. My car is back at the dealership for the same recall situation. The corvette has been rendered undrivable due to the number of recall repairs that have failed. They are again waiting for a GM engineer. A new case has been opened at the CEO’s office. It was submitted last year for repurchase they not to. The dealership says they should I agree. Gm decline yesterday to repurchase the car. The dealer ship feels it is unsafe to drive Saul Saldano who run the repair shop at Mission Bay chevy. Owned by his family Saldana auto group. When I emailed the CEO and she referred it to their exec team you can who I worked with to get an engineer on site at the dealership last year. I will describe more in my overview below. Overview: I purchased the car in 2013 black on black corvette convertible 6 speed on the floor fully loaded. The car worked perfectly until August 2011 that work order is attached. The dealer performed a recall repair on the steering harness and column lock. They left the lock nut for the steering column off it was found later under the driver’s side seat. The steering came off in my wife’s hands while driving on 4hth st downtown San Diego. The car sustained damage lucky no one was hurt this occurred in 12/01/2011 that work order is attached. The harness failed several times afterwards however I only have records back to 2014. The dealership purged records before 2014. Since 2014 the car has consistently had to return to the dealership to have another lock and harness installed. I can send those work orders on another email. What happens when the steering lock engages is you cannot drive the car. It kill
2020-08-17
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-08-01
- VIN: 1G1YY12S835
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHEVROLET CORVETTE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL SUDDENLY CEASED AND THE DRIVER WAS UNABLE TO TURN THE STEERING WHEEL IN EITHER DIRECTION. THE STEERING COLUMN WAS LATER UNLOCKED AND THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE LOCAL DEALER HALL CHEVROLET LOCATED AT 3412 WESTERN BRANCH BLVD, CHESAPEAKE, VA 23321, WHO DIAGNOSED THE STEERING COLUMN LOCK PLATE WAS DEFECTIVE AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE LOCK PLATE WAS REPLACED AND THE FAILURE WAS REMEDIED. THE CONTACT INDICATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY REPAIRED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 04V060000 (STEERING) HOWEVER, THE FAILURE OCCURRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 56,000.
2019-10-24
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-10-24
- VIN: 1G1YY32G835
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: A VERY STRONG SMELL OF GASOLINE IN THE CABIN AREA AND IN THE TRUNK AFTER FILLING THE CORVETTE WITH GASOLINE. THE STRONG SMELL OF GASOLINE WAS AT IT'S STRONGEST SCENT WHEN THE DECK LID WAS OPEN. I STOOD ON THE REAR RIGHT OF THE CORVETTE WITH MY HEAD BARELY INSIDE THE TRUNK. SO BASICALLY REAR RIGHT SECTOR OF THE CORVETTE, JUST PASSED THE REAR RIGHT WHEEL WELL. THE CORVETTE WAS PARKED ON A LEVEL CONCRETE PAD AT THE GAS STATION. I DID NOT OVERFILL. PUMP NOZZLE STOPPED. APPROXIMATELY 14.6 GALLONS OF FUEL WAS PUMPED INTO THE CORVETTE.
2019-09-04
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-09-03
- VIN: 1G1YY22G735
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: MY CAR HAS 45,000 MILES. THERE IS A FUEL SMELL COMING FROM THE CAR. I ALWAYS FILL THE TANK FULL WHEN I PLAN ON NOT DRIVING IT FOR A WHILE. IF I LEAVE IT PARKED FOR SEVERAL MONTHS AND DON'T DRIVE IT, THE FUEL TANK WILL BE EMPTY WHEN I START IT UP. THE FUEL SMELL APPEARS TO BE COMING FROM THE MIDDLE OF THE CAR. THIS HAS BEEN HAPPENING FOR THE LAST FOUR OR FIVE YEARS. I WILL ONLY PARK THE VEHICLE IN OPEN AREAS AND WON'T PARK IT IN A GARAGE DUE TO FEAR OF BUILD UP OF GAS FUMES.
2019-08-23
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-07-15
- VIN: 1G1YY32G135
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHEVROLET CORVETTE. WHILE DRIVING 20 MPH, THE STEERING CEASED TO OPERATE WITHOUT WARNING. PRIOR TO THE FAILURE, THE VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED IN AND REPAIRED PER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 04V060000 (STEERING) BY AN UNKNOWN DEALER. AFTER THE RECENT FAILURE, THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO FIVE STAR CHEVROLET BUICK GMC (495 WATSON BLVD, WARNER ROBINS, GA 31093, 478-273-8277) WHERE THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NO LONGER UNDER RECALL. THE DEALER INFORMED HER THAT SHE WOULD BE FINANCIALLY RESPONSIBLE FOR ALL REPAIRS REGARDING THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND DID NOT ASSIST. THE VEHICLE REMAINED AT THE DEALER AND HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 115,000.
2019-02-26
STEERING,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-01-29
- VIN: 1G1YY32G535
- Components: STEERING,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: THE CAR HAS DEVELOPED A CONDITION WHERE THE STEERING COLUMN LOCK FAILS TO UNLOCK THE STEERING COLUMN WHEN THE VEHICLE IS STARTED. A MESSAGE APPEARS IN THE DIC DISPLAY TELLING YOU TO PULL THE KEY AND WAIT 10 SECONDS. IT SHUTS OFF THE FUEL SUPPLY IF YOU ATTEMPT TO DRIVE IT. CHEVROLET ACKNOWLEDGED THIS CONDITION EXISTED IN 2006 VIA A LETTER. THE CAR ONLY HAD A LITTLE OVER 5K MILES ON IT AT THE TIME AND NOW HAS ONLY 43K ON THE ODOMETER. PER MY PHONE CALL WITH THEM TODAY THEY FEEL THEY ARE NO LONGER RESPONSIBLE. THE FIRST TIME THIS HAPPENED I HAD BACKED INTO THE ROAD AND THE CAR DIED LEAVING ME IN DIRE JEAPORDY. CAN ANYTHING BE DONE TO MAKE THEM HONOR THIS DEFECT IN THIS VERY EXPENSIVE AUTOMOBILE? NOTE....THIS HAS BEEN HAPPENING SINCE THE SUMMER OF 2018 INTERMITTENTLY.
2018-06-08
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-07-01
- VIN: 1G1YY12S435
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHEVROLET CORVETTE. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE COLUMN LOCK WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED AND THE VEHICLE SEIZED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS SERVICED PER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V400000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM) AT GREAT LAKES CHEVROLET (310 S CHESTNUT ST, JEFFERSON, OH), BUT THE FAILURE PERSISTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN BACK TO THE DEALER FOR FURTHER DIAGNOSTIC TESTING OR REPAIRS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY SERVICED PER THE RECALL AND ADDITIONAL REPAIRS WOULD BE THE CONTACT'S RESPONSIBILITY. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 21,000.
2018-02-05
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-01-28
- VIN: 1G1YY22G935
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHEVROLET CORVETTE. WHILE ENTERING THE VEHICLE AND ATTEMPTING TO START THE IGNITION, THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT START AND THE ANTI-THEFT DEVICE INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO START THE VEHICLE A FEW MORE TIMES, BUT THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT START. THE DEALER (FREEDOM CHEVROLET, 212 E 5TH ST S, BIG STONE GAP, VA 24219) STATED THAT THE VEHICLE NEEDED TO BE ON THE RECALL LIST TO BE REPAIRED. THERE WERE NO RECALLS ASSOCIATED WITH THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND WAS UNABLE TO PROVIDE ASSISTANCE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 90,000.
2017-11-29
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-09-28
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHEVROLET CORVETTE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE STEERING WHEEL SEIZED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE STEERING WHEEL LOCK BYPASS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED; HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND OPENED A CASE. THE CONTACT WAS ALSO INFORMED THAT AN UNKNOWN RECALL REPAIR WAS PERFORMED ON THE VEHICLE PRIOR TO THE CURRENT OWNER. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 28,240. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
2017-07-18
STEERING,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-06-30
- VIN: 1G1YY12S535
- Components: STEERING,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I WAS BACKING OUT MY DRIVEWAY AND MY STEERING COLUMN LOCKED AND I COULD NOT CONTROL THE CAR. I PULLED UP THE EMERGENCY BRAKE AND STOPPED THE CAR BECAUSE I COULD NOT CONTROL THE CAR. MYSELF AND A NEIGHBOR WAS ABLE TO PUSH THE CAR BACK IN THE DRIVEWAY. THE COMPUTER GAVE THE MESSAGE ..STEERING COLUMN LOCK MESSAGE AND THEN THE CAR WOULD NOT START ANYMORE...MEANING IT WOULD CRANK BUT JUST IMMEDIATELY SHUT OFF. THIS IS A RECALL SAFETY PROBLEM WITH THIS CAR AND CHEVORLET IS AWARE RECALL NUMBER 4006 A, B, C AND SPECIAL PROVISION POLICY 05081.
2017-06-13
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-05-14
- VIN: 1G1YY32G535
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I INHERITED MY FATHERS 2003 CORVETTE CONVERTIBLE IN JANUARY OF 2017, I HAVE NOT DRIVEN IT MUCH AND IT ONLY HAS 14000 MILES ON IT. I RECENTLY FILLED IT UP AFTER ABOUT AN HOUR LONG DRIVE. THE DAY AND WEEKS FOLLOWING MY GARAGE HAS SMELLED HEAVILY OF GAS FUMES. I RECENTLY BEGAN DOING SOME RESEARCH ON THIS TOPIC AND FOUND THAT APPARENTLY THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THIS YEAR MODEL CORVETTE. THE ONLINE FORUMS I HAVE READ POINT OUT THIS COULD CAUSE A FIRE WHILE DRIVING AS WELL AS CREATE A EXPLOSION HAZARD IN YOUR GARAGE. ONE EVEN SUGGESTED THERE MIGHT HAVE BEEN A RECALL ON THIS PROBLEM, BUT AFTER RESEARCHING I FOUND NO SUCH RECALL. I AM FEARFUL THAT IF THIS PROBLEM IS A COMMON PROBLEM SOMEONE WILL OR MAY HAVE ALREADY DIED DUE TO THIS ISSUE.
2017-05-06
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-05-17
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE
- Summary: AGENCY INVOLVED: OTHER OTHER AGENCY, IF SPECIFIED: KY ATTORNEY GENERAL TYPES OF FRAUD: WASTE OR MISMANAGEMENT OF AGENCY FUNDS OR RESOURCES, CONTRACT OR PROCUREMENT FRAUD, EMPLOYEE MISCONDUCT OR ABUSE OF AUTHORITY, ETHICS VIOLATIONS, BANK FRAUD OR OTHER FINANCIAL CRIMES CONCERNING BOARD OR CFPB-REGULATED INSTITUTIONS, OTHER - PLEASE SPECIFY: OTHER TYPE OF COMPLAINT, IF ANY: CROOKED DECEPTIVE CAR SALES NAME OF WRONGDOER: KY ATTORNEY GENERAL/ALLEN AUTO/PADUCAH FORD/ COUNTRY CHEVROLET LOCATION OF EVENT: KY EVENT DATES: 5/17/2016 TIL PRESENT SUMMARY OF ALLEGATION: JIMMY ALLEN, ALLEN AUTO SALES RUNS SEVERAL STATE DEALER CRIME RING,I'VE HAD TROUBLE WITH CAR DAY ONE AND NO DEALERS WILL TOUCH IT THERE ARE SEVERAL DIAGNOSIS WITH PROVEN FACT WATER DAMAGE, HIRED ATTORNEY 2000.00 TO GET THIS CROOK TO BUY THE CAR BACK, DID NOTHING TO HELP ME, ANDREW ASBRIDGE LARRY STOVESAND, PADUCAH, COMMITTED ELDER ABUSE AGAINST MY 81 YEAR OLD FATHER HAVING HIM COME TO HIS DEALERSHIP TO COSIGN A LOAN FOR MY DAUGHTER,INSTEAD, CAR CAME BACK IN HIS NAME. SERVICE DEPT ERIC TOLD ME MILEAGES,DATES, NONE MATCHED, ODOMETER FRAUD. HE WAS THREATENED FOR TAKING TO ME! THEY KEPT MY CAR A MONTH WITH PERSONAL INFO IN IT,NOW I'M HAVING ID THEFT. IT SAT FOR 5 YEARS ON A LOT IN BOCA RATON, FLA, NO MILES,AND AFTER THIS ALL THE SYSTEMS WERE WORKED ON INDICATING IT HAD BEEN FLOODED.I WAS PROVIDED WITH A BOGUS AUTO CHECK THAT SHOWED NONE OF THIS,OR THE WRECK TO FRONT AND REAR! I STARTED HAVING TROUBLE DAY ONE! ALLEN BOUGHT THE LOT IN FLA AND A SALVAGE LOT AS WELL. MIKE REID IN BENTON KY CONFIRMED WATER DAMAGE BUT WOULD NOT HELP US BECAUSE THEY ARE ALL CONNECTED. THESE CARS ARE RUN THROUGH DIFFERENT STATES UNTIL DEALERS CAN GET TITLES AND I HAD PROBLEMS SINCE DAY ONE. KY ATTORNEY GENERAL DID NOTHING TO HELP, KY STATE TROOPERS BUDDY PUGH KEEPS THEM SAFE DISCRIMINATING AGAINST ELDERLY AND DISABLED
2017-04-27
STEERING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-01-11
- VIN: 1G1YY22G935
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: THE ELECTRONIC BRAKE CONTROL MODULE (EBCM) P/N 10343433 ALL OF A SUDDEN FAILED. AS A RESULT THE DASH COMPUTER ERROR CODE C1214 FOR THE ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM, TRACTION CONTROL HAS BEEN COMING ON CONSTANTLY. MY WIFE HAS TO PRESS THE RESET BUTTON WHEN SHE PUT THE KEY IN, WHEN THE CAR IS STARTED AND WHEN IT IS SHUT OFF. THIS EBCM IS NOT AVAILABLE THROUGH ANY WEB SITE OR DEALER AND IS BACK ORDERED. THE PROBLEM WITH THIS FAILURE IS THAT IF YOU STEP TOO FIRMLY ON THE GAS PEDDLE, THE CAR WILL GO OUT OF CONTROL POSSIBLY CAUSING AN ACCIDENT. AGAIN WITHOUT THE EBCM, THE TRACTION CONTROL AND ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM ARE DISABLED. THIS IS A VERY GRAVE HAZARD SHOULD AN OWNER NOT BE AWARE OF WHAT HAPPENS IF THE EBCM MODULE FAILS. A RECALL SHOULD BE ISSUED IMMEDIATELY.
2017-04-17
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-04-13
- VIN: 1G1YY22G535
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: THE STEERING LOCKING MECHANISM SEIZED AND LOCKED THE TIRES IN PLACE WHILE PARKING IT IN OUR DRUVEWAY MAKING THE VEHICLE IMPOSSIBLE TO DRIVE. HAD TO HAVE IT TOWED TO DEALERSHIP AND WAS TOLD OUR SPECIFIC CAR VIN WAS NOT ON THE RECALL FOR THE LOCKING FOR STEERING AND THEY WOULD NOT CORRECT THE PROBLEM WITHOUT A CHARGE TO US.
2017-03-12
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-05-17
- VIN: 1G1YY12SX35
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I BOUGHT THIS CORVETTE TO CELEBRATE THE DEFEAT OF BEAT CANCER. I DREAMED OF OWNING A CORVETTE SINCE I WAS 10 YEARS OLD, I'VE EXPERIENCED SO MUCH HEARTACHE, I FIGURED, I DON'T HAVE TOO MANY GOOD YEARS LEFT, I MIGHT AS WELL, GIVE MY DREAM A CHANCE, HA!! NO, INSTEAD IT HAS BEEN A NIGHT MARE, IT'S DRIVING ME CRAZIER THAN I WAS, ABOUT TO CAUSE ME A DIVORCE, HAD ELECTRICAL ISSUES SINCE DAY ONE!! HAS BEEN WORKED ON NUMEROUS TIMES BY ALLEN, THE CROOK I BOUGHT IT FROM, A PRIVATE MECHANIC WHO DIDN'T WANT TO "GET INVOLVED", A DEALER IN OWENSBORO KY, WHO DIDN'T WANT ME TO DRIVE IT HOME FOR SAFETY REASONS, HOWEVER, THAT'S OVER 2 HOURS FROM HOME AND I HAD NO CHOICE, BUT, A TRUE GM DEALERSHIP, AND 1 OF THE BIGGEST GM DEALERSHIPS IN THE AREA IN BENTON KY, TWICE, THE FIRST TIME WHEN I PICKED IT UP, I WENT STRAIGHT TO MY BANK PTFCU, AND IT DIED THERE AND I HAD TO HAVE A WRECKER TAKE IT BACK!! BUT MIKE REID AT COUNTRY CHEVROLET, AS WELL AS LARRY STOVESAND IN PADUCAH KY, BOTH, KNOW BEYOND THE SHADOW OF A DOUBT THAT THE CAR WAS WATER DAMAGE, ALL 3 DEALERS HAVE WITHHELD THAT DOCUMENTATION FROM ME, BUT MIKE REID DID TELL MY HUSBAND HE CAME OUT OF HIS OFFICE TO LOOK FOR HIMSELF AND YES, THERE WAS WATER DAMAGE. HOWEVER, JUST LIKE EVERYONE ELSE, THEY DON'T WANT TO "GET INVOLVED" !! JIMMY ALLEN HAS CAUSED ME ALLOT OF MONEY I DIDN'T HAVE BECAUSE A LAWYER TOOK MY MONEY, MAILED JIMMY ALLENS ATTORNEY BEFORE HE DID ME A LETTER SAYING I NO LONGER HAD REPRESENTATION, WHEN ALLEN WAS SUPPOSED TO BUY IT BACK MONTHS AGO. I HAD TO GO TO CHUCK HUTTON IN MEMPHIS TN, TO EVEN GET A REAL CARFAX, THE SERVICE DEPT TOLD ME THEY GOT RID OF IT AFTER 1 DAY BECAUSE OF SO MANY PROBLEMS, AND THAT IT HAD BEEN PAID OFF IN A SETTLEMENT, TWICE!! THE CAR IS THE DEVIL, I'M CONVINCED, AND IT'S BEEN WRECKED IN FRONT LEFT AND REAR LEFT WITH ODOMETER FRAUD.
2017-01-23
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-01-22
- VIN: 1G1YY22G035
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: STRONG SMELL OF GASOLINE AFTER FILLING THE FUEL TANK. I DO NOT SEE ANY DRIPS OR PUDDLES, BUT THE ODOR IS VERY STRONG. I DO NOT NOTICE THE ODOR WHILE DRIVING. I CAN ONLY DETECT IT IF THE VEHICLE IS PARKED IN THE GARAGE. I HAD THE CAR PARKED IN THE GARAGE THE DAY BEFORE WITH A NEARLY EMPTY TANK, AND THERE WAS NO ODOR. THIS APPEARS TO BE A KNOWN ISSUE WITH LATER VIN 2003 CORVETTE AND ALL 2004 CORVETTES. *TR
2017-01-23
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-01-23
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,WHEELS
- Summary: TAKATA INFLATORS AND THE CAR DEALER WANTS MY CAR BACK BECAUSE HE IS SCARED HE IS FOUND OUT.
2016-10-30
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-05-17
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G1YY12SX35
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: THIS 03 CORVETTE HAS ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS SINCE DAY ONE, I BOUGHT IT AFTER BEING MISLED AND DISCRIMINATED AGAINST AND NEVER GIVEN CORRECT VEHICLE REPORT, IT HAS AWKWARD GLITCHES IN LIGHTING, ALL EJECTOR ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS, IT INDICATES WATER DAMAGE; HURRICANE, FLOODING.
2016-08-31
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-08-15
- VIN: 1G1YY12S935
- Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: THE ABS CONTROL MODULE HAS BECOME NON-FUNCTIONAL. THIS ELIMINATES THE SAFETY ASPECT OF ANTI-LOCK BRAKING, TRACTION CONTROL, ACTIVE HANDLING, AND ANTI-SKID CONTROL. CHEVROLET NO LONGER SUPPLIES THIS CRITICAL ELEMENT TO MY CAR'S SAFETY AND PERFORMANCE. THE DIGITAL INFORMATION DISPLAY CENTER FLASHES THAT THESE SAFETY ELEMENTS NEED SERVICING, WHICH IS ALSO A SAFETY IMPAIRMENT BECAUSE I CANNOT GET ANY DISPLAY OF OTHER FUNCTIONS OF THE CAR, I.E. MILEAGE, FUEL WARNING, OPTIONS, AND TRIP INFORMATION. THE PART NUMBER IS 10343433 (ABS CONTROL MODULE). THIS IS AN AC/DELCO NUMBER AND NONE ARE IN STOCK ANYWHERE IS THE UNITED STATES. I WAS TOLD BY MULTIPLE DEALERS THAT NONE ARE AVAILABLE AND GENERAL MOTORS WILL NO LONGER SUPPLY THIS CRITICAL SAFETY ITEM AGAIN! THIS IS A HORRIBLE SUPPORT SERVICE ON SOMETHING SO CRITICAL TO THE SAFETY OF A VERY EXPENSIVE AUTOMOBILE. THE RESPONSE BY GENERAL MOTORS IS SELFISH AND UNCARING. IF YOU TYPE ABS CONTROL MODULE FOR CORVETTE SERIES C5 IN GOOGLE, YOU WILL FIND AN UNLIMITED RESOURCE OF COMPLAINTS. I BELIEVE THIS WILL BE A SERIES OF ACCIDENTS WAITING TO HAPPEN THAT WILL CAUSE PERSONAL INJURY AND DEATH ON OUR HIGHWAYS. PLEASE INVESTIGATE AND TAKE ACTION.
2016-02-10
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-02-09
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I WAS TRAVELING 60 MPH ON A FREEWAY WHEN THE CAR SUDDENLY WENT LEFT AND THEN RIGHT. IT FELT LIKE THE CAR WAS STEERING ITS SELF. WHEN THE PITCHED IT WENT INTO THE LEFT LANE THEN THE RIGHT LANE. I WAS IN THE CENTER LANE. I WAS ABLE TO BRING THE CAR UNDER CONTROL BUT IT SCARED ME. IT WAS SO DRAMATIC I COULD HAVE HAD A VERY NASTY ACCIDENT INVOLVING MY DEATH OR THE OTHER DRIVERS AN THE FREEWAY..I TOOK MY FOOT OFF THE ACCELERATOR AND PUT THE CAR INTO THE SLOW LANE AND BACKED SPEED DOWN TO 50. THE WEATHER WAS NOT AN ISSUE.
2015-10-26
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-10-22
- VIN: 1G1YY22G035
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHEVROLET CORVETTE. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED, THERE WAS A STRONG FUEL ODOR PRESENT. THE FAILURE RECURRED NUMEROUS TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 106,996.
2015-07-29
STEERING,SUSPENSION,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-07-15
- VIN: 1G1YY22G635
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING NORTH ON INTERSTATE 95 IN MIAMI, FLORIDA, I CHANGED LANES AND COULD NO LONGER CONTROL STEERING, CAR SEEM TO GO THE WAY IT WANTED TO. IT STEERED TO LEFT TO THE RIGHT BACK TO THE LEFT ACROSS 3 LANES OF TRAFFIC AND I ENDED UP GOING SOUTHBOUND IN THE NORTHBOUND LANES. WITH THE HELP OF GOD I WAS ABLE TO PUT THE CAR IN PARK, START IT UP AGAIN, BACK UP, TURN IT AROUND AND HEAD THE RIGHT WAY, WHICH WAS NORTHBOUND, CONSIDERING THE TRAFFIC ON I-95 I SHOULD HAVE BEEN HIT BY NUMEROUS CARS DURING THAT TIME, BUT WITH GOD'S HELP IT DIDN'T HAPPEN. I NOTICED ON DASHBOARD THAT IT STATED TO SERVICE ACTIVE HANDLING. I DECIDED TO DO SOME RESEARCH AND THERE HAVE BEEN NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS RELATED TO THIS SAME INCIDENT AND SOME RECALLS ALSO. MY LIFE COULD HAVE TAKEN DURING THIS INCIDENT. I HAD JUST PURCHASED 2 NEW FRONT TIRES AND 2 REAR SHOCKS FOR MY CAR BEFORE THIS HAPPENED ONLY 6 DAYS BEFORE, CAR HAS ALWAYS BEEN KEPT IN GOOD RUNNING CONDITION.
2015-06-05
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-05-01
- VIN: 1G1YY12S535
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHEVROLET CORVETTE. WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS ABE TO RESTART, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. IN ADDITION, THE SERVICE COLUMN LOCK WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTAC'S RESIDENCE. THE VEHICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY REPAIRED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 04V060000 (STEERING). THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 15,000.
2015-06-04
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-06-03
- VIN: 1G1YY12S035
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHEVROLET CORVETTE. WHEN THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO START THE VEHICLE, THE STEERING COLUMN SEIZED, FAILED TO UNLOCK, AND THE STEERING WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT WAS MADE AWARE OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 04V060000 (STEERING); HOWEVER, THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 31,000.
2015-06-03
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-06-02
- VIN: 1G1YY32G535
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHEVROLET CORVETTE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 15 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE SERVICE COLUMN LACK WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE FAILURE RECURRED NUMEROUS TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 11,000.
2003 Chevrolet Corvette recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2003 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.
Negative 2003 Chevrolet Corvette car reviews
Positive 2003 Chevrolet Corvette car reviews
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I absolutely love my car! When I first bought it, I was trying to find something wrong with it, but I couldn't. So, I decided to just enjoy it instead!!!
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Great handling, fast aerodynamics - the best I have experienced in the three Corvettes I have owned. It has a low depreciation factor. However, it must be driven very defensively due to larger vehicles around you.
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This 50th Anniversary model is such a joy to drive! It's incredibly comfortable and fun. Plus, it has all the capabilities of a car that costs more than twice its value.
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This car handles well and the Z06 exhaust sounds great. You'll be happy to know that I recently installed a Philips HID 6000k kit and changed the oil. It's the best value and the engine design allows for easy access. This means that when the car needs some repair work, it'll be easy to work on and cost less.
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Currently, my coupe has about 7,000 miles on it since I bought it new in September 2002. It averages over 24 miles per gallon, mostly on the freeway, and has plenty of power with no issues so far. However, I do have one complaint - the stereo is only marginal at best. While the interior could be improved, the fit and finish, especially the paint, is excellent and far better than previous Vettes.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2003 Chevrolet Corvette problems:
Common 2003 model problems - CorvetteForum - Chevrolet ...
https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums/c5-general/4356815-common-2003-model-problems.html
Jan 7, 2020 ... For the most part, 2001 through 2004 have a reputation for being reliable, but when they do break, the problems are pretty well documented, as ...
2003 Chevrolet Corvette Problems and Complaints - 16 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2003-chevrolet-corvette/problems
Problem with your 2003 Chevrolet Corvette? Our list of 16 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2003 Chevrolet Corvette.
Z06 Common 2003 Z06 problems - CorvetteForum - Chevrolet ...
https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums/c5-general/4073225-common-2003-z06-problems.html
Dec 1, 2017 ... All c5z's are relatively problem free for the most part. Like everyone mentioned, replace the valve springs right away, or at least check to be ...
2003 Corvette Common Issues
https://www.corvsport.com/2003-corvette-common-issues/
Aug 26, 2021 ... The most common indicators that the engine is experiencing this type of a problem is increased valve train noise and the appearance of needle ...
Z06 2003 Z06 Known Problems - CorvetteForum - Chevrolet ...
https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums/c5-general/3152814-2003-z06-known-problems.html
Oct 22, 2012 ... Oil pan gasket leak. Like others have said, not a commone issue, but it can happen. Typically this isn't a major problem mechanically speaking, ...
Other years of Chevrolet Corvette
Are you having problems with your 2003 Chevrolet Corvette?
Cyrus Romaguera 2024-09-07
Hi there! I see that you bought your car new in 2003 and have taken excellent care of it with low mileage and garage storage during the winter months. It sounds like you've had a few challenges since moving to Florida, but I'm here to help! Let's work together to address the issues with your A/C compressor, dash light, ABS brake control module, battery, and tires. I understand that you've also experienced some air and water leaks from the windows, as well as some interior noise from the tires. Let's see what we can do to make your driving experience more enjoyable. I appreciate your feedback and look forward to finding solutions that work for you. Thank you for choosing our dealership and for being a valued customer!
Clyde Hartmann 2024-02-18
Most fun you've had driving a car in a long time! It beats your previous '95 LT1 hands down. However, you're not sure how folks are getting 12.5 second quarter mile times out of this car. But, you love the car anyway!
Jeromy Renner 2024-02-02
The car looks great and is fun to drive, but there are a few details that could be improved. Unfortunately, the interior is not up to par for a $50,000 car and feels like it was taken from a lower-end model. The sound system, despite being branded by Bose, is not very good. In fact, my 1999 Ram Air Trans Am with the 500-Watt Monsoon System had a much better sound system than my 2003 Vette. Despite the performance, the low quality interior was a disappointment.
Johnnie Streich 2024-01-28
It looks kind of cool, but I don't like it anymore because I have to get it fixed every week.