2008 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 2008 Chevrolet Corvette problems
The Chevrolet Corvette 2008 is a popular sports car known for its performance and style. However, like any vehicle, it may have certain issues that owners have reported over time. Here are some common problems with the Chevrolet Corvette 2008 based on complaints from owners:
- Harmonic Balancer Failure: The harmonic balancer, also known as the crankshaft damper, is a crucial component of the engine that reduces vibration and helps maintain the engine's timing. In the Chevrolet Corvette 2008, the harmonic balancer may fail due to the engine's high power output, leading to engine damage and requiring replacement. This issue is more common in base C6 Corvettes than in higher-performance models like the Z06 or ZR1.
- Fuel Level Sensor Failure: The fuel level sensor, which measures the amount of fuel in the tank, may fail in the Chevrolet Corvette 2008. This can cause inaccurate fuel gauge readings, leading to issues with fuel management and potentially causing the engine to stall or fail to start.
- Airbag Light Issues: Some Chevrolet Corvette 2008 owners have reported issues with the airbag warning light staying on, which can indicate a problem with the airbag system. This may be due to loose wires or electrical connectors under the driver's seat, rather than a problem with the airbags themselves.
- Fuel Tank Issues: Late-model C6 Corvettes, including the 2008 model, have been reported to have issues with cracked fuel pumps and sending units, which can cause gasoline to leak and potentially damage the fuel tank. This issue is more common in 2007 and later models.
- Magnetic Ride Control Problems: The Magnetic Selective Ride Control system, introduced in the 2009 C6 ZR1 and available in other C6 models, uses adjustable magnetorheological shocks to improve ride quality and handling. However, some high-mileage C6 Corvettes may experience issues with this system, which can be costly to repair.
- Wheels/Hubs Problems: The 2017 Chevrolet Corvette has the most overall complaints, and the worst category is wheels/hubs problems. The most-reported problem is also with the 2017 Chevrolet Corvette for cracked rim.
It is important to note that these issues are not necessarily widespread or common to all Chevrolet Corvette 2008 models. Many owners have reported no significant issues with their vehicles, and regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent or address any potential problems. Additionally, the Chevrolet Corvette 2008 has received positive reviews for its performance, handling, and overall quality, making it a popular choice for sports car enthusiasts.
Was 2008 a good year for Corvette?
It got even better with the C6 generation and better still with substantial upgrades for 2008, and today's ultra-performance Z06 model is the fastest, most powerful and most technologically advanced production Corvette in the car's 55-year history.
What years of Corvette to stay away from?
We recommend staying away from the 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, and 2013 models. These may require pricey fixes, especially since the car is one of the rarer choices. The biggest fault in these models of the C6 Corvette is in the transmission.
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.
Are there any recalls on a 2008 Corvette?
2008 Chevrolet Corvette Recalls
There have been no safety recalls issued from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Is the 2008 Corvette reliable?
Love this car outstanding excellaration ,very dependable ,great bang for the buck. You get a lot of looks with top dropped. Only negatives would be that Corvette,s sit extremely low to the ground, not the easiest car to get into for a guy 66 and you have to be careful with steep driveways.
Is 2008 a bad year for Corvette?
The Car Complaints website rates the 2008 model as the worst year of the Corvette due to costly problems at low mileage. Many owners have complained about sensing a strong fuel odor in their 2008 Corvette.
Do C6 Corvettes have problems?
Like any vehicle, the C6 Corvette has its share of common issues that owners might encounter. These can range from minor concerns like electronic glitches to more significant issues like transmission problems and cooling system malfunctions.
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.
2008 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/propulsion system problems
- Exterior lighting problems
- Engine problems
- Electrical system problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2008 Chevrolet Corvette vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2008 Chevrolet Corvette
The NHTSA has received 565 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2008 Chevrolet Corvette. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2008 Chevrolet Corvette vehicles.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-10
- VIN: 1G1YY36W085
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Fuel smell when filling tank to full
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-22
- VIN: 1G1YY26W185
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: When driving at night, headlight turn off and do not turn back on… or do not come on at all ..Play with the switch ….on and off nothing happens…sometimes highbeams don’t even work. This happened several times!!
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-20
- VIN: 1G1YY26W485
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Chevrolet Corvette. The contact stated that on several occasions while driving at various speeds with a half tank of fuel or more, the contact observed a strong fuel odor inside the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle was parked multiple times and he also observed a strong fuel odor from outside of the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 32,600. The contact stated the vehicle was taken to the dealer May 15 and was confirmed to have a fuel leak at the fuel pump.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-22
- VIN: 1G1YY26W485
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: The car is leaking fuel from the gas tank. I just purchased it 4/20/24. There was a safety recall years ago. This vehicle may not have had the issue at the time of the recall.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-25
- VIN: 1G1YY36W685
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: fuel leak and smell from fuel pump
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-28
- VIN: 1G1YY25W185
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I purchased this car just 10 days ago. The first night that I got it I went in the garage and smelled a lot of gas smell. Many people including myself have their gas water heater in the garage and I started to really panic. I googled the issue and it's apparent that this is a very common issue on the 2008-2013 corvettes and GM has used a faulty fuel pump module that started deteriorating over short period of time. I had a very sleepless and stressful night that night in fear of me waking up to a garage fire. I beg of you to please start a recall on this before anyone loses their life and their house
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-16
- VIN: 1G1YY36W385
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Our local Chevrolet dealer service department has found the fuel pump housing to be cracked causing fuel vapors to leak out the fuel pump/tank. These vapors have found their way into the cabin of the car effecting the air quality. This issue also has the potential for the vapors and spray in some cases to settle around hot exhaust. Chevrolet notified a number of of owners with notification letters regarding a fix for this condition, however I was never notified by any such campaign notice/letter. I'm compelled to write this grievance as I will have to pay out of pocket thousands of dollars to correct a defect the manufacturer has allowed to go on. Thank you!
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-14
- VIN: 1G1YY26W785
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: The car is giving off a STRONG smell of gas.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-01
- VIN: 1G1YY36WX85
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I have a 2008 Chevrolet Corvette. The current mileage (as of July 1, 2023) is 26,200 miles. I have a strong odor of gas every time I fill the gas tank to above 1/2 the tank. This is a fairly common condition, as evidenced by the hundreds of NHTSA related complaints, and the Corvette forums. Two Chevrolet Dealerships told me I need a new Fuel Pump. The most recent diagnosis at a Dealership was on June 5, 2023. They want $3,500.00 to replace the fuel pump. Chevrolet realized there is a faulty part causing the fuel odor condition. Chevrolet issued a few Bulletins about it, and offered to make the repair at no cost if you met certain conditions. I’ve enclosed the Letter that was sent to me in 2016. As you can see, it’s about the odor of fuel and fuel droplets appearing below the left-hand fuel tank when the fuel gauge is above ½. The Letter contained an underlined sentence that directed me not to take the vehicle to the dealer unless I had the above-mentioned condition. Verbatim, it says: Do not take your vehicle to your Chevrolet dealer as a result of this letter unless you believe that your vehicle has the condition as described above. Being an honest person, I did not take my Corvette to the Dealer at that time because I did not detect an odor of gas at that time. Now, a few years later, I’m experiencing the described condition on my 2008 Corvette with mileage of 26, 200. If this condition surfaces around the time mileage reaches 26,000, I can only assume that my car’s mileage was too low back when the…letter to repair… was in effect My primary complaint is that Chevrolet should not have had "time constraints". The mileage limit is 120,000, but the time constraint is around 2018. I feel Chevrolet should repair this known problem at No Cost primarily due to the fact that the vehicle has less than 120,000 miles on it. I'm attaching 2 documents produced by Chevrolet. Thank you.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-19
- VIN: 1G1YY36WX85
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Gas vapors caused by leaking gas tank see service bulletin 15682.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-10
- VIN: 1G1YY26W785
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Fuel leaks out the top of the tanks, and will then drip down the back side onto the hot exhaust. If parked overnight in a garage, the vapor will fill the garage and could easily be triggered into an explosion and fire from a gas water heater or other ignition source.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-12-01
- VIN: 1G1YY25W285
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: There is a strong fuel odor after a gas tank fill up, and is noticable after the vehicle is parked in the garage. I have experienced this fuel odor over the past 18 months.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-29
- VIN: 1G1YY26E385
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Everytime the car is filled with fuel, I smell a strong odor of gasoline for days after. The following day, my garage is so strong of fuel odor, it is almost unbearable. It seems there was a recall at one point to fix this, but I cannot find it anymore.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-21
- VIN: 1G1YY26W985
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Car reeks of gasoline on rear driver side and in driver side cockpit after refueling. Car emits strong gasoline odor. No visible gas on garage floor but suspect fuel tank leaking from the top and pooling on the hot exhaust pipes. Whole garage reeks of gasoline.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-02-25
- VIN: 1G1YY26W285
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Strong fuel smell coming from the gas tank after filling the tank full. I have replaced the gas cap. It happens when the tank is over 1/2 full.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-30
- VIN: 1G1YY25W585
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Strong fuel smell coming from vehicle. car sits in garage overnight and emits fuel smell in the garage to the point i have to keep the garage cracked. smell is most noticable after fill up but smell still continues after 100 or so miles. i believe fuel is leaking somewhere because the tank has moisture running down the back side.
AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-02-24
- VIN: 1G1YY36WX85
- Components: AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Smell of raw gasoline coming from drivers side gas tank area After filling gas tank ,just bought the car had half tank of gas at the dealer didn’t smell when i checked the car then.
AIR BAGS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-11
- VIN: 1G1YY36WX85
- Components: AIR BAGS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Smell gas from gas tank. Air bag light is on
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-12
- VIN: 1G1YY26E585
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Low beams don't work when the engine gets hot, I was driving the other night at 10pm and the headlights went out. Pitch black and almost wrecked.......This is a know issue..... Fuel pump has small cracks in the top of driver side fuel pump could start fire, and its a know issue....... Heads on the LS7 also know valve issue. It will ruin the motor.....
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-09
- VIN: 1G1YY26WX85
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Any level above 1/2 leaks fuel , you can see the fuel running down the side of the tank when you look under the bottom of the car. Fumes are very strong inside and out of the vehicle especially when parked in my garage
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-02-05
- VIN: 1G1YY26W885
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Very strong fuel smell in car especially after driving seems tank or fuel pump leaking im afraid it can or will catch fire
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-12-01
- VIN: 1G1YY26W885
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I was preparing 2008 corvette with 93k miles for winter storage end of 2022. Filled tank and put in garage with cover. Next day strong smell of fuel filled garage. Looked into other cases if this was common and found that there were a lot of customers with same problem cracked fittings on fuel pumps but coverage was only for 10 yrs. Fuel can drip down onto exhaust from what I read on others post. Now I'm very concerned about it catching fire anytime it would be driven and or parked in garage.. Why would chevrolet not recall a dangerous problem like this and surely prevent a possible fatality. 10 yrs for those who barely drive vehicle like me and plenty of very low miles owners is not long enough for coverage.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-04-01
- VIN: 1G1YY26W285
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: The vehicle has a very strong odor of gasoline, both outside and inside the vehicle. Initial research indicates that Chevrolet is aware of the problem and offered a limited time solution to those experiencing the issue, which has now expired. The issue is a faulty fuel pump assembly on the driver's side of the vehicle, where one of the fittings is know to crack. This results in fuel vapors and fuel to leak from the top of the tank. The concern, other than the nauseating smell, is that fuel can leak onto the exhaust and catch fire.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-24
- VIN: 1G1YY26EX85
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Chevrolet Corvette. The contact stated while attempting to refuel the vehicle, gasoline was overflowing and leaking from the fuel filler neck. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that there was an abnormal fuel odor while starting the vehicle. The contact spoke with the dealer who confirmed that there were no recalls on the vehicle. The vehicle had not been diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 10,600.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-23
- VIN: 1G1YY26EX85
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Hawley Motors delivered vehicle to our home on 10/23/2022 that we had just purchased and pick up our trade-in vehicle. We put the newly purchased vehicle in the garage within a short time started to smell fuel. At that time, we just thought they over filled tank and that was just from the over filling. Next day when we return from an event in the evening, the smell had permeated throughout the home not just garage. I checked online and found that this is a common problem with this vehicle and year. The plastic fuel module cracks and let's fuel leak. These is obviously very dangerous!
Negative 2008 Chevrolet Corvette car reviews
Positive 2008 Chevrolet Corvette car reviews
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Hi there! I just wanted to share my recent experience with Chevy. I had a '69 427 pumped up Vette for 16 years, which was an absolute beast. However, I recently decided to replace it with a new one and I couldn't be happier with my decision! The new Vette is just as amazing as my old one, but with the added bonus of being stock and under warranty. It's a true muscle car and so much fun to drive. Plus, I was pleasantly surprised to get great gas mileage - 26.5 mpg after a 3200 mile trip out west! The ride is also quite comfortable. Although I still miss my old car, this new one takes away the pain and leaves nothing to be desired. Thanks for listening!
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I recently test drove a few cars and was blown away by the 08 LT1. The LS3 engine is a significant improvement from the LS2 and the interior is much nicer. I was so impressed that I bought it on the spot. If you're in the market for a new car, I highly recommend checking out the LT1. You won't regret it!
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Your 2008 coupe sounds like a great ride! It's wonderful to hear that you haven't had any trouble with it and that it's comfortable to drive. The Jetstream Blue with Titanium interior sounds like a beautiful combination. It's great that you plan on keeping it for a long time. Thanks for sharing your experience with us!
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Hey there! I just wanted to share my experience with my second Corvette. I had to sell my first one due to having two teenage boys, but once they moved out, I knew I had to have another one! This car is an absolute blast to own and drive, and it always puts a smile on my face. I've had zero problems with it in the first 6 months and 2k miles of ownership. The paddle-shifting at full throttle with the optional dual-mode exhaust is just amazing! It handles great and has a smooth ride, which is hard to believe! I think we'll be keeping this Vette for quite some time and then pass it down to the kids. Thanks for letting me share!
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This is my third Corvette in the past four years. I previously owned a 2004 C5 and a 2005 C6. I must say, this 2008 ZO6 is the best handling and performing vehicle I have driven in many years! The reviews are spot on when they say that this car is the 'best bang for the buck'!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2008 Chevrolet Corvette problems:
2008 Corvette problems? any expensive repairs or issues ...
Mar 27, 2013 ... check the harmonic balancer for wobble and chirping or squealing belts as they fail at any mileage and are a common problem on all C6's with ...
2008 Chevrolet Corvette Problems and Complaints - 15 Issues
Top 2008 Chevrolet Corvette Problems · Fuel Level Sensor Failure · Check Engine Light Due to Gas Cap Issue · Flush brake fluid every 60,000 miles · Steering ...
2008 C6 Common Issues Question - CorvetteForum - Chevrolet ...
Jun 20, 2012 ... 2008 C6 Common Issues Question · 1. Water pump - out at 12k · 2. brake rotors - out at 15k - I used after market to replace them with · 3.
Q&A: Common Problems with 2008 Corvette - C6 Corvette Push ...
Aug 28, 2017 ... 2008 corvette ...no crank, yes.... push start button to start everything in the dash goes blank, fully charged battery, - Answered by a ...
How Reliable Are 2007/2008's ? - CorvetteForum - Chevrolet ...
Jan 31, 2016 ... They are very reliable cars overall. The biggest concerns you would have to worry about on a C6 would be the harmonic balancer or an oil pan ...
Davon Oberbrunner 2024-05-12
The engine in my 2008 Z06 427 Corvette experienced a catastrophic failure at highway speeds due to the intake and exhaust valves falling into the combustion chambers. Despite being informed by the local Chevy dealer that the block was cracked and a new engine would cost $15,000, I later discovered that the block was not actually cracked. It is disappointing that GM has not taken action to address the known valve seal problem. In my experience, the Corvette did not meet my expectations. However, I remain open to changing my opinion if GM takes appropriate steps to rectify the situation.