The Corvette C5 is a pretty reliable car, especially for one that’s starting to show some age.
1997
This C5 model has the most withdrawals made against it, with seven in total. The biggest problem was the steering column being locked due to a problem with the anti-theft system.
Even when using the factory key, the system would mistakenly activate the anti-theft column lock, making it impossible to start or drive the car.
Many of these issues were not resolved with the following year’s model, and there were also issues with the fuel leak and the tie rod assembly.
1998
This year it has the highest number of complaints with the National Highway Safety Administration. Many are about the power steering and the locking steering column.
Since this is only the second year of the fifth generation, it is wise to anticipate many problems, since there was no production adjustment to remedy everything.
2001
The 2001 Corvette C5 had some issues. The introduction of a new coil-on-plug ignition system caused engine cylinder misfires and required routine maintenance.
These vehicles also suffer from a leak-prone roof, air conditioning failure, and a problem with leaking batteries.
The battery leak problem can cause acid to leak onto the wire loom, causing massive damage and requiring expensive repairs.
This model year is also prone to problems with the engine’s lubrication system, leading to excessive oil consumption. Some owners spend thousands on repairs, while others drive with extra quarts of oil to complete the system on the go.
2004
The 2004 C5 suffers from some common problems. Arguably the biggest is a problem where the fuel system is not working properly due to dirty sensors inside the gas tank. Dropping the tank to repair the sensors can be very expensive.
Additionally, this model is also prone to an issue where the gas cap does not seat properly, causing the check engine lights to come on. Finally, owners of a 2004 C5 should be on the lookout for a water pump leak that could cause overheating.
Most Reliable Corvette C5 Years
The most reliable C5 years are mainly those in the middle of the generation.
1999
For 1999, most of the C5’s growing pains are in the rearview mirror. The steering wheel lock issue persisted throughout the model run, but is less prevalent this year. Also, the car was much more reliable than its predecessors.
2000
The 2000 C5 is one of the best examples of this Corvette. It’s in the middle of the generation, so it has the benefit of factory settings that alleviate most reliability and reliability issues.
2002
The 2002 C5 still has the same coil-on-plug system as the 2001 model, but the manufacturers scared away most of the gremlins through factory changes.
The system still requires proper voltage and routine maintenance, but with the benefit of an additional year of real-world testing, most of these cars have never misfired.
2003
For 2003, adjustments and updates were available on the C5 Corvette. Some featured more performance and others offered more amenities. These improvements would not have been possible if the car did not provide a reliable platform.
Now, although this model is approaching twenty years, these updates bring the car in line with the expectations of a modern consumer.
