Any problems with the 01 model?

[Chris L.]

Getting ready to buy a 01 ragtop. Any input as to "problems" characteristic to that year? All I have ever owned is C-2 and C-3. Thanks

[Rich G.]

Re: Any problems with the 01 model?

From what I hear on other boards, some 01's had oil consumption problems. There was a fix (re-ring?) so you should definately ask about that. Whatever C5 you get, you will be amazed at the progress!

Good Luck

Rich Giannotti

[Gary Bishop]

Re: Any problems with the 01 model?

The only problem I can think of is having to stop going for a drive in it and not getting a speeding fine.

[Duke W.]

Re: Any problems with the 01 model?

I believe the oil consumption issue was limited to the LS6 engine in Z06 models, so it was not an issue with LS1s. The LS6 used a lower tension ring package and looser piston clearance which caused high oil consumption on probably not more than ten percent of LS6s.

As with any used car purchase, I would recommend that you ask for and thoroughly audit all maintenance and repair records, which would include warranty repairs. A conscientious private party owner/seller should have these records.

If the car is at a Chevrolet dealer, ask for a printout of all the service and repair records. This can usually be accomplished by typing the VIN into the service system computer.

You an also ask a friendly Chevrolet service writer to run the VIN, but they may not be willing to do it without authorization from the owner.

Duke

[Warren F.]

Re: Any problems with the 01 model?

Chris:

If you go to the websites for Corvette Forum and Corvette Action Center they have threads that tell all about the improvments for each of the 8 years of C5 production.

There was a myriad of changes/improvments done in the 2001 year, almost no additional changes for '02, '03 & '04. Would recommend any of these years to purchase.

[Harmon C.]

Re: Any problems with the 01 model?

My 2001 LS1 used oil but the idea of having it fixed and maybe more problems than a quart of oil now and then I did nothing. About 20,000 miles it run better than when new and stoped using oil. It never was back to the dealer till I traded. I changed the oil myself so the record on my 01 was blank when I got an 04. Lyle

[Guest]

Re: Any problems with the 01 model?

Check the rear differential for leaks and check in and under the battery for evidence of previous leaks.

[Jim D.]

Re: Any problems with the 01 model?

Both the LS1's & LS6's had the oil usage problems due to low tension piston rings. The 2001 had a multitude of problems. I got rid of mine after 2 years. The overall quality of the car was terrible at best. Here are some problems the 2001's had:
1. Oil usage
2. Steering column lock
3. Rear end leaks
4. Clutch problems
5. Battery leaks
6. Rocking seats
7. Fuel gauge problems

I'm sure I've forgotten some. GM refused to acknowledge/fix most of the problems.