Positioning:
The 2012 Corvette Z06 represents the pinnacle of Corvette's performance variants for the C6 generation, a halo car focused on track-capable performance and exhilarating driving dynamics.
Competitors:
Competes with other high-performance sports cars and grand tourers such as the Porsche 911, Ferrari California, Aston Martin V8 Vantage, and certain high-performance European sedans/coupes.
Performance Highlights:
Lightweight construction, powerful V8 engine, aerodynamic design, advanced suspension and braking systems for track-oriented performance.
Target Audience:
Enthusiast drivers seeking a pure sports car experience, track day participants, and those who appreciate American performance heritage.
Manual Content Overview:
Introduction, Driver and Passenger Safety, Instruments and Controls, Comfort and Convenience Features, Operation Tips, Appearance Care, Taking Care of the Unexpected, Technical Information, Warranty and Customer Relations, Entertainment Systems, Climate Controls, Lights, Driver Controls, Locks and Security, Seating and Safety Restraints, Driving, Customer Assistance, Reporting safety defects (U.S. only), Cleaning, Engine compartment, Engine oil, Battery, Fuel information, Air filter(s), Part numbers, Refill capacities, Lubricant specifications, Accessories, Service Information and Specifications, Maintenance Information and Specifications.
Estimated Page Count:
Approx. 400-500 pages (typical for this model/trim)
Powertrain:
Engine operation, cooling system, lubrication, fuel system, exhaust system, clutch (if applicable for manual transmission variant).
Drivetrain:
Transmission operation, differential, drive axles.
Chassis Suspension:
Steering system, suspension components, wheel alignment principles, shock absorbers, springs.
Braking System:
Brake operation, parking brake, ABS system, brake fluid specifications.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, ignition system, lighting, fuses, relays, instrument panel indicators, basic wiring diagrams.
Comfort Convenience:
Climate control system (HVAC), power windows, power seats, mirrors, door locks, keyless entry, audio system, navigation system (if equipped).
Safety Restraints:
Airbag system, seat belts, child seat installation, LATCH system, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).
Body Exterior:
Door operation, hood/trunk latches, exterior lighting, wiper/washer system, appearance care.
Interior Features:
Seating adjustments, dashboard layout, interior lighting, storage compartments.
Operation Basics:
Starting and stopping the engine, shifting gears, operating lights, wipers, horn, parking brake.
Driving Techniques:
Tips for efficient driving, handling in various conditions, proper use of performance features.
Maintenance Checks:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid), tire pressure checks, visual inspections.
Troubleshooting Warnings:
Understanding dashboard warning lights and indicators, basic troubleshooting for common issues.
Emergency Procedures:
Changing a flat tire, jump-starting the battery, towing information, what to do in case of an accident.
Appearance Care:
Washing, waxing, interior cleaning, leather care, wheel cleaning.
Accessory Operation:
Operation of optional accessories and features.
Reporting Safety Defects:
Information on how to report safety-related defects in the U.S.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive owner-level information, suitable for day-to-day operation, basic maintenance, and understanding vehicle features. Does not typically include detailed diagnostic procedures or complete repair instructions typically found in a Service Manual.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V8, Small Block
Displacement:
7.0 L (427 cu in)
Horsepower:
505 hp @ 6300 rpm
Torque:
470 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm
Induction:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Port Injection
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Dry Sump Lubrication:
Yes (for high-G cornering and improved oil management)
Valvetrain:
Overhead Valve (OHV), 16 valves, Shaft-actuated pushrods, Roller hydraulic lifters.
Cylinder Head Material:
Aluminum
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5-Star
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5-Star
IIHS Moderate Overlap Frontal:
Good (as per similar C6 models, specific Z06 rating may vary slightly)
Traction Control:
Active Handling System (StabiliTrak)
Stability Control:
Active Handling System (StabiliTrak)
Braking System:
4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes (ABS), Performance brake system with larger rotors and calipers.
Tire Pressure Monitoring:
Standard
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, Seat-mounted side-impact airbags.
Seat Belts:
3-point active seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Child Restraint:
LATCH system for child safety seats (rear seats).
Audio System:
Bose premium audio system with AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, SiriusXM Satellite Radio capability.
Navigation:
Optional navigation system with touchscreen interface.
Connectivity:
Auxiliary audio input jack, Bluetooth connectivity (on some trims/packages).
Headlights:
High-intensity discharge (HID) Xenon headlamps, LED taillamps.
Performance Data Recorder:
Not standard, but aftermarket options available. The manual may cover some built-in vehicle diagnostic information.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). Consult manual for severe driving conditions.
Tire Rotation:
Every 7,500 miles
Coolant Flush:
Refer to manual, typically around 100,000 miles for Dex-Cool
Spark Plugs:
Refer to manual, typically around 100,000 miles for iridium plugs
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (GM P/N 12345786 or equivalent meeting GM dexos1™ specification)
Engine Oil Capacity:
9.8 US quarts (9.3 L) with dry sump system
Coolant Type:
Dex-Cool (GM P/N 12378394 or equivalent) - Orange
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 (GM P/N 12377970 or equivalent)
Transmission Fluid:
GM Synchromesh Transmission Fluid (GM P/N 12345277 or equivalent)
Differential Fluid:
Synthetic Axle Lubricant (GM P/N 12346216 or equivalent), with limited-slip additive if equipped.
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear (due to performance driving), brake pad and rotor wear, tire wear (especially aggressive performance tires).
Potential Concerns:
Valve guide wear (early LS7 engines, though largely addressed by late C6 production and Z06 models), fuel pump issues (less common on Z06), occasional electronic gremlins.
Oil Filter Pnp:
ACDelco PF48/PF48E or equivalent
Air Filter Pnp:
ACDelco A3147C or equivalent
Heritage:
Chevrolet has a long history of performance vehicles, with the Corvette nameplate being a symbol of American sports car excellence since 1953.
C6 Generation:
The C6 Corvette generation (2005-2013) introduced significant advancements over its C5 predecessor, with the Z06 being a specialized, higher-performance variant.
Z06 Introduction:
The Z06 designation has historically represented the most track-focused and powerful Corvettes. The C6 Z06 was a significant departure, featuring a larger, more powerful engine and extensive chassis and aerodynamic enhancements.
Production Years:
C6 Z06: 2006-2013
