🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chevrolet

Model:

Corvette

Year:

1999

Model Code:

C5

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 1999 Chevrolet Corvette represented a significant leap for the nameplate, introducing the all-new C5 generation, which aimed to compete with established European sports cars in terms of performance, handling, and refinement.

Competitors:

Primarily competed against cars like the Porsche 911 (996 generation), BMW M3 (E36), and potentially high-performance variants of Japanese sports cars like the Nissan 300ZX.

Features:

Transaxle design for improved weight distribution, hydroformed frame rails for increased rigidity, LS1 engine, improved aerodynamics, and a more driver-focused cockpit.

Chassis Design:

Hydroformed steel frame rails provided a significant increase in torsional rigidity compared to previous generations.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

All Models & All Repairs A-Z

Page Count:

Estimated 2000+ pages (typical for GM factory service manuals of this era)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM)

Language:

English

Format:

Likely Print or PDF (if digital)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems:

Engine, Drivetrain (Transmission, Drivelines), Suspension, Steering, Brakes, HVAC, Electrical, Body, Chassis, Diagnostics

Body And Interior:

Body panels, interior trim, seats, weatherstripping, glass replacement, door mechanisms, latches, and locks.

Procedures:

Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Repair, Overhaul, Diagnostics, Wiring Diagrams, Component Replacement

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all fasteners, critical for engine, suspension, and driveline assembly/disassembly.

Suspension And Steering Repair:

Detailed steps for suspension component replacement (shocks, ball joints, bushings), wheel alignment procedures, and steering system service.

Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and component-level repairs, suitable for dealership technicians.

Engine Rebuilding:

Comprehensive instructions for engine disassembly, inspection, component replacement (pistons, rings, bearings, valves), and reassembly.

Wiring Diagrams Included:

Yes, comprehensive electrical schematics for all systems.

Diagnostic Trouble Codes:

Detailed listing and explanation of OBD-II DTCs and factory-specific diagnostic codes.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

N/A (Print) / PDF (Digital - Searchable Text, High-Resolution Images)

Print Quality:

N/A (Print) / High-quality scans of original factory documentation

Binding Type:

N/A (Print - Typically Professional Binding)

Paper Type:

N/A (Print - Durable Paper Stock)

Searchability:

PDF format offers full text search capabilities for quick access to information.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

5.7L (350 ci) LS1 V8

Horsepower:

345 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque:

350 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

0 60 Mph Time:

Approximately 4.5 - 5.0 seconds (depending on transmission and driver skill)

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI), Multi-port

Bore X Stroke:

3.90 in x 3.62 in (99.0 mm x 92.0 mm)

Compression Ratio:

10.1:1

Valvetrain:

Overhead Valve (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder

Cylinder Block Material:

Aluminum

Cylinder Head Material:

Aluminum

Engine Management:

PCM (Powertrain Control Module) with integrated ignition and fuel control.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

6-speed manual (Tremec T-56)

Type:

4-speed automatic (4L60-E)

Transaxle Layout:

Rear-mounted transaxle for optimal weight distribution (50/50 front/rear)

Manual Fluid:

GM Synchromesh Transmission Fluid (or equivalent spec)

Automatic Fluid:

Dexron III (or equivalent spec)

Manual Capacity:

Approximately 2.1 quarts (2.0 Liters)

Automatic Capacity:

Approximately 9.5 quarts (9.0 Liters) for a complete fluid change.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

179.7 in (4564 mm)

Width:

73.1 in (1857 mm)

Height:

47.8 in (1214 mm)

Wheelbase:

104.5 in (2654 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approximately 4.5 inches (114 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,100 - 3,250 lbs (1406 - 1474 kg), depending on transmission and options

Cargo Volume:

13.0 cu ft (combined front and rear storage)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:

4 Stars

NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:

4 Stars

Traction Control:

Standard (Traction Control System - TCS)

ABS:

Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)

Stability Control:

Not standard on 1999 models; later C5 models introduced Active Handling.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger frontal airbags

Seatbelts:

3-point active belts with pretensioners and load limiters

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Delco Bose premium sound system with CD player (optional), cassette player standard on some models, AM/FM radio. Head unit typically had digital display and seek/scan functions.

Cruise Control:

Standard

Heads Up Display:

Optional (projected vehicle speed, RPM, and other data onto the windshield)

Connectivity Features:

Limited by modern standards; typically basic radio and optional CD player functionality. No integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity.

HVAC Type:

Manual or Dual-zone automatic climate control depending on trim level.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to specific manual for exact intervals).

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 7,500 miles or as recommended by tire manufacturer.

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Refer to manual; typically around 100,000 miles for iridium plugs if applicable or earlier for standard plugs.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Typically recommended annually or every 15,000-20,000 miles, depending on environmental conditions.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (GM Part No. 12345738 or equivalent meeting GM6086M specification)

Coolant Type:

Dex-Cool® (Orange) Long-Life Antifreeze/Coolant (GM Part No. 12346003 or equivalent meeting GM1825M specification)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 (GM Part No. 12369915 or equivalent)

Power Steering Fluid:

Dexron III (or equivalent spec), typically GM Part No. 12345866

Differential Fluid:

SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Lubricant (GM specification 9986043 or equivalent)

Common Issues:

Sticky interior buttons (due to material degradation), potential for rear axle seal leaks, fuel pump issues, and clutch wear on manual transmissions. The C5's torque tube also requires attention.

Troubleshooting Areas:

The manual would detail specific diagnostic procedures for the LS1 engine's PCM, ABS system, HVAC controls, and the complex electrical system.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

The Chevrolet Corvette has been America's sports car since its introduction in 1953, evolving through distinct generations to represent performance and style.

Generation:

C5 (1997-2004). The 1999 model year marks the third year of the C5 generation, building on the success of the initial launch.

Design Philosophy:

Focus on a balanced chassis, lightweight construction, and a powerful V8 engine for superior sports car performance.

Manufacturing Location:

Bowling Green, Kentucky, USA

Production Volume 1999:

Approximately 19,775 units (total for coupe, convertible, and hardtop)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motor Trend Car Of The Year:

Not awarded for 1999, but the C5 generation was highly praised by automotive journalists for its performance and value.

Import Car Of The Year:

Corvette C5 was often compared favorably to imported sports cars, highlighting its competitive capabilities.