Vehicle Market Segment:
Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive sports car.
Primary Competitors:
Porsche 911, Nissan GT-R, BMW M series coupes, Audi R8 (depending on trim/engine).
Vehicle Highlights:
V8 power, removable roof panel (coupe) or convertible top, performance-oriented chassis, advanced suspension options (Magnetic Ride Control).
Why This Manual:
Essential for owners and independent technicians seeking to perform accurate, factory-level maintenance and repairs on the C6 Corvette, avoiding costly dealership errors or generic advice.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical (LS2, LS3, LS7, L92, LSA), engine performance, fuel system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, manual transmissions (Tremec TR6060), automatic transmissions (GM 6L80/6L90), clutch systems, driveline, driveshafts, differentials, axles.
Chassis:
Brake system (ABS, EBD, traction control), steering system (power steering, rack and pinion), suspension system (front and rear, magnetic ride control), wheels and tires, chassis lubrication.
Electrical:
Battery and charging system, starting system, ignition system, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), instrument cluster, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), climate control system, audio system, infotainment system, body control modules (BCM), engine control modules (ECM), transmission control modules (TCM), diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), wiring diagrams.
Body:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, seals, interior trim, seats, safety restraints (airbags, seatbelts), structural components, corrosion protection.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush, belt replacement, tire rotation, battery maintenance.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting common issues, reading diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), using scan tools, pinpoint testing electrical circuits, diagnosing engine performance problems, diagnosing transmission issues, diagnosing suspension and steering problems.
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild or replacement, clutch replacement, brake pad and rotor replacement, suspension component replacement (shocks, struts, control arms), steering component replacement (tie rods, power steering pump), electrical component replacement (alternator, starter, sensors, modules), body panel repair and replacement.
Installation:
Component installation and removal procedures for all major systems.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, vehicle-specific. Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostics, wiring diagrams, and specifications as used by dealership technicians.
Digital Format Specifications:
If digital, expect searchable PDF with high-resolution diagrams and clear text for printability.
Print Quality If Printed:
High-quality paper stock, durable binding suitable for workshop use.
Binding Type If Printed:
Likely spiral-bound or lay-flat binding for ease of use during repairs.
Paper Type If Printed:
Heavy-duty, possibly coated paper to resist grease and shop environments.
Base Engine 2005-2007:
6.0L (364 cu in) LS2 V8
Base Engine 2008-2013:
6.2L (376 cu in) LS3 V8
Ls3 Horsepower:
430 hp @ 5900 rpm (436 hp with optional performance exhaust)
Ls3 Torque:
424 lb-ft @ 4600 rpm (428 lb-ft with optional performance exhaust)
Z06 Engine 2006-2013:
7.0L (427 cu in) LS7 V8
Ls7 Horsepower:
505 hp @ 6300 rpm
Ls7 Torque:
470 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI)
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher)
Common Engine Variants:
LS2, LS3, LS7, L92 (for specific models/years), LSA (Supercharged - for ZR1)
Standard Transmission Base:
6-speed manual (Tremec TR6060)
Optional Transmission Base:
6-speed automatic (GM 6L80)
Active Handling Traction Control:
Integrated with transmission control for optimal performance and stability.
Manual Transmission Clutch:
Hydraulically actuated, single-plate dry clutch.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Dexron VI Automatic Transmission Fluid (for some applications/recommendations) or specific Tremec fluid; consult manual for exact specification.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron VI Automatic Transmission Fluid
Wheelbase:
104.5 inches (2654 mm)
Overall Length:
174.6 inches (4435 mm)
Overall Width:
72.6 inches (1844 mm)
Overall Height:
48.7 inches (1237 mm) (Coupe); 48.0 inches (1219 mm) (Convertible)
Curb Weight Base:
Approximately 3,100-3,200 lbs (1406-1451 kg) for coupe models.
Gvwr:
Approximately 4,200 lbs (1905 kg)
Towing Capacity:
Not rated for towing.
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5 x 120.65 mm
Standard Wheel Size:
18 x 8.5 inch (front), 19 x 10 inch (rear)
Standard Tire Size:
245/40ZR18 (front), 285/35ZR19 (rear)
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
5-Star (for driver and passenger)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating:
Good
Traction Control System:
Standard
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard (often referred to as Active Handling or StabiliTrak)
Anti Lock Braking System:
Standard
Airbag System:
Driver and passenger front airbags, side-impact airbags (in seats or doors depending on year/trim).
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners.
Rollover Protection:
Pop-up rollover protection bars for convertible models.
Infotainment System Features:
Touchscreen navigation (optional), premium audio systems (Bose), CD player, MP3 compatibility, auxiliary input.
Bluetooth Connectivity:
Available on most models from 2008 onwards for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Performance Data Recorder:
Not standard; aftermarket or later Corvette generations.
Heads Up Display:
Standard on most trims, projecting key information onto the windshield.
Onstar Availability:
Available on many models, offering emergency services, turn-by-turn navigation, etc.
Dual Zone Climate Control:
Standard on most trims.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, based on oil life monitoring system.
Air Filter Replacement:
Check every 7,500 miles, replace as needed or every 25,000-45,000 miles depending on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
LS2: ~100,000 miles; LS3: ~100,000 miles; LS7: ~100,000 miles. Consult manual for exact interval.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Initial flush at 150,000 miles, then every 100,000 miles thereafter (using Dex-Cool).
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil, API SM or higher (e.g., Dexos1 Gen 2 is backward compatible and recommended).
Coolant Specification:
GM P/N 12346290 (Dex-Cool Extended Life Antifreeze/Coolant, Orange)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 approved brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron VI ATF or specific power steering fluid.
Common C6 Issues:
Clutch pedal squeak/sticking, transmission fluid leaks (especially around cooler lines), dried/cracked rubber seals (weatherstripping), sun-faded paint on rear spoiler, potential for catalytic converter issues (especially on early Z06 models), steering column lock issues (recalls), headlamp actuator failures.
Chevrolet Legacy:
Chevrolet has a long history of performance vehicles dating back to the 1950s, including iconic sports cars like the Corvette, Camaro, and Chevelle.
C6 Introduction:
The C6 Corvette debuted for the 2005 model year, representing a significant redesign over the C5, featuring exposed headlights for the first time since the C2 generation.
Key C6 Milestones:
Introduction of the 6.2L LS3 engine in 2008, introduction of the Z06 with the LS7 in 2006, introduction of the ZR1 with the supercharged LS9 in 2009, addition of the Grand Sport model combining wide body with LS3 power.
Production Locations:
Bowling Green, Kentucky, USA
C6 Production Span:
2005-2013
Car And Driver 10Best:
Corvette (including C6 variants) has been a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's 10Best list.
Motor Trend Car Of The Year:
Corvette has received MotorTrend Car of the Year awards in previous generations, setting a benchmark for American sports cars.
Performance Magazine Reviews:
Consistently praised for its performance value, handling, and V8 power in automotive publications.
Manual Quality Certification:
Factory-certified technical content, ensuring accuracy and adherence to OEM standards.
