The latest Corvette, introduced for the 2020 model year, shocked the automotive community with its detour into supercar territory, boasting an all-new mid-engine design and a stronger performance-oriented image. The previous robust, if simplistic, front-engine, rear-wheel-drive configuration of the car line was one that had been enjoyed since the marque’s launch in 1953, so this marked a seismic shift. And when the new Corvette first launched the magazines hailed it as a car that exceeded (very high) expectations.
However, it’s easy to enjoy the C8 Corvette when it’s actually on the road, so what about its reliability? Believe it or not, the car actually performed quite well, with reports stating that it may be more reliable than perennials like the Toyota Camry, not to mention sports cars like the Nissan 400Z. The actual methodology behind Consumer Reports’ ranking system is proprietary, so we won’t dive into it too much here. Suffice to say, if your car’s reliability exceeds that of a Camry, it’s doing pretty well.
The engine had various starting issues and two recalls, which we’ll discuss, but as an overall package, including electronics, drivetrain, and quality control, the C8 Corvette is either average or above average. And that’s not particularly surprising, given that GM also ranks as the most reliable car brand in 2025, as rated by Consumer Reports. It might not be Hilux levels of reliability, but it’s good enough to keep the tow truck at bay.
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What they say about the Corvette C8
Chevrolet C8 Corvette on display at the auto show, 3/4 front-right view – Just dance/Shutterstock
Overall, the 2021-2025 model years that Consumer Reports dug into with its reliability ratings showed us a number of key points. The latest model has received glowing praise, consistently placing at the top of the rating scales for two-seater sports cars, including reliability. However, the 2023 model suffered some air conditioning issues and the car also witnessed two recalls.
Neither recall was critical to the Corvette’s overall reliability; the first one is pretty scary though. This was due to a fuel leak problem, caused by excessive leaks and leaks during refueling. Fortunately, GM has already developed a solution for this before it ignites anything. In the second recall, Corvette C8s were sent back due to a mechanical failure that caused the seat belts to lock while in storage.
Outside of those problem areas, which have either been or are currently being addressed, the C8 Corvette has demonstrated average to excellent reliability. There were no mechanical issues or recalls with the engine and powertrain or running gear such as the suspension and brakes, and there were minimal faults in the infotainment and electronics systems – although the car doesn’t have these issues these days. All of this is made even more impressive by the fact that this is a complex, mid-engined supercar, a class of vehicle almost synonymous with unreliability. Corvettes seemingly defy expectations with only minor glitches such as dead batteries, ECU errors, accessory failures and other electronic gremlins present.
A history of reliability
Chevrolet C7 Corvette parked outside the store, left view – Just dance/Shutterstock
This car’s reliability ranking is perhaps not too surprising given Chevrolet’s penchant for overbuilding Corvettes. Take for example the infamous LS block, an engine that can handle an obnoxious amount of horsepower if you upgrade it properly. Similarly, the LT2 engine is a marvel in its own right, deviating significantly from GM’s usual pushrod V8 design without skimping on reliability, at least according to Consumer Reports which lists no major engine issues.
The rest of the car also continues the tradition of reliability established by its predecessor. The old front-engined Corvette C7 also beat the Camry in reliability scores, including factors such as suspension and drivetrain, electronics and so on. However, this stopped in the later model years when various problems arose that decreased reliability overall. These included major fixes such as engine mounts, transmission and/or clutch issues, electrical gremlins, faded paint and overall fit and finish.
There seems to be a sweet spot here for the Corvette. If you’re looking for something with a warranty, at least in terms of reliability, it’s hard to go wrong with the 2020-2025 Corvette; it was pretty consistent overall. And that’s doubly impressive when you consider that this is effectively a supercar that demonstrates economy car levels of reliability. But if you’re looking for an older model, be aware that there is a time when problems suddenly appear out of nowhere.
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Read the original article on SlashGear.