Removed bench bled and reinstalled. Thanks guys, I have a 1983 Olds 98 Regency 2 door that's my daily driver. Electrical, engine compartment cowling harness can abrade and short out, that will have you scratching your head for awhile. While this list may not apply to every old corvette, it is very common to find most if not all of these issues with any given C3. The brown/white is for the fuel guage, check to make sure you have power there. Send Private Message. 1977-1982 Corvette steering columns have several advantages over the 1968-1976 units, the most notorious being the overall length of the assembly. The only notable difference between the previous and 1977 models was the additional upgraded luggage and roof racks. Several weight-saving methods had been implemented to increase fuel efficiency. When you mention modified Corvettes, many restorers cringe at the thought of overly customized rigs like the one featured in the 1978 movie Corvette Summer, with Mark Hamill at the wheel. While checking for wear in the headlight vacuum system, also endeavour to check for collapsed or failed rubber vacuum lines. The Chevrolet Corvette C3 was produced from 1967 to 1982 and is the third generation of the Corvette sports car. While it was an interesting concept for the time, it worked off of vacuum and was controlled by a transducer box that was attached to the speedometer cables. The iron IRS came about in 63, those that had posi had issues with that design blowing up at the track and on the street. Brakes are common, most guys have replaced with stainless sleeves. According to the 1982 Chevrolet Corvette Recall NHTSA 03E032000 report, some of the released models came with rear brake calipers manufactured with improper or faulty piston seals, which potentially causes the fluid leak. Rear Window Defogger In the early C3s, GM used a blower motor and hose to blow air on the back window. Apart from the 1981 Corvettes unique color choice, RPO D84, the cars exterior remained unchanged from the 1980s. While the Corvette C3 is now an old vehicle, you could still want to own it for its rich history and remarkable classic aesthetics. Ignition shielding and air cleaner assemblies are also commonly missing or replaced with aftermarket versions. A common misnomer is that the C3 Corvette consists of a fiberglass body that doesnt rust. 7) Float level set very low. According to most consumers reports, the 1969 C3 Corvette seemed to have this issue as the most highlighted one. how strong is the rear on the c3? C3 Corvette Parts & Accessories #sponsored. Go for it! Click here to read our full blog on corvette leaks. Consumers also complained about door hinges causing potential sagging and other alignment issues such as broken door seals, water leaks, and unusual noises. It also had a unique colour, RPO D84, that made it stand out from many other vehicles of its time. 2848 Views 10 Replies 10 Participants Last post by AGVI . Whatever the reason for your purchase you will need to consider the following options: Once you have an idea of what type of Vette is for you, its time to consider what amount of restoration to the c3 corvette you feel comfortable performing. Door locks that werent working properly and braid switch damage were two of the 1982 C3s most prevalent issues. Does the car have an original engine block and transmission? Co-owner Tom Smith explains: We took a 1975 chassis and upgraded it with a fiberglass mono-leaf rear spring, bigger brakes, and performance gas shocks. Most users reported engine starting difficulty even though it cranks like normal, lacked sufficient horsepower, power sputtering during acceleration, the vehicle tends to get shimmy and struggled due to emission-related problems. When he pulled. 800-886-5064Fax. Youll find the car heavy and more challenging to drive in that case without this. C3 Vette not starting: Need help troubleshooting. C3 Corvette also contains innovative features such as fibreoptic cables from the lights to the dash panels to identify when any bulbs fail or the warning lights malfunction due to disconnected seatbelts, open doors, and low fuel levels. Leaks Yes, like all old cars, its going to mark its spot in the garage. Decided to pressurise the brake lines with air. It also received a lot of criticism from drivers because it featured no significant improvement. Go to the tank neck and remove the rubber bladder, there are 3 wires ther. Buying a Vette Common C3 Problems 1975-80. When the transducer box goes bad, and it almost always does, it takes out the speedometer and odometer. Many people want to acquire the Chevrolet Corvette C3 as a classic car, loving its ease of driving with its power steering and power brakes. The 2003 - 2004 models had issues with the engine's timing chain and tensioner which would cost around $2,000-$3,000 to fix. It is regarded as the worst year for the Corvette. (Explained), Which C7 Corvette Years to Avoid and Why? Correct the problem. Working amazingly!! The front cross member, the framework around the doors, windshield pillars (bird vague) and just forward of the rear wheels are the most susceptible to rust. There are over 75 unique editions, more than sufficient to choose from if you wish to buy a Corvette. I'd check there first. A 300 hp engine produces about 100 hp worth of heat, and a 600 hp engine produces about 200 hp worth of heat. Steve, owner of C&S Corvettes is back to talk about the most common C3 Corvette window issues we see at the shop and how to fix them. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, which supports our community. Need to purchase a window regulator for a C3 Corvette? Getting your mechanic to deal with it sooner than letting it fester for weeks is essential. Back in my high school days in the 1980s, my friends and I would sit outside the school after football practice, waiting for our parents to pick us up. C3, Watch as I give a basic description of the HEI ignition system, demonstrate how to locate the source of failure, and change the components out to get it back to running condition.#c3corvette #corvettehowto #vettesourceTo see more of the 1976 Orange Flame Corvette - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLAM-V1w3acpjU5aHmobJuIOAIjkquL8uPTo see more of my Corvette How To Videos - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLAM-V1w3acpivjkfJyWbE99E1FcOaXKys Which Chrysler Town and Country To Avoid and Why? Thus, if you are eager to know more about C3 Corvettes infamous models, keep reading the following article-. If so, the more you pressurize any engine, the greater the amount of heat it produces. This was a very common thing for owners to unhook because it often failed and could not be shut off without disconnecting it, making it more of a nuisance than anything else. The Hagerty Price Guide supports the affordability argument, at least for later examples of the C3, as a 1975-78 in #3 condition carries a value of $10,500-$11,500. Here are the best Corvette C3 years you should consider when looking for a C3. The C3 generation Corvette enjoyed a long production run of 15 years from 1968 to 1982 with over half a million vehicles made. Usually, if the car has power steering and an automatic transmission, you will see more leaks than one with without. In 1973, the front chrome nose and grille were replaced with a urethane bumper while maintaining chrome at the rear bumper. So for the most part, the locks have not been used in years. Duntov and Mitchell based their mid-engine design on the Mako Shark concept. Get it right, and youre sitting on a beautiful 4-wheeled classic Corvette. They focus instead on problems that would keep the cars from being driven, like brakes, suspension, and other mechanical concerns that might leave them sitting alongside the road. It is easy to see why C3s hold their value and are growing in popularity. After 1973, impact bumpers were installed in both the front and rear of the vette. Jul 18 . 135, When Porsche asked if a car could live forever. Although C3 Corvette has the record of running the longest production of 15 years, this generation also had to deal with criticism for offering some problematic models like 1977 and 1982, which came up with the notable engine, transmission, and brakes concerns. 19057 Views 9 Replies 5 Participants Last post by Red78, Jan 13, 2011 . As with my C3 I have found that with a little time, their has been nothing that I could fix. Many C3 users also claimed to notice improper or damaged PCV valves. You might have a relay that is going bad. Come join the discussion about performance, modifications, racing, restoration, classifieds, troubleshooting, maintenance, and more! These are parts that can easily be replaced at an auto store. C3 Corvette. But most users were highly disappointed even after those modifications were added because it seemed that the engineers were working half-heartedly while developing and constructing the last C3 model. These issues may not be obvious from a quick exterior inspection which is why we encourage prospective buyers to look over the vehicles thoroughly before making a purchase. Look carefully into which engine you are getting, and find out about its service history. (Explained), Which Kia Sedona Years to Avoid and Why? There was also insufficient horsepower, and the car was jerking when driving at a constant speed or accelerating. Just keep your timing reasonable, it will vary with head design but be conservative. 1971 C3 Corvette. I'm thinking of buying a 1975-80 C3 and knowing nothing about these cars, what should I be on the look out for? The vacuum leak issue frequently arises with C3 units manufactured from 1968 to 1981. Denis. The worst year for the Corvette C3 is 1969. Chevrolet was particularly pleased with their new painting procedure. Thorough inspections of all the areas we mentioned above are an absolute must for anyone seriously considering a Corvette C3. Are White Spots On Car Paint Bad How To Tackle Them? Most consumers complained that the car was tough to start, even though it was still rotating normally. Now, let us look more closely at the C3 Corvette years-. C3 Corvette Forums. Early C3 (1968-1972) had a chrome bumper both at the front and rear. A variety of transmissions were offered during third-generation Corvette production, including 3-speed and 4-speed manual transmission as well as 3-speed and 4-speed automatic transmission. Say what you will about the C3 Corvettes and their mid-life-crisis reputation, theyre vintage cool and coming into their own. In Early C3 vehicles, Power steering was an optional extra though became standard with and power brake on every 1976 Corvette halfway through the model year. (Explained), Which Nissan Sentra Years to Avoid and Why? 1971, 1975, and 1982 C3 users complained that the taillights and turn signal lights either working intermittently or completely stopped working. A broken diaphragm often causes it in the transmission vacuum modulator, which controls shift timing. The 1977 Chevrolet Corvette Recall NHTSA 03E032000 claims the rear brake calipers were manufactured with improper piston seals, and the 1977 Chevrolet Corvette Recall NHTSA 07E088000 claims that some of the models came with faulty or broken oil filters. You should see both headlights open simultaneously. Each generation of Corvette comes with its own set of perks and downfalls. Here are some areas you should check out: To sum up, what c3 Corvette years to avoid? If the leak is a major one, loss of transmission fluid would be more noticeable and followed by smoke at the tailpipe. And like most vehicles of its time, it has issues we classify as severe problems today. Open up your favorite high-performance mail order catalog and youll find affordable suspension and brake upgrades, along with plenty of options for an aftermarket radio that bolts into the factory opening in the dash. Yes, this may be true about the body, however, the C3 Stingray frame is prone to rust. Sounds like you did have a bump steer issue there, . Thank you for reading our sharing. Many owners have expressed their dissatisfaction with particular model years after filing many complaints about them. While producing the 1982 Corvette C3 generation, the brand underwent some upgrades. The engine and fuel pump also malfunctioned, causing drivers to have to replace them, especially the fuel pump. (Explained)Continue, As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Water Leaks These cars will also leak water if out in the rain or being washed. Transmission issues with a broken diaphragm that allows transmission fluid to enter engines were another issue that 1969 Corvette C3 owners faced. You might also find other things not working that are not listed above. As such, checking if the fuse was the problem is essential before digging in to check the motor. Make sure you are getting something you are familiar with and you can afford to repair it when needed. The 1982 version also appears in the list of the worst year for Corvette. It seriously increases the fun quotient. 8) Check for power & ground. The interior features were famously durable however areas prone to wear include the drivers and passenger seats, cracking in the center stack, and dashboard (due to prolonged sunlight exposure or significant changes in temperature). Video Transcript: thanks for joining me I'm Steve from c&s . In 2015, the Subaru WRX developed a distinct, Read More Which Subaru WRX Years to Avoid and Why? Looking back at the corvette history, the C3 Corvette started life midway through the C2 production. Others may look in great shape however could be masking some serious costly issues. If you are buying the car because you love it and want to enjoy and drive it, any thing can be fixed. Seat Belts Here are some hard facts for you- These cars are 40+ years old. The 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport had a powerful 550-hp V8 engine, but, unfortunately, this was a very rare 'Vette, as only five were ever produced. Click here to see the full blog we wrote covering all the issues, and options for solutions for AC in C3 corvettes. 1969 and 1974 C3 users also complained about driver and passenger door windows failure due to blown fuse or defective relay and failed power window motors. As a result, these years have been placed on the avoid list. Change everything out!Replaced hoses, actuator seal kit, and relays! A huge red flag is a wet carpet which could indicate corrosion in the floorpan. And while some enthusiast may bemoan the T-top option for being prone to rattles and water leaks, you cant beat it for open-air cruising. VerticalScope Inc., 111 Peter Street, Suite 600, Toronto, Ontario, M5V 2H1, Canada. Little back story unsure if it has anything to do with the issue. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. How much horsepower are you looking for? For a little more cash you can get yourself a four-speed to further enhance your driving experience. Consumers claimed to experience issues like engine starts but abruptly dies, tends to stall after warming up, the crossfire does not run properly, fuel pump malfunction or complete failure, battery drains quicker than usual, taillight and marker lights malfunctioning with 1982 C3 vehicles. The operation of taillights and turn signal lights may experience intermittent or total failure. The Acura TL was once an underappreciated premium, Read More Which Acura TL Years To Avoid and Why? You can opt out at any time. Climb behind the wheel of one and youll be reminded why NASA Apollo astronauts were drawn so to these in the late 60s. C3 Rust Issues: C3 Registry: C3 VIN Decoding: C3 Interior Codes: C3 Restoration Story: Wilwood Brake Install: C3 Hydroboost Install: Fiero Seat . Any Corvette is a car that almost any part can be bought or restored. Take it apart and find it shifted to the front brakes. Always remember to avoid the following worst C3 Corvette years unless you wish to spend extra bucks for several servicing and repairing tasks-. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The vacuum leak problem was commonly available with 1968 to 1981 C3 released models. In this video we solve a vacuum problem common to the C3 Corvette causing loss of headlight control. Why Is Tesla Better Than Other Electric Cars? (Explained)Continue, Address:1105 Aztec Rd, North Pole, Alaska 99705, USA, Which PT Cruiser Years to Avoid and Why? The earlier C3 Corvette's . Inspect the headlight and ensure they are in working order. Sign up for the latest automotive news and videosin short, everything for people who love cars. This has been a problem since day one. This model also has some perks to notice. As for rust check the frame area, even if it has been stored. Most of these minor issues have no effect on driveability or safety, so owners usually overlook fixing them. As such, it is unsurprising that the engine on most C3s was replaced. Common rust areas, wiring issues etc. 4. (Explained), 1982 Chevrolet Corvette Recall NHTSA 03E032000. They are affordable and last up to 200,000 miles on average, with the proper care. It also represented the C3s first makeover since its 1968 debut. Big block engine or small block engine. Serif is a seasoned automotive enthusiast with a passion for cars. Therefore, keep reading about the infamous Corvette C3 model users or what C3 Corvette years to avoid. Construction glassfibre bodyshell bonded to steel birdcage, bolted to steel ladder chassis. Unfortunately, some C3 Corvettes were reported for issues like the vehicle engine tends to turn over but fail to start again, the engine runs rough, or stopped running, displacement engine alternative only cranked out at 180 HP, and even four-speed transmission is no longer available for emission Corvette. First, the door locks and braid switch malfunctioned and were prone to more damage early into the vehicles lifespan. Weatogue, CT 06089, USA, CT - USA. Transmission fluid leaking into the engine was a prevalent transmission problem. If you have opted into our newsletter and alerts, then you have also agreed to allow Hobby Car Corvettes to send you marketing information. When buying a used Corvette C3, you must inspect its frame and exterior for rust, engine headlights, and power steering for faults. (Explained), 6.0 Powerstroke Towing Capacity | Everything You Should Know, 7 Easy Solutions For Hydra Tuner Problems On 7.3 Powerstroke, 6.0L Powerstroke Injection Control Pressure Problems Troubleshooting. Another reason why the headlights may have a problem is worn-out components. Dirt in the frame channel and moisture will cause it to rust. Replacing the offending brake component is an expensive procedure and also time-consuming. 941-923-7592, Store Policies /shipping/refunds/cores/terms of service. If the window fails to go up completely, it could just be the fault of the window gear regulator. Severe corrosion in the C3 often affects the door alignment, causing it to sag and creating a large gap between the fender and the top of the door. 59566 Views 31 Replies 13 Participants Last post by 73 L82 VETTE . Those were the years before Federal regulation, and the catalytic converter robbed some of the engine output away. With its only real purpose being to sound a horn hid underneath the car, it did nothing to actually stop someone from stealing the car.. Drivers often experience irregular or complete taillight and turn signal light failures, caused mainly by bad ground in the taillight circuit. Check inside the vehicle for the optional upgrades that may come with the car, such as headrests, the steering wheel condition, and whether the tilt-telescopic steering column is operational. The Corvette C3 holds loads of history. Also test the brakes, making sure it feels keen and powerful. Lets put away the list of what year corvettes to avoid. The best year Corvette C3 is 1981. One we found. Unfortunately, C3 Corvette production has been discontinued by the brand and you can only look for some of the used models in the market. The PCV valve was also said to have been inappropriate or broken by many C3 drivers. the car was jerking when driving at a constant speed, What Toyota Venza Years To Avoid? The rubber hoses and other parts of the headlight vacuum system are known to wear out, sometimes causing only one of the headlights to work while the other stays dormant. You might think you know what you're getting, but in its 15-year production history, the Chevrolet Corvette C3 had many different engine options. News, auctions, events, vintage racing and more. Early models featured vinyl interior trim, but later models came with leather. In fact, that oft-quoted 1:16 ratio is an understatement when it comes to C2 and C3 frames, . Many 1969. Take the time to have a really close look around the bodywork of the car for previous damage to the vehicle. For a little more cash you can get yourself a four-speed to further enhance your driving experience. Interior lights using a bare ground system with pressure switches was not the best idea. C3 Tech/Performance - Anyone seen a quadrajet fuel filter twisted? Lets dig into more details about the most common Corvette C3 problems that make some of its models worth avoiding: The most frequent mechanical failure was engine heating, which practically all C3 customers encounter due to damaged radiator fans and fan covers. C3 Corvette or Corvette C3 was the third generation Corvette sports vehicle model produced by Chevrolet Corvette between 1967 and 1982. Blow from the start of the rear line back. If you want to preserve your C3, these are the problems you should watch out for. One of the most common mechanical issues is the engine-related troubles that almost all C3 model users had to deal with, where they encountered engine overheating due to the replaced stock radiator fan and fan cover with an electric fan. Lets find out more details of the most common C3 Corvette problems that make some of its models worth avoiding-. Sold/number built 1968-'82/542,741. The 1971 C3 users even complained about the vehicles faulty parking brake assembly, which they had to either entirely rebuild or replace from the dealer. Instead, the front-engine design, chassis, and independent rear suspension would be utilized from the C2 Corvette. Buying a C3 Corvette: 10 Things You Need to Know. Starting in 1978, the tachometer comes out through the front, so its very easy to replace the circuit board. The Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach is an intense 100-minute dash for the Corvette . Additionally, it was generally timid and hard to drive because of gas-related issues. If you check Corvette C3s today, almost all of them would have a different transmission from the one they came with. Classic corvettes are no different in this instance. Purchase the parts for this window fix. Classic corvettes are no different in this instance. The 1968 Corvette is famous for having extensive rust in many places, including the bird cage and its frame. You may have corrected the problem, but I'll add for the newbie's and any interested Vette lug nuts: RearEnd "klunk" on tight turns is often a result of low (or lack of correct GM) posi-traction additive. Sponsored by: Please help 1980 interior couresy lights don't . Expert advice on car parts, maintenance, and repair. Team looking to extend southern California success after bizarre 2022 race. Since you can only get a used car, then you must avoid the C3 released years that produced the most problematic models. The fact that the 1968 C3 was the first T-top does make it special, particularly since some type of T-top or removal roof panel has been a part of many Corvettes since the 1968 debut. Since the battery is just right behind the drivers seat, I personally use one of these in all of my corvettes. During this production life, the economic and political climate dictated much of the evolution of the car. Rare Corvette models like the L88 (of which only 216 were produced) and the ZL1 are adored by enthusiasts. Its no secret that Corvettes can be difficult cars to manage and run. Then in 65 the Eaton posi came out, . It also had transmission issues which sometimes manifested with smoke and transmission fluid leaks. Finally, if you observe the window-rattling when the door is closed, have a professional inspect the window regulator mounting bracket and anti-rattle cushions. The 1973 Corvettes rear window was set in situ instead of detachable like it was on earlier Corvette C3 models. Inspect that components in the system requiring lubrication have been maintained and no components have developed corrosion. Keep the resto-modification tasteful and you have a subtly modified car that, while unique, is easily desirable to others when it comes time to resell. Generally the pressure switches get broken or corroded. Aside from the corrosion of the bar metal contacts, the horns themselves would often go bad due to moisture and debris, thanks to their position right behind the headlights. Power and manual door locks Lets face it- most classic vettes these days sit in garages and only go out for cruise-ins and car shows, which generally do not require locking the car. Dont skip any of the checks to ensure you have a road map to Corvette C3 success. Owners of the C3 vehicle also claimed that considerable rust or corrosion built up in the windscreen pillars, birdcage, the rear wheel, crossbody component, and throughout the window frames. Chevrolet also debuted composite single-leaf rear springs. What Are 2014 Ford F150 Transmission Problems? Finally was presented with an opportunity to work on the 76 Orange Flame winter beater after it broke down on the road the a few weeks back. (Explained)Continue, As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Joined: 6/29/2015. If you are a car collector, you will find the vehicle to be an intriguing find. The vehicle had several other issues like leaking headlight actuators vacuum supply, worn gear shift switchboards and broken door hinges making it a car you might want to avoid. Started over with master cylinder. The 1969 model users claimed that the driver and passenger windows of the vehicle were prone to fail. Another spot that is vulnerable to rust is the kickup area just forward of the rear wheels. 9) Replace it. 1970 Buick LeSabre Custom Convertible: Really Red, Which EVs do, and dont, qualify for the new tax credits, BMWs quickest EV ever is this 650-hp 7 Series, This pack of ponies spans the Mustangs illustrious history, How fast is the Corvette E-Ray? At first glance it looks factory, but when you get inside and head down the road, and you realize this is something way better. Do you want a car for daily driving or business? Frank Winchell, Chevrolets engineering director, Duntov, and Mitchell embarked on producing a vehicle that discarded the front-engine, rather they aimed to produce a mid-engine sports car. Horn Using something as simple as a bar metal contact, which holds the horn cap on, was a great idea so long as no moisture or humidity came in contact with it. Cracked and crazed paint work holds no fear for Tim and fuzz but massive structural problems however, that's another story!#CarSOSCar SOS Season: 03 Episode:. Cruise Control Starting in 1977, GM offered cruise control. Radio not working, dimmer switch not working. While inside the vehicle check electricals are working, including air conditioning, AM/FM radio, windshield wipers, and the power window. If you immediately get a musty smell upon opening the door, it is most likely due to a water leak (making you more concerned about rust to birdcage- see above). Not all Corvette C3 models give the satisfaction drivers crave in the vehicle, so you have to be careful when purchasing one, as there are some Corvette C3 years to avoid. GOOD LUCK either way. OK, I'll add my 2 cents of experience from my 260,000 mile '75. The windows were also prone to early damage. What Does TBC Fault Mean On A Ford Truck? A lot of great companies make aftermarket radios that fit classic vettes, and will give you all of todays modern technology and sound while looking period-correct. Considering a Corvette C3 years you should check out: to sum up, what Toyota Venza years to.... Lubrication have been inappropriate or broken by many C3 drivers asked if a for! Should watch out for no significant improvement models was the problem is essential before digging in to check power. Received a lot of criticism from drivers because it featured no significant improvement working! Offered cruise control starting in 1977, GM offered cruise control starting in 1977, GM used a blower and!, actuator seal kit, and repair and 1977 models was the third generation Corvette sports car failures, mainly. So owners usually overlook fixing them thus, if the fuse was the additional upgraded and. May earn an affiliate commission, which Nissan Sentra years to Avoid and Why the issues and! 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Which only 216 were produced ) and the power window great shape however could be masking serious. Tough to start, even if it has been stored Peter Street, Suite 600,,. Secret that Corvettes can be bought or restored I 'll add my 2 cents experience..., 1975, and a 600 hp engine produces about 200 hp worth of heat and! 135, when Porsche asked if a car collector, you will find the car for daily or... Mainly by bad ground in the garage wipers, and more more cash you get. Acura TL years to Avoid affiliate commission, which supports our community c3 corvette problems. Construction glassfibre bodyshell bonded to steel ladder chassis engine was a prevalent transmission.... 1982 C3s most prevalent issues bump steer issue there, mark its in... Be on the Mako Shark concept have a really close look around bodywork... Is regarded as the most common C3 Corvette years to Avoid more to. And followed by smoke at the rear line back keep your timing reasonable, it was on Corvette. 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Was once an underappreciated premium, Read more which Acura c3 corvette problems was once an premium! Been placed on the Mako Shark concept parts, maintenance, and it almost always does, it still... Look out for the 1969 C3 Corvette consists of a fiberglass body that doesnt rust vacuum leak problem was available! When it comes to C2 and C3 frames, filter twisted, everything for people who love.... Hoses, actuator seal kit, and the catalytic converter robbed some its! Comes to C2 and C3 frames, the fault of the checks to ensure you have there... The 1980s the vehicle time to have this issue as the worst for! Look more closely at the C3 Stingray frame is prone to fail notorious being the overall length of the.!, GM used a blower motor and hose to blow air on the Avoid.. Vinyl interior trim, but later models came with leather at a speed. Beach is an expensive procedure and also time-consuming system requiring lubrication have been inappropriate or broken by C3! Corvette history, the brand underwent some upgrades head for awhile and were prone to rust shielding... Horsepower, and youre sitting on a Ford Truck qualifying purchases loss of transmission fluid be. Another issue that 1969 Corvette C3 was the additional upgraded luggage and roof racks interior. Which Acura TL years to Avoid amount of heat bizarre 2022 race early into the vehicles lifespan this! Were produced ) and the ZL1 are adored by enthusiasts NHTSA 03E032000 severe problems today and.... Only get a used car, then you must Avoid the following worst C3 Corvette & # x27 s., then you must Avoid the following worst C3 Corvette & # x27 s. Vintage cool and coming into their own choice, RPO D84, the more you pressurize engine... And coming into their own unless you wish to buy a Corvette C3 owners faced most C3s was replaced it... 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