maintenance CHEVROLET CORVETTE 2021 User Guide

Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
14622938) - 2021 - CRC - 2/10/21
Driving and Operating 179
Electric Power Steering
The vehicle has electric power steering.
It does not have power steering fluid.
Regular maintenance is not required.
If power steering assist is lost due to a
system malfunction, the vehicle can be
steered, but may require increased effort.
If the steering assist is used for an extended
period of time while the vehicle is not
moving, power assist may be reduced.
If the steering wheel is turned until it
reaches the maximum rotation and is held
at that position for an extended period of
time, power steering assist may be reduced.Normal use of the power steering assist
should return when the system cools down.
See your dealer if there is a problem.
Dynamic Rack Travel
If equipped with Magnetic Ride Control,
Dynamic Rack Travel (DRT) is a steering
system feature which enhances driving by
providing additional maximum steering
wheel rotation to allow a tighter turning
radius during low speed driving conditions.
If the vehicle speed increases or if the
suspension encounters significant wheel
travel, such as a driveway, while at
maximum steering rotation, DRT may gently
push the steering back a small amount to
prevent the front tires from contacting the
vehicle. This is normal operation. There is no
customer interface or display for this
feature. DRT is not available when in
Track Mode.
Curve Tips
.Take curves at a reasonable speed.
.Reduce speed before entering a curve.
.Maintain a reasonable and steady speed
through the curve.
.Wait until the vehicle is out of the curve
before accelerating gently into the
straightaway.
Steering in Emergencies
.There are some situations when steering
around a problem may be more effective
than braking.
.Holding both sides of the steering wheel
allows you to turn 180 degrees without
removing a hand.
.The Antilock Brake System (ABS) allows
steering while braking.
Off-Road Recovery

Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
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218 Driving and Operating
Limited-Slip Differential
(Without Z51)
The mechanical limited-slip differential can
give more traction on snow, mud, ice, sand,
or gravel. It works like a standard axle most
of the time, but when traction is low, this
feature allows the drive wheel with the
most traction to move the vehicle. See
Competitive Driving Mode0215 and
Maintenance Schedule 0293.
Limited-Slip Differential (With Z51)
The Electronic Limited-Slip Differential (eLSD)
is a hydraulically actuated clutch system
inside the transaxle. It can infinitely vary
the clutch engagement between 0 and
2250 N*m (1659 lb-ft) of breakaway torque
between the rear wheels. When necessary it
responds from open to full engagement in
fractions of a second. Smaller clutch
adjustments happen even faster.
The eLSD:
.Uses the vehicle sensors and driver inputs
to determine the optimum amount of
clutch engagement for the conditions.
.Improves traction while cornering by
changing the engagement to achieve a
balance between directional control and
acceleration.
.Provides optimal engagement for
high-speed control and stability without
affecting precise steering and turn-in.
.Improves vehicle stability during spirited
driving and evasive maneuvers. It is fully
integrated with the Active Handling and
Performance Traction Management (PTM)
systems (if equipped).
There are unique calibrations based on the
Traction Control System (TCS) setting. eLSD
modes change automatically when the
traction control button is pressed. No unique
input from the driver is required.
.Mode 1 is the standard mode when the
vehicle is started. It provides a touring
calibration with an emphasis on vehicle
stability. Mode 1 is also used in PTM
Wet mode.
.Mode 2 is engaged when both TCS and
StabiliTrak are turned off. This calibration
provides more nimble corner turn-in, and
is biased for better traction out of
corners.
.Mode 3 is engaged when PTM is engaged
in Dry, Sport 1 & 2, and Race modes. This
is a nimble calibration with similar
functionality as eLSD Mode 2, however, it
is integrated to work with PTM.
.Mode 4 is engaged when TCS is selected
off, but StabiliTrak remains on. Vehicle
stability is still the priority, while allowing
for optimized traction out of corners.
Cruise Control
With cruise control, a speed of about
40 km/h (25 mph) or more can be
maintained without keeping your foot on
the accelerator. Cruise control does not work
at speeds below about 40 km/h (25 mph).
{Warning
Cruise control can be dangerous where
you cannot drive safely at a steady
speed. Do not use cruise control on
winding roads or in heavy traffic.
Cruise control can be dangerous on
slippery roads. On such roads, fast
changes in tire traction can cause (Continued)

Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
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Driving and Operating 229
Warning (Continued)
.Do not fill a container while it is
inside a vehicle, in a vehicle's trunk, in
a pickup bed, or on any surface other
than the ground.
.Bring the fill nozzle in contact with
the inside of the fill opening before
operating the nozzle. Maintain contact
until filling is complete.
.Keep sparks, flames, and smoking
materials away from fuel.
.Avoid using electronic devices while
pumping fuel.
Trailer Towing
General Towing Information
{Warning
Never tow a trailer with your vehicle.
It was not designed or intended to tow a
trailer.
Conversions and Add-Ons
Add-On Electrical Equipment
{Warning
The Data Link Connector (DLC) is used for
vehicle service and Emission Inspection/
Maintenance testing. SeeMalfunction
Indicator Lamp (Check Engine Light) 086.
A device connected to the DLC —such as
an aftermarket fleet or driver-behavior
tracking device —may interfere with
vehicle systems. This could affect vehicle
operation and cause a crash. Such devices
may also access information stored in the
vehicle’s systems.
Caution
Some electrical equipment can damage
the vehicle or cause components to not
work and would not be covered by the
vehicle warranty. Always check with your
dealer before adding electrical equipment.
Add-on equipment can drain the vehicle's
12-volt battery, even if the vehicle is not
operating. The vehicle has an airbag system. Before
attempting to add anything electrical to the
vehicle, see
Servicing the Airbag-Equipped
Vehicle 060 and
Adding Equipment to the Airbag-Equipped
Vehicle 060.

Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
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Vehicle Care 233
Lifting from the Rear–Frame
Use only a service jack with a lifting pad
diameter of 64 mm (2.5 in) or smaller, and
thick enough to make sure the jack does not
contact the vehicle body.
Position the service jack and lifting pad
under the frame rail shipping slot
reinforcement.
For more information, see Doing Your Own
Service Work 0233.
Vehicle Checks
Doing Your Own Service Work
{Warning
It can be dangerous to work on your
vehicle if you do not have the proper
knowledge, service manual, tools,
or parts. Always follow owner’s manual
procedures and consult the service
manual for your vehicle before doing any
service work.
If doing some of your own service work, use
the proper service manual. It tells you much
more about how to service the vehicle than
this manual can. To order the proper service
manual, see Publication Ordering
Information 0315.
This vehicle has an airbag system. Before
attempting to do your own service work,
see Servicing the Airbag-Equipped Vehicle
0 60. If equipped with remote vehicle start, open
the hatch/trunk before performing any
service work to prevent remote starting the
vehicle accidentally. See
Remote Vehicle
Start 012.
Keep a record with all parts receipts and list
the mileage and the date of any service
work performed. See Maintenance Records
0 303.
Caution
Even small amounts of contamination can
cause damage to vehicle systems. Do not
allow contaminants to contact the fluids,
reservoir caps, or dipsticks.

Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
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240 Vehicle Care
4. Remove the engine oil filter and allowthe oil to drain.
5. Inspect the drain plug O-ring seal and replace if it is damaged. Reinstall the
drain plug into the oil pan and tighten it
to 25 N.m (18 lb ft).
6. Replace the oil filter and tighten it three-quarters to one turn after the
gasket makes contact. See Maintenance
Replacement Parts 0302 for the correct
filter.
7. Remove the oil fill cap from the external engine oil tank.
Add oil to the oil tank through the
opening in the fill tube. See Capacities
and Specifications 0305.
8. Install the oil fill cap and insert the dipstick, if removed.
{Warning
To help avoid personal injury and/or
engine damage, always install the engine
oil dipstick and oil fill cap until fully
seated to a stop. If not fully seated, oil
could escape on to hot exhaust parts and
cause a fire. 9. Start the engine and check the oil level
as described under "Checking the Engine
Oil." previously in this section.
Selecting the Right Engine Oil
Selecting the right engine oil depends on
both the proper oil specification and the
viscosity grade. See Recommended Fluids
and Lubricants 0301.
Specification
Use engine oils that meet the dexos2
specification.
Engine oils that have been approved by GM
as meeting the dexos2 specification are
marked with the dexos2 approved logo. See
www.gmdexos.com.
GM recommends Mobil 1 engine oils that
show the dexos2 approved logo.
Caution
Failure to use the recommended engine
oil or equivalent can result in engine
damage not covered by the vehicle
warranty.
Viscosity Grade
Use SAE 0W-40 viscosity grade engine oil.
When selecting an oil of the appropriate
viscosity grade, it is recommended to select
an oil of the correct specification. See
“Specification” previously in this section.
Engine Oil Additives/Engine Oil Flushes
Do not add anything to the oil. The
recommended oils meeting the dexos2
specification are all that is needed for good
performance and engine protection.
Engine oil system flushes are not
recommended and could cause engine
damage not covered by the vehicle
warranty.
What to Do with Used Oil
Used engine oil contains certain elements
that can be unhealthy for your skin and
could even cause cancer. Do not let used oil
stay on your skin for very long. Clean your

Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
14622938) - 2021 - CRC - 2/10/21
242 Vehicle Care
The vehicle is not equipped with a
transmission fluid level dipstick. There is a
special procedure for checking and changing
the transmission fluid. Because this
procedure is difficult, this should be done at
the dealer. Contact the dealer for additional
information or the procedure can be found
in the service manual. To purchase a service
manual, seePublication Ordering
Information 0315.
Caution
Use of the incorrect transmission fluid
may damage the vehicle, and the
damage may not be covered by the
vehicle warranty. Always use the correct
transmission fluid. See Recommended
Fluids and Lubricants 0301.
Change the fluid and filter at the proper
intervals. See Maintenance Schedule 0293.
Be sure to use the correct fluid. See
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants 0301.
Dual Clutch Transmission Fluid Life
System
When to Change the Dual Clutch
Transmission Fluid
This vehicle has a computer that indicates
when to change the transmission fluid. This
is based on a combination of factors which
include temperature and miles driven. Based
on driving conditions, the mileage at which
a fluid change is indicated can vary
considerably. For the fluid life system to
work properly, the system must be reset
every time the fluid is changed. When the
system has calculated that fluid life has
been diminished, it indicates that a fluid
change is necessary. A CHANGE
TRANSMISSION FLUID SOON message comes
on. Change the fluid as soon as possible
within the next 1 000 km (600 mi). Failure
to change transmission fluid at required
intervals could lead to suboptimal
transmission performance. Your dealer has
trained service technicians who will change
the fluid and reset the system. If the system
is ever reset accidentally, the fluid must be
changed at 72 000 km (45,000 mi) since the
last fluid change.
How to Reset the Dual Clutch
Transmission Fluid Life System
Reset the system whenever the transmission
fluid is replaced so that the system can
calculate the next transmission fluid change.
To reset:
1. Place the vehicle in P (Park).
2. Select the Oil & Fluid Life page under the Maintenance DIC menu. See Driver
Information Center (DIC) 092.
3. Press the thumbwheel under the Oil & Fluid Life page to move to the Reset/
Disable display area. Select Reset
Transmission Fluid with the thumbwheel
scroll then press the thumbwheel. Then
press Yes to confirm the reset.
4. When the Transmission Fluid Life System is successfully reset, 100% Transmission
Fluid Life will be displayed.
Engine Air Filter Life System
If equipped, this feature provides the engine
air filter’s remaining life and best timing for
a change. The timing to change an engine
air filter depends on driving and
environmental conditions.

Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
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Vehicle Care 243
When to Change Engine Air Filter
When the Driver Information Center (DIC)
displays a message to replace the engine air
filter at the next oil change, follow this
timing.
When the DIC displays a message to replace
the engine air filter soon, replace the engine
air filter at the earliest convenience.
The system must be reset after the engine
air filter is changed.
If the DIC displays a message to check the
engine air filter system, see your dealer.
How to Reset Engine Air Filter Life
System
Reset the system whenever the engine air
filter is replaced so that the system can
calculate the next engine air filter change.
To reset:1. Place the vehicle in P (Park).
2. Select Air Filter Life under the Maintenance DIC menu. See Driver
Information Center (DIC) 092.
3. Press the thumbwheel under the Air Filter Life page to move to the Reset/
Disable area. Select Reset Air Filter Life with the thumbwheel scroll and then
press the thumbwheel. Then press Yes to
confirm the reset.
4. When the Engine Air Filter Life System is successfully reset, 100% Air Filter Life will
be displayed.
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
See Engine Compartment Overview 0235 for
the location of the engine air cleaner/filter.
Caution
If water is sprayed and enters the engine
air cleaner/filter intake and housing, the
engine could be damaged. The repairs
would not be covered by the vehicle
warranty.
When to Inspect the Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
For intervals on changing and inspecting the
engine air cleaner/filter, see Maintenance
Schedule 0293.
How to Inspect/Replace the Engine Air
Cleaner/Filter
Do not start the engine or have the engine
running with the engine air cleaner/filter
housing open. Before removing the engine
air cleaner/filter, make sure that the engine air cleaner/filter housing and nearby
components are free of dirt and debris. Do
not clean the engine air cleaner/filter or
components with water or compressed air.
To inspect or replace the air cleaner/filter:
1. Remove the convenience net, if equipped.
2. Remove the four lift off bracket bolts (2)to remove the brackets (1).

Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
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Vehicle Care 245
Caution
If the air cleaner/filter is off, dirt can
easily get into the engine, which could
damage it. Always have the air cleaner/
filter in place when driving.
Cooling System
The cooling system allows the engine to
maintain the correct working temperature.
Convertible
1. Engine Cooling Fans (Out of View)
2. Coolant Surge Tank with Pressure Cap
Coupe
1. Engine Cooling Fans (Out of View)
2. Coolant Surge Tank with Pressure Cap
{Warning
An underhood electric fan can start up
even when the engine is not running and
can cause injury. Keep hands, clothing,
and tools away from any underhood
electric fan.
{Warning
Do not touch heater or radiator hoses,
or other engine parts. They can be very
hot and can burn you. Do not run the
engine if there is a leak; all coolant could
leak out. That could cause an engine fire
and can burn you. Fix any leak before
driving the vehicle.
Engine Coolant
The cooling system in the vehicle is filled
with DEX-COOL engine coolant. See
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants0301.
The fluid requires changing at certain
intervals. See Maintenance Schedule 0293.
The following explains the cooling system
and how to check and add coolant when it
is low. If there is a problem with engine
overheating, see Engine Overheating 0248.
What to Use
{Warning
Plain water, or other liquids such as
alcohol, can boil before the proper
coolant mixture will. With plain water or
(Continued)

Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
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250 Vehicle Care
Caution
Continuing to drive with worn-out brake
linings could result in costly brake
repairs.
Properly torqued wheel nuts are necessary
to help prevent brake pulsation. When tires
are rotated, inspect brake linings for wear
and evenly tighten wheel nuts in the proper
sequence to torque specifications. See
Capacities and Specifications 0305.
Brake linings should be replaced as complete
axle sets.
Brake Squeal and Brake Dust
Some driving conditions or climates can
cause a brake squeal when the brakes are
first applied, clearing up following several
applies. This does not mean something is
wrong with the brakes.
Vehicles equipped with high performance
brake systems provide superior fade
resistance but will produce increased brake
squeal and brake dust on the wheels and
calipers as compared to standard brake
linings. This is normal. To help reduce squeal, the brake pads are
treated with an anti-squeal paste that may
need to be reapplied periodically as part of
normal vehicle maintenance. The anti-squeal
paste will dissipate over time. Also, the use
of wheel cleaners or power washers directly
on the brake calipers may remove the
anti-squeal paste from the brake pads.
It may be necessary to reapply the
anti-squeal paste if it is removed during
cleaning.
If brake squeal is excessive, the anti-squeal
paste should be reapplied. The anti-squeal
paste should always be reapplied whenever
the brake pads are removed or replaced. See
your dealer for service.Brake Pedal Travel
See your dealer if the brake pedal does not
return to normal height, or if there is a
rapid increase in pedal travel. This could be
a sign that brake service may be required.
Replacing Brake System Parts
Always replace brake system parts with
new, approved replacement parts. If this is
not done, the brakes may not work
properly. The braking performance canchange in many ways if the wrong brake
parts are installed or if parts are improperly
installed.
The Brake Fade Warning Assist system is
designed for use with the factory-installed
brake pads or GM-approved replacement
pads. If the brake pads on the vehicle need
to be replaced, use GM-approved brake pads.
If this is not done, the brake fade warning
system may not function properly.
High Performance Brake Lining Cold
Weather Performance
If equipped with high performance brake
components, binding or clunking may be
noticeable when first moving the vehicle
after parking in cold weather when the
brakes have been wet, such as when driving
in the rain or after a car wash. This is
normal for brakes with high friction linings
and does not affect the operation of the
brakes. Apply the brakes several times until
the binding or clunking stops. If the vehicle
is washed before long term storage, drive it
and apply the brakes several times to
thoroughly dry the brakes before storing.

Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
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Vehicle Care 251
Brake Fluid
The brake master cylinder reservoir is filled
with GM approved DOT 4 brake fluid as
indicated on the reservoir cap. See
Underhood Compartment Overview0234 for
the location of the reservoir.
Checking Brake Fluid
With the vehicle in P (Park) on a level
surface, the brake fluid level should be
between the minimum and maximum marks
on the brake fluid reservoir.
There are only two reasons why the brake
fluid level in the reservoir may go down:
.Normal brake lining wear. When new
linings are installed, the fluid level goes
back up.
.A fluid leak in the brake hydraulic system.
Have the brake hydraulic system fixed.
With a leak, the brakes will not
work well. Always clean the brake fluid reservoir cap
and the area around the cap before
removing it.
Do not top off the brake fluid. Adding fluid
does not correct a leak. If fluid is added
when the linings are worn, there will be too
much fluid when new brake linings are
installed. Add or remove fluid, as necessary,
only when work is done on the brake
hydraulic system.
Caution
If too much brake fluid is added, the
brake fluid can spill and cause vehicle
damage, including damage to electrical
components and surfaces. Add brake fluid
only when work is done on the brake
hydraulic system.
When the brake fluid falls to a low level,
the brake warning light comes on. See Brake
System Warning Light 088.
Brake fluid absorbs water over time which
degrades the effectiveness of the brake fluid.
Replace brake fluid at the specified intervals
to prevent increased stopping distance. See
Maintenance Schedule 0293. What to Add
Use only GM approved DOT 4 brake fluid
from a clean, sealed container. See
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants
0301.
{Warning
The wrong or contaminated brake fluid
could result in damage to the brake
system. This could result in the loss of
braking leading to a possible injury.
Always use the proper GM approved
brake fluid.
Caution
If brake fluid is spilled on the vehicle's
painted surfaces, the paint finish can be
damaged. Immediately wash off any
painted surface.
Battery - North America
The original equipment battery is
maintenance free. Do not remove the cap
and do not add fluid.
Refer to the replacement number on the
original battery label when a new battery is
needed. For battery replacement, see your
dealer.