maintenance CHEVROLET CORVETTE C8 2021 User Guide

Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
14622938) - 2021 - CRC - 9/22/20
174 Climate Controls
2. Release the five clips and remove theouter cover.
3. Press two push tabs on the top and onthe bottom of the cabin air filter cover
and remove the cover.
4. Remove the air filter.
5. Install the new air filter and cover.
6. Install the outer cover.
7. Install the right and left outer covers.
Service
All vehicles have a label underhood that
identifies the refrigerant used in the vehicle.
The refrigerant system should only be
serviced by trained and certified technicians.
The air conditioning evaporator should never
be repaired or replaced by one from a
salvage vehicle. It should only be replaced
by a new evaporator to ensure proper and
safe operation.
During service, all refrigerants should be
reclaimed with proper equipment. Venting
refrigerants directly to the atmosphere is
harmful to the environment and may also
create unsafe conditions based on
inhalation, combustion, frostbite, or other
health-based concerns.
The air conditioning system requires periodic
maintenance. See Maintenance Schedule
0 293.

Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
14622938) - 2021 - CRC - 9/22/20
176 Driving and Operating
Driving Information
Driving for Better Fuel Economy
Driving habits can affect fuel mileage. Here
are some driving tips to get the best fuel
economy possible:
.Set the climate controls to the desired
temperature after the engine is started,
or turn them off when not required.
.Avoid fast starts and accelerate smoothly.
.Brake gradually and avoid abrupt stops.
.Avoid idling the engine for long periods
of time.
.When road and weather conditions are
appropriate, use cruise control.
.Always follow posted speed limits or
drive more slowly when conditions
require.
.Keep vehicle tires properly inflated.
.Combine several trips into a single trip.
.Replace the vehicle's tires with the same
TPC Spec number molded into the tire's
sidewall near the size.
.Follow recommended scheduled
maintenance.
.Using Tour mode rather than Sport or
Track modes, will result in better Active
Fuel Management operation. SeeActive
Fuel Management 0195.
.For recommended shift speeds, see Dual
Clutch Transmission 0197.
Premium Fuel
Use the recommended fuel. See
Recommended Fuel 0225.
Distracted Driving
Distraction comes in many forms and can
take your focus from the task of driving.
Exercise good judgment and do not let other
activities divert your attention away from
the road. Many local governments have
enacted laws regarding driver distraction.
Become familiar with the local laws in
your area.
To avoid distracted driving, keep your eyes
on the road, keep your hands on the
steering wheel, and focus your attention on
driving.
.Do not use a phone in demanding driving
situations. Use a hands-free method to
place or receive necessary phone calls.
.Watch the road. Do not read, take notes,
or look up information on phones or
other electronic devices.
.Designate a front seat passenger to
handle potential distractions.
.Become familiar with vehicle features
before driving, such as programming
favorite radio stations and adjusting
climate control and seat settings. Program
all trip information into any navigation
device prior to driving.
.Wait until the vehicle is parked to
retrieve items that have fallen to the
floor.
.Stop or park the vehicle to tend to
children.
.Keep pets in an appropriate carrier or
restraint.
.Avoid stressful conversations while
driving, whether with a passenger or on a
cell phone.
{Warning
Taking your eyes off the road too long or
too often could cause a crash resulting in
injury or death. Focus your attention on
driving.

Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
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178 Driving and Operating
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

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Driving and Operating 217
while maintaining the fully pressed
accelerator pedal, will manage tire slip and
transmissions clutch. After the vehicle is
launched, the system continues in
Competitive Driving Mode or PTM.
Competitive Driving Mode, PTM, and Launch
Control are systems designed for a closed
course race track and not intended for use
on public roads. The systems are not
intended to compensate for lack of driver
experience or familiarity with the race track.
Caution
The new vehicle break-in period should be
completed before using the launch
control feature, otherwise performance
will be limited and damage may occur to
the powertrain/engine. SeeNew Vehicle
Break-In 0190.
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 Mode
0214 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.

Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
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228 Driving and Operating
Filling the Tank with a Portable Fuel
Container
If the vehicle runs out of fuel and must be
filled from a portable fuel container:
1. Locate the capless funnel adapter.
2. Insert and latch the funnel into thecapless fuel system.
{Warning
Attempting to refuel from a portable fuel
container without using the funnel
adapter may cause fuel spillage and
damage the capless fuel system. This
could cause a fire. You or others could be
badly burned and the vehicle could be
damaged.
3. Remove and clean the funnel adapter and return it to the storage location.
Filling a Portable Fuel Container
{Warning
Never fill a portable fuel container while
it is in the vehicle. Static electricity
discharge from the container can ignite
the fuel vapor. You or others could be
badly burned and the vehicle could be
damaged. To help avoid injury to you
and others:
.Dispense fuel only into approved
containers.
.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. See Malfunction
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.

Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
14622938) - 2021 - CRC - 9/22/20
234 Vehicle Care
If equipped with remote vehicle start, open
the hatch/trunk before performing any
service work to prevent remote starting the
vehicle accidentally. SeeRemote 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.
Underhood Compartment
Overview
1. Front Lift System Reservoir (Under Cover,
if equipped). See Front Lift System 0213.
2. Battery (Under Cover). See Battery -
North America 0251.
3. Brake Fluid Reservoir (Under Cover). See Brake Fluid 0250.
4. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir. See Washer Fluid 0249.

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 0301 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-
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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 0316.
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)