C4 Edition: The Cost of Corvette Ownership
2024 ж. 22 Мам.
54 192 Рет қаралды
Lyle at C&S Corvettes continues his talk about what to expect in maintenance and repair costs as a C4 Corvette owner.
www.CorvettePartsCenter.com
Lyle at C&S Corvettes continues his talk about what to expect in maintenance and repair costs as a C4 Corvette owner.
www.CorvettePartsCenter.com
I do work on C4’s as I own one myself near the Jacksonville, NC area and would love to help others in the area.
hello: are you in jacksonville florida? I need to do some fixes to my C 4. Thank you.
I have a 1996 C4 and I am struggling with trying to find a dealer that can provide me with parts I need. Can you suggest one that I can depend on?
Thanks Lyle, Brutal. I’ve had an 87 for 19 years with very few problems. But you’re right on a lot. If you’re not a “ car guy “ and expect to just get in and drive, it doesn’t work that way. These are old cars that have to be understood and babyed. Thanks for pointing these things out because many will not be able to enjoy a c4
1985 C4 cost me $5000USD, spent $1500 USD to turn into a daily. Upgraded everything I could. Did all the work myself just using KZhead videos. Multicore radiator, trans cooler, twin electric fans, new fuel pump, filter, brake lines and replaced all rubber hoses, new shocks. Fantastic car, 110,000 miles I use it daily , no regrets I would like to replace steering bushes next, it never stops but we are caretakers of classic cars. Thing I hate most is cowboy DIY repairs. Guys if you need to fix something try and do it properly... especially soldering wires and using heat shrink wrap etc..stop using electrical tape Luckily no interior parts needed, just restored what I had with the GM paint cans. Interior is expensive, mechanicals are not.
I was lucky finding my Black stock 96 Z-51 car. Paid 11 grand a year ago for it, 80,000 miles and it was well taken care of. I've been having fun installing a few mods to the LT-1 like a 52 mm TPIS throttle body, TPIS stamped injectors, Flowmaster Force II Exhaust, replacing all of the old and original sensors and switches with new NAPA and AC Delco parts including O2, plugs, wires, module and tuning the car with JETS DST Tuner. The car runs so good and increased horsepower and torque with the JET tune. I love my C-4, it's a beautiful car and mine is much faster after the mods and tune. Its a tire fryer now. 🤟
I had a 89 I miss it but man it was problematic. Only 65k on it when I sold it in 2013 I paid around 8k for it. I do miss my c4
I have a black 89 interior is mint I'm doing a factory restoration on it and my blue 1990 has a 383 stroker waiting for spring to come.
I bought an 85 for $4000 in 2020. I drove it a ton (5,000 miles in 6 months) but eventually the minor issues started to bug me. It started off as little jobs here and there but eventually I bit the bullet and ripped the car apart to completely fix it. It had severe floor damage, a poorly shifting 700r4, a pretty much non-functional bose stereo, water leaks and other misc. issues. I have spent over $10,000 in parts for this car and have done every bit of the work myself. I knew going into this that I would spend way more money than the car is worth, but I have also never enjoyed driving another car as much as I enjoy this C4. I fixed all the floor damage, replaced the 700r4 with a ZF6 6 speed and Dana 44 rear, tastefully upgraded to a modern stereo system, upgraded the door window motors, full exhaust with long tube headers, all new super pro suspension bushings, ride tech adjustable shocks, nice 18x9.5 wheels with 285mm wide A/S 3+ tires, rebuilt the digital dash and converted every single light to led. Right now I am in the middle of installing a brand new interior and hope to be done by the spring. Next year's project is getting rid of the TPI intake, tiny stock cam and smog heads and make this thing run like a Corvette should. The C4 Corvette is an awesome platform, but unless you enjoy setting fire to money or love complicated expensive projects, do yourself a favor and buy the nicest one you can, and prepare to still put some money into it.
“A giant vat of misery that you will never escape with your soul in tact” lmao that’s an amazing statement
My best friend works on mine, over 20 years now. We built a 396 stroker with a D-1 procharger, 200 cc Brodix IK 48Lb injectors, 4L80 trans 3,300 yank stall, new analog gauges, custom bezel, ratchet shifter, shift light. New interior, pro comp headers. Body kit and new paint, window luvers on windows. It’s a shit kicking sleeper, ready for business ☝️☝️💪
My '89 has been flawless in over 15 years of ownership no different than a modern car. Upon first purchase (original down to the gatorbacks), I proactively replaced the fuel pump, all underhood relays, fuel injectors, fuel rail o-rings, changed all the fluids, rebuilt the bose amplifiers myself. Minor maintenance in brake work. Zero dollars on any repairs at all. My brothers 1990 has been equally reliable. The c2 and C3, different story. Those get wrenches on them almost every weekend.
How miles it had when you first bought it? How many miles do you have now?
My neighbor works only on C4 corvettes. He has a few dozen customers. A small 2 bay garage out back of his house here in Tampa. Like you said these guys are few and far between. He only works on 84- 89. Not a fan of the dash change. He is old school ex GM tech. OEM parts only.
@volkswagenplanet
@@hpo2813 did you.need something done on your C4 vette? I live in Tampa
@@Volkswagenplanet I have a 96, would be great to have someone on speed dial but he only does 84 to 89. At the moment everything is ok.
Thanks Lyle, I would not let anyone but C&S touch my C4. You guys have found and fixed all the problems without breaking the bank.
Hey Lyle, I have a 96 GS. For service I take her to Hendrick Chevrolet in Durham, NC. They never disappoint.
I enjoy wrenching almost as much as driving. You get a great sense of accomplishment fixing something on your own. Also, in none of my 5 years of C4 ownership has it left me stranded, took me off the road for more than a day or broke the bank. Enjoy your ride.
I've been working on cars since I was knee high to a duck as my dad used to say (RIP Old Man), and corvettes were never on my radar. While he was a Ford guy, I developed a love for Camaros. After 20 years of various Camaro ownership, I finally pulled the trigger on a 92 Vette. I'm rather impressed so far. It needs some love, but with the knowledge that old man put to me, I feel I can handle it. Looking forward to the journey.
You hit it right on the nose Lyle. I have a guy that will work on my C4 but sometimes he has to turn me down, NO PROBLEM! I do a lot of the work on mine. It saves me a lot of money and I get more and more knowledgeable as I do the work. I think the more you get familiarized and confident with doing the work yourself the better and the cheaper. I just saved myself about $400. Thanks Lyle, you're the man!!
Ryan at Corvette Care in Columbus OH is stellar.
I own a 1996 C4 Grand Sport and although the car is in pretty great condition… it’s certainly frustrating not knowing where I could take it for more than routine service in the event it may need something someday 😩
I love my ‘91. 84,000 km and running like a dream. Loved ‘Vettes since I was a little kid. Now I have my very own…
I bought my first Corvette (a C7) in Nov ’22 (I’m short, so I fit in it just fine, Lyle). I knew owning a high-strung, temperamental sports car would be an expensive hobby. And it’s turning out exactaly as I thought. There is always going to be something to do on that car. Either something I *want* to do or *have* to do. And none of it is cheap 😂
Lyle, thanks for a pretty honest perspective on the C4 "overall". I may be one of the few or only one, who's owned their C4, since it was new. So my basic story is... It's an '84, Z51 Suspension, 4+4 trans and original engine assembly, with almost 366k miles (236K) on the rebuild. Best time in a 1/4 mile. 14.6 adjusted for sea level (factory spec) tuned myself. I currently auto cross this car. 2 years ago, I had the 5th fastest time in the first autocross at a Memorial Day event. Including cars on Hoosiers. I had new Toyo's. With that being said. The only part I've had to replace or rebuild more than once was the LCD Main cluster. I'm on the 3rd rebuild now. One trick I hope that will prolong the life of this dash, which is susceptible to failure due to vibration, (84/Z1's are the worst), you likely know is... I installed rubber washers on either side of the mounting holes, the mounting screws went through. This was done to mitigate the vibration issue. I have been through the frustration of diagnosing problems of letting the car sit for about 10 years. (fuel system), electronics (computer) etc... While my current computer is working fine. I have purchased an EBL computer, which can be tuned on a laptop. I am a car guy, and I can do most things. I do however have a Corvette certified mechanic, who has worked on this car, since 1987. The shop name is "Austin Corvette" in Austin, Tx. They work on all ages of Corvettes and also has a paint and body shop. They did the rebuild on the engine at 130k. The car is on its 2nd water pump and original radiator. Needless to say, I'm putting a "built" L98 and a carb set up for short term fun, in the auto cross world, and will be fitted with ZR1 Rubber. Some people wonder why I spend the money. Well I realize, C5's will cost a lot more to maintain in the near future. (my opinion). More complex, means higher maintenance down the road. The only interior pieces that have truly suffered were the leather seats. I'm putting Corbeau's for the near term and will eventually put the factory seats, once I rebuild the original engine and replace the built engine I will be installing in the near future. The only mechanical fix I have now is the AC system. I pretty much have as much fun driving it, as I did when new with the exception of the AC. Thanks for listening and hope you'll recommend Austin, Corvette to owners in the Central Texas area. Save the Wave!
The C4 straddles that line between old-school and modern. My '96 LT4 seemed to be in pretty good shape when I got it nearly 2 years ago. But it's had some "interesting" problems. Christian Brothers Automotive in Frisco, TX has done a good job helping me with the things I couldn't handle myself. They're not cheap but they understand these cars. Also, factory service manuals are a MUST.
Lyle, Thank you for all you do, so much informative corvette knowledge. Your channel is a life saver all us corvette enthusiast's.
been thinking ab getting a c4 as a project and ur videos on them are rlly helpful on what to know ab them thank you!
Thanks Lyle for your excellent and honest info on the C4's. I found a 93 C4 mostly rebuilt in the front end. Engine, etc. However as You said it still has it's C4 Bugs! You asked about fair, reputable shops. I'm in Fort Myers Florida not far from You and I've found Legendary Automotive to be excellent! They do specialize in Vette's. If needed call and talk to Wendy and have Jason Labonte do your repairs. He is great! Oh, and as Lyle said fixing Vette's ain't cheap! But oh so worth it! 🙂
Lyle, love your videos. I love my 91 based on some of your comments. Perfect Vette for me. You bring straight forward real world facts. Keep it rolling!
I take my 1994 to Bob Johnson Chevrolet in Rochester, NY. Always fixed quickly and PROPERLY. 63,500 miles, 29 yrs old and runs like brand new. Only place in this part of state I would personally trust with my Corvette
Lyle, thanks very much for this presentation. As the owner of a well running 1990 C4 Coupe (108,000 kms), I very much like your comment on the weatherstrip as mine needed replacing and those adjustments were not fun. Also agree that if you want to keep the car as close to original is expensive ( in my case this is what I wanted). It's a great hobby and I'm glad to still be part of it. Love this site.
My 1st Vette was a black 94 with 36K miles. It wasn't cheap, but I loved it. I even decided to keep it after I bought a C6. The cars were very different, and I loved the handling and visceral ride. I kept it for 7 years until I bought a C7. In all that time I had only two repairs. I miss that car.
Thank you, you've saved me a ton a money. My Dad had 5 corvettes, C3, 2 C4s, C5 and C6. My favorite was the '88 Callaway. I'm considering buying a C4 and this and your other videos have helped informed me a lot. Thank you.
The early angular C4s have a cost advantage in the fact that they use the old school sbc. Tires for the 16" wheels can be difficult to find cheaply. Factory size was 255 50-16. 245 50-16s work fine with no really noticeable difference and can be easily found. They even stretch out well on the wider z51 rims.
Good video Lyle. I take my c4 to Doc's corvettes in Tulsa Ok. Brian is very honest and he has been in business over 40 yrs. I highly recommend him.
Thank you for your reply
Im a C6 guy but loved this video. Lyle im a huge fan of the channel pre and current Corvette ownership!!!!
I’ve owned a 94 since 2005. My out of pocket items since day one? Shocks all around, brake pads, starter, weather stripping on the doors, new targa clear top, two batteries, leather repair drivers seat, new rear deck trim, upgraded wheels, two sets of tires, OptiSpark - coil - water pump. Modern stereo and speaker upgrades. And I love the car.
Great Video.. Jason @ Tire, Battery, and Performance in Forney, TX
thats why the c5 is the best bang for the buck
It's cool how you nailed things on a C4. I bought a 90 with my eyes open as to what was needed and cost just to get safe for any type of drive. I am up to the challenge but neglected to find a good shop to do things I wasn't able to perform. So that learning curve wasn't cheap. I understand labor cost and time, even put that into my budget for that "didn't see that issue." Thank goodness for people like you! Your response to questions has helped a TON. I really like my C4 now that It's safe and stable. To anyone thinking about a cheap any year corvette, listen to LYLE. Being on the west coast we have NO C/S corvette shop up where I live, but Green streak Auto has been very helpful and honest. Outside of Eugene OR.
Really good video and commentary. I've had several Corvettes from other generations and decided to take a swing at a C4 several years ago. Very different animal. It's a 1990 convertible. And while she's a complete pain most of the time, I love her dearly. Much of the trouble and cost I have is the fact that I demand perfection. As such, everything I do takes more time and money than it probably should. I paid a fair price for the Corvette and have at least four times the original cost in repairs, upgrades, and restoration. It is still far from finished. All that said, I really love my C4. I rarely see them on the road, which is strange considering the overwhelming production numbers. It's a special machine and I feel so honored to be the current caretaker. Your description about concerns and costs are spot on. In reality, you were much more kind about ownership costs than you should have been. A big bite of reality sandwich is necessary as people see these cars as bargain buys, then talk trash about them because of insurmountable challenges they can't afford. It's more related to the low-budget owner -- not the car itself. I live in the Seattle/Tacoma area. Finding a qualified mechanic has been an ongoing problem. I don't care too much about cost. I'm more interested in quality, thoroughness, and them demonstrating the respect for my Corvette that I believe she deserves. I can't have a mechanic who approaches my C4 the same way they would a Toyota Prius, but that's the trend around here, it seems. Anyway, really great video. I hope to see more like it.
Glad to see your comment here. I am looking at buying a 1996 C4 Corvette and I live up in Mount Vernon. Very skeptical because the lack of support. I am def a car guy so I am understanding. But I know older sports cars can be a pain in the ass for finding parts and as Lyle said finding people to work on them. Any luck finding a corvette shop in seattle area?
@@V29546 Hi! It's great to hear from a potential C4 buyer. There is a shop called Corvettes of Auburn with good reviews from the Corvette community. I just contacted them a few days ago. I have a repair scheduled so I'll know more after that's done. They aren't inexpensive but if they live up to what I've heard, it will be worth it. I will say this about the C4, it usually isn't bad to work on. I've self-performed a lot of my restoration/repairs at home and enjoyed it. Drive-train and suspension parts aren't all that expensive or complicated. Specific body and interior parts get pricey but not bad considering the quality and how specialized they are. But it really is a fun car to work on and drive. I've had mine completely gutted down to the fiberglass and aluminum tub. It was scary but everything went back together like Legos. The 1996 you're looking at will be a much better car than mine for power and reliability. I'd recommend getting it, especially if you like doing some things yourself. Since I can handle many repairs at home, I figure it offsets the cost of going to a mechanic for the work I can't do myself... Now if I can just find that ever-elusive "super mechanic". By the way, I've found that almost all of the problems I'd had with electronics, headlight motors, gauges, window motors, door locks, etc. all stemmed from bad grounds. The Corvette uses a lot of non-conductive composites so grounds terminate in strange places and often not the best solution from the factory. Also, there's a central ground terminal near the battery that happens to get a lot of road grime and water thrown at it. After rerouting and re-terminating grounds on everything, then landing them on a better terminal block near the battery and bonding the battery to the frame ends (front and rear) and motor with quality ribbon straps, problems have magically disappeared.
very helpful here. I had a C7 Stingray and a C7 Grand sport. There is just something about that retro goodness of a C4 that is drawing me in. I love that clam shell hood, pop up headlights. For price point, the retro goodness and just a fun car to drive on the weekends I feel this it. I used to be into big power. Now I just care about the experience and easy cruising while sipping some am dunkin coffee on a Saturday morning. Can you tell me what repair are you going to use them for?@@mlbluesman
Thanks for the frank description of what it takes to buy and own a C4.
Hey Lyle, met you at Corvettes at Carlisle last summer. I have had my '95 worked on at Corvette Paramedics in Mt. Holly, New Jersey many times now. They have seemed very knowledgable and willing to work on C4s, I am very pleased with them so far.
Sheesh! What a flex! Being booked through June!
Hi Kyle. Really like your channel. It’s a great place to get genuine information of everything Corvette. I’m in Mississauga, Canada. A suburb of Toronto, in the province of Ontario. We’re just northwest of Buffalo NY. In our community we have a great garage called Rankin automotive. The owner operator is a corvette guy. He works on all vehicles but his passion is corvette’s of all generations. Anyone needing some advice or work on a c4 vette should give him a call.
Thanks Lyle. If you live near Titusville, Florida, known as the Space Coast, I have a Corvette guy that does my work on my C4 Collectors Edition. The shop is Corvette Interiors Plus. The owner is Ron and he knows his stuff when it comes to all Corvettes. Dont let the name fool you the plus is for working on the motors and everything else. So you can share that with your followers in another video you do on C4s. Thanks again for another great and honest video. I love my 1996 Corvette.
Info on this person
So true good show Im glad I have a 95 in great condition but this advice to buyers is true stuff Thanks
Thanks Lyle, real honest. Working on my 2nd C4, another '96, and am enjoying it more everyday. Everything you said about C4 is true. Doing everything myself so far, now retire so time is free for me. Bought my Collectors Edition for $7500, here in Houston, have spent $3500 in replacement parts and have just about taken her apart once in the first six months of ownership. Fun, fun, fun.....cheap weatherstripping is not worth it, can't get the targa top mounted, so will have to get the good stuff for that fix. Thanks for a great channel.
Hi Lyle Rick here, Just thought i would share just what you said would happen! I bought 85 c4 for 3200 and boy i will fix it up! Being a retired mechanic that can fix just about anything i figured no problem. RIGHT I did all the labor myself. I will just list the parts as much as i can remember. Starting with it needed a 700R4 transmission, complete exhaust and manifold studs, all hangers. New flywheel Starter all new brakes Tires Iac motor all temp sensors anti knock sensor injectors plenum gaskets bypass hose new distributor wires plugs distributor cap oils sensors oil change air pump delete kit new valve covers and gaskets new rockers and pushrods all new vacuum lines air filter Fuel pump fuel filter gas tank boot also fuel regulator All new carpets and reupholster seats replaced most of the interior plastic shifter boot rebuilt instrument panel all seals rear glass latch storage box covers all light bulbs not headlamps Door panels rekeyed door locks and console cover headliner in targa top TPS sensor Visors Radio and power antenna All stabilizer bar mounts front and rear AND I AM SURE I forget all kinds of things Again I did All the Labor in a year But I got a College degree on the c4 BUYER BEWARE !!!!!! RUNS PERFECT NOW Going to paint it this year Two tone bottom burgundy wine and white Top
Outstanding Rick! Super effort!
You must have bought a pile of junk 😢
@@tater6573Looks like he bought a good project and fixed all the issues it had. Can't get a daily driving show car for 3200.
Another excellent video. Own a '96 CE. Had two other C4's for 17 years. Great Corvettes, but as Lyle recommends, one should have a few thousands of dollars for unexpected expenses. All 3 of the C4's I owned were purchased at a higher dollar to avoid paying more for potentailly later issues. Plus none of them were ever driven during northern winter months.
Heritage Chevy-Buick in Owings Mills, Md (just north of Baltimore).. Stephanie (Service writer) & Sean (Technician). They are excellent to work with on vintage vettes, including C-4's.
Dave's Complete Automotive in Council Bluffs Iowa....been working on my 92 for over 5 years and always took care of any problems I have encountered 👍🇺🇸
I picked mine up for 6500. Put another 5 into it with me doing the work. It was just maintenance that needed to be done, so some of that I "upgraded" the parts. Still alot I don't know, but not afraid to tackle it. I have a car I would take anywhere and do!
I work on c4’s. I don’t have a shop….yet. I had to buy old dealership Kent Moore tools and old OBD1 scanners. Located in Ohio
I actually tried a C5 for my C4. I wanted an '89 with the six speed. Had it almost three years, and it has 81k on it. Replaced both headlight motors was about all til last month. The rack and pinion started to leak and I ended up replacing it, the hoses and pump as well. Spent about 2 grand parts and labor and found the best price on a rack at Rock Auto with a brand new Lares brand rack. Seemed like a lot of money on the labor but it was a 14 hour job at 100 bucks an hour. Still love this car; the rest of it is pretty good; no rotted interior, everything works (so far, lol) and the weatherstrip was decent except for the hatch, which I replaced. Granted, got boot in the trade, but I figure purchase price was about 10-11k at the time. I would rather pay more initially, and I feel you can get a better C4 by doing so.
I have a 95 base convertible 66k love the car very fun to drive,no issues.
Good advice Lyle...."You get what you pay for"
Good video sir, I don't have a C4 anymore, but RMS automotive in Savannah Ga is a good shop. The owner is a C4 enthusiast and knows his way around the platform.
Lyle this is a great video for guys looking into a 2nd car. Great now, would have been a lifesaver for some if made 5-8 years ago...
Well done Lyle!
Got my son in college a 95 with 80k and a ton of dealer records in great shape for 4,100. Still had to get tires, brakes, weather stripping, fuel pump, map sensor, optispark, plugs and wires and new radio and speakers (optional but not if your in college)
Lyle, I am in Chicago and the best that I know of is Blackdog Speed Shop in Lincolnshire IL. These guys are the best in Restorations, repairs and bespoke builds. I don’t have a C4 (85 TransAm) but they rebuilt my car and it looks and runs like new. They have several Corvettes in the shop ant any time. Ask for John, he is a miracle worker!
So true. I have a 1991 its a good car but definitely has intermittent issues and its a pain to figure it out. They are amazing cars though and very fun.
my father had an 87 c4 corvette did the larger tires, but he maintained it perfectly. shes a joy to drive and it still turns heads
sorry didnt mean had, still has, ive inherited it. the electronic dash works perfecly. the only problem is the drivers side window mechanism doesnt work anymore. not that big of a deal
Lyle, Conte's Corvettes in Vineland NJ. Tell Marty, Luis and Michele that Ray Coles sent them! I did not attach the Red Light Bandit as of yet. I'm adjusting to my new GS C6. Once I'm used to it, I'll install it then. The Southern NJ weather is now warming up.
Man you're so right regarding the weatherstripping, I have a 1984 Camaro Z28 with T tops that I did every piece of rubber, adjusting the glass ain't my thing. I never drive in the rain, I know if I get caught in a down pour it's gonna leak.
Houston, Texas - K&D, full fuel cleaning and replaced fuel pump, doing electrical diagnostics and have done awesome work so far.
Update: Fuel pump, fuel filter, custom wiring harness and fan switch, new coolant - 1,500$ and its running at max temp 191-195. Amazing car, it beat ferrari out of the SCCA back in 85-88'
Lyle, in San Diego Ca. I know Dave Meyer Corvette Specialty used to take a lot of C4 models in. But I don't know about recently. This is unfortunate since the C4 is a great Corvette that still performs well. Especially the ZR1 and LT1/4 models. Another unfortunate story. The person I was going to take a Corvette to for general repairs and maintenance is no longer in the business of automotive repairs. Is it becoming a problem to find competent repair shops?
I picked up my 96 LT4 over a year ago for 2,800.00 not running. I replaced the opti water pump steering column weatherstripping which I need to adjust the windows still and replaced the windshield other than the windshield I did all the work myself and I have 113k on it now bought it with 111k it is a blast to drive. I have been debating on doing the muffler delete next. I am saving up for a new paint job and to have the seats done. Maybe next year?? But Kyle is right as cars get older they need more attention luckily I am a master mechanic and most of the work I can do. I have put another 2,500.00 in the car not including any of my labor just to get it where it’s at today. So all in I’m around 5,300.00 next month since I live in the Midwest I will be replacing the tires. They have only 2,400 miles on them but they are dry rotting and don’t trust them on a long cruise. Which that comes from before I bought the car it sat outside on a trailer for 4-5 years not running. So I saved it!! I don’t regret my purchase at all.
I bought a pretty nice one 49k then all stock four years ago for 10k. Haven't spent much on it , but at some point it will need a clutch ,as it lets out at the top. We will have to convert to a single mass and prolly get rattle in neutral . If my opti goes, I'm going 24x. They are a lot of fun.
Bought an 89, had it for about 4 or 5 years. Loved it and hated it. I couldn't work on it and most mechanics were still learning how to work on them. The breakdowns were strange and costly. Today after time has passed many have learned how to work on them. Hell even changing the battery was a big job but hey I could do that myself. Have to say I got to the stage that the cost of keeping it on the road was a bit to much for what you got out of it. Final straw for me was it became time for new tires, OK tires wear out. When I priced a new set of eagles and they were $450 a tire I decided I had enough. LOL. What I do think about now is I would really like a nice C4 as a daily driver. I did like the interior and the car design in general very much and it was a fun car to drive. I have a 69 stingray right now that you could consider a nice daily driver. For me it is a nice Sunday afternoon take it for ride car at best maybe 3 months out of the year. Cool but they ride like tanks and you don't just pass by gas stations and not look at the fuel gauge. That is it, I could never drive the thing every day like I could a C4 that wouldn't break down but I know better.
Gallant's Automotive in Bel Air, MD does a LOT of C4 work. The owner worked at a Chevy dealer in the '90s and was certified on ZR-1s.
Hey, im just north of you in Florida. I personally go to the Sumter Tire and Auto shop nearby where I live. I see old classic mustangs, Corvettes, C4s, and even seen a couple Original Model T Fords in their shop. Great guys, fairly priced, and always got the job done. One time had a 97 Lincoln with a broken window motor. Said they cant just order one but they would keep an eye out for one, just call in every week or so. They proped the window closed with some soft shims, and a couple months later called me and let me know they found one at a junk yard that was fully functional. They then installed it, took the old one and sent it to be refurbished. Something I would recommend to anyone, reguardless of vehicle, is to get an Oil Analysis done at an oil change interval. It will tell you, in detail, everything going on with the car. Might not say what is wrong, but it is great in the sense that it will tell you if coolant and oil are mixing, (head gasket) or if you have excess wear (time for a rebuild/tuneup) or if you have other weird stuff going on. For old cars like C4s, I'd imagine getting an oil Analysis would help solve or make aware alot of mechanical issues before they hit you in more typical fashion. I'm not a car guy that knows how to rip apart my cars and put them back together, the extent of my knowledge is the occasional oil change, tire rotation, and basic stuff like installing a cold air intake on my GT Mustang, or a complete stage one on my Harley Davidson. (Cold air, tuner, and full exhaust) so I am by no means an expert, but I know enough about turning a wrench to know when something is beyond my capabilities, and I can generally say what something is an issue vs what isn't.
Good to know! i'll add it to my list of recommended shops! Lyle
Still working on my 85 C5 (owned since 86) full restoration. Not the best financial decision, but hey, its a labor of love.
Tony here from Australia, I think you made a mistake with the factory tyre sizes at the beginning of the video, 245’s are the more common tyre available in 16”, 255’s are hard to get.
I just bought a 1984 c4 and now I am second guessing my purchase. Hopefully it works out… if you don’t have one already I’d love a video for first time c4 owners and how they can care for their car properly
WOW, bought my 4th vette never kept them long enough for problems, now my 2006 is having electrical problems.
I've had my 87 for almosert two years, and paid about double of you r "3500" number. Redid the weatherstripping myself but so far everything else has just been "old car maintenance". I've taken it to Certified Automotive Solutions in Nashua NH, only a couple times so far, but have been quick, competent, and seem to be honest. I've seen other performance cars (Nissan GT-R's, Porsches, other Corvettes) there as well as some antique stuff. I've heard people say, "There's nothing more expensive than a cheap Corvette"
Would've liked to own a C4 I had no idea it was that hard to find someone to work on it.
Im looking forward to buying a c4 corvette honestly and im ok with what it costs to maintain.
This is actually one of the best C4 videos I have come across. Good factual content describing in real world terms the nuances about this Corvette generation that seem to be a common occurrence. What to know about, where to check, what to look for and how much it could cost. I can only offer one additional caution to watch out for. If the Corvette you are buying comes with a car cover which has been rolled up and neatly stowed away in the luggage compartment, don't leave it parked outside in the rain. If you thought that means the seller must be a really fussy careful owner who regularly shows his car at vintage and classic car shows, you might have guessed that wrong@
Another great video. Thank you. I too own a ‘96 GS. Had it since ‘96. Garage kept and babied. 55,000 miles. So, you seemed to steer sort of clear of late model C4’s. The weather stripping on mine is still squishy! But is it too (a ‘96 LT4) a money pit waiting to happen?
Clutch and opti at some point . You can easily sell your nice LT4 GS.
I paid $2k for my 86 Corvette this januaury. Wasn't running of course due to the distributor timing being off. Originally, it was an intake manifold leak that the previous owner fixed. Haven't fixed it yet due to weather not being favorable and my place of residence has no garage. Not having a garage sucks.
Good Stuff Lyle, Not a good sign Corvette shops do not like C-4. June......................Goodness gracious.
My 89 has been running fine but would like to find a shop in SE Pa. That won't RIP me off.
Yeah my name is Brandon Valverde I have a 96 convertible lt4 that's completely original also came with the hardtop and I've had nothing but problems with this car the only thing I haven't done to it so far is the rear end in it and everything else has been rebuilt so the only thing I didn't do was the actual block having that line board and everything I took it to a reputable machine job for that work done everything else to the car pretty tricky cars to work on I worked on cars on my life and this one is thrown me every wrench you could possibly imagine into it and so I'm in California. Central Valley I worked on cars on my life and I'll help anybody with their C4
Exellent advice and interesting video as usual! I would prefer a softer analogy than going into the car/mine with a pickaxe .. I want silk gloves touching my car
That misaligned wiper door on the C3 behind you is driving me nuts. Let's get right on that, lol.
Performance tires, weather striping, interior, electrical (minus the dash)... most old cars have the same problems and more. Mother attrition will take care of the C4 and every other "cheap" car, she always does.
Finding someone to work on my 90 Corvette here on Maui is nearly impossible. I have finally found a good place that will work on it and he and his son are very familiar with vettes, he even races one on the weekends. With that said, i need a complete rebuild of the motor and he doesn't have the time to do it and can't have the spot in his shop filled whilst the motor is rebuilt. It will probably cost $5,000.00 just to pull the motor, at least $10,000.00 for the motor work and another $5,000.00 for reinstall. I will probably end up having to send it to Oahu for the motor rebuild. With that said, he is and will still be my main place to send my vette in the future. The place is called Next Gen. Great guy!
Jim Falk Motors is the Chevrolet Dealer on Maui. They should be able to work on your Chevrolet.
I'm in the UK and paid a lot for a C4 with electrical problems, probably needing new weather-stripping, a non-working handbrake and P gear that doesn't engage, chipped paint, an interior colour I don't even like, doors that don't lock, are difficult to shut, mirrors that don't adjust and windows that don't go all the way up without the doors open and I don't even have a garage to keep it in. Now I have it with someone to give me an estimate of how much all the problems are going to cost to fix - I thought I could have this as my daily driver whilst I get my Pontiac finished... :-( Back to walking again... but I will persevere - out of love for the C4 or sheer hate for the alternative: a wrong-hand-drive, wrong-wheel-drive 4-cylinder eco-box. I wish I was in the US...
I used The Vette Shop in Doylestown, PA but they were pricey, and I found a local mechanic who was willing to work on my 93 Polo Green Convertible. He is Weikel Auto Shop in Penndel, PA and is only 5 miles from my home. He works with me and allows me to by the 3rd party parts after doing some research, which I can do, and I am responsible if they fail. He is fine buying authentic AC Delco parts and insuring them, which is fine for me!
The problem is people with money who can afford the expensive ones get into this and expect to run into zero issues. THAT IS A FANTASY TALE. if you aren't willing to put the money or blood sweat and tears into a car then maybe this isn't FOR YOU.
My dad takes his C4 to Summit Ridge in Elkhart IN.
5:15 How would I check or find out if they are able to do it? Do I just ask them
Mark heibeck in adison illinois, heibeck performance. Specializing in zr1s, unsure if he does base models
There's tons of 17" wheels OEM and aftermarket for sale for the early cars. The Corvette forums, parts suppliers and KZhead are your friends.
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Is swapping in an LS1 into a C4 a good way to go?
I did my homework and bought a 95 with 60,000 miles . I paid 10,000 and have spent that much on upgrades and repairs.
I make a good deal 2 weeks before Christmas. I buy a white 89 coupe 6speed Z51 FX3 C4. All original and everything is working for less then 10 grand. Here in Germany that is a really good price.
I grabbed my 85 for $2200, became a proper runner and driver for $700 put 53k on it in 2 years of ownership and I'm in total about $6000 in including buying the car, my intake manifold gasket just failed a few days ago, as long as your willing to take the jobs on yourself. You can really enjoy these cars for relitivily cheep.
I have a 86 white with red interior, I love the car. I bought it in January of 90 and drove it till December of 2010 and has 206,000 miles on it. The car was last on the road in 2010 because the transmission went bad and the motor is tired and has been sitting in my garage. The car needs a motor transmission and paint and I am at a crossroad. Most places say it's not worth wasting time and money. I did get a quote for 10,000 for a rebuilt motor and transmission. Nothing is cheap when it comes to a Corvette. I have not gotten any more quotes and thinking it over, most places say junk the car and take the 10 and put it towards a newer one, BUT, a newer car say a 2003 model has over 100,000 miles and you are spending an average of 20 grand and in a few years you are back in the same situation with a high mileage car that needs work. See the situation.
Any good recs for a C4/Corvette mechanic in the Atlanta GA area?
Haibeck Automotive in Addison, Illinois is the "go to guy" for my 91 ZR-1. Marc Haibeck is also well versed (PHD Level) in most things C4. Marc was personally schooled by Gordon Killabrew, who is a C4 Mythical God. Marc Haibeck is one of, if not the best, LT-5 engine builder on the planet. Like Lyle here Haibeck is likely booked out several months in advance. I have always been pleased with the service and care Haibeck Automotive has provided for my cars.
There’s a great video on KZhead Mark did about the ZF 6 speed. Count yourself lucky to live near a talented guy like that!
C7s can be a pain too I have one that gives me fits it has been taken to chevrolet dealerships even under warranty still can't figure it out but charge you for it anyway