Here are ALL the notable quirks, features, and easter eggs of the C4 Corvette...
Shown in lightning speed!
Some quirks I love, and some I hate, but this is a "Doug DeMuro" style tour of the hidden features of the fourth generation Corvette (1984-1996).
This is a follow-up to my Top 5 "Secret" Quirks video-
• C4 CORVETTE QUIRKS: To...
OTHER CORVETTE VIDEOS I'VE MADE
Playlist: • CORVETTES Forever
CHAPTERS
0:00 Intro
0:59 Cargo Area
2:51 Key/Fob
3:57 Interior Cabin
6:09 Owner's Manual
6:27 Targa Top
7:16 Power Seats
8:10 Gauges/Electronics
9:16 Ebrake
9:48 Manual Transmission/CAGS
11:32 Servicing/Hood
12:30 My ONE Styling Complaint!
13:04 Outro
THE QUIRKS AND FEATURES (Top 40)
1. Opening the trunk (secret door button)
2. Hatchback glass closing
3. Hidden cargo cover
4. Seats that flop forward
5. Storage bin inside cargo area
6. ABS module bin
7. ABS module self-test procedure sound
8. VATS key resistor pellet/chip
9. PKE (Passive Keyless Entry)
10. Turn PKE on or off
11. Ignition lock button
12. Narrow footwells
13. Exposed interior screwheads
14. Horn button location
15. Passenger side airbag/glovebox
16. Secret door panel bins
17. Cupholders
18. Cr02 cassette tape button
19. Center console cassette tape partitions
20. Corvette owner's manual
21. Owner's manual pen and light
22. Wrench for targa top removal
23. Stowing targa top in cargo area
24. Two targa tops (acrylic and fiberglass)
25. Power seat adjustments
26. Passenger seat power adjustments switch
27. Seat rake adjustment
28. Remove bottom seat cushion
29. Driver information center screen
30. C4 digital and analogue gauges
31. Gas gauge/reserve
32. Trip monitor/LCD information
33. Wiper blades
34. Emergency parking brake how to use
35. ZF 6 speed sound
36. CAGS 1-to-4 skipshift
37. Jack and lug nut wrench location
38. Clamshell hood
39. Hood prop
40. Door handles
MY CAR
1996 Chevrolet Corvette Collector Edition LT4 Z51 6-speed
SPECIAL THANKS
To Ethan Tufts from Hello Road for additional photography-
/ helloroad
FOLLOW
Retro Cars Forever / Brad Hansen on Instagram-
/ bradhansenmedia
#c4 #corvette
CORRECTION: In regards to the extra storage bin in the cargo area behind the driver, I was incorrect in saying that the bin went away in 1986 because of the ABS module. The bin actually STAYED as there was still room above the module for the bin...UNTIL 1992, when the ASR traction control system was added to the mix and took up the rest of the space in that bin. So 1984-1992 cars had the extra bin behind the driver's seat, 1992-1996 did not. Thank you to the viewers who brought this up to my attention!
I now have a rubber bin for things
I was gonna say, haha. I own an 87 and I remember finding the abs module under that bin after fiddling with it. Also, the bins are pretty good for storing all your hair band rock cassettes or cds! Thanks for sharing about the abs sound, I had always wondered what it was. Mine sounds a bit different, almost like a spaceship decelerating haha
I was going to say. My 1988 has that bin and when you said 1986+ didn’t have it I was confused.
Good to know. When I bought mine it had a sub in the storage area. Wasn't until I took out that box that I found it.
My 93 has a storage area with a lock behind the passenger seat and a storage area behind the driver's seat. The driver's seat compartment has a molded bottom to hold a small tire pump. I was told that it was an option to have a pump instead of a spare tire. I have a stock 4x18 spare.
You see the screws as unfortunate, as someone who works on their own car I see a interior that can be taken apart with a screw driver and a 7/16 socket. A literal god send.
Fair point! Less covers in the way, it's true.
One quirk you forgot is the interior lighting! I also have a '96 LT4 CE and I was blown away the first time I played with the interior lights at night. The orange glow from the buttons, dials, and ambient lighting is awesome, but I was amazed when I pushed the dimmer switch all the way up and suddenly the entire cabin was lit from about 5 different light sources including that cool and quirky map light on the underside of the mirror.
Good one! Yeah it feels like a spaceship with everything lit up at night in there.
As a (relatively young) c3 owner I can’t believe how much more advanced the c4 is in terms of tech, it feels like my 77 is 20 years older in tech than some 82’s GM really did manage to create an amazing legacy with this car, gotta love the vette
Well there's a reason for that...The C3 was based off a 60's platform! There were also huge advances in tech/computers from the 70s to the 80s. Still love how C3's look and would love to own a later one someday.
@@RetroCarsForever seriously it’s the only car that I have strong love feeling towards every single model out there 😂, hope to see more of your vids in my timeline!
@@0xymfzzty0 Thanks, more coming soon!
Hey Retro Cars Forever! I'm looking into buying a C4 corvette as my first car and just wanna let you know that I love your videos! Theyre so cool and informative! Keep up the great work man
Thanks so much! That would make an epic first car. Hope these videos help you get familiar with them. Even after owning 20 other cars, I found the C4 pretty confusing, so my aim is to help people like you get more familiar with them to make smart purchasing decisions.
I have a 96 base, auto,, under 31k miles, white with red leather interior. If interested please message me
Hey, right on! My first car is a c4 as well, just got her running last week. Best of luck to you!
@@justinthomas7529 Nice! What year?
@@RetroCarsForever It's an 85. 4+3 manual, L98, 98k miles. I would post a photo if the website would let me.
I own a C4 1989 Roadster and there are a few interesting 'quirks' of the manual convertible top like the rear deck lid release (in 3 places) and the pull handle release under the lid. Another strange thing is the way the the wires that position the top liner can flop into the lid closure lip unless you manually attend to each side before you fold the top in and close lid. It's also a good idea to fold a towel into the plastic window to keep it from being scratched by a center wire assembly that can scratch it with the top stored. I have had the car for 32 years and 197,000 miles and still love my one owner all original 1989 Vette!
Great tips! I'm nowhere near as familiar with the convertibles as I am with the coupes. That's a lot of great years (and miles) that you've had with your car, congrats.
I'm looking at a 88 Corvette convertible with a 4sp 56k Miles what's your opinion Color is yellow with Black wheels
That's outstanding. I can't wait to get one with low miles either by the end of this year, or early next year for my second car. I love the C5..But the C4's retro style is perfect for me.
This just cemented me buy a c4, I’ve had my eye on one but I’ve been hesitant to buy. Imma do it now.
Go for it! A big goal of these videos is to help people get to know these cars a bit better, as shopping for one can definitely be daunting. Good luck, I hope you can use the other C4 vids on this channel as a resource.
In 1986 I worked at a Chevrolet dealership and you could specify the color of your smoked top, either smoke gray or amber. It was called a TLORP - Transparent Lift-Off Roof Panel.
Mr. Retro Cars, you do a “bang up job” delivering information to all us C4 owners! You made me appreciate my C4 much more!
Thats great to hear, thanks!
Even if I wasn't currently looking to buy a 1985 C4 Corvette, I could still listen to your videos and be entertained!
Thank you! That's quite a compliment. Good luck with your search, make sure to check out my C4 Buyer's Guide too!
My fav quirk that I’ve noticed thus far: unplugging the interior hood lights when you have the front hood up because they don’t turn off automatically (to my knowledge) I also like the interior light dimmer in my 93 along with the click on fog lights.
I’ve only done this at car shows because that’s where I’ve found it applicable
I've unplugged my underhood lights a long time ago and never put them back in! They get really hot after not a lot of time and I often have the hood up for cleaning or maintenance or to show off the engine (like you mentioned).
Picked up a 95 C4 6-speed in dark purple metallic with only 12k miles last month! Your videos were extremely helpful for me figuring out the car and making the decision to add it to my garage. Thank you!
Congrats! That is awesome to hear. I aim to be a C4 resource to people, as I remember how confusing it things were when I was looking for mine years ago. So glad to hear they've been helpful!
From a C6 owner, I always loved the look of the C4. I fall in love with Corvette with that model that I first saw in the movie Karate kid (I live in Europe). Beautiful car, beautiful legacy!
Totally forgot that there was a C4 in Karate Kid! As for C6s, I would love to upgrade to one someday soon. Love how they look too.
@@RetroCarsForever You own a true razor sharp beauty!
@@UltorCXXVIII Thank ya!
Best KZhead channel regardless of genre/category. Concise message, quirky, fun, and stylistic. Good work man!
Wow, I'm incredibly flattered by this comment. Thank you!
I don't usually like these shows but you do a great job explaining the typical problems that will arise. Very cool clearly spoken English. 🇺🇸
Thank you! Clarity is something I strive for.
We absolutely LOVE your channel! I could watch tis over and over!
Thanks so much! More on the way...
08:00 - GASP!!! What’s this magic! I drop something under the seat and I don’t have to reach my hand under there and feel around like a doofus!?
Chevy was thinking of YOU! What a bunch of thoughtful engineers.
I've owned my '96 LT1 for nearly 5 years and never knew that sound I kept hearing after start up was from the ABS module, thanks and great vid as always!
Thanks, and I'm happy to help even CURRENT owners get more familiar with their cars!
i just got my 1996 c4 today as my first car and i already love it.
Congrats, what an awesome first car!
@@RetroCarsForever Thanks, love the content man
Epic video man !! Makes me want to buy a 1996. Didn’t realize all the extra features vs my 91. Glad to see a awesome to the point legit review tastefully done with excellent film work mixed with some humor too keep it entertaining. 🙌🙌👍
Yeah they def added a lot of extra tech in the last few years. And I appreciate what you said about the video, that’s my aim but never heard it said so succinctly before. Thanks!
Love your videos, the editing is so crisp, kudos ! I just acquired a 91 ZR-1 here in WA state, a driver's car in tiptop shape which growls and screams like a proper beast. Thanks for the inspiration and keep on trucking !
Thank you! I would LOVE to upgrade to a ZR-1 some day. I fell in love with the engine sound after editing this "Special Edition" C4 video (which of course features the ZR-1)... kzhead.info/sun/qbuhp7KDbH6hrJ8/bejne.html
Great job with the review! I didn’t realize the corvette was this funky! I want one now!
Thanks! C4s are SUPER funky...Took me awhile to master/understand all the quirks!
Thanks to Corvette Blogger I watched your 40 Quirks about the C4 Corvette. I owned a 95 C4 ZR1 that I bought new. I found a very costly Quirk when I accelerated onto the freeway at full throttle power shifted into 2nd gear and the left Toe In link on the rear wheel suspension broke, (later found out that this was a common weak point), leavening me with no steering control and 2 seconds later went off the freeway entrance into a 10 in tree which came down on the clear roof breaking it and the rear window. The special experience was that both front airbags deployed and I tested it with my Face. The car was totaled, I bought it back from the insurance co. And sold the parts. Now on my 10th corvette.
Woah! Glad you're okay from that. I'd love to upgrade to a ZR1 myself someday, but now you have me curious...That toe link, is that a common issue with ALL C4s or just the ZR1? Or perhaps its the same for all and couldn't handle the extra power of the ZR1?
Bummer. Glad youre okay.
Another great C4 video! Makes me wanna get out there and take the 92 for a spin. I only drive her maybe once every 2 weeks… such fun cars. Nice examples are rising in value and collectibility now.
Thanks! And you're def right about values on the rise, esp for the nicer ones. If my video can inspire a drive, I'm happy to hear it!
I sold my 1990 in June$14,000.
Great video! I had a 1990 convertible and learned some stuff. Thanks!
Thanks, glad this helped you know your car better!
Great video! Will always love the C4!
Thank ya!
Thank you so much for this informative video have a blessed day! 😎
You're welcome, thanks for watching!
I just bought an 84 and was wondering how many of these applied to it. The quirky things I noticed in mine was that the wiper control switch is in the driver door as a slider while both window switches are in the center console. Great video, discovered the channel while I was looking for a C4 and was clearly influenced to get myself one!
That's awesome to hear! There was a LOT that was changed between 1984 and 1996 (my car)...Pretty much the only things that stayed the same were the basic frame and a few odds and ends! I'm not super familiar with 1984s, but I'd say roughly a third of these quirks are relevant to your car, thats how much they changed.
Dude, that Cocktail soundtrack was awesome. I had that as a kid in my Dad’s Walkman back when this car was new. Your Vette is perfect too.
Thanks so much! And way to spot that cassette detail…
Making me want another C4! Quirks & all, always entertaining
Thanks! And hey...C4s are never gonna be cheaper than they are right now...
Hey Brad, thanks for confirming the “whirring” of the ZF-6 in Neutral as being normal. Bought my ‘96 sight-unseen from Texas and the first time I noticed that sound, especially going away with the the clutch in, I said “oh MAN, that can’t be good.” Love your C4 content, your videos were influential to me buying a C4 and selling my C3 shortly thereafter. Keep up the great videos. Take care!
Thanks so much! I had a similar feeling after getting mine, but looking it up, found the sound was totally normal. Whew!
so how's it going from a C3 to a C4? (and, did you *want* to keep your C3 or couldn't keep both cars?)
Just bought a 1993 40th anniversary convertible in mint condition. It is a quirky car but that's what makes it so cool. Enjoying tinkering and getting to know the car. First thing I had to do was get the correct windshield wipers so they didn't hit the hood. It's a blast to drive.
Congrats! Agreed, the quirks make the car special. At least, once you get them figured out!
Which wipers did you hdt? My 90 needs proper low profile wipers.
@@dant3588 sorry I don't remember, I found out the correct ones by googling it.
@@theguy4615 No worries. Hope you're loving the 93!
I've had a Ruby for over 25 years. It's been great fun. HOWEVER! Beware of the Optispark.
such an underrated channel, keep up the good work man
Thanks so much!
I was surprised at how many odd defining features your car has! This is a great and comprehensive lightening round review!
Thanks so much! Believe it or not there's like twenty more I COULD'VE covered on top of this, but decided to just skip to the best to make the video a decently quick watch.
@@RetroCarsForever I believe it!
Excellent video!
Thanks so much!
Beautiful. I've been planning on adding one of these to my collection soon. I can't believe how cheap the stock ones are!!!
They're PHENOMENAL deals. Best of luck with your search! If you haven't already seen it, here's a link to my C4 Buyer's Guide that can help- kzhead.info/sun/gZR7h8OMfayBoZ8/bejne.html
@@RetroCarsForever Thanks man.
Great video, tons of useful information. Looking to buy a C4 this spring, Had to sell my 86 a few years ago. They're great cars.
Thanks, best of luck re-acquiring a C4!
Love your content, I just found there is a hatch release on the driver's door so you don't have to use fob or center council. I love finding little quirks on the 96C4. I fall in love more and more each time I drive this gem. Thank you for the great information. Our car is identical to yours and that makes watching your videos even more fun.
Thanks, great to hear! More coming soon.
I don't remamber exactly the yeat it went away, but the slide switch hatch release is on both doors 1984-86 at least. My '86 DN4+3 has the release on both doors and the center button inside the console compartment.
Totally agree with the handles Brad! And yes after being C4 obsessed all these years you DID teach me something about my PKE! Never knew it could be disabled!! It was so annoying at shows I disabled it the old fashioned way….. by gutting its battery! 😂. Another quality video!
Thanks! And I'm SUPER GLAD to help you with that PKE disarming function. When I first got the car it was driving me CRAZY. Thankfully I found a copy of the VHS manual on KZhead, watched it, and was like THANK GOD Chevy thought of that! So I'm happy to help.
@@RetroCarsForever That's exactly where I learned how to disable mine, too.
@@jakeakhtar9424 I seriously learned quite a bit from those old VHS owners tapes! Pretty cool resource.
This helped me "fix" my PKE system (it was just turned off and I didn't know). Thanks a ton!
Awesome, glad to hear it!
Brad returns with another certified BANGER!
Glad it was worth the wait for ya! Thanks.
The cr02 or what ever is the only one I didn't know..cool too see how much effort you put into researching this stuff
Thanks...It IS a lot of effort, so glad that comes through!
I just got into cars and was looking for my first car this is so well timed 😈
Nice! Best of luck with your search.
Good to see you back! Was thinking about your channel the other day. Sold my 94 and bought a new 93
Thanks, great to be back! Been working on this video for AWHILE it seems. Congrats on the "new" Corvette...May I ask why the swap from a 94 to a 93?
@@RetroCarsForever I paid 6200 for my 94….someone offered me 9,000. Couldn’t turn it down. Found the 93 for 4500. It’s in amazing shape. Paint is prob 95% flawless and interior is mint. Only issue is the vats typical key issue. Have the bypass on the way for that. Hated to go from a 6 speed to a automatic but my wrangler and supercharged Mini Cooper are manual so I’ll deal with it.
@@RetroCarsForever sent you a PM on Facebook messenger
@@SingerAuto1967 Wow, way to be PAID to own Corvettes! Nice. I'm guessing you meant you traded a 6 speed for an automatic? Honestly that's not a horrible trade. I've driven plenty of automatic C4s, and I totally get why they sold so many. They're still an engaging fun car, even with the automatic. It's not like some higher-revving cars where the automatic totally kills the fun, it's well paired to the V8, particularly with the later electronically controlled autos.
You the man. Convinced me to buy my first corvette a month ago. 96 LT4 convertible white.
Woah, no way! I'm honored if I convinced you to buy a C4 in any way. Would love to see it, are you on Insta?
@@RetroCarsForever sent you a friend request on Facebook 👌 I’m also In the corvette group
Dude, you make me wanna get another C4. I had a 93 back in 97-98.
Do ittttt! They'll never be cheaper than they are right now.
@@RetroCarsForever I have a C8, and a full garage.
I love the C-4 styling......I am getting one soon.
I love the styling too, IMO one of the most beautiful American car designs of all time! (Even with the cheap looking door handles) Best of luck getting one! Hope my channel can be a good resource for your search.
Wow great video, keep it up. This was inspiring
Thanks so much! More on the way.
fell in love with the c6 but was quickly replaced by the c5. after watching this, the c4 is creeping up there too lol
Cant go wrong with any of those generations!
Might just have to but every gen tbh
Great video, as usual, I have to thank you for showing the seat bottom removal! (I kinda think you showed it in your video on your replacement of the power seat motor situation you had but I clearly didn't take proper note of it.) I also thought you mentioned the C4 Spare Tire Situation in one of your earlier videos or comment streams, both, the location and how to remove the tire or the optional STD (lol) Spare Tire Delete opt. Likewise, I thought you mentioned in a vid or stream, the "Dome Light" quirk(s), located in rearview mirror and that there's an ambient light along with them that points down onto the shifter area while the key in the on position (which of course, means while the car is being driven also) this light freaked me out the first time I drove my C4, "How the hell do I shut this light off and why didn't the seller mention it to me?!" LOL -The extra/outer "SCV" volume control knob quirk where the volume is calibrated to the rpms of the car so-to-speak, ergo Speed Controlled Volume=SCV. (You could describe it better than I). -Battery replacement (DRAG!) lol this is truly a quirk I have looked at with my angry face a few times lol -Where to check water/coolant level, top off, or fill your "Radiator" - a strange ass quirk - again, blame it on the Reverse Flow. oh and btw, my C4 didn't come equipped with a rear hatch area cover (sobbing), the PO said he was told not all C4 coupes came with them but I thought maybe it was just removed... need to do a little research I guess. Thanks again Bradman!
Thank ya! Great quirks that you mentioned. There are honestly another few dozen that I could've mentioned, but I tried to focus on the most notable to keep the video a quick watch. And you're right, I've mentioned a few of these other quirks already on my social media accounts. Weird that your car doesn't have the rear cargo cover...I could see someone removing it, but why would they? Maybe because they broke it?
@@RetroCarsForever I figure you had to decide on a good bunch to leave out 'due to time constraints' ;) I think your video was exactly the right length for the pace you set and the pace was both, entertaining and attention holding so yeah, the Battery and Spare tire quirks would've harmed your vid. Your guess IS as good as mine as that was precisely my initial guess as to why there isn't a cover. I have a line on a couple replacements off a couple of parts cars but both require some serious clean up (mold/mildew) and I want to go that route before I order one from the likes of MIRROCK, etc., Oh and it was very good to see your work back on YT but I know you have been busy working on it while involved in all your other "pies". =^-,o^= Looking forward to your next effort.
@@richardcarr9510 Thanks man!
Great video! Thanks
Loved the video and since I bought a 1991 C4 with ZF 6 speed manual transmission I have to say that I agree with what ever you said ! Just let you know that 91 doesn’t have remote, traction control button and passenger air bag also use L98 engine which is weaker
Thanks! And yes, all true...I think I cut those little bits of info to move the "lightning speed" along, but good points on those features that were introduced later.
Thank you for mentioning the clutch noise. Drove me crazy
Happy to help! It def weirded me out when I first got the car too.
Well done man!!! I’m on the hunt for a 91, either a ZR1 of a L98. Harder to find than one would think.
Thanks! Best of luck with your search. Patience is key when finding the C4 of your dreams!
C4 is 👑
Who am I to argue? Thanks for watching!
I have a c6 z06 but I've been becoming finder of the c4's lately. May grab one someday. I have always loved the dark green color they have
“Polo green” is a great C4 color! I almost bought one myself.
Terrific video! Keep 'em coming, I can't get enough!!! (Is the retractable antennae a quirk?...hahaha)
Thanks! The antenna certainly IS a quirk, but not when you look at other cars of the era. To keep the video shorter, I tried to focus on quirks that were weird, even FOR the era. So things like pop up headlights, retractable antennas, and that sorta thing got trimmed for length.
Brad, you never disappoint! Great content, and I love seeing your CE zipping down those Cali roads ): despite those horrific fuel costs :(
Thanks Dan! And yeah fuel costs aren’t great, especially out here, but worth it.
East coast is cheaper! Bowling Green road trip?
@@DanOnFire Someday! Never been to the Corvette Museum but its a bucket list item for sure.
The door handles, both interior and exterior, are my biggest peeve about that era of Corvette. One of the things that made the early C3's so fantastic was the unique and futuristic (for the time) attention to those kind of details.
What's strange is how many little details they DID sweat with the C4 (like, for instance, that little pad on the dash so you don't bump your knuckles taking the key out). But then other details that they totally glossed over, OR decided to cheap out on. It's a strange blend!
'96 C4 owner. Love your video.
Many thanks!
I'm buying a 96 with 67k on it today and you taught me a few things I didn't know. Great video
Thanks, and best of luck today!
_A totally cool quirk you didn't touch on in the Delco-Bose Gold Series stereo was the SCV(Speed Control Volume) adjustment (located alongside the unit's volume control knob). Now I know many purests love the original Bose system as I do(and many folks think the unit is crap). To that point, when the stereo was designed specifically for the C4 in '84, it was considered state-of-the-art. (Personally, my '96 Corvette convertible still has the original components, and sounds amazing). The SCV is cool in that you can adjust the volume setting to the speed of the car. (Yes, as you roll up to a stop, the volume is lowered, but accelerate and so does the sound). No matter what, the car and it's perks and quirks was right for the time(including all those damn cheap looking screws on the windshield pillars)._
Great quirk! Yet another advanced feature that the C4 had that was wayyy ahead of its time (pretty common nowadays). SCV works great, and I love it. And I personally have no complaints with my Bose system, though I rarely crank it to ear-shattering volumes. In any case, the 1984 system was so much more advanced than the generally horrible audio systems you'd find in cars back then...People forget how bad they were!
awesome video bro...Nice vette too :)
Many thanks!
Thanks a lot for this video. Just bought a 95 Convertible over here in Germany - where the gas price is even higher than in LA - 7.55 $ per gallon premium.....
Congrats!
The more I watch videos of your 96' the more I want one...very sweet ride and excellent job vlogging the details. Now if only that bubble will burst so I can get a ZR-1😁😶
Thanks so much! I personally prefer the last few model years styling, inside and out...Just very smooth and its aged well. Don't hold your breathe on any sort of C4 bubble bursting! I see values continuing to steadily rise, particularly on the ZR1s.
ZR-1 is a blast, have a 90. It has its own issues, but the ZR-1 registry community is first rate, support for them is there because of it. Will cost you more, but imo worth it. Love C4s regardless.
Love your videos! What brand is your center console plastic cover? It matches the OEM finish really well!
Thanks! I believe everything in my interior IS original OEM. My car only has 40k miles and has been well taken care of.
@@RetroCarsForever dang son!
I had an 85 coup Z51 and 86 Indy pace car convertible. They were great cars for their day but they had their problems. The big one for me both cars did it at least once, the digital dash would burn out and it was $500 to fix. The cars handled and braked great but we’re underpowered. They make a good starter Corvette.
Ha, I had that Cocktail Soundtrack tape. I listened to that one a lot. I wouldn't be surprised if I still have it. Had a quick look at my currently accessible tapes and they are all ones I got in the early '90s. Not sure where my '80s stuff is right now.
I love playing cassette tapes in this car! Fits the retro vibe. The Cocktail tape is just a great "chill out" vibe to listen to, kinda feels like you're on vacation listening to it, which is why I always have it handy.
Gorgeous C4. Think I'm going to buy one before prices go crazy.
Thanks! And while I don't see C4 prices spiking, they have been steadily rising, so they'll never be cheaper than they are right now IMO.
Yea I would say you got a while cause even C3’s are not going up in value much unless they are the older chrome bumper cars.
on my 87 C4, the cables that are attached to plastic to open the convertible lid, and the cable(s) that run to the hood. On the driver-side door is the Windshield wiper controls. my hand hit them a lot .
Good ones. I have limited experience with the convertibles so good to know.
Whoa!!!! I thought Doug Demuro owned the word "quirks"! Great video. Cheers!
Thanks! Yeah I was shocked Doug hasnt ever done a C4 review before, so had to do it myself!
I own a c4 convertible. A couple quick additions. Those hidden buttons on the door to open the hatch are buttons to open the body panel that hides the top. Second thing. A convertible oddly still has the 2 bolts up front for the targa top. Your car has a little plastic circle that covers the area where the top would latch in place.
Cool, didn’t know that! Thanks
I don't like Chevrolet as a brand. But I love a C4 Corvette since I was little. I always wanted one. Maybe one day my dream could come true ☺️
Very informative video! I recently bought a 1990 6 speed convertible and it's a blast to drive. The 1st to 2nd gear thing has been annoying me and I noticed that 1 to 4 dash light, thinking it was an RPM alert or something. Now I know it's a "feature", WTF. Can't wait to try to CR02 option on a cassette--- if I can find one.
Thanks, glad I could help ya get to know your car better! (I'm also on the hunt for CR02 tapes now that I understand that one!)
@@RetroCarsForever I actually got the Cassette radio restored on my 93', it has the bose gold with out the CD, I have some Type IIs I bought off of Amazon, TDK SA to be exact, they sound really awesome when recorded properly, certainly very fun to make mix tapes!
@@SuperFrankieOSX Now I REALLY want to get one of those tapes! (Think I have the same Bose system in my car)
@@RetroCarsForever I think you have a Gold series with the CD as well! I'd get a decent quality Cassette deck and start taping!
Its pretty easy to bypass 1st to 4th feature. That, VATS, and annoying shift light can all be disabled inexpensively.
Nice job with the video Brad. After 9 years of C4 ownership I now know the secret quirks! haha Take care -Glen
Haha, nice! Thanks Glen!
I think it is a good looking car and always have, I remember going the dealers and drowling over the ZR-1 when they came out. I think the car was well designed and engineered for that time. The Pontiac Trans Am GTA was another great car at that time.
Agreed! GM has their issues in that time period but they had some awesome sports cars.
Just came back from a drive and about to google c4 idle clutch sound problem… and saw quirk #35. What a relief to know it’s a quirk 😂
Glad to help! Thanks for watching.
Loving it
One note on CAGS. Apparently on the C5 you can tune out the skip shift so might be able to on the C4 as well.
What do you mean "tune out?" Vs installing an eliminator kit like shown in the video? And if you mean tuning the computer somehow, I'm curious if that could be done on pre-OBD2 C4s (which would be all of them except the last year 1996)
I just subscribed only because you got me listening after that Doug crack 😹
Heh, welcome!
How have I had 95 Corvette for almost a year and never knew there was a compartment on the door guess learn something new every day
You're not alone! A lot of later C4 owners arent aware of those little door compartments, which is why I'm happy to spread the useful knowledge!
I have a 40th anniversary edition! C4’s are slept on.
Absolutely, these cars are still kind of under the radar for enthusiasts (but makes them great deals for the rest of us). If you haven't already seen it, I'd recommend this other video I made covering ALL the C4 special editions (including the 40th of course)- kzhead.info/sun/qbuhp7KDbH6hrJ8/bejne.html
Love your vids brother. I have a 1964 StingRay L76 motor 327 / 365 hp all original mint. Also have a 2007 3LT. I am about to buy a sweet 1996 with 20k miles from the original owner. Have done a lot of research and I want a 96. Thanks for the vids...
You’re very welcome! Glad to hear you’re doing your research, best of luck with getting that 1996. Happy new year!
@@RetroCarsForever Hey Retro, I did buy that mint 96 C4 LT1 auto with 20k miles about 3 months ago. White / red interior. It has the semi rare ( 8k made ) Z51 handling package. Love it ! Put on a performance air intake, which really made a huge difference. Swapped out throttle body, put a cat back Magna Flow system on. 40 series mufflers so it sounds awesome and not obnoxious. My personal quirk, running out of garage space !
Dang good visuals.
Thank ya!
I was working for Chevy when the 6 speed came out. We got TSBs on how to over ride the 1-4 system before we even started seeing the transmission.
Im curious….what was the service bulletin procedure from Chevy to disable the skip shift?
Can't really remember. That was a ways back. don't know if you can research TSBs that far back. However I think that it was something that went in the wiring harness. I think initially it was a ZF trans & none of us wanted to deal with it. As I recall the 6 speed originally only came in the ZR-1. Only techs with specialized training were allowed to work on them.
The black door handles were the reason I wanted the C4. That and the fact that C-4 is also an explosive.
Great video! It's not the most linear gas gauge ever; when mine reads a couple of bars below a half tank its time to fill up again. Also, my '94 only has a driver power seat without all the extra buttons yours has. My passenger seat is manual.
Hmm, I havent noticed that gas gauge reading issue, wonder if that's an issue with your car? (Albeit a super minor one) As for the seats, do you have the base seats or the sports seats?
@@RetroCarsForever it is an issue with mine though from reading the forums it's pretty common to have an inaccurate gas gauge. Also mine has the base leather seats.
May be coincidence, but in my mid-90's GM vehicles the 2nd half of fuel tank always went much quicker than first half (at least as gauge is concerned). If I filled up at 1/2 tank, the gallons were always over half the capacity. Just purchased a '96 black/grey lt4. Great vids.
Level sensor is simple float sensor. Have gone 500 miles on a tank, its accurate enough.
Nicely done! Agree on the door handles. They cheaped out. Terrible.
Thanks! At least they’re made of chunky metal instead of plastic.
Brad… your videos truly are the best thing on KZhead 👏
Thanks so much! Glad you've been enjoying them.
Dude I dont even own a C4, or any Corvette, but still found this video very interesting and informative LMAO!
Ha, thanks! Well if you ever encounter one, you’ll be ready…
Love my 85 Corvette!!!! 😁💪😁⚡️😎
Ah all quirks I knew, but still a fun video. Even if the door handles Stickney, they are at least metal and not plastic. That said with my black and red scheme on mine, they never bothered me.
Thanks! And good point...I guess I'd prefer these chunky metal door handles to the cheaper plastic ones they went with for the C5 onward.
Oh, BTW...I made sure to include the CAGS explanation based on the group convo we had on your rally! I suddenly realized a lot of people arent aware of it...I just thought it was common knowledge (at least amongst car enthusiasts).
Had a 58,68,70,76,78,85,90,Thought of going up a generation or 2 but bought a 93 Anniversary Ruby Red 6Spd Rag Top.Im 68 years old.
Nice! Love seeing a lifelong Corvette fan (this C4 was my first, but I doubt it will be my last)
I wasn't gonna buy one, but you're changing my mind...
Haha nice!
Mine is a Canadian model (even though I am in Arizona; mine came down here with a snowbird). It has a couple of its own quirky features. Temperature gauges are marked in Celsius. Also, it has automatic pop-up headlights. Which can get very annoying if you are driving in and out of shaded areas.
Wild, never realized ANY C4s had automatic pop ups. In fact, that's a feature I've never seen on any car!
The 1996 C4 is the only one with an OBDII connector. Also, the 1996 had a different A/C controller that when not working will direct cold air only to the bottom vents. Last, automatic transmissions are unique to 1996 and not interchangeable with other years which can add expense if replacing. Owned one for 3 years and it was a great Corvette. Moved on to a C5 for easier entry and exit as I am now considered a senior citizen.
Wasnt aware of a few of those, thanks for sharing. And dont blame you on the C5 upgrade...What an improvement to get into and out of!
I have had about a dozen Vettes and am a Past President of the Corvette club. What makes a C5 easier to enter/exit ? I too am elderly now and want to make a trade, my HEMI Challenger for a Vette . Help .
@@8241jb123 Not so much about the C5 being easy as it is the C4 being particularly challenging. The door sills on a C4 are very tall compared to other cars, picture getting into your Challenger with a 4x4 laying in the door sill.
I used to own a 1990 before I got my C7... Needless to say, the C7 was a major upgrade, especially considering the condition the C4 was in when I bought it. I literally muttered "you gotta be frickin' kidding!" when you showed off the 1-4 gear lockout. I had the same issue with my C7 before I developed my 6th sense... I had no idea that problem went back as far as the '90s!
Haha yep! That 1 to 4 lockout premiered in the C4.
I owned an identical car. Loved it.
Well that whinning noise on idle is really annoying but good to know that my transmission is okay hahaha Thanks Brad!
Glad to help! And just to verify, that sound is normal on ZF 6 speeds ONLY (1989 and up), if you have an earlier car, could be an issue.
@@RetroCarsForever yes mines a '92/Z07 😀
Another excellent video Brad. My '96 unfortunately didn't come with the PKE fobs it was equipt with when new. Are the ones you have after market, or were you luck enough to still have the originals? If after market, who makes them? Thanx
I was lucky enough to get two key fobs with my car when I got it a few years ago. They can be tricky to find replacements for (but not too hard to program)
Just put a saved search on eBay with key fob part number wait a few months and one will show up in email. But they will sell fast so get it quickly.
There is no after market ones.
@@indybill4 Yep, heard they were a pain to find the fobs. Thanks for confirming!
@@indybill4 sorry, I might of snatched one of those up, I purchased mine last week although I saw another one came up for sale