Despite a very slow start for the 1953 Chevrolet Corvette, the car has gone on to a long history as an iconic American sports car. Performance has grown over the years, and the Corvette is now in its eighth generation. However, there are two model years that Consumer Reports picks out as ones to avoid due to the lack of reliability. Let’s find out why there are better options than the 2015 and 2016 Chevy Corvette.

Issues that should make you wary of the 2015 and 2016 Chevy Corvette

Consumer Reports released a list of 108 vehicles manufactured in the past decade with much worse-than-average reliability. The ratings are based on responses to the Consumer Reports Annual Auto Surveys. The Chevrolet Corvette from model years 2015 and 2016 made this unfortunate list.

The Corvette was redesigned for the 2014 model year, but that model year isn’t one to avoid. While the 2014 Corvette had a reliability rating of four out of five, the 2015 and 2016 Corvettes dropped down to one out of five for its reliability ratings.

Not all years since then have been rated, but there has been some recovery in reliability. The 2017 model year was rated three out of five, and the 2019 received a five out of five. The 2021 Corvette has a predicted reliability rating of two out of five.

Problem areas for these cars

The 2015 Chevrolet Corvette suffers from several serious problems, according to Consumer Reports. Owners reported issues with the engine, the transmission, and the body’s integrity.

Many body integrity problems were with squeaks and rattles in the removable top. Lesser problems were reported with the brakes, paint and trim, and body hardware.

The 2016 Corvette also suffers from engine, transmission, and body integrity problems, but it also has had problems reported with its fuel system, electric system, suspension, and exhaust. While not as bad, some problems were reported with the climate system and in-car electronics. Still, these are things to note when shopping for a used Chevy Corvette.

This data doesn’t automatically mean all 2015 and 2016 Chevy Corvettes are bad cars

It’s not all bad news regarding the 2015 and 2016 Chevy Corvette. The owner satisfaction score from Consumer Reports for the 2015 model year is a strong four out of five. The 2016 model year has a top score of five out of five.

Both years have what Consumer Reports calls a “thrilling engine and exhaust soundtrack.” These Corvettes also have excellent acceleration and great handling grip. These cars look great and have an upgraded interior. The cars have options for customizing, and with the right choices, provide great performance for the value.

A Wi-Fi hotspot was added for 2015 and an eight-speed automatic transmission replaced the six-speed one. In addition, a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine, producing 650 hp, was created for the Z06 model.

The 2016 model year saw the introduction of Apple CarPlay compatibility. A front curb-view parking camera and a power-activated hatch/trunk closer were also introduced for that model year.

On the less positive side, the 2015 and 2016 Corvette are low, wide cars, making it hard to get into, see out of, and maneuver agilely. The generation is more agile than previous ones, though. There is also quite a bit of interior noise.

Reliability data doesn’t mean all 2015 and 2016 Chevrolet Corvettes are bad. It is, however, useful information to have if you’re considering buying a used Corvette. Consumer Reports was more favorable for these model years on their owner satisfaction scores and performance.