A used Chevy Camaro might be an exciting prospect for fans looking to get into a retro-inspired muscle car coupe or convertible. However, not every model year of the Chevrolet pony car is as dependable as the last. Check out why you might want to rethink the 2017 Chevy Camaro in favor of another model year, like 2018 or 2020. 

What used Chevy Camaro model years are the least reliable?

The 2017 Chevy Camaro is the model’s only year that made Consumer Reports’ list of “Used Cars to Avoid Buying.” While the list only includes models from the last 10 years, it’s enough to highlight the one sixth-gen Camaro that evaluators recommend avoiding. 

In addition to the 2017 model, used Chevy Camaros from 2013, 2014, and 2015 have some of the most significant owner complaints of issues like electrical gremlins and braking problems. However, of the sixth generation of Camaro, the only model to make CR’s list of problematic years is the 2017 variant. 

Is the 2017 Camaro a reliable car?

Despite making the list of used cars to avoid, the 2017 Camaro gets a 3.5 out of 5.0 from J.D. Power regarding overall reliability. While that doesn’t seem like an exceptionally high score, it’s the same score as a comparable 2017 Ford Mustang. As a result, the Camaro model has average reliability scores. 

However, some of the last model years from the fifth-gen Camaro have a more significant number of owner complaints. For instance, the first model year from the gen five lineup, the 2010 Camaro, has 90 NHTSA complaints about engine problems.  

What problems does the 2017 Chevy Camaro have?

The 2017 Chevy Camaro has 38 NHTSA complaints about drivetrain problems and 34 about steering issues. Specifically, some models will exhibit shuttering or hesitation in the eight-speed automatic or six-speed manual transmission at as little as 11,388 miles. 

Moreover, the model’s most common steering issue is power steering failure. According to Car Complaints, total power steering failure could happen in the 2017 model in as little as 23,031 miles.    

How much is a 2017 Chevrolet Camaro?

Depending on the trim, the 2017 Camaro can be a performance bargain. For instance, the entry-level LS trim has a fair value of $18,887 with average mileage. However, the V8-powered SS adds about $8,792 to the LS’ used value. 

Moreover, the 2017 model has an average annual repair cost of around $758. However, the 2018 Chevy Camaro’s annual repair costs drop to $544.    

What is the best year for Camaro?

The latest models from Chevrolet’s flagship muscle car have the fewest number of owner-reported complaints. For instance, the 2020 Camaro has just four NHTSA complaints for electrical issues and two for engine problems. As a result, the 2020 model could be one of your best options for a reliable Camaro.