2006 Chevrolet Corvette

Above average

Owners filed 365 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the body and frame. It has been recalled 5 times.

Avoid One of the Chevrolet Corvette years to avoid: 3.5× the complaints of a typical Corvette year. Which Chevrolet Corvette years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
37,500 milesMedian miles at failure

304 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 0–10,000 miles.

Most common 2006 Chevrolet Corvette problems

58 of the 365 complaints (16%) are about the body and frame.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Fuel/Propulsion System · fuel and propulsion system48
000
Exterior Lighting · headlights43
201
Structure › Body › Roof and Pillars · body and frame39
101
Electronic Stability Control (esc) · stability control31
302
Electrical System31
000
Steering25
201
Power Train · transmission25
100
Engine22
100
Service Brakes · brakes18
000
Air Bags · airbags13
000

2006 Chevrolet Corvette body and frame problems

16% of all complaints

58 of the 365 complaints are about the body and frame.

Share of the 58 body and frame complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Typical mileage
9,443 mi
median of 46 reports
Peak year of filing
2006
30 body and frame complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
1 · 0 · 1
in these complaints
Recalls on the body and frame
“The contact owns a 2006 Chevrolet Corvette. The contact became aware that the VIN was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 09V491000 (Structure). The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where the contact was informed that the recall part was no longer available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair.”
Owner complaint, filed Dec 2, 2025
“The contact owns a 2006 Chevrolet Corvette. The contact received recall notifications of NHTSA Campaign Number: 09V491000 (Structure) and would like to be removed from the recall distribution list because the vehicle was no longer equipped with the recalled part. The dealer and the manufacturer were contacted.”
Owner complaint, filed Jan 6, 2025

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
2005: 1 complaints, 0 about the body and frame'052006: 39 complaints, 30 about the body and frame2007: 11 complaints, 5 about the body and frame'072008: 7 complaints, 1 about the body and frame2009: 17 complaints, 3 about the body and frame'092010: 18 complaints, 4 about the body and frame2011: 17 complaints, 1 about the body and frame'112012: 10 complaints, 2 about the body and frame2013: 41 complaints, 2 about the body and frame'132014: 45 complaints, 1 about the body and frame2015: 26 complaints, 3 about the body and frame'152016: 31 complaints, 0 about the body and frame2017: 15 complaints, 0 about the body and frame'172018: 17 complaints, 0 about the body and frame2019: 15 complaints, 0 about the body and frame'192020: 23 complaints, 0 about the body and frame2021: 8 complaints, 2 about the body and frame'212022: 6 complaints, 0 about the body and frame2023: 9 complaints, 0 about the body and frame'232024: 2 complaints, 2 about the body and frame2025: 7 complaints, 2 about the body and frame'25Recall 05V455000 (steering)Recall 06V181000 (body and frame)Recall 09V491000 (body and frame)Recall 10V172000 (steering)Recall 14V251000 (headlights)NHTSA investigation EA13007NHTSA investigation PE13013NHTSA investigation EA09002NHTSA investigation PE08056
All complaintsAbout the body and frameRecall (red: the body and frame)NHTSA investigation opened

Complaints about the 2006 Corvette peaked in 2014, with 45 filed that year. Owners had filed 1 complaints about the body and frame before the first recall that covers it, 06V181000 in May 2006; 57 more have come in since. In 2025 owners filed 7 so far.

5 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Exterior Lighting › Headlights14V251000
Filed May 14, 2014103,158 vehiclesGeneral Motors LLC

Defect. General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2005-2007 Chevrolet Corvette vehicles manufactured March 29, 2004, through June 22, 2007. In the affected vehicles, the underhood bussed electrical center (UBEC) housing can expand and cause the headlamp low beam relay control circuit wire to bend. If the wire is repeatedly bent, it may fracture causing a loss of low beam headlamp illumination.

Risk. The loss of low beam headlamp illumination will decrease the driver's visibility, as well as the vehicle's conspicuity to other motorists, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. GM will notify owners, and dealers will install a jumper wire to correct this condition, free of charge. The recall began January 2, 2015. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is 13146. Note: Model year 2008-2013 Chevrolet Corvettes will be covered under customer satisfaction program number 14203 for the same issue.

Steering › Column10V172000
Filed Apr 26, 201040,028 vehiclesGeneral Motors Corp.

Defect. GM IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005 AND 2006 CHEVROLET CORVETTE PASSENGER CARS MANUFACTURED BETWEEN MARCH 2004 AND JANUARY 2006 EQUIPPED WITH A TILT AND TELESCOPING STEERING COLUMN (RPO N37). IN RARE CASES, REPEATED MOVEMENT OF THE STEERING COLUMN MAY CAUSE A SIGNAL INTERRUPTION WITHIN THE COLUMN. IF THIS OCCURS, THE MESSAGE, "SERVICE ACTIVE HANDLING SYSTEM" WILL APPEAR IN THE DRIVER INFORMATION CENTER, AND ONE OR MORE OF THE BRAKES MAY APPLY, POSSIBLY CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO PULL TO THE RIGHT OR LEFT.

Risk. IF THE DRIVER DOES NOT RESPOND TO THE CHANGE IN VEHICLE MOVEMENT, A CRASH COULD OCCUR.

Remedy. GM WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND DEALERS WILL REPAIR THE VEHICLES FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 30, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438 AND GMC AT 1-866-996-9463 OR AT THE OWNER CENTER AT WWW.GMOWNERCENTER.COM.

Structure › Body › Roof and Pillars09V491000
Filed Dec 23, 200922,090 vehiclesGeneral Motors Corp.

Defect. GENERAL MOTORS IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005 THROUGH 2007 CORVETTE VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A REMOVABLE ROOF AND MODEL YEAR 2006 AND 2007 CORVETTE Z06 VEHICLES. THE ADHESIVE BETWEEN THE ROOF PANEL AND THE FRAME MAY SEPARATE. IF THERE IS A PARTIAL SEPARATION, THE DRIVER MAY NOTICE ONE OR MORE SYMPTOMS, SUCH AS A SNAPPING NOISE WHEN DRIVING OVER BUMPS, WIND NOISE, POOR ROOF PANEL FIT, ROOF PANEL MOVEMENT/BOUNCE WHEN A DOOR OR HATCH IS CLOSED, OR A WATER LEAK IN THE HEADLINER.

Risk. IF THERE IS A COMPLETE SEPARATION, THE ROOF PANEL MAY DETACH FROM THE VEHICLE. IF THIS WERE TO OCCUR WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS BEING DRIVEN, IT COULD STRIKE A FOLLOWING VEHICLE AND CAUSE INJURY AND/OR PROPERTY DAMAGE.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEW DESIGN ROOF PANEL FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING APRIL 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438 OR AT WWW.GMOWNERCENTER.COM.

Structure › Body › Roof and Pillars06V181000
Filed May 24, 200630,793 vehiclesGeneral Motors Corp.

Defect. ON CERTAIN 2005-2006 CHEVROLET CORVETTES EQUIPPED WITH PAINTED ROOFS, THE ADHESIVE BETWEEN THE ROOF PANEL AND THE FRAME MAY SEPARATE.

Risk. IF THERE IS A COMPLETE SEPARATION, THE ROOF PANEL MAY DETACH FROM THE VEHICLE AND IT COULD STRIKE ANOTHER VEHICLE AND CAUSE INJURY AND PROPERTY DAMAGE.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSPECT VEHICLES FREE OF CHARGE FOR POTENTIAL ROOF PANEL-TO- FRAME SEPARATION AND ADD THE SPECIFIED ADHESIVE FOAM OR REPLACE THE ROOF WITH ONE HAVING ADHESIVE FOAM. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 19, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438.

Steering › Hydraulic Power Assist › Hose, Piping, and Connections05V455000
Filed Oct 5, 2005123,592 vehiclesGeneral Motors Corp.

Defect. CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES MAY HAVE BEEN BUILT WITH A POWER STEERING HOSE THAT IS NOT TO SPECIFICATION. UNDER EXTREME STEERING MANEUVERS, SUCH AS TURNING THE STEERING WHEEL FULLY TO THE LEFT OR RIGHT WHILE BRAKING, THE HOSE MAY FRACTURE AND LEAK FLUID.

Risk. IF THIS WERE TO OCCUR, POWER STEERING ASSIST WOULD BE LOST AND INCREASED STEERING EFFORT WOULD BE REQUIRED. ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH HYDRO-BOOST POWER BRAKES, IT COULD ALSO RESULT IN LOSS OF POWER BRAKE ASSIST AND INCREASED BRAKING EFFORT WOULD BE REQUIRED. IF THE POWER STEERING FLUID SPRAY WERE TO SPRAY ONTO HOT ENGINE PARTS, AN ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE COULD OCCUR.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE POWER STEERING HOSE(S) FOR TWO SUSPECT DATE CODES AND REPLACE THEM IF REQUIRED. THE RECALL WILL BEGIN ON OCTOBER 14, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438, GMC AT 1-866-996-9463, BUICK AT 1-866-608-8080, CADILLAC AT 1-866-982-2339, ISUZU AT 1-800-255-6727, OR HUMMER AT 1-800-732-5493.

All 5 campaigns on file, newest first.

NHTSA investigations

Office of Defects Investigation

Before a recall there is often an investigation: NHTSA opens one when complaints or manufacturer data point to a safety defect. 4 name the 2006 Corvette.

Simultaneous Loss of Low-Beam HeadlightsEngineering analysis EA13007Closed
Opened Aug 23, 2013Closed Jun 24, 2014Led to recall 14V251000headlights

On May 14, 2014, General Motors (GM) submitted a Part 573 defect information report initiating NHTSA Safety Recall 14V-251 to remedy the subject vehicles.GM will remedy a defect condition in the underhood bussed electrical center (UBEC) by modifying the vehicle's electrical harnessing.GM also announced a customer satisfaction bulletin to address this issue on model year (MY) 2008-2013 Chevrolet Corvettes.Both programs will be conducted free of charge.According to GM, when the engine heats up and cools down (from normal use), the plastic material in the UBEC housing expands at a different rate …

Loss of Low Beam HeadlightsPreliminary evaluation PE13013Closed
Opened May 6, 2013Closed Aug 26, 2013headlights

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this investigation based on 30 reports from consumers alleging that, after driving for a short time (5 to 30 minutes), both low beam headlights stopped working simultaneously and without warning. The low beam headlights remained inoperative for the remainder of the drive cycle, however no other lighting is affected.General Motors (GM) provided information in response to ODI's information request letter explaining that the loss of headlights is caused by a fractured low beam circuit wire in the underhood bussed electrical center (UBEC), a device …

Electronic Stability ControlEngineering analysis EA09002Closed
Opened Jan 14, 2009Closed May 11, 2010Led to recall 10V172000stability control

On April 26, 2010, at NHTSA's request following this investigation, General Motors submitted a Defect Information Report to NHTSA to correct a defect associated with the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system in approximately 40,000 Model Year (MY) 2005 and 2006 Chevrolet Corvette vehicles (NHTSA Recall No. 10V-172).According to the report, these vehicles may have a problem with the Steering Wheel Position Sensor (SWPS) connector created by a fretting condition in the connector (small movement of the pins back and forth creating a residue build up) which could change the electrical resistance …

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL MALFUNCTIONPreliminary evaluation PE08056Closed
Opened Sep 17, 2008Closed Jan 14, 2009stability control

On september 17, 2008, odi opened preliminary evaluation pe08-056 to investigate allegations of inappropriate activation of the electronic stability control (esc) system in model year (my) 2005 and 2006 chevrolet corvette vehicles.some reports received by odi and some reports to general motors (GM) contained in GM's response to pe08-056 allege that the esc system malfunctioned causing a sudden and inappropriate braking action without illumination of the brake lights and causing the vehicle to swerve left or right unexpectedly. Gm issued a technical service bulletin in january 2006, later …

Technical service bulletins

830 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2006 Corvette. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

equipment 307electrical system 125engine 108transmission 65equipment adaptive/mobility 32wheels 30tires 25visibility 21
General CommunicationService campaignAug 26, 2024electrical system

Vehicle Wide Programming (VWP) is a new process to update software on GM Vehicles. It provides the ability via a single selection within Techline Connect to first identify which modules need updating and then proceed to updating affected modules (with some exceptions). The updating of modules is completed in parallel instead of the technician needing to …

PIT5236GService campaignMar 31, 2016electrical system

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have a Diagnostic Trouble Code B101D stored in Telematics Communication Interface Control Module. Technician will check Global Warranty Management system for customer satisfaction program 15086 status. If the status of the customer satisfaction program …

PIP5358BService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsMay 31, 2022body and frame

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have an unusual noise and is difficult to identify, isolate or pinpoint. Technician should get record a sound clip or take a video of the noise for assessment by engineering. Technician will need to call General Motors Technical Assistance Center for …

PIP5358AService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsMay 12, 2021body and frame

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have an unusual noise and is difficult to identify, isolate or pinpoint. Technician should get record a sound clip or take a video of the noise for assessment by engineering. Technician will need to call General Motors Technical Assistance Center for …

PIC6378Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsDec 17, 2019body and frame

This Preliminary Information communicates helpful information on diagnosing general customer concerns related to a power folding top.

PIC5214DService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJul 1, 2014body and frame

Excessive Brake Dust On Wheels.

PIC5214CService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJun 1, 2014body and frame

Excessive Brake Dust On Wheels.

05-05-23-007BService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsApr 15, 2014body and frame

This information bulletin explains that some surface cracking is OK and doesn?t require replacing.

Showing the newest 6 of 15 bulletins about the body and frame, and any warranty extensions or service campaigns.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Structure
Filed Dec 2, 2025NJ

The contact owns a 2006 Chevrolet Corvette. The contact became aware that the VIN was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 09V491000 (Structure). The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where the contact was informed that the recall part was no longer available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that the part had been discontinued. The contact was advised to purchase the part from a junkyard or to order an entire roof from the dealer at his expense. The contact had not experienced a failure.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Oct 13, 2025OH

2006 Corvette convertible. Has a strong gas smell after filling up. I understand this is a common problem, but Chevrolet will not acknowledge it. The gas can drip down on the hot exhaust system, and start a fire, burning down our house, or out on the road with us in it! Please help us get this deadly problem resolved, with little expense heaped upon us. Thank you, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Aug 25, 2025VA

Strong fuel smell coming from the vehicle after fueling filling.

Engine
Filed May 11, 2025FL

We were driving 55 and the car stalled. This has happened several times. Been at dealer and the codes show fine they replaced what they thought was issue and it still does this. Very scary

Steering
Filed Jan 29, 2025FL

I purchased this car from a dealer in Sarasota Florida. Driving it home from the dealer, I was driving approximately 70 mph on [XXX] near Sarasota. The vehicle suddenly braked and pulled to the left simultaneously. I have taken it to a repair shop that specializes in Corvettes, and trying to ID the problem. In doing research, evidently it is related to the active handling system. There is a recall NHTSA Campaign Number: 10V172000 Manufacturer GENERAL MOTORS CORP. Components STEERING Potential Number of Units Affected 40,028 and a service bulletin 10118. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jan 27, 2025AZ

Vehicle is leaving a strong gas order inside and around the vehicle. This issue is currently awaiting to be inspected but for the meantime, it’s parked inside a garage where it completely fills the area with said odor. This is particularly unsafe due to our water heater also being located in this section of the house. Gas smell first appeared about a month ago and had consistently releasing these vapors. I’ve seen that GM has released a service bulletin for a short period of time but hasn’t officially recalled the fuel issue (faulty fuel system).

Structure
Filed Jan 6, 2025CA

The contact owns a 2006 Chevrolet Corvette. The contact received recall notifications of NHTSA Campaign Number: 09V491000 (Structure) and would like to be removed from the recall distribution list because the vehicle was no longer equipped with the recalled part. The dealer and the manufacturer were contacted.

Structure
Filed Dec 2, 2024KY

The contact owns a 2006 Chevrolet Corvette. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 09V491000 (STRUCTURE); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

Structure
Filed Nov 5, 2024CA

The contact owns a 2006 Chevrolet Corvette. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 09V491000(Structure); however, the part to do the repair was not yet available. No further information was provided. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Oct 28, 2023MD

Strong smell of fuel after driven with more than 1/2 tank of fuel.

Air Bags
Filed Sep 21, 2023CA

Air bag light goes on and mostly when driver seat is adjusted

Service Brakes
Filed Sep 19, 202350,000 milesIA

The contact owns a 2006 Chevrolet Corvette. The contact stated while driving at speeds above 25 MPH, the ABS system failed, causing the front brakes to activate without the driver depressing the brake pedal. During the failure the active handling warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the active handling control module wiring harness was faulty and needed to be replaced. Additionally, while operating the vehicle the low beam headlights inadvertently turned off. The mechanic diagnosed that the wiring harness for the exterior lighting needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer and local dealer were notified of the failure. The contact was informed that the vehicle was previously repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V251000 (Electrical System, Exterior Lighting). The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was 50,000. The contact stated that he pulled the fuse box and wiring from the car. In the photos, we can see a damaged wire around a tight bend that has created tension and caused a faulty connection.

Power Train
Filed Aug 14, 2023MI

Happened twice within a day. The main electric fan on the radiator stopped working and the car overheated. Once at idle, was able to shut the car off safely. The second time, there was traffic on the highway, and the fan stopped working and the car started to overheat. Had to shut the car off and wait for it to cool down on the side of the road. When I got the car home, I found the electrical connector of the fan to be melted and fused together. There was no indicator that the fan would stop running prior to the engine overheating.

Seats
Filed Jul 11, 2023MI

This is a 2006 Corvette with roughly 82,000 miles. The driver's seat will intermittently collapse on the recline function, resulting in a seat that is reclined all the way back. When this occurs, I need to pull myself up by the steering wheel while the vehicle is going down the road.

Engine
Filed Jul 11, 2023MI

While driving at ~45mph and 3500 rpm, an exhaust valve dropped on the pass side cylinder head. vehicle lost motive power. there was a hole in the block on the passenger side and the vehicle needed a long block replacement. the vehicle had 79,000 miles

Air Bags
Filed Jul 10, 2023CA

Air bag warning light comes on intermittently...goes away when I move the seat back and forth indicating there is faulty wiring with this vehicle. Apparently according to a corvette forum, this is a common problem, which tells me there is a chance that the problem possibly came from the factory.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed May 8, 2023FL

Fuel leaks from drivers side fuel tank. I see fuel tracks down side of tank, so conclude fuel is leaking from top of tank or from fuel pump. Fuel components are plastic, and now 17 years old, so they are probably cracked from age. I have strong smell of fuel in my garage, and puddle of fuel under drivers side tank. This is a safety hazard and must be fixed. I am aware of a number of other C6 Corvette owners with identical problems. GM must fix!

Unknown or Other
Filed Apr 6, 2023CA

This is a safety concern when I start my car and can not put it in reverse. This in todays world of violence and crime everywhere is truly a safety concern for women stuck in a car that you can not get out of park. The shift is stuck in park and will not move in any other position. Looking on the web this is a known problem on many 2005 and 2006 Corvette's for years. This has happened to many times to count.

Service Brakes
Filed Nov 5, 2022CA

My service active handling and traction control light will come on randomly and disappear, when it does come on usually my car will brake on one side of the car and skip and skid over to one side. when it happens I have zero control of the braking and steering and it has taken my car into another lane completely. it is terrifying and I've had the whole brake system replaced, along with ecm, ebcm, rack and pinion all suspension and steering components, wiring harness and just about everything I could think of that may cause it. I have a tilting telescope steering wheel and I've heard that they can cause this

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Oct 21, 2022NY

Car is now leaking fuel from driver's side gas tank. This is a known problem with GM and I do not understand how this is not a safety recall as the exhaust is inches away from the tank. The problem has been documented online by many owners. Is NHSTA waiting for someone to die in a fire before forcing GM to recall these cars. This is ridiculous. My car has only 41K miles. This should not be allowed by such a large American Corporation

Engine
Filed Aug 2, 202234,678 milesVA

The contact owned a 2006 Chevrolet Corvette. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the exhaust valve had fractured in cylinder # 6, damaging the piston, crankshaft, and engine block. The dealer informed the contact that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 34,678.

Engine
Filed Jul 15, 2022FL

2006 CHEVROLET CORVETTE, CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARD TO DEFECTIVE CRANKSHAFT PULLY. THE CONSUMER WAS SEEKING REIMBURSEMENT FOR A CRANKSHAFT SAFETY RECALL. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED, BUT DECLINED ANY ASSISTANCE.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jul 1, 2022NY

I recently purchased the car. I am noticing a strong smell of fuel from the rear driver's side. It is random. No leak on my garage floor. Reading forums and it has been an issue with other corvettes. Concerned as it could be a safety issue.

Service Brakes, Air › Antilock
Filed May 8, 2022GA

The service active handling and the traction control error is appearing on my cars instrument panel. Causing the cars ABS system to activate the front brakes while driving.This reaction causes the car to pull to the left, nearly causing an accident. It has random affected my car here recently. In that years that I have owned the car I have not had an issue. However, I see that this issue has been widely reported on this generation. Although I don’t see a recall for this issue. I do see that this is very dangerous. I feel lucky that this did not happen as I was traveling at a higher rate of speed or I probably would have wrecked the car.

Structure
Filed Dec 7, 202155,000 milesFL

The contact owns a 2006 Chevrolet Corvette. The contact stated that the roof panel was delaminated. The contact stated that the wind was entering the vehicle with the window closed. The contact called the local dealer, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no further assistance. The contact stated the failure was like NHTSA Campaign number 09V491000 (Structure). The contact was concerned about the roof detaching. The approximate failure mileage was 55,000.

Structure
Filed Dec 7, 202155,000 milesFL

THIS COMPLAINT IS BEING MARKED FOR DELETION BECAUSE IT IS AN INADVERTENT DUPLICATE OF ODI# 11442986*DJR The contact owns a 2006 Chevrolet Corvette. The contact stated the roof panel is delaminated. The contact stated that wind was entering the vehicle with window closed. The contact called the local dealer but vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified however, provided no further assistance The approximate failure mileage was 55,000. The contact stated the failure was similar to NHTSA Campaign number 09V491000 (Structure). The contact was concerned about the roof detaching,

Service Brakes
Filed Aug 16, 2021UT

I have a potential AH/TC (Active Handling) system problem. Today the “Service Active Handling System” light came on and upon search of the fix within my Corvette community I discovered that it is potentially a DEADLY issue where brakes may lock up on the freeway! PLEASE send me information on a fix with GM or where this is at in the process in regards to a recall. Thank you for your attention to this apparently deadly issue.

Unknown or Other
Filed Aug 4, 2021NJ

Shifter assembly does not operate properly. The shifter locks and will not move from park to reverse or neutral or drive. Therefore, the car is inoperable. Many suggestions are to override such lockout mechanism however this creates a major safety issue. The car was at dealership, and they could not resolve problem, nor could they locate a replacement shifter assembly. I believe GM’s lack of providing parts, TSB or other remediations for this well-known issue will result in owners creating an unsafe vehicle and overriding the safety lockout that is not working. Therefore, I strongly would like NHTSA to launch an investigation.

Steering
Filed Jul 20, 2021TX

On numerous occasions the past two years the active handling system in the vehicle will take control for no reason and brake on one side causing the car to swerve out of its lane and other times applies the brakes on its own. Very dangerous.

Air Bags
Filed May 22, 2021AZ

Air bag light is on. Common problem with corvettes that GM will not recall

Exterior Lighting
Filed Apr 19, 2021NC

MY HEADLIGHTS I THOUGHT WAS DONE UNDER DEALERSHIP THEN THEY STOP WORKING 2 MTHS LATER .

Engine
Filed Feb 26, 2021FL

CHEVROLET CORVETTE. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO A DEFECTIVE CRANKSHAFT PULLY. *LD THE CONSUMER REQUESTED TO HAVE THE VEHICLE'S REPAIR COST COVERED IN FULL BY THE MANUFACTURER.*JS

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Dec 31, 202097,000 milesTX

STRONG GAS FUMES FROM THE DRIVER'S SIDE REAR QUARTER PANEL. SO STRONG THAT I NEED TO KEEP MY GARAGE DOOR PARTIALLY OPEN.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Oct 30, 202087,787 milesWV

FUEL LEAKING FROM DRIVER SIDE FUEL TANK RUNNING DOWN THE SIDE AND DRIPPING OFF SAFETY SHIELD

Power Train
Filed Sep 13, 202023,142 milesVA

WHEN I START MY CORVETTE AND ATTEMPT TO SHIFT MY AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FROM PARK TO DRIVE, THE SHIFTER WILL NOT MOVE OUT OF THE PARK POSITION.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Sep 11, 202071,300 milesCA

FUEL STARTED TO LEAK FROM PASSENGER SIDE GAS TANK AND FUEL SMELL IN CABIN

Steering
Filed Aug 28, 202097,000 milesMO

THIS COMPLAINT IS ABOUT SUBMITTED COMPLAINT 11350345 WHICH I NEVER RECEIVED A RESPONSE FROM NHTSA ABOUT. WHY DID I NOT RECEIVE A RESPONSE? KEVIN

Service Brakes
Filed Aug 19, 202097,000 milesMO

2006 CORVETTE, VIN IS [XXX] APPROXIMATELY 10 TIMES WHILE DRIVING ANYWHERE FROM 5 MPH TO 75 MPH THE STEERING WHEEL JERKS THE VEHICLE THE LEFT.......ALMOST CAUSING AN ACCIDENT MANY TIMES BY PULLING ME INTO THE MEDIAN. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Aug 15, 202030,000 milesNV

AFTER FILLING THE GAS TANK AND DRIVING HOME THERE IS A VERY STRONG SMELL OF GASOLINE IN MY GARAGE. I THINK THE FUEL IS LEAKING OUT WHEN THE FUEL TANK IS FULL.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Aug 1, 2020NC

I'M NOTICING A GAS SMELL INSIDE MY CAR AND NEAR THE REAR WHEEL WELL. I NOTICE THIS SMELL WHEN THE CAR IS STATIONARY.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jun 13, 202051,000 milesVA

FUEL GAS FUMES FROM LEFT REAR WHEEL OPENING AND INSIDE WHEN VEHICLE IS STATIONARY. HAD FUEL SENDING UNIT IN GAS TANK REPLACED AND NEW GAS CAP BUT DID NOT SOLVE THE PROBLEM. DANGEROUS GAS FUMES !! FUMES STRONGER WHEN WEATHER IS HOT.

Electronic Stability Control (esc)
Filed Jun 4, 202024,000 milesTX

THE SERVICE ACTIVE HANDLING LIGHT APPEARED AND ALMOST LOST CONTROL OF THE CAR BECAUSE OF A RF BRAKE LOCKING UP. THE CAR WAS GOING ABOUT 40 MPH IN A CITY STREET. *TR

Engine
Filed May 6, 202029,000 milesSD

WHEN DRIVING THE VEHICLE THE MOTOR LOCKED UP AND CAUSED A MASSIVE OIL SPILL DUE TO THE ENGINE EXPLODING.. ROOT CAUSE WAS DUE TO A DROPPED VALVE WHICH CAUSED THE WHOLE ENGINE TO BREAK INTO PIECES. THIS IS A WELL DOCUMENTED PROBLEM WITH THE LS7 MOTOR FROM GM. *TR

Engine
Filed May 6, 2020CA

VALVE GUIDES PRE-MATURE WEAR CAUSING ENGINE FAILURE. *TR

Engine
Filed Apr 30, 20201,850 milesMD

WHEN DRIVING THE VEHICLE, I CAN HEAR, AS IT SEEMS TO ME, EXCESSIVE VALVE TRAIN NOISE.

Steering
Filed Apr 13, 202050,000 milesTX

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 CHEVROLET CORVETTE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 35 MPH, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY JERKED TO THE RIGHT AS THE SERVICE ACTIVE HANDLING WARNING MESSAGE ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO DRIVE HOME WITHOUT INCIDENT AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS INSPECTED. UPON INVESTIGATION, THE CONTACT DISCOVERED NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 10V172000 (STEERING) WHICH THE CONTACT LINKED WITH THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT SPOKE TO BOTH THE MANUFACTURER AND PELTIER CHEVROLET (2700 W. SW LOOP 323, TYLER, TX 75701) WHERE THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 50,000.

Engine
Filed Apr 6, 202022,188 milesTX

I WAS DRIVING IN S 35 MPH ZONE AND IT CHANGED TO 45 MPH. I WAS IN 2 OR 3RD GEAR AND HAS JUST STARTED UP A SLIGHT INCLINE AND I WAS INCREASING SPEED WHEN THE CAR MADE A SUDDEN JERK AND LOUD ALMOST A BANG. I DEPRESSED THE CLUTCH AND IT STAYED ON THE FLOOR. I THOUGH THAT THE CLUTCH HAD CAME APART AND I PULLED THE PEDAL UP TO SEE WHAT WAS GOING ON. THE ENGINE AT THAT POINT WAS RUNNING VERY ROUGH AND WOULD NOT HOLD SPEED OR ACCELERATE. I PULLED INTO A PARKING LOT AND GOT MY WIFE TO PICK ME UP. I THEN GOT MY PICKUP AND TRAILER AND TOOK THE CAR TO CLASSIC CHEVROLET. THEY FOUND WHERE THE VALVE HAD DROPPED INTO THE CYLINDER AND CAUSED DAMAGE TO THE PISTON AND ROD. I LOOKED AT THE ENGINE WHILE TORE DOWN AND NOTICED WHAT APPEARED TO ME TO BE A CRACK IN THE CYLINDER WALL AND POINTED IT OUT, THE FORMAN SAID THE HAD CHECKED IT AND DIDN'T FEEL THAT IT WAS A CRACK. THEY ADVISED ME TO GET A NEW HEAD AND HAVE THE OTHER HEAD WORKED ON AS WELL AS A PISTON, ETC. I DID THAT AND HAD THE CAR REPAIRED. WHEN THE CAR JERKED IT ALSO AFFECTED THE PRESSURE PLATE SO I HAD THAT REPLACED. AFTER I GOT THE CAR BACK I NOTICED IT WAS SMOKING WHITE VAPOR WHENEVER I STARTED IT. I TOOK IT BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP AND THE TESTED IT AND SURE ENOUGH IT WAS A CRACK IN THE CYLINDER. I THEN HAD THE MOTOR REPLACED AND THE DEALERSHIP WAS VERY FAIR AND CREDITED THE EARLIER WORK AGAINST THE MOTOR. WHEN THE MOTOR LET LOOSE, THE CAR LOCKED THE BACK WHEELS AND THE CAR BEHIND ME HAD TO MAKE A RATHER QUICK STOP AND DODGE ME SO AS N

Engine
Filed Apr 5, 202048,751 milesAZ

ENGINE WAS FOUND TO HAVE VALVE GUIDE CLEARANCES EXTREMELY OUT OF ALLOWABLE SPECS. PROBLEM WAS DETECTED BY AMERICAN HERITAGE PERFORMANCE, A COMPANY THAT SPECIALIZES IN THESE TYPES OF ENGINES. IF THE PROBLEM HAD NOT BEEN CORRECTED AND A FAILURE HAD OCCURRED, IT COULD HAVE LOCKED UP THE ENGINE CAUSING THE REAR WHEEL TO LOCK UP AND SEND THE CAR OUT OF CONTROL.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Mar 30, 202023,600 milesTX

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 CHEVROLET CORVETTE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AFTER REFUELING THE VEHICLE, THERE WAS AN ODOR OF FUEL PRESENT INSIDE AND OUTSIDE OF THE VEHICLE. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. THE LOCAL DEALER AUTONATION CHEVROLET LOCATED AT (2118 S PADRE ISLAND DR CORPUS CHRISTIE, TX) WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 23,600.

EngineCrash
Filed Mar 18, 202070,000 milesCA

CYLINDER HEAD VALVE GUIDES WORN REQUIRING REPLACEMENT BEFORE WARRANTY EXPIRATION. IF NOT REPAIRED CATASTROPHIC MOTOR FAILURE CAN OCCUR. IF THIS HAPPENS CAR BECOMES UNCONTROLLABLE WITH OIL AND COOLANT FLOODING OUT OF MOTOR. NEW HEADS WERE ORDERED FROM THE FACTORY AND THEY WERE OUT OF SPECIFICATION AND NEEDED MODIFICATION BEFORE INSTALLED. PREVIOUS 2008 CORVETTE (UNKNOWN VIN BUT CAN BE FOUND AT DEALERSHIP WHERE SERVICED HAD THIS SAME PROBLEM LEADING TO THE ABOVE MENTIONED FAILURE AND UNCONTROLLED VEHICLE CONDITION. THIS HAPPENED ON AN OFFLOAD VENUE SO THERE WAS NO ACCIDENT REPORT. I DON NOT KNOW THE EXACT DATES BUT ENTERED A DATE AS REQUIRED BELOW.

Complaints 1-50 of 365, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2008
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
202511310Routine
202421210Routine
202327131Fatalities reported
202221100Routine
202113200Routine
202034400Routine
2019148100Routine
201851100Routine
2017257400Above average
2016105210Routine
201565500Routine
201463511Fatalities reported
201382000Routine
201256100Routine
201185110Routine
201084000Routine
2009151010Routine
2008541020Above average
2007341240Above average
2006 — this page365520Above average
2005533660Above average
2004217410Above average
200385311Fatalities reported
2002157300Routine
2001205330Above average
2000278400Above average
1999308431Fatalities reported
1998399410Above average
1997153700Routine
199644140Routine
199532120Routine
199429110Routine
199322200Routine
19927210Routine
199124310Routine
199034400Routine

Compare every Corvette year →

2006 Chevrolet Corvette: questions buyers ask

Is the 2006 Chevrolet Corvette a good car?

Going by the federal record, it is one of the Corvette years to avoid: owners filed 365 complaints, 3.5 times as many as a typical Corvette year. The most common complaint is about the body and frame (16%).

What is the most common problem with the 2006 Chevrolet Corvette?

The body and frame: 58 of the 365 complaints (16%) are about it. The typical report comes at 9,443 miles.

How many recalls does the 2006 Chevrolet Corvette have?

5 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed May 14, 2014. The largest, 05V455000, covered 123,592 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

At what mileage do 2006 Chevrolet Corvette problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 37,500 miles. For the body and frame the midpoint is 9,443 miles.

Has NHTSA investigated the 2006 Chevrolet Corvette?

Yes, 4 times. The latest, EA13007 ("Simultaneous Loss of Low-Beam Headlights"), was opened Aug 23, 2013 and closed Jun 24, 2014.

Are there service bulletins for the 2006 Chevrolet Corvette?

The manufacturer filed 830 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the electrical system (125), the engine (108) and the transmission (65). They include a service campaign, General Communication, filed Aug 26, 2024. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

Reading this record

Complaint volume is well above typical for a single model year.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: May 14, 2014. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.