Photo: Mustang Joe / CC0 / Wikimedia Commons
Chevrolet Camaro
Cabriolet · Gas · 106 versions · owner report
Ranked #4 of 6 used sports cars on owner data, price and power
Every generation
Power
Combined, EPA 2024
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Mixed sentiment with strong generational divides.
8 problems reported (2 very frequent, 4 recurrent, 2 isolated) · medium confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentSeverely compromised outward visibility and blind spots
- Very frequentUncomfortable, cramped interior with poor ergonomics
- RecurrentFifth-generation V6 engine reliability concerns (susceptible to age-related failures)
+ 5 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentActive Fuel Management (AFM/DOD) system failures in automatic transmission V8 models
- RecurrentConvertible top mechanism failures (glass separating from fabric
Requiring multiple top replacements)
- RecurrentLifter tick and potential cylinder damage (specifically cylinders 7 & 8) in LS3/L99 V8 engines
- IsolatedSecond-gear synchronizer wear in TR6060 manual transmissions
- IsolatedDealer service misconduct (taking customer cars for unauthorized joyrides)
The version owners recommend
V8 models (SS, ZL1) with the 1LE performance package. The ZL1 1LE is specifically highlighted for its extreme track capability, with owners citing its exceptional grip from Multimatic suspension components and its ability to compete with supercars on circuit times. For daily use, the SS with the 10-speed automatic and magnetic ride control is often mentioned as a strong balance of performance and comfort. There is a strong consensus to avoid the V6 models, particularly of the fifth generation, due to reliability concerns and a perception of being a compromised "muscle car."
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Ford Mustang, Dodge Challenger, Nissan Z, Toyota GR Supra and Chevrolet Corvette C8.
Is the Camaro right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Full owner reportHide full owner report
Overall sentiment
Mixed sentiment with strong generational divides. The sixth-generation (2016+) models, particularly V8 SS and ZL1 variants, receive significant praise for exceptional handling, track performance, and the potency of the LT/LT4 engines paired with the 10-speed automatic or manual transmissions. Long-term owner reports indicate good overall reliability for the V8 powertrains when properly maintained. However, very frequent and severe criticism is directed at the car's poor outward visibility, cramped and uncomfortable interior ergonomics, and compromised daily usability. The fifth-generation (2010-2015) V6 models are specifically cited for being less robust and more susceptible to age-related failures compared to their V8 counterparts. Sentiment is heavily dependent on powertrain choice and intended use, with driving enthusiasts valuing performance over practicality, while daily drivers often express frustration with the car's compromises.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as the sharpest handling and most track-capable vehicle among the traditional American muscle car trio (Camaro, Mustang, Challenger). The V8 models, especially the SS 1LE and ZL1 1LE, are frequently noted for superior lap times and skidpad grip compared to equivalent Mustangs and Challengers, with specific comparisons showing it can rival or exceed the performance of higher-priced European sports cars. Versus the Mustang, the Camaro is consistently described as faster and better handling but significantly less practical, with a worse interior, terrible visibility, and a less comfortable driving position. The Challenger is viewed as a larger, more comfortable cruiser with a usable backseat, while the Camaro is the dedicated performance choice. Against the Nissan Z and Toyota GR Supra, the Camaro V8 offers more power and often better value but is heavier and less refined.
Recommended configurations
Manual transmission (TR6060) is preferred by enthusiasts for engagement, though the 10-speed automatic is praised for its speed and intelligent shift programming. All-wheel drive is not mentioned; rear-wheel drive is standard. For fifth-generation V8 models (LS3), a pre-purchase inspection specifically checking for lifter tick and cylinder sleeve wear on cylinders 7 and 8 is strongly recommended. For automatics with Active Fuel Management (AFM/DOD), disabling the system is suggested due to its high failure rate. Using premium fuel is emphasized. For daily driving in adverse conditions, fitting snow tires is reported to be effective.
General recommendations
Suitable for driving enthusiasts and track-day participants who prioritize handling and acceleration over comfort, visibility, and interior space. NOT recommended as a primary daily driver for those who contend with heavy traffic or require good outward visibility. Strongly recommended to conduct an extensive test drive to evaluate the interior ergonomics and sightlines. For used models, a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a specialist familiar with common engine and transmission failures is critical. Purchasing from a reputable dealer with a good service history is advised over auction lots. For younger buyers, extremely high insurance costs must be factored into affordability.
Remarks
Owner feedback spans multiple generations, from classic models (1967, 1978, 1987) through the fifth (2010-2015) and sixth (2016-2023) generations, with the most substantive discussions focusing on the fifth and sixth gens. The powertrain is the primary differentiator for reliability perception: V8 models (LS3, LT1, LT4) are generally viewed as robust, while the V6, especially in the fifth gen, is seen as a cost-cutting weak point. The car's fundamental compromise between world-class chassis dynamics and deeply flawed packaging is the central theme of owner experiences. Analysis based on approximately 30 substantive owner discussions across various generations.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Camaro VI2016–20231,324 complaints · 15 recallsmoderate confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): power train (381) · electrical system (238) · steering (233)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners of the 2016-2023 Camaro generally regard it as a genuinely capable performance car, with the SS and 1LE trims repeatedly described as the most track-oriented and best-handling of the domestic pony cars.
7 problems reported (1 very frequent, 2 recurrent, 4 isolated) · medium confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentPoor outward visibility
- RecurrentAutomatic transmission lifter failure linked to cylinder deactivation (AFM/DOD)
- RecurrentCramped trunk opening and functionally useless rear seat
+ 4 more issuesShow fewer
- IsolatedCheap-feeling interior materials
- IsolatedElectrical problems reported on a used 2017 LT
- Isolated2020 V6 stop-sale over a potential emissions system issue
Attributed by owners to a supplier part problem.
- IsolatedDepreciation relative to rivals
Is a 2016–2023 Camaro right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Camaro V2009–20161,324 complaints · 22 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): electrical system (420) · air bags (217) · engine (211)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners regard the 5th generation Camaro as a fun, reliable car when properly maintained, with the V8 models earning the strongest praise and the V6 models drawing more mixed opinions.
8 problems reported (1 very frequent, 2 recurrent, 5 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentPoor outward visibility
- RecurrentAFM/DOD cylinder deactivation causing lifter failure on automatic V8s
- RecurrentDated interior
+ 5 more issuesShow fewer
- IsolatedEarly V6 timing chain issues
- IsolatedConvertible top issues on 2011-2012 droptops (class action mentioned)
- IsolatedA/C evaporator leak requiring dash removal
- IsolatedBluetooth clunky and hidden on 2011 models
- IsolatedMinor electrical/battery and startup problems
Is a 2009–2016 Camaro right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2017. Years to avoid: 2017Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Chevrolet Camaro years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 105 | 0 | engine |
| 2022 | 56 | 1 | unknown or other |
| 2021 | 80 | 4 | power train |
| 2020 | 81 | 3 | power train |
| 2019 | 121 | 1 | power train |
| 2018 | 217 | 2 | electrical system |
| 2017 | 523 | 3 | steering |
| 2016 | 141 | 1 | power train |
| 2015 | 206 | 2 | electrical system |
| 2014 | 188 | 4 | electrical system |
| 2013 | 187 | 4 | electrical system |
| 2012 | 113 | 5 | electrical system |
| 2011 | 194 | 3 | air bags |
| 2010 | 295 | 3 | air bags |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices69 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2022 · power train:automatic transmissioncampaign 25V148000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Cadillac CT6, 2020-2021 CT4, CT5, and 2020-2022 Chevrolet Camaro vehicles equipped with a 10-speed transmission. The transmission may become damaged internally and cause the wheels to lock-up.
2021 · seat beltscampaign 20V811000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Chevrolet Bolt EV and 2021 GMC Canyon and Sierra 1500, 2500 and 3500, Yukon, Yukon XL, Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV and Chevrolet Blazer, Camaro, Colorado, Equinox, Silverado 1500, 2500 and 3500, Suburban and Tahoe vehicles. Incorrect bolts may have been used at one or more fastening locations to secure the seat belts to the vehicle. If an incorrect bolt was used, the seat belt may not be properly attached to the vehicle.
2021 · power train:axle assembly:axle shaftcampaign 21V188000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Chevrolet Camaro vehicles. The left or right axle shaft may be missing a retaining ring, which could allow the axle shaft to separate while driving.
2021 · air bags:frontalcampaign 21V211000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2017-2021 Chevrolet Camaro vehicles. The plastic "Camaro" emblem, located on the steering wheel air bag cover, may separate during deployment of the frontal driver air bag.
2021 · power train:automatic transmissioncampaign 25V148000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Cadillac CT6, 2020-2021 CT4, CT5, and 2020-2022 Chevrolet Camaro vehicles equipped with a 10-speed transmission. The transmission may become damaged internally and cause the wheels to lock-up.
2020 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pumpcampaign 19V837000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Camaro, Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles. The fuel pump may be missing a pressure regulator, allowing for over-pressurization of the fuel system.
2020 · air bags:frontalcampaign 21V211000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2017-2021 Chevrolet Camaro vehicles. The plastic "Camaro" emblem, located on the steering wheel air bag cover, may separate during deployment of the frontal driver air bag.
2020 · power train:automatic transmissioncampaign 25V148000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Cadillac CT6, 2020-2021 CT4, CT5, and 2020-2022 Chevrolet Camaro vehicles equipped with a 10-speed transmission. The transmission may become damaged internally and cause the wheels to lock-up.
2019 · air bags:frontalcampaign 21V211000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2017-2021 Chevrolet Camaro vehicles. The plastic "Camaro" emblem, located on the steering wheel air bag cover, may separate during deployment of the frontal driver air bag.
2018 · air bags:frontalcampaign 21V211000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2017-2021 Chevrolet Camaro vehicles. The plastic "Camaro" emblem, located on the steering wheel air bag cover, may separate during deployment of the frontal driver air bag.
2018 · steering:electric power assist systemcampaign 25V175000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Cadillac CTS, 2017-2018 Cadillac ATS, Chevrolet Camaro, and Chevrolet Corvette vehicles. The electric power steering (EPS) assist may fail.
2017 · steering:electric power assist systemcampaign 19V086000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Cadillac CTS, and 2017 Cadillac ATS, Chevrolet Camaro, and Chevrolet Corvette vehicles. The electric power steering (EPS) assist system may fail.
2017 · air bags:frontalcampaign 21V211000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2017-2021 Chevrolet Camaro vehicles. The plastic "Camaro" emblem, located on the steering wheel air bag cover, may separate during deployment of the frontal driver air bag.
2017 · steering:electric power assist systemcampaign 25V175000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Cadillac CTS, 2017-2018 Cadillac ATS, Chevrolet Camaro, and Chevrolet Corvette vehicles. The electric power steering (EPS) assist may fail.
2016 · electrical system:softwarecampaign 16V084000
Genera Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2016 Chevrolet Camaro, Malibu, Silverado and GMC Sierra vehicles. The radio may intermittently fail to provide an audio warning when the key has been left in the ignition and the door is opened or when the driver does not fasten their seat belt. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) number 114, "Theft Protection", and/or 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
54 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
ZL1 6.2 V8
6.2L 8-cylinder · 660 hp · RWD · automatic
Built 2018–2023