The 2017 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Convertible is an exhilarating blend of performance and style, boasting a 6.2-liter supercharged V8 engine that produces 650 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. It's a car designed for enthusiasts who crave power, precision handling, and open-top thrills. However, as with any high-performance vehicle, it’s not without its potential issues. Owning a ZL1 Convertible can be a rewarding experience, but understanding the common problems and the cost of ownership is essential before making a purchase.
In this detailed article, we’ll explore the most frequently reported problems with the 2017 Camaro ZL1 Convertible, provide insights on what to look for when buying one, and discuss how much it costs to maintain and own this American muscle icon.
Introduction: The Camaro ZL1 Convertible—A Beast on the Road
The 2017 Camaro ZL1 Convertible is the ultimate version of Chevrolet’s iconic muscle car, featuring a refined yet aggressive design paired with track-ready performance. It comes equipped with the same LT4 supercharged V8 found in the Corvette Z06, delivering jaw-dropping acceleration and a driving experience that rivals many European sports cars. The ZL1 is available with either a six-speed manual transmission or a 10-speed automatic, offering drivers flexibility in how they want to experience its raw power.
While the ZL1 Convertible is a high-performance machine that delivers thrills, owning a car like this also means dealing with potential wear and tear issues that come with driving at the edge of what modern technology can handle. Let’s take a closer look at the common problems reported by owners of the 2017 Camaro ZL1 Convertible.
Common Problems with the 2017 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Convertible
1. Supercharger Heat Soak and Performance Loss
One of the most significant issues faced by owners of the Camaro ZL1 Convertible is supercharger heat soak. Heat soak occurs when the supercharger becomes too hot during extended periods of hard driving or track use, which can result in a loss of power and reduced performance. The supercharger's efficiency drops as it heats up, leading to noticeable differences in acceleration and throttle response.
Symptoms of heat soak include:
- Reduced horsepower and torque after continuous spirited driving or during hot weather.
- Sluggish throttle response, especially after multiple hard acceleration runs.
While the supercharged engine is designed for extreme performance, it’s crucial to be mindful of this issue, especially if you plan to track the car frequently. Installing aftermarket cooling systems, such as upgraded intercoolers or heat exchangers, can help mitigate this issue.
2. Transmission Issues (10-Speed Automatic)
The 10-speed automatic transmission available in the 2017 Camaro ZL1 is known for its quick shifts and smooth operation under most conditions. However, some owners have reported transmission issues, including harsh shifting, delayed engagement, or slippage during acceleration.
Common symptoms of transmission issues include:
- Rough or jerky shifts, particularly when shifting from lower gears.
- Delayed gear engagement when accelerating from a stop or at low speeds.
- Transmission fluid leaks, which can lead to poor shifting performance.
Regular transmission fluid changes and software updates can help maintain smooth operation, but if neglected, transmission problems could become expensive to fix. It’s worth checking if the car has had any transmission-related recalls or service bulletins addressed by previous owners.
3. Magnetic Ride Control (Suspension) Wear
The ZL1 Convertible comes equipped with Magnetic Ride Control (MRC), an advanced adaptive suspension system that provides a balance between track-ready stiffness and on-road comfort. Over time, the system's dampers can wear out, leading to suspension issues such as:
- Reduced ride comfort, where the car may feel too stiff or bouncy over bumps.
- Poor handling, with the suspension struggling to adapt quickly to changing road conditions.
- Leaking shocks, which can compromise the effectiveness of the MRC system.
While MRC provides excellent handling characteristics, the cost of replacing components can be significant, especially if all four dampers need replacement. Potential buyers should ensure the suspension system is in good working order during a pre-purchase inspection.
4. Convertible Top Malfunctions
As with many convertibles, the power-operated soft top in the 2017 Camaro ZL1 Convertible can develop issues over time. Problems with the convertible top include:
- Slow or uneven operation when opening or closing the top.
- Hydraulic fluid leaks from the system that powers the top mechanism.
- Wind noise or water leaks, particularly around the seals between the top and the body.
Regular maintenance of the convertible top, including keeping the seals clean and lubricated, can help prevent these issues. Convertible tops are expensive to repair, so it's essential to check the condition of the top before purchasing a used model.
5. Brake Wear and Overheating
With its high-performance Brembo brake system, the ZL1 Convertible is built to handle aggressive driving and track days. However, frequent spirited driving can lead to premature brake wear or brake overheating during prolonged use. Symptoms include:
- Vibrations or pulsations when braking, often due to warped brake rotors.
- Brake fade, where the stopping power diminishes after repeated heavy braking.
- Squeaking or grinding noises, indicating worn-out brake pads or rotors.
If the car has been used extensively on the track, it’s important to check the condition of the brakes. Upgrading to more heat-resistant brake pads or larger brake rotors can help manage overheating issues, but this can add to the overall cost of ownership.
6. Oil Consumption
Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption in the LT4 V8 engine, particularly during high-performance driving. While some oil consumption is normal for high-performance engines, excessive consumption can be a sign of internal wear or other issues.
Signs of excessive oil consumption include:
- Frequent need to top off the oil between oil changes.
- Blue smoke from the exhaust, indicating burning oil.
- Low oil level warning lights on the dashboard.
Regularly checking and maintaining proper oil levels is critical for engine longevity. It’s also important to inquire about the vehicle’s oil change history and whether the previous owner noticed any oil-related issues.
What to Look for When Buying a 2017 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Convertible
When buying a used 2017 Camaro ZL1 Convertible, it's essential to perform a thorough inspection and take note of any potential issues. Here are some key things to look for:
- Service History: Ensure the vehicle has a complete service record, particularly for oil changes, brake maintenance, and any transmission or supercharger-related repairs.
- Convertible Top Operation: Test the operation of the soft top multiple times to ensure it opens and closes smoothly and check for any signs of leaks or wind noise.
- Brake Condition: Inspect the brake pads and rotors for excessive wear, and ask if the car has been used on the track, as track driving can accelerate brake wear.
- Transmission Shifting: During the test drive, pay close attention to the smoothness of gear shifts, particularly in lower gears. Any rough or delayed shifting could indicate transmission issues.
- Cooling System: Check for signs of overheating or heat soak during hard acceleration, and ask if any cooling system upgrades have been installed.
How Expensive is It to Own a 2017 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Convertible?
Owning a high-performance car like the 2017 Camaro ZL1 Convertible can be expensive, especially when it comes to maintenance and repairs. Here’s a breakdown of the main costs to consider:
- Fuel Efficiency: The ZL1’s supercharged V8 is thirsty, averaging around 12-16 MPG depending on driving conditions. Frequent refueling will be a regular expense, especially if you drive the car aggressively.
- Insurance: Insurance premiums for the Camaro ZL1 Convertible are higher than those for standard cars, due to its high performance and higher repair costs.
- Maintenance and Repairs: Routine maintenance, such as oil changes, brake replacements, and tire rotations, will cost more than on a standard Camaro. Additionally, the cost of replacing performance parts like the brakes, suspension components, or supercharger can be quite high.
- Tires: The ZL1 uses high-performance tires that can wear quickly, especially if the car is driven aggressively. Replacing tires on a regular basis can be an expensive upkeep item.
Conclusion
The 2017 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Convertible is a thrilling and powerful machine, perfect for those who crave the combination of open-air driving and blistering performance. However, like any high-performance car, it comes with its share of potential problems. From supercharger heat soak to transmission issues and suspension wear, being aware of these common problems can help you avoid expensive repairs and ensure you maintain the car properly.
If you’re in the market for a used ZL1 Convertible, pay close attention to the vehicle’s service history, check the condition of the brakes, transmission, and convertible top, and be mindful of potential supercharger and suspension wear. While owning a Camaro ZL1 Convertible can be an expensive endeavor, the driving experience it offers is truly one-of-a-kind.