C4 Corvette Buyer's Guide: Which years are the best? (1984 to 1996)

[@stevent7944]

I do not even own a Corvette yet and I stil have enjoyed watching this four times!

[@wyattoneable]

You're a walking encyclopedia of Corvettes. I enjoy hearing your opinions on our beloved cars.

[@thomasrussell6009]

I dont mean to be offtopic but does anyone know a way to log back into an Instagram account..? I was dumb lost my login password. I would appreciate any help you can offer me

[@hezekiahturner5939]

@Thomas Russell Instablaster ;)

[@thomasrussell6009]

@Hezekiah Turner I really appreciate your reply. I found the site thru google and Im in the hacking process atm. I see it takes quite some time so I will get back to you later when my account password hopefully is recovered.

[@thomasrussell6009]

@Hezekiah Turner It worked and I actually got access to my account again. I'm so happy! Thank you so much you saved my ass :D

[@hezekiahturner5939]

@Thomas Russell happy to help :)

[@TheGov1967]

Hi, I've got a1991 C4 with L98. It's had 1 owner before me,just over 32000 miles at present, Bright Red, Black Leather, Transparent Roof. Absolute stunning condition. I absolutely love it. 👍👍👍

[@cjikers3353]

My 94 is my prize possession and I absolutely love it

[@TheOldPCTech]

My first Corvette was a 1991. I loved it, and the L98 😉

[@gloriaanderson1365]

I JUST PURCHASED A 1991. CONVERTIBLE. I LOVE IT .L98

[@gloriaanderson1365]

I feel better now that I. Listen to you. I. Will Be listening

[@dicknixon2763]

Loved ur 230 something L98? Come now, no power. But mine looks good I'll give u that

[@dicknixon2763]

Boyo o boy I hope folks are listening to ur advice on the electronics on the 1986 vintage C4's. What a friggin pain to diagnose even with the blue book.it be sweet if u could get the dealer diagnostic tool at a reasonable price. TY Rich

[@josephmessing2168]

Bought my 91 new...been enjoying it ever since. Never had a major problem. Still getting head turns. Yellow, manual convertible!

[@logankiefer6993]

Bought my 96 back in May and all i can say is that it is a blast to drive. My dad is a huge corvette fan and when he is with me he does not want to take any other vehicle besides the corvette. So it is a bonding moment with him.

[@gordonliddy6997]

Good information as usual... My sweet spot is 1985-1988. I find these cars VERY easy to diagnose and work on, and I prefer the earlier exterior. I love the ATARI dash and had it rebuilt for only $350. I like the earlier C4s because they have fewer electronic gadgets. I love the simplicity of my 1985 Vette: No ABS, VATS, Electronic AC Control, TPMS, ASR, FX3, etc... However the 85 has a i year only ECM that is slower than the ECM in my 88..... One thing you should note: 94-95 were not truly OBD2. They had an OBD2 connector but still OBD1 codes. You could not jumper to read codes and you needed a special adapter for a Tech1 scanner. That was a bad hodgepodge by GM. I would avoid 94-95 because of this.

[@lyleaulwurm9486]

All excellent points, Gordon! Thank you! Lyle

[@NightRunner_K5]

It's easy to swap that slow 870 ECU out for a 165 ECU, I just swapped mine but the VATS system in the Calpack is stopping me from starting it, got a 25 dollar harness coming in to fix that.

[@LuxuryRumble]

Just bought rare greenwood 1991 c4 corvette with L98 engine and 25000 mileage. Its amazing car

[@corvettefever360]

I do love this C4 Corvette! Even with all its quirks. Most people forget this is the car that made the so called supercars go back to the drawing board and step their game up and this is an actual fact

[@kimblem.w9952]

Especially when the ZR1 came out. Porsche had no response for that car.

[@AlexxMichael]

I own an 87 and its an absolute incredible car. Never ever had any issue with it. LOVE IT

[@Chris-km8ln]

Thank you, Lyle, for passing on your knowledge/expertise in regard to the C4, this will be very helpful in my search.

[@matthewgramuglia4263]

Can't forget about the '96 manual transmission cars getting the LT4 motor, which was just as quick as the early LS1 C5

[@diagnolsnakeskin462]

I just scored a 1994 for almost nothing. This video is a blessing. You will be hearing from me soon!!!

[@dethjonescustoms1167]

So, I have a 1981 and a 1979 Corvette. And I couldn’t be happier. Are they perfect? Absolutely not. Do they run? Oh yeah! Have they been projects? Every step of the way. And I wouldn’t have it any other way. I could write pages of information about what I’ve done to the cars… I work on them myself. Learned a ton. And I just keep going because this is too much fun. I dreamed of these cars when I was in high school graduating in 1977. But who had the money on a two dollar and50 Cent an hour job.? Now I have enough money to afford a car that I’ve been in love with since I was a kid. I hope the same happens for those of you who are dreaming about these cars. It’s totally worth it…

[@TheMrmmkkpro]

I own a 1990 ZR-1, I paid 5k for this bad boy. It had been sitting for several years. After doing fuel pumps, fuel filter and injectors and a oil change, along with plugs she fired right up. Also did brakes, instrument cluster rebuild, clutch slave and master cylinder. She has been on the road since June 2020 and have racked up 3500 miles and she is a blast to drive, running great. I'm loving this LT5, I still have cosmetic work to do but mechanically she is stout. Love my 1990.👍👍🏁🏁 Enjoy your videos, get right to the point, great information. This is my first C4, I was looking for a vette for a while and never really considered a C4, but my ZR-1 presented itself and as soon as I opened the clamshell it was over, paid the man and bought her home. I have to say after diving in to fix this car, I was/am amazed with the engineering that went into this machine. I'm glad I chose this C4, it's a blast to drive and I really enjoy it. I'm not sure why the C4 catches so much crap, they are very affordable, relatively cheap to work on(ZR-1 NOT INCLUDED) and a very important part in Corvette history. Long live the C4.

[@MrZootalores]

i don't own any 'Vettes but used to have a 1964 Triumph Spitfire(flip hood from the bumper).i like the C4 for the flip hood & pop up lites, the roads where i live are so twisty,potholed,narrow,dark,dangerous, i'd be driving a C4 thru there at 90(top speed) & slamming on the brakes ~no room~

[@DeejayPozE]

I've got a 90 ZR-1 myself. First sports car i've ever had. What a fun ride!

[@dant3588]

Another 90 ZR-1 owner here, since 2017. Plenty of small issues with it, but a joy to drive, and the registry community is first rate. Usually the only one at a car show too. Parts can be a hassle, but a little patience and mechanical ingenuity solves most problems. Paid $17k with 45k miles. Been very happy with it. If not ZR-1, I'd have a 96 collectors edition.

[@chefgromano5025]

Had an 85 and now a 92. Both pristine low miles. The 85 felt more solid like a tank. The 92 just not as solid but faster with the new engine that year obviously. I love them both and for 10k you can’t have more fun and reliability in a car.

[@tal78360]

I've just bought my first vet, 92". I'm wait for it to come on January through the sea. I hope it will be ok....

[@miroslavdockal9468]

You can buy a freakin civic for fun, or E 36 BMW, for way less...but these things arent so classy as Corvette, Corvette level is up to wanna be supercar. I spare for one of these, it looks like the only supercar which can be used as daily. Corvettes are amazing cars.

[@jaleeckflathead9640]

Mind blown I was thinking about going on youtube to search for this and it pop up in my recommend. KZbin read my mind.

[@kallo182]

Strange Thing is, i had also Cases like this a few times. Maybe the Algorythm is that good??

[@jaleeckflathead9640]

The algorithm works in mysterious ways. It got me for sure.

[@_silversoul_8641]

The Commadore 64 analogy definitely puts the electronics into perspective. Thank you!😅

[@danlaur7973]

The C4 cars get no respect, good deals can be had

[@doctyler5382]

Exactly! Just picked up a 84 C4 w/18k 😁

[@jays9211]

Best looking corvette ever!

[@imdeplorable2241]

Amazingly, not even the National Corvette Museum gives respect to the C4. Pretty disappointing.

[@paulmoss7940]

@@imdeplorable2241 Really ? Damn I woulda thought 96 Grand Sport for sure.

[@imdeplorable2241]

@@paulmoss7940 To me, it seems like the '96 G.S. and the '90 ZR1 "King of the Hill" are the only C4s that get any ink. The museum has very little apparel and even in the factory, where they started building the Corvette in 1981, the C4 logo is not painted on the wall (at the end of the factory tour). All of the other logos were, though. I was amazed, frankly. I had just trophied at their car show (they only picked 12 out of hundreds), the only C4 I believe, and then was disappointed at the lack of respect, or standing, I saw there. Pretty disheartening.

[@e34jan]

I'ld love to get my hands on a '89 6 Speed. L98, old interior, old exterior, love it. I think I've to import it to Germany next year.

[@stevesteve2089]

Don't be afraid of ANY C4s. They are the sweetest rides EVER built, and EVERYTHING is cheap and easy to fix. One of the things it was designed for is pit stop repairs. Can't believe they moved away from its platform.

[@richardsmith5394]

Someone has described the C4 years as the "Malaise Years" at GM. I agree. I own an 84, which I purchased used well before you produced this video. Thank you for finally explaining the issues with Cross-Fire Injection and electronics, etc. of which I've spent a fair amount of time and money rectifying. Around town the suspension poses a challenging ride, true, but on a sunny afternoon on a country road in the Summer, it is great fun to drive. The poor quality of materials, plastics, cheap fabrics, etc really is an indictment of GM policies for using crap on what should be a premium automobile. Beyond that, I find myself unable to part ways with this car because it is so much fun to drive on the days it chooses to run right. Thanks for your videos.

[@upracer9311]

I have a 90 6spd that I put a LOT of work into over the last 3 years or so. I bought your SuperPro suspension bushing kit, and it made a huge difference in drivability and handling. Was well worth the effort. I've replaced the water pump, timing chain and gears, oil pump, 2 wheel hubs, exhaust, lowering kit, 18" wheels/tires, steering wheel, rebuilt steering column, replaced heater control valve and climate control brain, heater core, replaced all hoses, VATS bypass, clutch, rebuilt diff, trans shim, I-beam reinforced mounts, air pump delete, oil pressure sender, rear main seal, shocks. I know I'm way upside down in it, but it was essentially therapy for me and a good distraction from some of life that was welcome then. Still has it's quirky idiot light issues that will not go away, but it runs and drives great now - and that was my goal. May not be a C7 that I would rather have, but I'll take it. A very rewarding car to work on (most of the time).

[@dougcoleburn1579]

Any chance you changed blend door? If so what brand? Im having trouble with my heat always on. Door is staying open. I'm looking at sending my control panel to Batee. How bad was it removing the brain box above gas pedal.

[@upracer9311]

@@dougcoleburn1579 Replacing blend door motor was a total pain, but not impossible. Had to remove the entire dash cover. The brain above the gas pedal was a bit better though, but you have to lie on your back with your head by the pedals to remove it. In the end, it turned out to be the brain box. Got one on eBay.

[@dougcoleburn1579]

@@upracer9311 thank you! Did you think about using Batee.com repair or just want to go with new one? You’ve done a lot of work! I guess these cars are a labor of love.

[@upracer9311]

@@dougcoleburn1579 I did get some rebuild parts from Batee but my original module had more issues (chips). So I just bought a used brain on eBay which solved my problems.

[@dougcoleburn1579]

@@upracer9311 thank you

[@sebbonxxsebbon6824]

1991 is my favorite of the C4's.

[@keithfaulk1354]

I just bought a 91c4 corvette and I can't wait for it to be shipped..

[@garymartin7842]

@@keithfaulk1354 congratulations, good weather days ahead.. what color?

[@alexbrutlag8038]

I’m looking at a gorgeous red on red 1991 corvette with the Lt1 engine. How is the performance and the handling with it? Is it decent stock or should I look at cold air intake or cat back exhaust for a bump in power?

[@LuxuryRumble]

@@alexbrutlag8038 depends which state you live. If California pretty much can’t do anything. First and must thing to do is all bushing for control arms and suspensions since they are rubber and all bad.

[@richarddomsicz670]

@@alexbrutlag8038 i thought all 91s were l98

[@Andrew-cq3hy]

Recently bought a '94 with 83k on it. Absolutely love it.

[@dr.killjoy29]

94’ and love I ❤️ it. I picked this over a c5 and I’m happy with it. I like the c5 but they took away the curves that I fell in love with.

[@CrazyPetez]

I bought a new 86 Z51, 4+3 transmission, first year with ABS. Wonderful car, except those Girlock brakes SUCKED. Anytime I drove on a twisty road, the rotors kicked the pads back, so the pedal would go low until I pumped the brakes. I learned to double pump the brakes every time I used them. A Corvette specialist at the local dealer drove it and said they were fine. WTF? The notorious 4+3 gave me no problems. I liked it. Pressing the button on the top of the shift lever gave an instant downshift, or upshift. I sold the fully paid for car with only 24K miles when I retired and needed to spend less - insurance was high. I remember going to Sears Point and watched a totally stock 86 win the race. He returned to the pits, put his spare tire, jack, etc. back in the car and drove home to Newport Beach. Just like in the very early days of sports car racing.

[@richardendress4494]

Good to hear you had good luck with your DN 4+3 trans. I am enjoying my '87 and the same trans. I am thinking of replacing my brakes prior to my first open track day. What do you recommend?

[@CrazyPetez]

@@richardendress4494 I am so far removed from C4 tech, I can’t make any specific recommendations. I think Wilwood has an excellent reputation. Their Hi-Temp 570 brake fluid works well in my C3, no fade.

[@Digitalbandz888]

I love my C8 but the C4 ZR1 is my Dream Car.. can’t wait to purchase my C4!!

[@AgentLooseness]

Greetings from a German '95 Lt1 6 speed manual guy 💪 Here in Germany those are quite rare and I had the opportunity to get one (US model) nearby (south Germany). Admittedly I aspired to one of those as I wanted to enter the 300hp club 😄 With the combination of 285 rear and 255 front tyres it just handles so stable. Nice video 👍

[@ken3923]

My first new vet was a 1988 with that horrendous 4-speed manual with overdrive transmission what a nightmare traded it in for a 1990 6 speed and loved it

[@TheOldPCTech]

My 91 had the ECM problem you described. I’d be driving along, all’s well, and out of nowhere it would die, or shudder like a wheel came half off, and the OBD I interface didn’t tell me jack about what the problem was. Thankfully I had Corvette Forum and other online resources to fall back on, and about $85 and a trip to O’Reilly’s, and it was running great again after an ECM swap.

[@Saint111Michael]

Are ECM swaps difficult ?

[@dapper_gent]

Not hard to do, getting the part is the biggest challenge. You must first address the ground wires by cleaning up their points of contact before doing the swap or you're going to burn up a rare part again.

[@Rabbitedition]

I really enjoyed this video. My dad had a 91 six speed which is probably what prompted me to buy my 94.

[@jays9211]

I remember when the 84 came out. It was so awesome back then. I had an IROC Z but always wanted a C4. I still have the car and driver magazine with the introductory article of the C4. It was a light blue metallic car. The clamshell hood, the visible cast front suspension A arms, the rotating headlights, the targa top, the video game like dash was what I worshipped for years.

[@kevinkevin6117]

A corvette c4 1990 from Norway here :)) 🇳🇴🇺🇸

[@DC.]

Awesome! Just got a 94 C4.

[@jamesbarry6979]

Just got mine last Week ! 94*

[@Zentist]

Bought my first American car, Corvette 93 LT1 automatic. Am-a-zing car! Needs alot of love but runs and drives great! Thanks for this video and greetings from the Netherlands!

[@nikkoalpha2]

The 84-87 models used hard to find 16 inch tires. The 93 - 96 used hard to find staggered 17 inch tires by a single manufacturer. The 93 - 94 Opt-spark ignitions are problematic while the 95 - 96 used a vented Optispark ignition that is better. My 96 had a weird a/c system that was unique to that year and required an expensive controller if problematic. All years had lousy weather stripping when care was ignored. Owned an 87 for 13 years and a 96 for 3 years. Hard entry with the higher sills for us older owners. Emergency brake locations were strange. Digital dashes were hard to see in bright sunlight. Despite these annoyances, the C4’s were fantastic cars that delivered a visceral driving experience. Now own two C5’s and could not be happier.

[@johnpanek5203]

You can add a vent to the earlier optisparks, not too difficult.

[@Swarm509]

Would you take a C5 over a C4 if you had to pick between the two?

[@Astrosisphere]

I'm getting an '84 now - when you said hard suspension that was the last box that needed checking for me! :-D

[@Frankivity326]

Great informative video Lyle ! I bought a nice `88 auto coupe last January - and like Lyle said here, it needed a few things like tires, tune-up, belt, MAF relays and the seat leathers replaced but I now have a great fun every weekend cruiser that didn't break the bank and it gets thumbs up all the time. Love my L98 grunt around town and on the highway.

[@lelandbrucehall6572]

I want to thank you for your informational videos. I, like you say you are, am a big guy, 5'11" and 290. While reaching for my wallet I pushed back on my right side of my seat in my C5. I heard it pop and thought I broke the fiberglass back in my seat. I looked up videos and found yours on the seat back quick repair. It worked! So thanks again for your videos, and keep up the info on our Vettes.

[@ttspeedster8930]

Great video, I have a 1987 C4 & love it😎💯🔥

[@jameslonano5659]

I love c4's! Own an 89 convertible and a '96 LT-4. I do prefer the interior and vibe of the earlier cars when they were the king of the track, wiping up the floor with the competition on the race tracks across the world and all done with the L-98 engine might add. Even the '84 had some voodoo in it being lighter prior to the extra bracing that came later and the over the top 1G suspension in base and z51 form. Heck, one of my favorite driving experiences was whisking my buddies razor sharp '84 crossfire z51 around the Pocono mountains, rowing through the gears, wringing out the car for everything it had.

[@martymartinez5709]

Ive had my 91 since 2000 and still love it!

[@lawrence5039]

First C4 I bought on a Friday was a used 1984. A bucket of bolts as you said. Returned it on Monday no questions asked. Next was a new 1987. What a perfect car. Didn't bother to test drive it. Perfect in every way except one time it shut off completely while driving by a chevy dealer, so I coasted it right in. Something was fixed and no problems at all after that. Only thing was at 135 mph, the front got real light, could barely feel the road.

[@charlest1178]

My 1989 red coupe had the best seat support of my Eight C4 Corvettes My black 1991 Corvette convertible with light gray interior, 6 speed and both the soft and hard tops was the most fun!!!

[@jonathanbartik8479]

Hell yeah, made the right choice! I just got a 91 C4 with the L98 in it. It’s got the sexy rear bumper with the square tail lights and came with the ZR1 Polished Aluminum wheels. It’s an all original double red car, never been touched - and in near mint condition, too. I’ve been driving it for about 2 weeks now, and after getting the tranny serviced, air filter, and 2 oil changes, she runs like a brand new car. Absolutely love it.

[@brunothepug8807]

Lyle, can't thank you enough. Having a C4 was always a dream for me but had to raise a family and save for college etc. Now it's my time finally. Found an 94 with 31K original miles in amazing condition. Everything works as should and I gave $12.5K for her. A little pricey but not a lot of prestine low mileage ones around with all service records. You will be my go to for parts for sure. Only driven it 150 miles so far but it is a beast.

[@richardendress4494]

Great discussion of the C4 group. I have an '87 coupe, my first vette, that I love to drive. It has some problems but hopefully, I am close to figuring them out. And It is nice to hear you like the L98.

[@Skysmeller1]

Nice man same here I have a white 87 I love mine

[@MrDjzaga1]

This guy is an encyclopedia, amazing

[@StormAutoAdventures]

My brother used to own a Silver 1996 Corvette LT4 6-Speed manual... What an awesome machine that was! I owned an Electron Blue 2003 C5 Z51 Targa MN6. First mod was a DTE HD 3.90 rear along with OEM Cast Spun 2003 C5 Z06 Gray factory wheels with factory non run-flat 265/40/17 front & 295/35/18 rear Supercar tires. Those two mods alone got my 1/4 mile time from 13.07 @ 110.994 to a 12.89 @ 110.668 at Englishtown. The conditions were much hotter and worse for the 12.89 run, so I'm positive that number would have been even better in the same conditions as the stock run. I immediately began modding my C5 after that, so I never got to re-try in better conditions. The 3.90's made a huge difference! Stock gearing was way too tall. Anyway, I bought my C5 in 2005 and sold it in 2012 because I needed the money. Something I regret to this day. I will buy a C6 GS Targa when I buy my second Corvette in the near future. Thanks for posting the great videos! I subscribed and have liked the four videos I've seen so far. Thanks again! -Chris

[@dennislarson4960]

Great overview! I so appreciate your immense knowledge about Corvettes overall. Years ago I had an 1984 with the Crossfire and 4+3 manual (and a CA car, no less) -- an absolutely terrible car. I didn't have it long. Now I have a 1994 with the 6-speed and 48k miles which I absolutely love. Only issue I've had in 11 years was a leaking water pump (fixed before the Optispark got damaged) and occasionally climate controls not responding in hot weather.

[@jerplane400]

Thanks Lyle! '95 here...Please keep doing the videos! You have helped me out a bunch!

[@IcemanC4]

Thank you very much for your advice - a week ago I bought a 90 L98 with a 6-speed ZF manual transmission - I love the car - it's called Jody - best regards from Germany

[@howardscott7521]

I had a 90 with the L98 and a 93 with the LT1. I'll take the L98 everyday of the week and twice on Sunday. Better engine all the way around IMHO.

[@paulmahon1613]

you're crazy. Even with all it's problems with the opti-spark, the LT1 is miles ahead of the L98 in performance and potential horsepower. L98 isn't even real fuel injection LOL. Not to mention the fact that the LT1 comes factory with gobs more horsepower than the anemic L98. Wow. educate yourself instead of relying on your own cognitive bias lol.

[@LuxuryRumble]

@@paulmahon1613 I bought one. Apparently beside the less horsepower they are way more reliable and easy to work on . (Hope so)

[@ebkbk9902]

lt1 is better for future upgrades and can make more power then a l98. both amazing engines.

[@Joe-wv7pv]

I have a 1987 convertible and to me the C4 is what a corvette should be. After that generation corvette started to slowly loose what its supposed to be. C8 is an awesome car for sure just not sure it’s a corvette any more.

[@bassman7814]

You sir are a treasure trove of information on corvettes. I have wanted a corvette since I was a young boy. My dad helped design the ZR1 body panels on the C4 and when he drove one home as a demo I fell In love with them. I am now planning on buying my first vette and I have been watching a ton of your videos and learning so much about them. Thank you for all the time and effort you put into these videos to help us newbs.

[@rubyred93chev]

_Definitely agree on the '91 (and 94,95,96) models being the sweet spot of the C4 Corvette. My first fourth gen purchase was a 1991 Corvette convertible almost new in the mid-90s. (Super low mileage, Palm Springs car). Incredible torque to say the least as Lyle noted. Six Corvettes later(all C4s), I still own and drive a '96 Corvette convertible. (Is the car perfect? To me it is. That said, because it was purchased 'used' with about 100k miles, going back and sorting out former repair jobs done inaccurately has been a mechanic's nightmare). At the end of day I'd still do it all over again._

[@jackryan4313]

Holy shit, the slant angle on that italic don't you have is crazy 😂 maybe it's just me, but it looks very sideways

[@rubyred93chev]

@@jackryan4313 A by-product of watching 'Batman' - TV show as a kid, _(remember when they showed the criminal's hideout, it would always be angled)._ But I like to make a point when others read my comments, so I slant the writing in italics.

[@jackryan4313]

@@rubyred93chev I like it. Pretty clever

[@garymartin7842]

Great information and I appreciate the "hurt feelings clause" for problematic years

[@JohnSmith-un9fy]

I have an 86. It's a pretty solid car. The interior screams the 80s. Now I had to bypass the VATS system and I replaced the AC system but it's been a good daily driver. The car wasn't very expensive and I have a classic muscle car. Love it.

[@mangzrc]

I have a 1996 with 110k miles and I drive that car weekly. It has only had a few issues here and there, but it’s such a reliable little car. I get compliments on it way more than you would expect. I wouldn’t get rid of it for anything.

[@boblangkammerer9217]

I was recently given a 95C4 and I'm loving it, had to learn about a few parts quickly, but now she's coming together. Your knowledge is incredible, thanks for you bring to the Corvette world.

[@jonstrickland3934]

Extremely informative thank you. My neighbor has a 95 C4 LT1 covered under an oak tree on his ranch. I need a project.

[@Paulie1232]

Spot on with the OBD1, when working on my 85 vette that I purchased which sat idle for 8 years. Made it so hard to pin point issues....

[@yasharali2495]

Gotta get the books, Haynes and the Service Manual.

[@ranbymonkeys2384]

My 85 would run like shit after it warmed up, the dealer wouldn't even touch it (even if it said "Chevrolet" on the front). It sat for a year not being able to figure it out. This guy came into the place I work to fix the forklift, old guy with a finger missing. I was talking to him about it, he said it's probably the ignition control module and told me where it was at. Sure as shit that's what it was. The problem is the people that know about engines and not a computer holding their hand telling them what to do are dying off and then we are really going to fucked. Of course this is all saying we are allowed to own a car or even allowed to leave the house to do anything with the cheating dipshit in office now, but hey.

[@Paulie1232]

@@ranbymonkeys2384 bro true, I was brought up working on 60's and early 70's cars. But when you have a car the is computerized, you have no choice, all I'm looking for is to lead me to the right direction, but OBD1 Lesds you no where for the most part....

[@Paulie1232]

@@yasharali2495 I have the dealer service manual and believe me, it sucks....

[@corvettefever360]

*** disclaimer**** I'm going to say with many years experience , that pretty much everything this guy just said in this video is pretty accurate. And the following that I'm saying is not to contradict what he said. For most new or first time C4 Corvette buyers I would agree with him, & he is giving good advice. My statements it is more of a side note, and coming from a different perspective in building extreme high performance cars. How ironic tho, that by today's standards, the choice to use the ZF6 speed even over T56, & many other 6 speeds in very high performance applications. This transmission has become something esoteric amongst some in the high performance /race world. I myself have been building high performance engines & high end fabrications, etc etc for over 20 years now. They in themselves are amazing & extremely strong transmissions. They were originally rated at 750 /700 ft lbs of torque, & only dropped down to 450/400 ft lbs due to the increase in the high performance aftermarket & GM liability issues. In other words GM didn't want to be responsible for Joe Schmo building a 600 horsepower Corvette missing a gear and blowing the transmission apart and then GM being responsible to fix it. Especially with them all originally being built in Germany, & even after the blue label started being produced in the US, it still was overall expensive. But the ZF are great transmissions, & were used also in the Dodge Viper, Jeep, Ford, behind 7.3L & 8.3L diesel engines, for off road, & bigger truck applications. Which are all are high powered &/or abusive on the transmission & everything else. And while GM stopped using the ZF, many others continued to use a version of the ZF is many different applications deep into the 2010's. Where applicable, another weak point is the Dual Mass flywheel, which also brings down maximum torque rating. Also a side note, these transmissions are so noisy do to something that actually makes them very strong, in that they have straight cut gears. While they are not complete straight-cut gear Transmissions, not every gear is, but with the use of more straight cut gears to the more common helical cut gears, this helps increase torque rating capacity. The blue label was to remedy this, and contrary to popular belief, the blue label does not have typical helical cut gears but did add a slight helical cut to these gears to help quiet it down due to customers complaining. And this is a whole nother issue in people confusing a performance sports car with a luxury car. Complaining that the Ferrari doesn't have heated seats and door triple stitched chinchilla interior. Yeah same applies to the Corvette. My Corvette is for performance and the Mercedes is for all that luxury stuff. The DMF was also to silence some of the noise, & also for a smoother engagement, but that's another story. Regardless the ZF still holds value, and still quite sort after, even though a used one could cost almost what a brand new T56 would cost. There are also kits to adapt the T56 & other transmissions to the C4, the Fire hawk, etc &/or the ZF into something else. Rarely will you hear about a ZF being "blown", because it would really have to be abused or mistreated to do so. However, there is "supposedly" & rumor where at prolonged high speeds of a 130 mph, it can lock up. Supposedly this case was on the Autobahn, and there may be three or four cases in total, and I say supposedly because even amongst experts there was nothing to validate this claim. In other words it was said to be because of this and there's really no facts or proof behind this per se, but Which brings me to the next part, in extremely high performance applications, just send your ZF to the ZF doc Bill Boudreau like I did, and he will rebuild and blueprint your transmission handle anything you throw at it. Mine is good for over a thousand foot pounds of torque, he also addresses this supposed issue of where it could lock up due to prolonged high speed, in that he boars out some of the oil passages, especially to the reverse gear, which at prolonged high speeds could be restrictive & not allow enough oil to flow thru, lubricating & cooling it, thus it locking up. I bought my white 91 coupe, with 59k from New Hampshire, mostly hwy miles, & was taken care of extremely well, but only to take it back to NYC /Long Island area, where in avoiding a accident I had to go thru a large puddle, thus hydrolocking the engine, throwing rods, etc etc. A terrible experience, my poor baby, but...... light at the end of the tunnel, this gave me the green light to do the project I am almost finally done with. Something I call project "Real C4R " . This includes stripping the whole car down, reworking and Welding the only spot welded chassis which is notorious for Flex, upgrading the complete suspension with double adjustable control arms, trailing arms, strut rods, etc etc etc, a complete C6 ZR1 brake upgrade, a Dart Block 384 Stroker with forged internals, twin turbos, Holley EFI system, and a list of engine goodies, custom interior, custom exterior, and to do this all Tastefully and not look like some of these custom C4 Corvettes that just look utterly ridiculous. All I can say is I will definitely be some $80,000 plus into this build by the time I'm finished oh, and this is with me doing the work oh, except for the actual machine work on the engine, heads, and transmission. But from assembling the engine to everything else I have. And most would ask why? Why not! Not to mention that I wanted to see what level I could take the C4, in so much that I'm hoping to fulfill a childhood dream, and to not only get my car, but it C4 to cover and centerfold Corvette magazine before it's extinct. But we will see. Regardless this is also why there are no pictures, there's no videos , I don't post stuff all over social media showing what I've done, because I don't want to lose that wow effect when I finally unveil it. I also don't want my ideas used and thus watering it down. Because it's more than just what parts I used, but how I use them, the layout I chose, the color scheme of the engine, engine compartment, the interior, the exterior, the wheels excetera excetera. I know I get a lot of haters, or a lot of people I think I'm just talkin smack oh, and they don't exactly blame these people because most people do talk a bunch of crap and Bs a lot, but but but but soon very soon.

[@billiebobbienorton2556]

Actually, the 95 and 95 C4s have an improved OptiSpark design. Yes, it is under the water pump, but GM improved the design and made it more resistant to damage if there is a water pump leak. My '95 C4 has over 153,000 miles. Routine maintenance is critical and getting ahead of the usual trouble spots that you'll have on any car can keep you from getting stranded. Use top tier gas, use good quality oil and filter, change gas filter, lube the front end (C4s have grease fittings) replace battery before it dies (~ 5 years), etc.....

[@csvette]

Correct! The 95/96 units were better-designed than the earlier models and had vacuum hooked up to the bottom of the unit to draw out moisture. Still not on optimal system, but far less fraught than the earlier design. Lyle

[@antonioborriello5287]

Thank u! Thank u! Thank u! I' have been looking to buy a C4. This is a big help. The reason I subscribed. Please keep these type of videos coming

[@fdbassociatesllc7889]

Thanks, Lyle! Great rundown!!

[@joeadler5379]

The 1986 Indy pace car. Or the 1993 or 1995 purple C4 Corvette they're very rare these are my favorite C4 Corvettes

[@v8inmk2]

Used to own an 89 6-Speed. My first Corvette in my life. Even though it’s kinda problematic. I still enjoy it. For me I want the digital dash, Old body style and 6Speed. So that’s the only choice for me. And now I have a 2001. But somehow I still miss my 89.

[@sailork3506]

Great reviews. Thanks. I had a new 84 back in the day. Red/tan. You are so right about the suspension. I had the Z51 stiff suspension. I could feel the leading and trailing edges of a painted yellow line on the road as I drove over it. In 85 they basically made the 84's standard suspension the z51 and threw away the 84s z51. I am looking to buy another c4 now, for nostalgia and weekend driving. So much easier to get parts and work on them than the Porsche, BMW, mercedes cars. The C4 looks really awesome IMO. Very clean, crisp styling. The optispark replacement looks like a weekend project to me. And about $500. To get a classic sportscar like this for under 10K is truly awesome..... I am currently debating convertible/targa (I'm in Florida). Since it rains whenever it feels like it in Florida, the Targa is a pain to replace the panel, so would not be a good choice, unless you left the targa in place full time. The used convertibles I've looked at all smell like shaggy wet dogs, since they all leaked and caused mold in the carpet.

[@csvette]

Yes, the convertibles share the same smell universally. That can be mitigated by removing the carpet, pressure-washing it and scrubbing the floors with bleach before re-insalling the carpet. A pain in the butt, but do-able. Targas are far more dry and secure, but top removal is impossible unless you know 100% that there won't be any rain that day--which is NEVER in Florida. :)

[@TheClitorati]

I've had my 1989 C4 convertible since 2000. Still love it.

[@quintongooden593]

How has it been for you reliability wise? I’m picking up a 89 Convertible with a lot of new parts tomorrow. Plan on keeping awhile while saving up for my first house.

[@Wizard-od6yc]

My first corvette was a 91 red on red, sold it when my son was born, now have a numbers matching 72 LT1, silver over red

[@sebastianmartinez8266]

1989 corvette thanks for the info

[@dukeman7595]

I have a 89 convertible w/ the 6-speed, would love to locate a hardtop for it. You know I really love this car, it's fun to drive and has been pampered since new.

[@sebastianmartinez8266]

Joseph M Try offer up or Facebook and try to look for a corvettes that are only selling for parts thats what I did

[@timweeden6198]

This was very informative.....I've owned a '77, '86 and now own an '89. What you failed to mention the '89 had cross bracing at the frame that took the twist out of your acceleration and made it stiffer walking in and out of curves. My '89 is a much better handling and flatter going in and out of the corners. Just saying!

[@PlayMOARZLEAGUE]

I was daily driving a 1990 Iroc my senior yr of Highschool (2006) I had read every online article and forum about the L98 platform.when I turned 20 I told myself I would have a corvette for my birthday, I saved and flipped cars and found an 89 ZF6 (after again, reading everything I could find on C4s and having driven a 4+3 car). It was fantastic, it turned heads everywhere it went and I only ever did a basic tune up and had to replace the rear mono spring. Truly a splendid car and experience. After having seen this video I would love to test drive a 91 as I too am apprehensive of the optispark platform having serviced many of them in my shops over the years. For anyone looking, his info is spot on. Really id only advise a 94-96 if you dont DIY. Obd2 will make diagnostic procedures MUCH easier, but for those who may be using it periodically or have a back up car in your stable: stick with the L98

[@jdangberg]

Great video Lyle. One thing not mentioned that deserves highlighting is when the glovebox came and went. 1990 first year for a glove box. 1993 last year for the glove box. It's important only because there's not a lot of storage in these cars. I 100% agree with your comments concerning the L98 vs LT1. That's why 9 years ago, after doing my own research, I purchased a 1990 ZF6 coupe, and this one in particular had the added bonus of an aftermarket ZR-1 rear bumper, so it has the old front and the convex square light rear and the high mount stop lamp, and the factory slicer wheels for that year that were similar to 89 but 90 had a nicer look with exposed lugnuts with beauty caps, so it looks like a narrow 1990 ZR-1 clone. Love it. Shares space in my garage a 2001 z06, both red with black interior. wouldn't have it any other way.

[@TheGov1967]

We need more Lyle's in our Corvette world. 12 out of 10. 👍👌👍

[@ano0213a]

Just bought a 91 coupe, my first Vette. It’s a great driver, all sorted. I like how the L98 just lugs along happily at 1100 RPM until you want to wake it up.

[@TommioRS]

My first Corvette is my 95 ZR-1. Hell of a great car, tough to beat!

[@dant3588]

Long live the King!

[@doctyler5382]

Lyle is correct about old C4's, you should have some experience working on cars if you're going to on one, they constantly need love and care. Thank God there are a number of Corvette lovers who have put the videos on KZbin to help the uninitiated into the Corvette world.

[@t694rt6]

This video pushed me to buy my 94 6spd it's in great shape I love and and the channel ❤️

[@vt1100]

I bought a C4 from 94. Very pretty. Thank you so much for any knowledge you have about this car

[@imjustanobody1233]

I wish I had every piece of knowledge about c4 corvettes as you do while I work on my 1990. I’m still learning a lot about it and it’s gonna be awhile before I know everything.

[@WillieStroudJr.-vj1cs]

I love these videos and that is why I subscribed. I am in the C4 with a 1984 Vette. Still working on it as it is coming around, it will be sharp. Thanks for the information you provide!

[@paddingtonbear5172]

Im in Australia . I own an 87 z51 . Its converted to rhd . Its a rarity to see one over here , when im not actually driving it , i always put a towel over the dash cluster to protect it from uv damage . Its a race car with rego plates . I absolutley love it . Always get comments on it . Cheers from Queensland Australia . Great video .

[@csvette]

Thank you! Your car is a rarity anywhere in the world! We love the car culture in your country and hope to visit one day! Lyle

[@roadking1999]

Dude knows his stuff i called the number and he helped me out!!! Thanks man keep up the great work

[@chrisbjarkman]

Great vid and info. I have had my 93 for just over a year. I love my car but I have had my share of obscure electrical shorts in the vats and recent fuel pump issues but she seems to be straightened out and is running strong at the moment. Love the C4s and feel they are the best sports car value on the market . 😎👍🏼

[@ratstrat1984]

So, not enough trouble to consider moving on to a different year? I'm considering buying a '93, that's why I ask.

[@keithfaulk1354]

I just bought a 1991 c4 corvette..cant wait for it to arrive..!!14,000..hope I'll be happy with it.

[@junebartlett470]

Thank you very informative. I'm a C3 girl but I'm looking at a 96 also, very good information !

[@michaelangelo8001]

I had an '84 Z51. It had a lot of electrical problems, but the engine performed great, and I loved the suspension. The later models feel soggy in comparison.

[@gearheadAbe]

For me it was the 1990 of 91 because me being super comfortable working on the L98 motor. I found a great deal on a 71k Mile red on red corvette for under 6 grand . Had it for 8 months now complete overhaul on the coolant system. Time to enjoy this car and put some miles on it.

[@spartansfan1026]

I gotta say, this is such a well done video. It's easy to tell that you know the ins-and-outs of each model year like the back of your hand.

[@michaelgorman4229]

My first C4 Corvette is a 1985 and bought it back in 2008 and still have it.

[@famasmaster2000]

Very cool vid....I recently purchased a 1993 last year and so far have had okay luck with it to this point. Very informative vid. Well done

[@martinvercic5189]

I own a 2000 C5. You and your channel give us owners a wealth of information. Thanks for being out there.

[@KermitDay-e7y]

Just brought me a 94 C4 amazing car will be doing a few minor upgrades but this Vette is Awesome

[@Skysmeller1]

I have an 87 and like he mentioned I have tons of service and restoration docs that helped me make the decision to buy mine and feel good about it. Like you said the electronics are a bit off, the Radio sometimes doesn’t stay on, the windows move slow, and the power seat buttons work but only if I press them a certain way, but that L98 engine is the main reason it’s so much fun to drive!

[@Carguylogan]

I have a 2001 Z06 and I'm about to pick up a one-owner 1992 Corvette Arizona car with 86,000 miles. I've always liked the C4. I am an experienced technician but I'm still afraid of wierd electrical issues that are hard to diagnose. I don't want to spend hours and hours tracking down misfires etc so I hope the car runs good!

[@bartdaw6681]

I have an 89 Z51 coupe. 1989 is the first year of the 6 speed and 17 inch wheels and the last year without the airbag. Mine has 35000 original miles.

[@59vaughn]

Great share....really ought to be a semester of education at high school level....this and further exploration of corvette history and engineering...would set the strong base for further motor vehicle investments...and good choices...