4. Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (4,1)
iv Introduction
Using this Manual Symbols
{ WARNING
To quickly locate information about The vehicle has components and
the vehicle, use the Index in the These mean there is something labels that use symbols instead of
back of the manual. It is an that could hurt you or other text. Symbols are shown along with
alphabetical list of what is in the people. the text describing the operation or
manual and the page number where information relating to a specific
it can be found. component, control, message,
Notice: This means there is
gauge, or indicator.
something that could result in
Danger, Warnings, and property or vehicle damage. M : This symbol is shown when
Cautions This would not be covered by you need to see your owner manual
the vehicle's warranty. for additional instructions or
Warning messages found on vehicle
information.
labels and in this manual describe
hazards and what to do to avoid or * : This symbol is shown when
reduce them. you need to see a service manual
for additional instructions or
Danger indicates a hazard with a
information.
high level of risk which will result in
serious injury or death.
Warning or Caution indicates a A circle with a slash through it is
hazard that could result in injury a safety symbol which means
or death. “Do Not,” “Do not do this,” or
“Do not let this happen.”
5. Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (5,1)
Introduction v
Vehicle Symbol Chart I : Cruise Control : : Oil Pressure
Here are some additional symbols B : Engine Coolant Temperature } : Power
that may be found on the vehicle
and what they mean. For more O : Exterior Lamps / : Remote Vehicle Start
information on the symbol, refer to # : Fog Lamps > : Safety Belt Reminders
the Index.
. : Fuel Gauge 7 : Tire Pressure Monitor
9 : Airbag Readiness Light + : Fuses d : Traction Control/Active
# : Air Conditioning 3 : Headlamp High/Low-Beam Handling System
! : Antilock Brake System (ABS) Changer M: Windshield Washer Fluid
% : Audio Steering Wheel Controls
®
j: LATCH System Child
or OnStar Restraints
$ : Brake System Warning Light *: Malfunction Indicator Lamp
" : Charging System
9. Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (3,1)
In Brief 1-3
A. Air Vents on page 8‑6. I. Hazard Warning Flashers on Q. Steering Wheel Adjustment on
B. Head-Up Display Controls page 6‑4. page 5‑2.
(If Equipped). See Head-Up J. Infotainment on page 7‑1. R. Horn on page 5‑4.
Display (HUD) on page 5‑31. K. Dual Automatic Climate Control S. Telescopic Steering Column
C. Turn and Lane-Change Lever. System on page 8‑1. Control (If Equipped).
See Turn and Lane-Change L. Fuel Door Release Button. See Steering Wheel Adjustment
Signals on page 6‑4. See Filling the Tank on on page 5‑2.
Cruise Control on page 9‑45. page 9‑51. T. Keyless Ignition. See Ignition
Fog Lamps on page 6‑5. Hatch/Trunk Release Button. Positions on page 9‑20.
Exterior Lamp Controls on See “Hatch/Trunk Lid Release” U. Heated Front Seats on page 3‑8
page 6‑1. under Hatch on page 2‑11. (If Equipped).
D. Manual Shift Paddles M. Instrument Panel Illumination V. Shift Lever (Automatic Shown).
(If Equipped). See Automatic Control on page 6‑6. See Automatic Transmission on
Transmission on page 9‑27. N. Power Folding Top Switch page 9‑27 or Manual
(If Equipped). See Convertible Transmission on page 9‑32.
E. Driver Information Center (DIC)
on page 5‑26. Top on page 2‑24. W. Active Handling System on
O. Data Link Connector (DLC) page 9‑38.
F. Instrument Cluster on page 5‑9.
(Out of View). See Malfunction X. Power Outlets on page 5‑6.
G. Windshield Wiper/Washer on Indicator Lamp on page 5‑19.
page 5‑4. Y. Selective Ride Control on
P. Bluetooth Controls page 9‑43 (If Equipped).
H. Driver Information Center (DIC) (If Equipped). See Bluetooth on
Buttons. See Driver Information Z. Parking Brake on page 9‑36.
page 7‑16.
Center (DIC) on page 5‑26.
Steering Wheel Controls on
page 5‑3 (If Equipped).
10. Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (4,1)
1-4 In Brief
Initial Drive Remote Keyless Entry K : Press to unlock the driver door.
(RKE) System Press again within five seconds to
Information unlock both doors.
The RKE transmitter is used to lock
This section provides a brief
and unlock the doors from up to Q : Press to lock all doors.
overview about some of the
important features that may or may 30 m (100 ft) away from the vehicle. } : Press and hold for
not be on your specific vehicle. approximately one second to open
the hatch/trunk.
For more detailed information,
refer to each of the features which L : Press to sound the horn.
can be found later in this owner Press any other button on the
manual. RKE transmitter to stop it.
See Keys on page 2‑2 and Remote
Keyless Entry (RKE) System
Operation on page 2‑3.
Press the button (A) to remove the
key. The key can be used to lock
and unlock the glove box and to
open the hatch/trunk lid if power to
the vehicle is lost. See Hatch on
page 2‑11 for more information.
11. Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (5,1)
In Brief 1-5
Door Locks With the RKE transmitter within Loss of Vehicle Electrical
range, grip the door handle Power
From the outside, press Q or K on sensor (A). See Remote Keyless
the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) Entry (RKE) System Operation on If the vehicle has lost battery power,
transmitter. page 2‑3. the driver door can be opened
manually.
From the inside, use the power door
lock switch (B). Inside the Vehicle
Q: Press to lock the doors.
K: Press to unlock the doors.
To open a door from the inside,
push the door latch button (C).
A tone will sound when the button is
pushed.
See Power Door Locks on
page 2‑10.
A. Door Handle Sensor
B. Power Door Lock Switch
C. Door Latch Button Pull the door release handle.
12. Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (6,1)
1-6 In Brief
Outside the Vehicle Trunk Release
The vehicle must be in P (Park)
with an automatic transmission
and Neutral with a manual
transmission.
For manual transmission vehicles,
the parking brake must be set
when the engine is running
for the hatch/trunk release to
operate. See Parking Brake on
page 9‑36.
Then, pull the manual door release
handle.
Use the key to open the hatch/trunk.
See Keys on page 2‑2.
13. Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (7,1)
In Brief 1-7
To release the hatch/trunk:
. Push the hatch/trunk release . Use the vehicle key. See Keys
button with the keyless entry on page 2‑2.
transmitter within range. See For more information, see Hatch on
. Press V. Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) page 2‑11.
. Press } on the keyless System on page 2‑3.
entry transmitter. See Remote
Keyless Entry (RKE) System on
page 2‑3.
14. Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (8,1)
1-8 In Brief
Windows Seat Adjustment Power Lumbar and Side
Bolsters
Power Seats
The power window switches are To adjust a power seat: A. Lumbar Support Control
located on each door. . B. Side Bolster Support Control
Move the seat forward or
Pull up or press down on the front rearward by sliding the control To adjust the support, if equipped:
of the switch to raise or lower the forward or rearward.
window.
. Move control (A) forward or
. Raise or lower the front or rear rearward to adjust lumbar
For more information, see Power part of the seat cushion by support.
Windows on page 2‑18. moving the front or rear of the . Move control (B) up or down to
control up or down.
adjust the side bolsters.
See Power Seat Adjustment on
See Lumbar Adjustment on
page 3‑2.
page 3‑2.
15. Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (9,1)
In Brief 1-9
Reclining Seatbacks Heated Seats Memory Features
To recline a manual seatback:
1. Lift the lever on the outboard If available, the buttons are on the On vehicles with the memory
side of the seat. center stack. The ignition must be feature, the controls on the driver
2. Move the seatback to the on for this feature to work. door are used to program and recall
desired position, and then L: Press to turn on the heated memory settings for the driver seat,
release the lever to lock the seat at the high setting. outside mirrors, and the telescopic
seatback in place. steering column.
Press again to switch to the low
3. Push and pull on the seatback to setting.
make sure it is locked.
9: Press to turn the system off.
See Reclining Seatbacks on
page 3‑3. See Heated Front Seats on
page 3‑8.
16. Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (10,1)
1-10 In Brief
Storing Memory Positions
. On vehicles with a manual To save into memory:
transmission, when the vehicle
To save into memory: is on, the parking brake must be 1. Recall the desired driving
1. Adjust the driver seat, both set to recall a memory position. position by pressing “1.”
outside mirrors, and the Press and release “1” or “2.” 2. Adjust the seat and the
telescopic steering column. A single beep sounds and the telescopic steering column
2. Press and hold “1” until memory position is recalled after to the desired exit position.
two beeps sound. a brief delay. 3. Press and hold B until
3. Repeat for a second driver If the vehicle is on and the two beeps sound.
position using “2.” parking brake is not set, 4. Repeat for a second driver
three beeps sound and the position using “2.”
To recall:
memory position is not recalled.
. On vehicles with an automatic To recall, press and release B.
See Memory Seats on page 3‑4. The vehicle must be in P (Park) for
transmission, press and
release “1” or “2.” an automatic transmission or the
Easy Exit Driver Seat
parking brake must be set for a
If the vehicle is in P (Park), a This feature can move the seat manual transmission. A single beep
single beep sounds and the rearward and the telescopic steering sounds. The seat and telescopic
memory position is recalled after column out of the way to allow extra steering column will move to the
a brief delay. room to exit the vehicle. position previously stored for the
If the vehicle is not in P (Park), B : Press to save and recall the identified driver.
three beeps sound and the easy exit seat position. See Memory Seats on page 3‑4.
memory position is not recalled.
17. Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (11,1)
In Brief 1-11
. Lower Anchors and Tethers for
Safety Belts Children (LATCH System)
(Z06 and ZR1 Models Only) on
page 3‑36 or Lower Anchors and
Tethers for Children (LATCH
System) (Coupe and Convertible
Models Only) on page 3‑35.
United States
Passenger Sensing
System
The passenger sensing system
will turn off the front outboard
passenger frontal airbag and
seat‐mounted side impact airbag Canada and Mexico
Refer to the following sections for under certain conditions. No other
important information on how to use airbag is affected by the passenger See Passenger Sensing System on
safety belts properly. sensing system. page 3‑22 for important information.
. Safety Belts on page 3‑8. The passenger airbag status
indicator will be visible in the
. How to Wear Safety Belts rearview mirror when the vehicle
Properly on page 3‑10. is started.
. Lap-Shoulder Belt on page 3‑11.
18. Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (12,1)
1-12 In Brief
Mirror Adjustment If the vehicle has the memory Steering Wheel
feature, a preferred mirror position
Exterior Mirrors can be stored. See Power Seat
Adjustment
Adjustment on page 3‑2.
To fold, pull the mirror toward the
vehicle. Push the mirror outward,
to return it to the original position.
Interior Mirror
An automatic dimming rearview
mirror will automatically reduce
headlamp glare coming from
vehicles that are traveling
behind you.
See Automatic Dimming Rearview The lever is located on the left side
Mirror on page 2‑17. of the steering column.
To adjust mirrors:
To adjust the steering wheel:
1. Press } or | to select a mirror. 1. Pull the lever toward you.
2. Press the control pad to adjust 2. Move the steering wheel up
the mirror. or down.
3. Return the switch to the center 3. Release the lever to lock the
to deselect the mirror. steering wheel in place.
See Power Mirrors on page 2‑16.
19. Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (13,1)
In Brief 1-13
Telescopic Steering Column The telescopic steering column Interior Light Control
position can be stored with your To adjust the brightness of the
memory settings. See “Memory interior lights, turn and hold the
Seat, Mirrors, and Steering Wheel” instrument panel brightness control
under Power Seat Adjustment on knob located on the left side of the
page 3‑2 for more information. instrument panel. Push the knob in
to turn the lights on or off.
Interior Lighting
For more information on interior
Courtesy Lamps lighting, see:
When any door or the hatch/trunk lid . Instrument Panel Illumination
is opened, the interior lamps will go Control on page 6‑6.
on, unless it is bright outside. . Entry/Exit Lighting on page 6‑6.
For vehicles with this feature, the The courtesy lamps can also be
telescopic steering column control turned on and off by pressing the
is located on the right side of the instrument panel brightness knob.
steering column. Reading Lamps
To adjust the telescopic steering The inside rearview mirror includes
column: two reading lamps. The lamps go on
1. Push the switch forward to move when a door is opened. When the
the wheel away from you. doors are closed, press the lamp
buttons to turn on each lamp.
2. Pull the switch toward you to
move the wheel closer to you.
20. Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (14,1)
1-14 In Brief
Exterior Lighting AUTO: Sets the exterior lamps to Windshield Wiper/Washer
automatic mode. AUTO mode turns
the exterior lamps on and off
depending on how much light is
available outside the vehicle.
; : Turns on the parking lamps
together with the sidemarker lamps,
taillamps, license plate lamps, and
instrument panel lights.
The windshield wiper/washer lever
Exterior Lamps 5: Turns on the headlamps is located on the right side of the
The exterior lamp control is located together with the parking lamps, steering column.
to the left of the steering wheel, sidemarker lamps, taillamps,
on the multifunction lever. license plate lamps, and instrument
1 : Use for fast wipes.
O : Turn the band with this panel lights. 6 : Use for slow wipes.
symbol on it to operate the exterior For more information, see: 3 : Use to set a delay between
lamps. . wipes.
Exterior Lamp Controls on
O: Turns off all lamps. page 6‑1. x : Use for a delayed wiping
cycle. Turn the intermittent adjust
. Turn and Lane-Change Signals
band down for a longer delay or up
on page 6‑4.
for a shorter delay.
21. Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (15,1)
In Brief 1-15
9 : Use to turn off the windshield Climate Controls
wipers.
With this system, the heating, cooling, and ventilation can be controlled.
8: Use for a for a single wiping
cycle. For more wipes, hold the
band longer.
Windshield Washer: Press and
hold the button at the end of the
lever to spray washer fluid on the
windshield.
See Windshield Wiper/Washer on
page 5‑4.
A. Driver Temperature Control G. Fan Control
B. Display H. Air Delivery Mode Control
C. Passenger Temperature Control I. Defrost
D. AUTO J. Rear Window Defogger
E. Air Recirculation See Dual Automatic Climate Control
F. Air Conditioning System on page 8‑1.
22. Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (16,1)
1-16 In Brief
Transmission The current gear will be displayed One to Four Shift Light
in the Driver Information (DIC), (Manual Transmission)
Manual Paddle Shift or the Head-Up Display (HUD),
(Automatic Transmission) if the vehicle has either of these
features.
The Manual Paddle Shift system
can be deactivated by moving the
shift lever from S (Sport Mode)
back to D (Drive), or by holding
the up‐shift paddle for more than On vehicles with a manual
one second. If the shift lever was in transmission, when this light
D (Drive) when the system was comes on, you can only shift
activated, the transmission will from 1 (First) to 4 (Fourth) instead
return to automatic shifting after of 1 (First) to 2 (Second).
10 seconds of cruising at a steady
speed and no manual shifts, For more information about shifting
or when the vehicle comes to for the best fuel economy, see
a stop. Manual Transmission on page 9‑32.
The Manual Paddle Shift system
can be used in D (Drive) or The Manual Paddle Shift system
S (Sport Mode). The system is will not allow either an up-shift or a
activated by pushing the paddle, down-shift, if the vehicle speed is
above the steering wheel spokes, too fast or too slow, nor will it
to manually up-shift to the next allow a start from 4 (Fourth) or
gear, or pulling on the paddle, higher gear.
behind the steering wheel
spokes to manually down-shift. See Manual Mode on page 9‑29.
23. Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (17,1)
In Brief 1-17
Vehicle Features O / e : Turn to select radio
stations.
Radio(s) t SEEK u: Press to seek
stations.
t SCAN u : Press and hold to
scan stations.
V : Press to change the information
that shows on the display while
listening to the radio.
For more information about these
and other radio features, see
Infotainment on page 7‑1 and
Operation on page 7‑2.
Setting Preset Stations
Up to 30 stations (six FM1, six FM2,
and six AM, and if equipped,
six XM1, and six XM2) can be
programmed.
Radio with CD, Six Disc Radio Similar To program presets:
1. Turn the radio on.
Top Knob: Press to turn the BAND: Press to switch between
system on and off. Turn to increase FM1, FM2, AM, and if equipped, 2. Press BAND to select FM1,
or decrease the volume. XM1 and XM2. FM2, AM, XM1, or XM2.
3. Tune in the desired station.
24. Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (18,1)
1-18 In Brief
4. Press AUTO EQ to select the XM satellite radio has a wide See “Using the Auxiliary Input
equalization. variety of programming and Jack” under Auxiliary Devices on
5. Press and hold one of the six commercial-free music, coast to page 7‑16.
numbered pushbuttons until the coast, and in digital-quality sound.
radio beeps once. A fee is required to receive the Bluetooth®
6. Repeat the steps for each XM service. For vehicles with a Bluetooth
pushbutton. For more information, refer to: system, it allows users with a
Bluetooth‐enabled cell phone to
See Operation on page 7‑2. . www.xmradio.com or call make and receive hands-free calls
1-800-929-2100 (U.S.) using the vehicle’s audio system
Setting the Clock
. www.xmradio.ca or call and controls.
To set the clock: 1-877-438-9677 (Canada) The Bluetooth‐enabled cell phone
1. Press and hold H until the See Satellite Radio on page 7‑7. must be paired with the Bluetooth
correct hour displays. system before it can be used in the
2. Press and hold M until the Portable Audio Devices vehicle. Not all phones will support
correct minute displays. all functions. For more information,
This vehicle may have an auxiliary visit www.gm.com/bluetooth.
See Clock on page 5‑6. input jack, located on the audio
faceplate. External devices such as For more information, see Bluetooth
Satellite Radio iPod®, MP3 players, etc. can be on page 7‑16.
connected to the auxiliary input jack
XM is a satellite radio service based
using a 3.5 mm (1/8 in) input jack
in the 48 contiguous United States
cable.
and 10 Canadian provinces.
25. Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (19,1)
In Brief 1-19
Steering Wheel Controls c : Press to reject an incoming Cruise Control
call, or to end a call.
e+/e −: Press to Increase or
decrease volume.
w / x : Press to change radio
stations or select tracks on a CD.
1 to 6: Press to play stations that
are programmed on the radio preset
pushbuttons. The cruise controls are located at
the end of the multifunction lever.
For more information, see Steering
Wheel Controls on page 5‑3. 9 : Turns the system off.
R : Turns the system on.
For vehicles with steering wheel S : Makes the vehicle accelerate
controls, some audio controls can or resume a previously set speed.
be adjusted at the steering wheel.
T : Press the button at the end of
bg: Press to turn on and off the the lever to set the speed.
vehicle speakers. Press and hold
longer than two seconds to interact See Cruise Control on page 9‑45.
with the OnStar® or Bluetooth
systems.
26. Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (20,1)
1-20 In Brief
Navigation System Driver Information 2 : Press to display gauge
Center (DIC) information like oil pressure and
If the vehicle has a navigation
temperature, coolant temperature,
system, there is a separate The DIC display is located at the automatic transmission fluid
navigation system manual that bottom of the instrument panel temperature (if equipped), battery
includes information on the radio, cluster. It shows the status of many voltage, and front/rear tire
audio players, and navigation vehicle systems and enables pressures.
system. access to the personalization menu.
TRIP: Press to display your total
The navigation system provides
and trip distance driven, the elapsed
detailed maps of most major
time function, your average speed,
freeways and roads. After a
and the engine oil life.
destination has been set, the
system provides turn-by-turn OPTION: Press to choose personal
instructions for reaching the options that are available on your
destination. In addition, the system vehicle, depending on the options
can help locate a variety of points of your vehicle is equipped with, such
interest (POIs), such as banks, as door locks, easy entry seats, and
airports, restaurants, and more. language.
See the navigation system manual RESET: Press, along with the other
for more information. buttons, to reset system functions,
select personal options, and turn off
The DIC buttons are located on the or acknowledge messages on
instrument panel to the right of the the DIC.
instrument panel cluster.
For more information, see Driver
.4: Press to display fuel Information Center (DIC) on
information such as fuel economy page 5‑26.
and range.
27. Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (21,1)
In Brief 1-21
Vehicle Personalization Power Outlets Until you are sure you can remove
the roof panel by yourself, have
Some vehicle features can be The accessory power outlet can be someone help you. Once removed,
programmed by using the DIC used to plug in electrical equipment, the roof panel should always be
buttons located to the right of such as a cell phone or MP3 player. stored properly in the rear storage
the instrument panel cluster.
The accessory power outlet is compartment.
The features that can be
programmed include: located inside the center console For more information:
storage compartment, on the
. Units forward left side.
. See “Storing the Roof Panel”
under Roof Panel on page 2‑19.
. Memory Features Remove the cover to access and
replace when not in use.
. See “Installing the Roof Panel”
. Lighting Features
under Roof Panel on page 2‑19.
. Lock and Unlock Feedback See Power Outlets on page 5‑6.
. Door Lock and Unlock Settings Convertible
Roof Panel
. Language If equipped, the convertible top can
On vehicles with a removable roof be lowered and stowed under the
. Personalization Name panel, there are three release tonneau cover behind the rear seat.
See Vehicle Personalization on latches. Two are located on the front For step-by-step instructions, see
page 5‑54. of the roof panel and the other is Convertible Top on page 2‑24.
located on the back of the roof
panel. See “Removing the Roof
Panel” under Roof Panel on
page 2‑19.
28. Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (22,1)
1-22 In Brief
Performance and in difficult driving conditions.
See Active Handling System on
If the warning light comes on, stop
as soon as possible and inflate the
Maintenance page 9‑38. tires to the recommended pressure
The vehicle may have shown on the Tire and Loading
Traction Control Competitive Driving Mode Information label. See Vehicle Load
System (TCS) (except ZR1), Performance Limits on page 9‑14. The warning
Traction Management (Z06, ZR1), light will remain on until the tire
The traction control system limits pressure is corrected.
wheel spin. The system turns on and Launch Control systems
automatically every time the vehicle designed to allow increased During cooler conditions, the low tire
is started. performance while accelerating pressure warning light may appear
and cornering. See Competitive when the vehicle is first started and
. To turn off traction control, press Driving Mode on page 9‑39. then turn off. This may be an early
and release the Active Handling indicator that the tire pressures are
button located on the center Tire Pressure Monitor getting low and the tires need to be
console. i illuminates and the inflated to the proper pressure.
appropriate DIC message This vehicle may have a Tire
Pressure Monitor System (TPMS). The TPMS does not replace normal
displays. See Ride Control monthly tire maintenance. It is the
System Messages on page 5‑44. driver’s responsibility to maintain
. Press and release the active correct tire pressures.
handling button again to turn on See Tire Pressure Monitor System
traction control. on page 10‑64.
See Traction Control System (TCS)
on page 9‑36. The TPMS warning light alerts you
to a significant loss in pressure
The vehicle has an Active Handling of one of the vehicle's tires.
System that helps maintain
directional control of the vehicle
29. Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (23,1)
In Brief 1-23
Z06, Z16, and ZR1 Jump Starting the Battery Car Wash Guidelines
Features The battery of Z06, ZR1, and Automatic car washes are not
manual transmission Z16 (Grand recommended for this vehicle.
Checking Engine Oil Sport) coupe models is in the rear Some car washes cause damage to
Z06, ZR1, and manual transmission of the vehicle. You do not need to the vehicle, the wheels, and the
Z16 (Grand Sport) coupe models access the battery for jump starting. convertible top, if the vehicle is so
have a high performance dry sump There are remote positive (+) and equipped.
lubrication system. This system negative (−) terminals under the If you drive the vehicle through an
operates differently than a hood for this purpose. See Battery automatic car wash that does not
standard engine lubrication system. on page 10‑40 and Jump Starting have enough clearance for the
See Engine Oil on page 10‑14. on page 10‑78. undercarriage and/or wide rear tires
You should check the oil level Brake Noise and wheels, you could damage the
only after the engine has been vehicle. Verify with the manager of
Under certain weather or operating the car wash that the vehicle will fit
thoroughly warmed up and then conditions, occasional brake noise
shut off for at least five minutes. before entering the car wash or use
might be heard with the vehicle's a touchless car wash. See “Washing
This ensures that the oil level performance braking system.
reading obtained will be accurate. Your Vehicle” under Exterior Care
This brake system is designed for on page 10‑82.
superior fade resistance and
consistent operation using high
performance brake pads. Brake
noise is normal and does not affect
system performance. See Braking
on page 9‑4.
30. Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (24,1)
1-24 In Brief
. Replace the vehicle's tires with
Engine Oil Life System Driving for Better Fuel the same TPC Spec number
The engine oil life system calculates Economy molded into the tire's sidewall
engine oil life based on vehicle use Driving habits can affect fuel near the size.
and displays a DIC message when mileage. Here are some driving tips . Follow recommended scheduled
it is necessary to change the engine to get the best fuel economy maintenance.
oil and filter. The oil life system possible.
should be reset to 100% only Premium Fuel
following an oil change.
. Avoid fast starts and accelerate
smoothly. This vehicle's engine was designed
Resetting the Oil Life System to use premium unleaded gasoline.
. Brake gradually and avoid See Recommended Fuel on
1. Press the TRIP button so the abrupt stops. page 9‑48.
OIL LIFE percentage is
displayed.
. Avoid idling the engine for long
periods of time. Battery
2. Press RESET and hold for
two seconds. OIL LIFE
. When road and weather This vehicle has a maintenance free
REMAINING 100% will appear. conditions are appropriate, battery. See Battery on page 10‑40
use cruise control, if equipped. and Jump Starting on page 10‑78.
See Engine Oil Life System on
page 10‑19.
. Always follow posted speed For Z06, ZR1, and manual
limits or drive more slowly when transmission Z16 (Grand Sport)
conditions require. coupe models the battery is
. Keep vehicle tires properly located in the rear hatch/trunk
inflated. area. Access to the battery is
not necessary to jump start the
. Combine several trips into a vehicle. There are positive (+) and
single trip. negative (−) terminals in the engine
compartment.
31. Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (25,1)
In Brief 1-25
Roadside Assistance Online Owner Center OnStar®
(U.S. and Canada)
Program If equipped, this vehicle has a
The Online Owner Center is a comprehensive, in-vehicle system
U.S.: 1-800-243-8872 complimentary service that includes that can connect to a live Advisor
TTY Users (U.S.): 1-888-889-2438 online service reminders, vehicle for Emergency, Security, Navigation,
maintenance tips, online owner Connection, and Diagnostic
Canada: 1-800-268-6800
manual, special privileges, Services. See OnStar Overview on
Mexico: 01-800-466-0800 and more. page 14‑1 for more information.
As the owner of a new Chevrolet, Sign up today at:
you are automatically enrolled in the
U.S.: chevrolet.com (click on
Roadside Assistance program.
“Owners,” then “Manage My
See Roadside Assistance Program Chevrolet/Owners Login”)
(U.S. and Canada) on page 13‑8
Canada: chevroletowner.ca
or Roadside Assistance Program
(Mexico) on page 13‑10.
Roadside Assistance and OnStar
(U.S. and Canada)
If you have an active OnStar
subscription, press the Q button
and the current GPS location will be
sent to an OnStar advisor who will
assess your problem, contact
Roadside Assistance, and relay
your exact location to get the help
you need.
34. Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (2,1)
2-2 Keys, Doors, and Windows
Keys and Locks the hatch/trunk lid if power to the
vehicle is lost. See Hatch on
page 2‑11 for more information.
Keys
{ WARNING
Leaving children in a vehicle with
the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
transmitter is dangerous for many
reasons; children or others could
be badly injured or even killed.
They could operate the power
windows or other controls or
even make the vehicle move.
The windows will function with the
RKE transmitter in the vehicle Press the button (A) near the bottom
and they could be seriously of the RKE transmitter to remove
injured or killed if caught in the the key. Never pull the key out
path of a closing window. Do not without pressing the button.
leave the RKE transmitter in a
This vehicle has a keyless access
vehicle with children.
system with pushbutton start.
See Ignition Positions on page 9‑20
for information on starting the
The key located inside the RKE vehicle.
transmitter can be used to lock and
unlock the glove box and to open
35. Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (3,1)
Keys, Doors, and Windows 2-3
Notice: If you ever lose your Remote Keyless Entry Remote Keyless Entry
transmitter(s) and/or key, it could
be difficult to get into your
(RKE) System (RKE) System Operation
vehicle. You may even have to See Radio Frequency Statement on The Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
damage your vehicle to get in. page 13‑21 for information transmitter functions work up to
Be sure you have a spare regarding Part 15 of the Federal 30 m (100 ft) away from the vehicle.
transmitter and/or key. Communications Commission (FCC) There are other conditions that
If locked out of the vehicle, contact rules and Industry Canada can affect the performance of the
Roadside Assistance. See Roadside Standards RSS-GEN/210/220/310. transmitter. See Remote Keyless
Assistance Program (U.S. and If there is a decrease in the RKE Entry (RKE) System on page 2‑3.
Canada) on page 13‑8 or Roadside operating range: The vehicle comes with
Assistance Program (Mexico) on . Check the distance. two transmitters. Each transmitter
page 13‑10.
The transmitter may be too will have a number on top of it,
With an active OnStar subscription, far from the vehicle. “1” or “2.” These numbers
an OnStar Advisor may remotely correspond to the driver of
. Check the location. Other
unlock the vehicle. See OnStar the vehicle. For example, the
vehicles or objects may be
Overview on page 14‑1. memory seat position for driver 1
blocking the signal.
will be recalled when using the
. Check the transmitter's battery. transmitter labeled “1,” if enabled
See “Battery Replacement” later through the DIC. See Memory
in this section. Seats on page 3‑4 and Vehicle
. If the transmitter is still not Personalization on page 5‑54 for
working correctly, see your more information.
dealer or a qualified technician
for service.
36. Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (4,1)
2-4 Keys, Doors, and Windows
Keyless Unlocking plate to open the trunk if the K (Unlock): Press once to unlock
Press the door handle sensor to RKE transmitter is within range. only the driver door. Press K twice
unlock and open the doors if the See Hatch on page 2‑11 for
within five seconds to unlock both
RKE transmitter is within range. additional information.
doors. The interior lamps may
See Door Locks on page 2‑8 and come on.
“Passive Door Unlock” under
Vehicle Personalization on Pressing K also recalls the memory
page 5‑54 for additional information. settings. See Memory Seats on
page 3‑4 for more information.
Keyless Locking
} (Hatch/Trunk): Press and
The doors lock after several hold for about one second to unlock
seconds if all doors are closed and the hatch/trunk. If the engine is
at least one RKE transmitter has running, the shift lever must be
been removed from the interior of in P (Park) for an automatic
the vehicle. To customize whether transmission. For a manual
the doors automatically lock when transmission, the shift lever must
exiting the vehicle, see “Passive be in N (Neutral) with the parking
Door Locking” under Vehicle This vehicle comes with two brake set.
Personalization on page 5‑54 for transmitters.
additional information. L (Panic): Press to sound the
Q (Lock): Press once to lock the horn. Press any other button on the
Keyless Trunk Opening doors. When Q is pressed twice, RKE transmitter to stop it.
Press the hatch/trunk release the lights flash and the horn sounds
button located on the rear of the to confirm locking.
hatch/trunk lid above the license
37. Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (5,1)
Keys, Doors, and Windows 2-5
Programming Transmitters to 3. Insert the vehicle key into the 8. A beep sounds when
the Vehicle key cylinder located above the programming is complete.
license plate. The DIC displays READY FOR
Only RKE transmitters programmed #3 or 4, or MAXIMUM NUMBER
to this vehicle will work. If a 4. Open the hatch/trunk.
OF FOBS LEARNED.
transmitter is lost or stolen, a 5. Turn the key five times within
replacement can be purchased and five seconds. 9. To program additional
programmed through your dealer. transmitters, repeat Step 7.
The vehicle can be reprogrammed 6. The DIC displays READY FOR Press Acc. on the ignition switch
so that lost or stolen transmitters FOB #2, 3 or 4. if programming is complete.
no longer work. Each vehicle can
10. Press K on each newly
have up to four transmitters
programmed transmitter to
programmed to it.
complete the process.
Programming with a Recognized
Transmitter
A new transmitter can be
programmed to the vehicle when
there is one recognized transmitter.
For vehicles sold in Canada, two
recognized transmitters are required
to program a new transmitter.
1. The vehicle must be off.
7. Place the new transmitter in
2. Both the recognized and new the glove box transmitter pocket
transmitters must be with you.
with the buttons facing the
passenger side.
38. Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (6,1)
2-6 Keys, Doors, and Windows
Programming without a 1. The vehicle must be off. 5. Turn the key five times within
Recognized Transmitter five seconds.
This procedure requires three 6. The DIC message displays
10-minute cycles to complete the OFF-ACCESSORY TO
programming process. United LEARN.
States owners are permitted to 7. Press Acc. on the ignition
program a new transmitter to switch.
their vehicle when a recognized
transmitter is not available. 8. The DIC reads WAIT
The Canadian immobilizer 10 MINUTES and counts
standard requires that Canadian down to zero.
owners see their dealer for 9. The DIC displays
programming new transmitters OFF-ACCESSORY TO
when two recognized transmitters LEARN again.
are not available. 2. Place the new transmitter in
10. Press Acc. on the ignition
the glove box transmitter pocket
switch.
with the buttons facing the
passenger side. 11. Steps 8, 9, and 10 will be
repeated two more times.
3. Insert the vehicle key into the
key cylinder located above the 12. A beep sounds and the DIC
license plate. reads READY FOR FOB #1.
All previously known
4. Open the hatch/trunk.
transmitter programming has
been erased.
39. Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (7,1)
Keys, Doors, and Windows 2-7
13. A beep sounds once Starting the Vehicle with a
programming in complete. Low Transmitter Battery
The DIC displays READY
FOR FOB #2. If the transmitter battery is weak,
the DIC may display NO FOBS
To program additional DETECTED when trying to start the
transmitters, take transmitter 1 vehicle. To start the vehicle, place
out of the transmitter pocket the transmitter in the glove box
and place transmitter 2 in the transmitter pocket with the buttons
pocket. Up to four transmitters facing the passenger side. Then,
can be programmed. The DIC with the vehicle in P (Park) for an
then displays MAXIMUM automatic transmission, press the
NUMBER OF FOBS LEARNED brake pedal and /. If the vehicle
and exits the 1. Separate the transmitter with a
has a manual transmission, press flat, thin object inserted into the
programming mode.
the clutch and /. Replace the slot on the side or back of the
Press Acc. on the ignition transmitter battery as soon as transmitter.
switch to complete the process. possible. Change the transmitter
2. Remove the old battery. Do not
14. Press Acc. on the ignition battery if the DIC displays FOB
use a metal object.
switch if programming is BATTERY LOW.
complete. 3. Insert the new battery, positive
Battery Replacement side facing down. Replace with a
15. Press K on each newly Notice: When replacing the CR2032 or equivalent battery.
programmed transmitter to battery, do not touch any of the
complete the process. 4. Reassemble the transmitter.
circuitry on the transmitter.
Static from your body could
damage the transmitter.
40. Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (8,1)
2-8 Keys, Doors, and Windows
Door Locks WARNING (Continued)
{ WARNING . Young children who get into
unlocked vehicles may be
Unlocked doors can be unable to get out. A child can
dangerous. be overcome by extreme heat
. Passengers — especially and can suffer permanent
children — can easily open injuries or even death from
the doors and fall out of a heat stroke. Always lock
moving vehicle. When a door your vehicle whenever you
is locked it will not open. leave it.
You increase the chance of A. Door Handle Sensor
being thrown out of the
. Outsiders can easily enter
vehicle in a crash if the doors through an unlocked door B. Power Door Lock Switch
are not locked. So, wear when you slow down or stop
your vehicle. Locking your C. Door Latch Button
safety belts properly and lock
the doors whenever you doors can help prevent this With the RKE transmitter within
drive. from happening. range, grip the door handle
(Continued) sensor (A). See Remote Keyless
From the outside, press Q or " on Entry (RKE) System Operation on
the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) page 2‑3. When the passenger door
transmitter. is opened first, the driver door will
also unlock.
From the inside, use the power door
lock switch (B). See Power Door
Locks on page 2‑10.
41. Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (9,1)
Keys, Doors, and Windows 2-9
To open a door from the inside,
push the door latch button (C).
A tone will sound when the button
is pushed.
If the vehicle has lost battery power,
the driver door can be opened
manually.
. From outside the vehicle, use Then, pull the manual door
the key to open the hatch/trunk. release handle.
See Keys on page 2‑2.
. From inside the vehicle, pull the
door release handle.
42. Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (10,1)
2-10 Keys, Doors, and Windows
Power Door Locks Q (Lock): Press to lock the doors. Automatic Door Unlock
When pressed, a beep sounds. The vehicle is programmed so
If the door is closed when pressed, that when the shift lever is
the indicator light comes on for a moved into P (Park) for automatic
few seconds, then turns off. If the transmission vehicles or when
door is open when pressed, the the ignition is turned off or is in
indicator light stays on. Retained Accessory Power (RAP)
for manual transmission vehicles,
Automatic Door Locks both doors will unlock.
The vehicle is programmed so that With the vehicle stopped and the
when the doors are closed, the engine running, door unlocking
ignition is on, and the shift lever is can be programmed through the
moved out of P (Park) for automatic Driver Information Center (DIC).
There is an indicator light on the transmissions, or when vehicle This allows the driver to
rear of the door near the window. speed becomes faster than 13 km/h choose various unlock settings.
For programming information,
K (Unlock): Press to unlock the (8 mph) for manual transmissions,
see Vehicle Personalization on
doors. both doors will lock.
page 5‑54.
When pressed, a beep sounds. Use the power door unlock switch
If the door is closed, the indicator to unlock the door when the
light flashes twice. If the door is vehicle is not in P (Park). When the
open, the indicator light flashes. door is closed again, the doors will
lock either when your foot is
removed from the brake or the
vehicle speed becomes faster than
13 km/h (8 mph).
43. Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (11,1)
Keys, Doors, and Windows 2-11
Lockout Protection Doors WARNING (Continued)
Your vehicle can be programmed to
sound the horn three times and Hatch If the vehicle must be driven with
unlock the driver door when both the liftgate, or trunk/hatch open:
doors are closed and there is a
keyless access transmitter inside
{ WARNING . Close all of the windows.
the vehicle. When the driver door is Exhaust gases can enter the
. Fully open the air outlets on
opened, a reminder chime will vehicle if it is driven with the or under the instrument
sound continuously. The vehicle will liftgate, trunk/hatch open, or with panel.
remain locked only when at least any objects that pass through the . Adjust the Climate Control
one transmitter has been removed seal between the body and the System to a setting that
from the vehicle and both doors are trunk/hatch or liftgate. Engine brings in only outside air and
closed. See Vehicle Personalization exhaust contains carbon set the fan speed to the
on page 5‑54. monoxide (CO) which cannot be highest setting. See “Climate
seen or smelled. It can cause Control Systems” in the
unconsciousness and even death. Index.
(Continued) . If the vehicle is equipped with
a power liftgate, disable the
power liftgate function.
For more information about
carbon monoxide, see Engine
Exhaust on page 9‑26.