Black plate (40,1)Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
7576293) - 2015 - crc - 6/17/14
5-40 Instruments and Controls
PERF TRAC 1–WET ACTIVE
HANDLING ON
This message displays and a sound
will be heard when this Performance
Traction Management mode is
selected. The instrument cluster
light will also be on when this mode
is selected. Launch Control is
available when this mode is
selected. In this mode the Traction
Control and StabiliTrak system are
available but intended for use on
wet race track conditions. Adjust
your driving accordingly. This
system is available only on
Z06 models and models with FE4 –
Z51 Performance Package and
Magnetic Ride Control. See
“Performance Traction
Management” and“Launch Control”
under Competitive Driving Mode on
page 9-43 for more information
about the use of this mode.
PERF TRAC 2 –DRY ACTIVE
HANDLING ON
This message displays and a sound
will be heard when this Performance
Traction Management mode is
selected. The instrument cluster
light will also be on when this mode
is selected. Launch Control is
available when this mode is
selected. In this mode the Traction
Control and StabiliTrak system are
available but intended for use on dry
race track conditions. Adjust your
driving accordingly. This system is
available only on Z06 models and
models with FE4. See “Performance
Traction Management” and“Launch
Control” underCompetitive Driving
Mode on page 9-43 for more
information about the use of
this mode.
PERF TRAC 3 –SPORT
ACTIVE HANDLING ON
This message displays and a sound
will be heard when this Performance
Traction Management mode is
selected. The instrument cluster light will also be on when this mode
is selected. Launch Control is
available when this mode is
selected. In this mode the Traction
Control and StabiliTrak system are
available but intended for use on dry
race track conditions. Adjust your
driving accordingly. This system is
available only on Z06 models and
models with FE4. See
“Performance
Traction Management” and“Launch
Control” underCompetitive Driving
Mode on page 9-43 for more
information about the use of
this mode.
PERF TRAC 4 –SPORT
ACTIVE HANDLING OFF
This message displays and a sound
will be heard when this Performance
Traction Management mode is
selected. The instrument cluster
light will also be on when this mode
is selected. Launch Control is
available when this mode is
selected. In this mode the Traction
Control is available but intended for
use on dry race track conditions.
Black plate (41,1)Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
7576293) - 2015 - crc - 6/17/14
Instruments and Controls 5-41
The StabiliTrak system is disabled
when this mode is selected. This
mode will require more driver skill
than modes 1–3. Adjust your driving
accordingly. This system is available
only on Z06 models and models
with FE4. See“Performance
Traction Management” and“Launch
Control” underCompetitive Driving
Mode on page 9-43 for more
information about the use of
this mode.
PERF TRAC 5 –RACE ACTIVE
HANDLING OFF
This message displays and a sound
will be heard when this Performance
Traction Management mode is
selected. The instrument cluster
light will also be on when this mode
is selected. Launch Control is
available when this mode is
selected. In this mode the Traction
Control is available but intended for
use on dry race track conditions.
The StabiliTrak system is disabled
when this mode is selected. This
mode will require more driver skill than modes 1–4. Adjust your driving
accordingly. This system is available
only on Z06 models and models
with FE4. See
“Performance
Traction Management” and“Launch
Control” underCompetitive Driving
Mode on page 9-43 for more
information about the use of
this mode.
REAR AXLE OFF
If this message is displayed, the
Electronic Limited-Slip Rear (if
equipped) is not operational. Drive
with caution. Avoid high speeds,
aggressive driving, and sharp
cornering. The system could be
overheated. Allow the system to
cool. If this message remains on,
see your dealer for service. The
vehicle is safe to drive, however,
continue to drive with caution.
When this message is displayed,
the vehicle’ s handling capabilities
will be reduced during severe
maneuvers. StabiliTrak will be affected. See
Traction Control/
Electronic Stability Control on
page 9-37.
SERVICE STABILITRAK
This message displays if there is a
problem with the StabiliTrak system
and the vehicle needs service. The
StabiliTrak system light on the
instrument cluster also turns on and
a sound will be heard. See your
dealer. When this message is
displayed, the system is not
working. Adjust your driving
accordingly. See Traction Control/
Electronic Stability Control on
page 9-37.
SERVICE TRACTION SYSTEM
If this message displays when you
are driving, there is a problem with
the Traction Control System (TCS)
and the vehicle needs service. See
your dealer. When this message is
displayed, the system will not limit
wheel spin. Adjust your driving
accordingly.
Black plate (42,1)Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
7576293) - 2015 - crc - 6/17/14
5-42 Instruments and Controls
The TCS light on the instrument
cluster will also turn on and a sound
will be heard.
When this message is displayed,
the computer controlled systems will
not assist the driver in controlling
the vehicle. Have the system
repaired by your dealer as soon as
possible. Adjust your driving
accordingly. SeeTraction Control/
Electronic Stability Control on
page 9-37.
To acknowledge the message, press
the SEL button.
SHOCKS INOPERATIVE
This message displays when a
malfunction is present in the
Selective Ride Control system,
which is causing the shocks to be in
their full soft mode. This is a
warning to the driver that the vehicle
handling may be affected. Have the
vehicle serviced by your dealer as
soon as possible. To acknowledge the message, press
the SEL button. The message
reappears every 10 minutes until
this condition changes.
Airbag System Messages
SERVICE AIRBAG
This message displays if there is a
problem with the airbag system.
Take the vehicle to your dealer for
service.
Security Messages
THEFT ATTEMPTED
This message displays if the vehicle
detects a tamper condition.
Service Vehicle Messages
PROGRAM CLUSTER
This message is displayed if there is
a problem with the instrument
cluster. Take the vehicle to your
dealer for service.
SERVICE POWER STEERING
This message is displayed if there is
a problem with the power steering
system and a chime may sound.
Take the vehicle to your dealer for
service.
SERVICE REAR AXLE
If there is a problem detected with
the Electronic Limited-Slip Rear
Axle, this message displays. When
displayed, the system is not
operational and driving should be
adjusted accordingly. Take the
vehicle to your dealer for service as
soon as possible.
When this message is displayed,
the vehicle’
s handling capabilities
will be reduced during severe
maneuvers. StabiliTrak will be
affected. See Traction Control/
Electronic Stability Control on
page 9-37.
Black plate (1,1)Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
7576293) - 2015 - crc - 6/17/14
Driving and Operating 9-1
Driving and
Operating
Driving Information
Distracted Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2
Defensive Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
Drunk Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
Control of a Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
Steering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
Off-Road Recovery . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-4
Loss of Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-4
Track Events and CompetitiveDriving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-5
Driving on Wet Roads . . . . . . . 9-10
Hill and Mountain Roads . . . . . 9-11
Winter Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-12
If the Vehicle Is Stuck . . . . . . . . 9-13
Vehicle Load Limits . . . . . . . . . . 9-14
Starting and Operating
New Vehicle Break-In . . . . . . . . 9-18
Front Air Dam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-19
Carbon Fiber . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-19
Ignition Positions . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-19
Starting the Engine . . . . . . . . . . 9-21
Retained Accessory Power (RAP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-23 Shifting Into Park . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-23
Shifting out of Park . . . . . . . . . . 9-24
Parking (Manual
Transmission) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-25
Parking over Things
That Burn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-25
Active Fuel Management
®. . . 9-25
Engine Exhaust
Engine Exhaust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-26
Running the Vehicle While Parked . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-26
Automatic Transmission
Automatic Transmission . . . . . 9-27
Manual Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-28
Manual Transmission
Manual Transmission . . . . . . . . 9-31
Active Rev Match . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-33
Brakes
Antilock BrakeSystem (ABS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-34
Electric Parking Brake . . . . . . . 9-35
Brake Assist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-36
Hill Start Assist (HSA) . . . . . . . 9-37
Ride Control Systems
Traction Control/Electronic Stability Control . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-37
Driver Mode Control . . . . . . . . . 9-39
Competitive Driving Mode . . . 9-43
Limited-Slip Differential (Except Z51 and Z06) . . . . . . 9-47
Limited-Slip Differential (Z51 and Z06 Only) . . . . . . . . 9-47
Cruise Control
Cruise Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-48
Driver Assistance Systems
Rear VisionCamera (RVC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-51
Fuel
Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-53
California FuelRequirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-54
Fuels in Foreign Countries . . . 9-54
Fuel Additives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-54
Filling the Tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-55
Filling a Portable Fuel Container . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-56
Black plate (2,1)Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
7576293) - 2015 - crc - 6/17/14
9-2 Driving and Operating
Trailer Towing
General TowingInformation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-57
Conversions and Add-Ons
Add-On ElectricalEquipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-57
Driving Information
Distracted Driving
Distraction comes in many forms
and can take your focus from the
task of driving. Exercise good
judgment and do not let other
activities divert your attention away
from the road. Many local
governments have enacted laws
regarding driver distraction. Become
familiar with the local laws in
your area.
To avoid distracted driving, always
keep your eyes on the road, hands
on the wheel, and mind on the drive.
.Do not use a phone in
demanding driving situations.
Use a hands-free method to
place or receive necessary
phone calls.
.Watch the road. Do not read,
take notes, or look up
information on phones or other
electronic devices.
.Designate a front seat
passenger to handle potential
distractions.
.Become familiar with vehicle
features before driving, such as
programming favorite radio
stations and adjusting climate
control and seat settings.
Program all trip information into
any navigation device prior to
driving.
.Wait until the vehicle is parked
to retrieve items that have fallen
to the floor.
.Stop or park the vehicle to tend
to children.
.Keep pets in an appropriate
carrier or restraint.
.Avoid stressful conversations
while driving, whether with a
passenger or on a cell phone.
Black plate (5,1)Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
7576293) - 2015 - crc - 6/17/14
Driving and Operating 9-5
.Steering or Cornering Skid—
too much speed or steering in a
curve causes tires to slip and
lose cornering force.
.Acceleration Skid —too much
throttle causes the driving
wheels to spin.
Defensive drivers avoid most skids
by taking reasonable care suited to
existing conditions, and by not
overdriving those conditions. But
skids are always possible.
If the vehicle starts to slide, follow
these suggestions:
.Ease your foot off the
accelerator pedal and steer the
way you want the vehicle to go.
The vehicle may straighten out.
Be ready for a second skid if it
occurs.
.Slow down and adjust your
driving according to weather
conditions. Stopping distance
can be longer and vehicle
control can be affected when
traction is reduced by water,
snow, ice, gravel, or other material on the road. Learn to
recognize warning clues
—such
as enough water, ice, or packed
snow on the road to make a
mirrored surface —and slow
down when you have any doubt.
.Try to avoid sudden steering,
acceleration, or braking,
including reducing vehicle speed
by shifting to a lower gear. Any
sudden changes could cause
the tires to slide.
Remember: Antilock brakes help
avoid only the braking skid.
Track Events and
Competitive Driving
Participating in track events or other
competitive driving without following
the instructions provided may affect
the vehicle warranty. See the
warranty manual before using the
vehicle for racing or other
competitive driving.
Refer to Competitive Driving Mode
on page 9-43. Be sure to follow all service
procedures before driving the
vehicle at track events or
competitively.
Engine Oil
{Caution
If the vehicle is used for track
events and competitive driving,
the engine may use more oil than
it would with normal use. Low oil
levels can damage the engine.
Check the oil level often and
maintain the proper level. See
Engine Oil on page 10-12.
{Caution
Not changing the engine oil to
15W-50 may cause engine
damage. Engine oil must be
changed to 15W-50 synthetic.
See
Capacities and Specifications
on page 12-2.
Black plate (9,1)Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
7576293) - 2015 - crc - 6/17/14
Driving and Operating 9-9
Caution (Continued)
force to increase. This could
extend stopping distance until the
brakes are fully burnished.
When this procedure is performed
as instructed, it will not damage the
brakes. The brake pads will smoke
and produce an odor. The braking
force and pedal travel may increase.
After the procedure, the brake pads
may appear white at the rotor
contact.
Perform this procedure only on dry
pavement, in a safe manner, and in
compliance with all local and state
ordinances/laws regarding motor
vehicle operation.
Brake Burnish Procedure (Z51 and
Z06 without Z07 Performance
Package)
1. Apply the brakes 25 times starting at 100 km/h (60 mph) to
50 km/h (30 mph) while
decelerating at 0.4 g. This is a medium brake application. Drive
for at least 1 km (0.6 mi)
between applying the brakes.
This first step may be skipped if
there are more than 320 km
(200 mi) on the brake pads.
2. Repeatedly apply the brakes from 100 km/h (60 mph) to
25 km/h (15 mph) while
decelerating at 0.8 g. This is a
hard brake application, without
activating the Antilock Brake
System (ABS). Drive for at least
1 km (0.6 mi) between stops.
Repeat until the brake pedal
travel starts to increase.
Depending on conditions, this
should take no longer than 25
brake applications.
3. Cool down: Drive at 100 km/h (60 mph) for approximately
15 km (10 mi) without using the
brakes.
4. Apply the brakes 25 times from 100 km/h (60 mph) to 50 km/h
(30 mph) while decelerating at
0.4 g. This is a medium brake application. Drive for at least
1 km (0.6 mi) between
applications.
Street High Performance Brake
Burnishing Procedure (Z06 with
Z07 Performance Package)
1. From a stop, accelerate as rapidly as possible without
activating traction control to a
speed of 100 km/h (60 mph).
2. Use enough pedal force to completely stop the vehicle in
four to five seconds. If ABS
activates, braking is too hard.
3. Repeat Steps 1 and 2 –50
times. This should take about
10 minutes.
4. After completing the 50 stops, cool the brakes by driving for km
(5 mi) at 100 km/h (60 mph)
As with all high performance brake
systems, some amount of brake
squeal is normal.
Black plate (12,1)Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-
7576293) - 2015 - crc - 6/17/14
9-12 Driving and Operating
{Warning
Coasting downhill in N (Neutral)
or with the ignition off is
dangerous. This can cause
overheating of the brakes and
loss of steering. Always have the
engine running and the vehicle
in gear.
.Stay in your own lane. Do not
swing wide or cut across the
center of the road. Drive at
speeds that let you stay in your
own lane.
.Be alert on top of hills;
something could be in your lane
(stalled car, accident).
.Pay attention to special road
signs (falling rocks area, winding
roads, long grades, passing or
no-passing zones) and take
appropriate action.
Winter Driving
Driving on Snow or Ice
Drive carefully when there is snow
or ice between the tires and the
road, creating less traction or grip.
Wet ice can occur at about 0°C (32°
F) when freezing rain begins to fall,
resulting in even less traction. Avoid
driving on wet ice or in freezing rain
until roads can be treated with salt
or sand.
Drive with caution, whatever the
condition. Accelerate gently so
traction is not lost. Accelerating too
quickly causes the wheels to spin
and makes the surface under the
tires slick, so there is even less
traction.
Traction Control should be turned
on. SeeTraction Control/Electronic
Stability Control on page 9-37.
The Antilock Brake System (ABS)
improves vehicle stability during
hard stops on slippery roads, but apply the brakes sooner than when
on dry pavement. See
Antilock
Brake System (ABS) on page 9-34.
Allow greater following distance on
any slippery road and watch for
slippery spots. Icy patches can
occur on otherwise clear roads in
shaded areas. The surface of a
curve or an overpass can remain icy
when the surrounding roads are
clear. Avoid sudden steering
maneuvers and braking while
on ice.
Turn off cruise control on slippery
surfaces.
Blizzard Conditions
Being stuck in snow can be a
serious situation. Stay with the
vehicle unless there is help nearby.
If possible, use Roadside
Assistance. See Roadside
Assistance Program on page 13-5.
To get help and keep everyone in
the vehicle safe:
.Turn on the hazard warning
flashers.