2019 Chevrolet Corvette Safety Report

2019 Corvette plagued by widespread wheel cracking and a critical airbag recall, lacking official crash test ratings.

146Complaints
1Recalls
45/100Reliability Score
2Injuries
Most reported components: Wheels (121)Power Train (8)Engine (4)Fuel/Propulsion System (2)Steering (2)Unknown Or Other (1)Latches/Locks/Linkages (1)Exterior Lighting (1)Tires (1)Electrical System (1)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2019 Chevrolet Corvette

The 2019 Chevrolet Corvette presents a mixed safety picture, primarily due to a significant number of consumer complaints regarding wheel integrity, despite a low overall complaint count and no reported crashes or fires. With 146 total complaints, a striking 121 (82.9%) are related to WHEELS, specifically cracking and bending under normal driving conditions, leading to air leaks and safety concerns. This issue is widespread, with multiple owners reporting multiple cracked wheels, often at low mileage. While there is only one recall, it addresses a critical safety system: the AIR BAGS. The recall affects certain 2019 Corvette ZR1 vehicles, where hard braking or acceleration could cause the sensing diagnostic module (SDM) to enter a fault state, increasing the risk of injury in a crash if airbags fail to deploy. NHTSA has not provided official crash test ratings (Overall, Frontal, Side, Rollover) for the 2019 Chevrolet Corvette, making it difficult to assess its performance in controlled crash scenarios. However, the two reported injuries are associated with issues like being trapped inside the vehicle due to door malfunction and potential engine failure. The high volume of wheel-related complaints suggests a potential manufacturing defect that could compromise vehicle control and tire pressure, posing a safety risk, even if not directly linked to crashes in the reported data. Beyond wheels, other notable complaint patterns include power train issues (8 complaints), often described as transmission shuddering or torque converter problems, and engine failures (4 complaints), with some owners reporting complete engine replacements. These mechanical issues, while fewer in number than the wheel complaints, indicate potential reliability concerns that could impact vehicle safety and operation. The single airbag recall is a serious concern for ZR1 owners, highlighting a potential failure in a primary safety system.

Reliability Score

The 2019 Chevrolet Corvette receives a reliability score of 45 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.

Known Issues for the 2019 Chevrolet Corvette

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2019 Chevrolet Corvette:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Cracked/Bent Wheels
Numerous reports (121 complaints) of wheels cracking and bending under normal driving conditions, leading to air leaks and requiring expensive replacement. This affects multiple wheels on a single vehicle.
High Common under 10000-35000 miles
Transmission Shudder/Torque Converter Issues
Several complaints (8 under POWER TRAIN) describe transmission shuddering, vibration during acceleration, and torque converter malfunctions, sometimes requiring fluid flushes or replacement.
Medium Occasional 3400-15000 miles
Engine Failure/Misfires
Reports (4 under ENGINE) of complete engine failure, misfiring, and knocking codes, with some owners waiting months for replacement engines from GM.
High Occasional 3400-11000 miles
Airbag Control Module Fault (Zr1 Only)
Recall for 2019 Corvette ZR1 vehicles where hard braking/acceleration can cause the sensing diagnostic module (SDM) to fault, preventing airbag deployment in a crash.
High Rare N/A miles
Doors Not Opening/Trapping Occupants
One complaint under LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES describes doors failing to open after parking, trapping occupants inside the vehicle.
High Rare N/A miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2019 Chevrolet Corvette:

Wheels 82% of complaints

Over 80% of all complaints are related to wheels, specifically cracking, bending, and subsequent air leaks, often requiring multiple replacements.

Power Train 5% of complaints

Issues include transmission shuddering, torque converter problems, and rough shifting, impacting driving smoothness and potentially longevity.

Engine 2% of complaints

Reports of engine misfires, knocking, and complete engine failures, leading to significant repair times and costs.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2019 Chevrolet Corvette

Is the 2019 Chevrolet Corvette safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2019 Chevrolet Corvette has a concerning safety profile primarily due to 121 complaints about cracked wheels, which can lead to tire pressure loss and compromised handling. There's also a critical airbag recall for ZR1 models. While there are no reported crashes or fires, the lack of official NHTSA crash test ratings makes a full safety assessment difficult.

What are common problems with the 2019 Chevrolet Corvette?

The most reported issues for the 2019 Chevrolet Corvette are overwhelmingly related to the WHEELS, with 121 complaints detailing cracking and bending. Other common problems include POWER TRAIN issues like transmission shuddering (8 complaints) and ENGINE failures or misfires (4 complaints).

Are there any recalls for the 2019 Chevrolet Corvette?

Yes, there is one recall for certain 2019 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 vehicles concerning the AIR BAGS. Hard braking or acceleration may cause the sensing diagnostic module (SDM) to enter a fault state, which could prevent airbags from deploying in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

How does the 2019 Corvette perform in crash tests?

NHTSA has not provided official crash test ratings (Overall, Frontal, Side, Rollover) for the 2019 Chevrolet Corvette, so its performance in controlled crash scenarios cannot be assessed based on this data.

What should I look out for when buying a used 2019 Corvette?

When considering a used 2019 Corvette, pay close attention to the wheels for any signs of cracks or bends, as this is a very common and expensive issue. Also, be aware of any transmission shuddering or unusual engine noises, and verify if any applicable recalls, especially the airbag recall for ZR1 models, have been addressed.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Given the pervasive issue of cracked wheels and a critical airbag recall for ZR1 models, potential buyers should thoroughly inspect all wheels and verify recall completion. Be prepared for potential transmission or engine issues, as these are also reported problems.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2019 Chevrolet Corvette

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2019 Chevrolet Corvette. The data includes 146 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 1 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 2 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.

Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.