Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 (sixth generation) buying guide

The ZL1 arrived for 2017, and the Camaro ended with the 2024 model year. The final run included a ZL1 Collector's Edition coupe with Panther-themed graphics, announced as a limited run of 350 units for the U.S. Octane Files warns that only a window sticker separates a real Collector Edition from a repaint.

The big choice is the 1LE Track Package, which is coupe only. It adds Multimatic DSSV dampers, 19-inch forged wheels, a carbon rear wing, front dive planes, a wider splitter, and stiffer springs and bushings. Motogallery lists Nürburgring laps of 7:16.04 for the 1LE and 7:29.60 for the standard car. Topspeed.com puts the package at $7,500.

Motogallery reckons the 1LE earns its place on track, while the standard car's Magnetic Ride Control dampers and 20-inch wheels are more forgiving on the street. The same source says convertibles cannot be had with the 1LE and are less sought for track use, and that low-mile manual coupes and well-kept 1LEs command a premium. Buy real 1LE hardware, not 1LE stripes.

For a street car, the standard coupe is the logical pick. Our Camaro price guide shows where each version sits.

Supercharger coupler wear

UseCarScout says the coupler typically gives out around 30,000 miles. The supercharger sounds different and boost fades slowly. The part runs about $800, but the supercharger has to come off, so the shop bill reaches $2,000 to $3,000.

Heat soak on track

After 10 to 15 minutes of sustained track use the heat exchanger is saturated, and the 10-speed automatic can drop into thermal protection mode. Owners who track their cars set aside $3,000 to $5,000 for cooling upgrades to the exchanger and the transmission, according to UseCarScout.

Machining debris in the engine

Modelyearmatters reports a repair program for certain LT4 6.2L cars that may have machining debris left inside the engine, with dealers replacing the engine. Ask whether a car you are viewing was part of it.

10-speed transmission recall

Recall 25V148000 covers certain 2020 to 2022 Camaros with the 10-speed automatic. A transmission control module issue can damage the transmission internally and lock the wheels. The 8-speed shudder seen on 2016 to 2018 cars is not blamed on the ZL1's 10-speed.

Power steering assist

Certain 2017 and 2018 Camaros were recalled because the electric power steering assist may fail. Have completion of the recall verified for any early car.

Brakes, tires and diffs

Motogallery says the Goodyear tires, pads and rotors go quickly when a car is driven hard. Rear differential leaks, and groan in slow tight turns, are worth hunting for on hard-used cars.

The LT4 takes 0W-40 full synthetic oil. UseCarScout says to check the supercharger's gear oil reservoir at every oil change and replace the oil at 60,000 miles. GM guidance, per Motogallery, calls for a differential fluid change after the first track event and a high-temp DOT 4 brake flush before track days.

Drvin.ai puts the factory Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar tires at $350 to $500 each. The 1LE's dampers and carbon wing are specialty parts that cost more than standard Magnetic Ride Control parts. Motogallery rates parts support for the sixth-generation Camaro as strong.

For the street, buy a standard ZL1 coupe whose seller can document the coupler repair and the recall work. Pick the 1LE only if you will track it, and insist on genuine 1LE parts and a window sticker. Skip convertibles if track use matters. If the cramped back seat and poor visibility put you off, look at other used sports cars or our C7 Corvette guide.

On a tracked car, ask whether the heat exchanger and transmission cooler were upgraded, since sustained laps can saturate the stock exchanger and push the 10-speed into thermal protection. On any car, get proof the coupler was replaced or budget $2,000 to $3,000 for it, plus written proof that the steering and transmission recalls were completed.