1988 C4 Corvette

1988 Corvette Overview

The arrival of the 1988 model year brought with it the 35th anniversary of the Chevy Corvette.  For General Motors as a whole, and especially for the teams of people responsible for the design and development of “America’s Sports Car”, this anniversary was significant not only because of the milestone it represented, but because the thirtieth anniversary of Corvette had passed with barely a whisper.

After all, the Corvette had turned thirty years old in 1983, and, because of engineering decisions that were made to support increasingly high emissions standards, Chevrolet had opted not to build an ’83 Corvette at all.  The result was that Corvette had gone a decade without any type of anniversary special edition model to celebrate its ongoing successes.

Model:	1988 Corvette
Generation:	C4 Corvette
Type:	2 Door Coupe, 2 Door Convertible
Available Colors:	Silver Metallic, Medium Blue Metallic, Dark Blue Metallic, Yellow, White, Black, Dark Red Metallic, Bright Red, Gray Metallic, Charcoal Metallic,  White/Black
Engine:	350CI 240/245 Horsepower, Tuned-Port Fuel Injected L98 V8 Engine
VIN:	1G1YY2182J5100001 – 1G1YY2182J5122789
Transmission:	4-speed automatic (standard), 4+3 speed manual (optional)
Original Price:	$29,489.00 (Coupe), $34,820.00 (Convertible)
Units Produced:	22,789
Specs:	1988 Corvette Spec List

So, for its 35th anniversary year, the Corvette was treated to a number of important engine and chassis upgrades.  With Tony Rudd, Lotus’s former technical director, leading a team of design engineers in an engine development program to advance the L98’s overall performance, the 1988 Corvette would serve as a platform upon which his design advances could be utilized.

For 1988, the L98 received another five horsepower bump in power thanks to the addition of freer-breathing cylinder heads and a re-profiled camshaft.

Additionally, Chevrolet introduced a new, less restrictive muffler package for the 1988 model.  Believed by many to be another possible cause for the horsepower bump, these new mufflers were introduced only on Corvette coupes that were fitted with the optional 3.07:1 performance axle.

The increased resonance from the mufflers was deemed too loud for the convertible models.  Similarly, the taller gearing of the 2.59:1 gears were also considered impractical for the less-restrictive mufflers, which meant that, at least for 1988, the standard axle ratio model Corvettes were fitted with the same mufflers as their 1987 counterparts.

Advances in chassis design included the introduction of larger, 17 x 9.5 inch “Cuisinart” rims that were mated to hefty P275/40ZR-17 Goodyear Eagle GT tires. The new rims featured a freshly designed twelve-slot pattern.  Still side specific (meaning that four-way tire rotation was not possible), this new design was a considerable improvement over the original C4 wheels.

The new tires were classified as “Z-rated” tires, meaning that they could maintain sustained driving speeds in excess of 149 miles per hour, which was a significant advancement in Corvette’s tire/wheel program.  While this new tire/rim assembly was only offered as part of the Z51 and Z52 suspension package upgrades in 1988, the standard 16 x 8.5 inch rims were similarly updated, featuring a new six slot pattern that was mated to P255/50ZR-16 Z-rated tires.

With the introduction of the higher performance tires to its platform, Corvette engineers wanted to ensure that they utilized the new tires’ greater durability while also developing better directional control of the Corvette during hard stops.  To achieve this, the front suspension geometry was re-worked to incorporate “zero scrub radius”.  A “zero scrub radius” is a steering access that intersects the exact center of the tire’s contact patch, rather than an outboard (positive scrub radius) or inboard (negative scrub radius) as has been found on some European cars of that era.

The rear suspension was also revised and was fitted with slightly more rebound travel and reduced camber for improved straight-line and braking stability.  To further aid in the development of directional control during braking, the brakes were fortified as well.  For 1988, Corvette came standard with larger, two-piston, front calipers.  Further, larger (12.9 inch fronts and 11.9 inch rears), thicker brake rotors were also added to all four wheels.   Lastly, an integral handbrake was introduced to the rear discs, replacing the previous small, separate drums that served as the parking brake on earlier C4 models.

The interior of the 1988 Corvette received few upgrades from the previous model year, though there were some minor, but significant updates that were introduced to increase ease of driving and the driver’s overall comfort.  Much like the Porsche 928 from that same era, the C4 had been introduced with a pull-up handbrake mounted outboard of the driver’s seat.  It featured a brake lever that could be folded down after engagement so that it would not interfere with the driver’s ability to enter and exit the vehicle.  While this design was not changed for 1988, the location of the parking brake lever was moved a bit lower and further back from its original position with the intent of being less intrusive.

Another, less notable change to the interior involved the modification of the interior air extractors within all Corvette coupes.  This was done to increase the flow rate of air through the climate control system, which was now offered with the extra-cost automatic-temperature control that was phased in toward the tail end of the 1987 Corvette’s production run.

DID YOU KNOW: The 1988 model represented the 35th Anniversary of the Corvette. 2,050 35th Anniversary Corvettes were built to commemorate this occasion. All were white coupes, with white leather interiors and white wheels, and each received special badging. Also, in preparation for the SCCA Corvette Challenge Series, GM built 56 race cars for the newly appointed series and all of these special Corvettes were street-legal. After competing in the SCCA sanctioned events, these Corvettes were then sold to private owners. Lastly, the 1988 Corvette was the first to include unidirectional wheels.

For its 35th anniversary, Chevrolet announced that a limited production of 2,000 Special Anniversary Edition Corvettes would be manufactured.  The anniversary model would only be available as a coupe.  Officially offered under option code Z01, the car featured a bright white lower body (which included color-matched door handles, mirrors, body side moldings, and 17-inch wheels) which was set off by a black roof hoop and a transparent black acrylic roof panel.

In 1988, the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) banned all showroom stock Corvettes from competing in its racing events. The reason for this decision? The Chevy Corvette had not been beaten in three years of racing competition against some of the world’s best sports cars, and the competition complained so loudly that the governing body of the SCCA had to respond. To appease Chevrolet, SCCA developed a marque-specific race series for the Corvette. The Corvette Challenge ran from 1988-1989 and was a huge hit with race fans, mostly because it showcased driver talent instead of engineering expertise.

Special edition commemorative badges were inserted above the body side gills as well as being embroidered into the all-white leather-upholstered interior.  Additionally, the Special Anniversary Edition Corvette was fitted with a commemorative console mounted anniversary plaque.  Other features packed into the 35th anniversary model included dual six-way power sport seats, automatic climate control, the GM Delco/Bose audio system, and heated door mirrors.

As a homage to the original 1953 Motorama Corvette, which was originally introduced at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel, Chevrolet executives decided to introduce the 1988 35th Anniversary Corvette at the New York Auto Show on April 1, 1988.  The car was well received and the limited edition Anniversary Corvettes quickly sold out.  Even so, the sale of these Corvettes – 2,050 units in all – was not enough to change the overall direction of Corvette sales at the dealership level.

As with every model year since 1985, total Corvette sales continued to decline.  With just under 23,000 units sold, the 1988 Corvette was the lowest selling model-year since 1972.

At the same time, the C4 was continuing to find success at the race track.  It had been the undefeated class champion in SCCA Showroom Stock racing for three straight years.  For 1988, Chevrolet decided to build fifty-six street-legal cars for the 1988 SCCA Corvette Challenge series.

Stock engines would be manufactured at the CPC engine plant in Flint, Michigan, and would then be shipped to Bowling Green, Ky. for installation.  Upon completion of their assembly, the Corvettes would then be transported to Wixom, Michigan, for the additional roll cages and other racing modifications.

During the course of the year, Chevy would replace most engines, swapping them for motors that had a more evenly calibrated.

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1988 Corvette Image Gallery

See full 1988 CY Corvette Image Gallery

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1988 Corvette Specifications

1988 Corvette Main Specs

MODEL:	1988 Chevrolet Corvette
BODY STYLE:	Two-door Coupe/Hatchback, front engine, rear wheel drive
MANUFACTURING LOCATION:	Bowling Green, Kentucky
CONSTRUCTION:	Fiberglass body, unibody construction with partial, front frame including both steel and stainless steel components.
VEHICLE NUMBERS (VIN):	1G1YY2182J5100001 THRU 1G1YY2182J5122789
VIN SUFFIX:	ZMA: 350 CUBIC INCH, 240/245 HORSEPOWER, AUTOMATIC ZMC: 350 CUBIC INCH, 240/245 HORSEPOWER, MANUAL, ENGINE OIL COOLER ZMD: 350 CUBIC INCH, 240/245 HORSEPOWER, AUTOMATIC, ENGINE OIL COOLER
ENGINE BLOCK NUMBER:	14093638: ALL
HEAD NUMBER:	10088113: ALL

1988 Corvette Pricing & Options

CODE:	DESCRIPTION:	QUANTITY:	RETAIL PRICE:
1YY07	Base Corvette Sport Coupe	15,382	$29,489.00
1YY67	Base Corvette Convertible	7,407	$34,820.00
AC1	Power Passenger Seat	18,779	$240.00
AC3	Power Driver Seat	22,084	$240.00
AQ9	Sport Seats, leather	12,724	$1,025.00
AR9	Base Seats, leather	9,043	$400.00
B2K	Callaway Twin Turbo (not GM installed)	125	$25,895.00
B4P	Radiator Boost Fan	19,035	$75.00
C2L	Dual Removable Roof Panels (coupe)	5,091	$915.00
24S	Removable Roof Panel, blue tint (coupe)	8,332	$615.00
64S	Removable Roof Panel, bronze tint (coupe)	3,337	$615.00
C68	Electronic Air Conditioning Control	19,732	$150.00
DL8	Twin Remote Heated Mirrors (convertible)	6,582	$35.00
D74	Illuminated Driver Vanity Mirror	14,249	$58.00
FG3	Delco-Bilstein Shock Absorbers	18,437	$189.00
G92	Performance Axle Ratio, 3.07:1	4,497	$22.00
KC4	Engine Oil Cooler	18,877	$110.00
MM4	4-Speed Manual Transmission	4,282	$0.00
NN5	California Emission Requirements	3,882	$99.00
UL5	Radio Delete	179	-$297.00
UU8	Stereo System, Delco-Bose	20,304	$773.00
V01	Heavy-Duty Radiator	19,271	$40.00
Z01	35th Special Edition Package (coupe)	2,050	$4,795.00
Z51	Performance Handling Package (coupe)	1,309	$1,295.00
Z52	Sport Handling Package	16,017	$970.00
Z6A	Rear Window+Side Mirror Defog (coupe)	14,648	$165.00

1988 Corvette Exterior & Interior Colors

Color Options

CODE	EXTERIOR	TOTAL	SOFT TOP	INTERIOR COLOR
13	Silver Metallic	385	Black, White	Black, Grey, Red, Saddle
20	Medium Blue Metallic	1,148	Black, White	Blue, Black
28	Dark Blue Metallic	1,675	Black, Saddle, White	Black, Saddle
35	Yellow	578	Black, White	Black, Saddle
40	White	3,620	Black, Saddle, White	Black, Grey, Red, Saddle
41	Black	3,420	Black, Saddle, White	Black, Grey, Red, Saddle
47	Dark Red Metallic	2,878	Black, Saddle, White	Black, Saddle
81	Bright Red	5,340	Black, Saddle, White	Black, Grey, Red, Saddle
90	Gray Metallic	644	Black, White	Black, Grey
96	Charcoal Metallic	1,046	Black, Saddle, White	Grey, Saddle
40/41	White/Black	2,050	NONE	White

Exterior Colors

Interior Colors

1988 Corvette Powertrain Specifications

L98 5.7 OHV 350 V-8. Tuned-Port Fuel Injection (COUPE)

Engine:	L98 5.7 OHV 350 V-8. Tuned-Port Fuel Injection (COUPE)
Cylinders:	V8
Block Material:	Cast Iron Alloy
Displacement:	5.7 Litre/350 Cubic Inches
Bore & Stroke:	4.00 x 3.48 inches
Valvetrain:	OHV, 2 valves per cyl.
Cylinder Head Material:	Aluminum
Cylinder Block Deck Height:	9.025 Inches
Compression Ratio:	9.50:1
Horsepower:	240 HP @ 4,300 RPM
Torque:	340 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm
Fuel Delivery:	Tuned-Port Fuel Injection
Fuel Capacity:	20.0 Gallons
Oil Capacity:	4.5 Quarts (Without Filter)
Total Dressed Engine Weight (Dry):	585.7lbs
Transmission:	4+3 Speed Manual / Turbo Hydra-Matic 700 R-4, 4-speed  Automatic
Standard Axle Ratio:	2.59:1 (Automatic), 3.07:1 (Manual)

L98 5.7 OHV 350 V-8. Tuned-Port Fuel Injection (COUPE w/3.07:1 AXLE & CONVERTIBLE)

Engine:	L98 5.7 OHV 350 V-8. Tuned-Port Fuel Injection (COUPE w/3.07:1 AXLE & CONVERTIBLE)
Cylinders:	V8
Block Material:	Cast Iron Alloy
Displacement:	5.7 Litre/350 Cubic Inches
Bore & Stroke:	4.00 x 3.48 inches
Valvetrain:	OHV, 2 valves per cyl.
Cylinder Head Material:	Aluminum
Cylinder Block Deck Height:	9.025 Inches
Compression Ratio:	9.50:1
Horsepower:	245 HP @ 4,300 RPM
Torque:	340 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm
Fuel Delivery:	Tuned-Port Fuel Injection
Fuel Capacity:	20.0 Gallons
Oil Capacity:	4.5 Quarts (Without Filter)
Total Dressed Engine Weight (Dry):	585.7lbs
Transmission:	4+3 Speed Manual / Turbo Hydra-Matic 700 R-4, 4-speed  Automatic
Standard Axle Ratio:	2.59:1 (Automatic), 3.07:1 (Manual)

L98 5.7 OHV Turbo-Charged 350 V-8. Electronic Port Fuel Injection (CALLAWAY TWIN-TURBO)

Engine:	L98 5.7 OHV Turbo-Charged 350 V-8. Electronic Port Fuel Injection (CALLAWAY TWIN-TURBO)
Cylinders:	V8
Block Material:	Cast Iron Alloy
Displacement:	5.7 Litre/350 Cubic Inches
Bore & Stroke:	4.00 x 3.48 inches
Valvetrain:	OHV, 2 valves per cyl.
Cylinder Head Material:	Aluminum
Cylinder Block Deck Height:	9.025 Inches
Compression Ratio:	7.50:1
Horsepower:	382 HP @ 4,250 RPM
Torque:	562 lb-ft @ 2,500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:	Elec. Port Fuel Injection
Fuel Capacity:	20.0 Gallons
Oil Capacity:	4.5 Quarts (Without Filter)
Total Dressed Engine Weight (Dry):	585.7lbs
Transmission:	3.54:1 Limited Slip
Standard Axle Ratio:	2.59:1 (Automatic), 3.07:1 (Manual)
Turbos	2 Rotomaster T04 Compac
Wastegate	Integral
Max Boost Pressure	10.8psi

1988 Corvette Wheels, Suspension & Brakes

Suspension (Coupe/Convertible)

Front Suspension	Single fiberglass composite mono-leaf transverse spring with unequal-length aluminum control arms and stabilizer bar.
Rear Suspension	Fully independent five-link system with transverse fiberglass single-leaf springs, aluminum upper/lower trailing links and strut-rod tie-rod assembly

Suspension (Callaway Twin Turbo)

Front Suspension	Independent, unequal–length control arms, plastic leaf springs, 3-position-cockpit-adjustable shock absorbers, anti-roll bar.
Rear Suspension	Independent, fixed-length half shafts, 2 lateral links and 2 trailing links per side, plastic leaf spring, 3-position cockpit-adjustable shock absorbers, anti-roll bar.

Wheels & Tires (Coupe/Convertible/Callaway)

Front Tires	P255 / 50VR16, P275 / 40ZR-17*
Rear Tires	P255 / 50VR16, P275 / 40ZR-17*
Front Wheels	Wheels: 16 x 8.5, 17 x 9.5*
Front Wheels	Wheels: 16 x 8.5, 17 x 9.5*

*Denotes cars equipped with Z51/Z52 options and Callaway Twin Turbo Corvette

Brakes (Coupe/Convertible)

Front Brakes	11.5 Inch Rotors with ABS / 13.0 Inch (Z51)
Rear Brakes	11.5 Inch Rotors with ABS / 12.0 Inch (Z51)

Brakes (Callaway Twin Turbo)

Front Brakes	12.9 x 1.1 Inch Vented Discs with Vacuum Assisted ABS
Rear Brakes	11.9 x 0.8 Inch Vented Discs with Vacuum Assisted ABS

1988 Corvette Exterior Dimensions

Coupe Dimensions

Exterior Dimensions (Coupe & Conv)		Interior Dimensions (Coupe & Conv)
Wheelbase:	96.2 Inches	Headroom:	N/A
Overall Length:	176.5 Inches	Shoulder Room:	N/A
Total Body Width:	71.0 Inches	Hip Room:	N/A
Overall Height:	46.7 Inches	Leg Room:	N/A
Front Track Width:	59.6 Inches
Rear Track Width:	60.4 Inches
Min. Ground Clearance	4.7 Inches

 

Exterior Dimensions (Callaway)		Interior Dimensions (Callaway)
Wheelbase:	96.2 Inches	Headroom:	N/A
Overall Length:	179.0 Inches	Shoulder Room:	N/A
Total Body Width:	71.0 Inches	Hip Room:	N/A
Overall Height:	46.7 Inches	Leg Room:	N/A
Front Track Width:	59.6 Inches
Rear Track Width:	60.4 Inches
Min. Ground Clearance	4.3 Inches

Capacities

1988 Corvette Performance Results

Performance	Standard	Callaway Twin Turbo
0-60 MPH:	5.6 Seconds	4.4 Seconds
0-100 MPH:	16.3 Seconds	10.5 Seconds
QUARTER MILE:	14.3 Seconds @ 95.0	12.9 Seconds @ 111.0
TOP SPEED:	~150 mph	191 MPH

1988 Corvette Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN)

VIN Range	1G1YY2182J5100001 – 1G1YY2182J5122789
1 (First Digit)	1 – United States
G (Second Digit)	Manufacturer.  G – General Motors
1 (Third Digit)	Manufacturer Division. 1 – Chevrolet
YY (Fourth & Fifth Digits)	Make of Car. Y – Corvette
2/3 (Sixth Digit)	2 – Two Door Hatchback Coupe, 3 – Two Door Convertible
1 (Seventh Digit)	Type of Restraint System.  1 – Passive Restraint System.
8 (Eighth Digit)	Type of Engine.  8 – L98: 5.7 Liter, 350CI Engine with Tuned-Port Injection
2 (Ninth Digit)	Check Digit.
J (Tenth Digit)	The Model Year. J – 1988
5 (Eleventh Digit)	Location of the Assembly Plant. 5 – Bowling Green, Kentucky
1XXXXX (Twelfth thru Seventeenth Digits)	Production Sequence Numbers.

The last six digits begin at 100001 and run thru 122789, accounting for each of the 22,789 Corvette Coupes/Convertibles built in 1988. Each Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is unique to an individual car. For all 1988 Corvettes, the Vehicle Identification Number was stamped on a plate on the inner vertical surface of the left windshield pillar visible through the windshield.

The Check Digit is used to calculate the characters in the serial number and gives it a single digit code that can be used to verify the serial number is legitimate. (Note: The Check digit number varies depending on each specific VIN number.)

1988 Corvette Factory Options

CODE:	DESCRIPTION:	QUANTITY:	RETAIL PRICE:
1YY07	Base Corvette Sport Coupe	15,382	$29,489.00
1YY67	Base Corvette Convertible	7,407	$34,820.00
AC1	Power Passenger Seat	18,779	$240.00
AC3	Power Driver Seat	22,084	$240.00
AQ9	Sport Seats, leather	12,724	$1,025.00
AR9	Base Seats, leather	9,043	$400.00
B2K	Callaway Twin Turbo (not GM installed)	125	$25,895.00
B4P	Radiator Boost Fan	19,035	$75.00
C2L	Dual Removable Roof Panels (coupe)	5,091	$915.00
24S	Removable Roof Panel, blue tint (coupe)	8,332	$615.00
64S	Removable Roof Panel, bronze tint (coupe)	3,337	$615.00
C68	Electronic Air Conditioning Control	19,732	$150.00
DL8	Twin Remote Heated Mirrors (convertible)	6,582	$35.00
D74	Illuminated Driver Vanity Mirror	14,249	$58.00
FG3	Delco-Bilstein Shock Absorbers	18,437	$189.00
G92	Performance Axle Ratio, 3.07:1	4,497	$22.00
KC4	Engine Oil Cooler	18,877	$110.00
MM4	4-Speed Manual Transmission	4,282	$0.00
NN5	California Emission Requirements	3,882	$99.00
UL5	Radio Delete	179	-$297.00
UU8	Stereo System, Delco-Bose	20,304	$773.00
V01	Heavy-Duty Radiator	19,271	$40.00
Z01	35th Special Edition Package (coupe)	2,050	$4,795.00
Z51	Performance Handling Package (coupe)	1,309	$1,295.00
Z52	Sport Handling Package	16,017	$970.00
Z6A	Rear Window+Side Mirror Defog (coupe)	14,648	$165.00

Base Corvette Sport Coupe (1YY07)

• The base price of the 1988 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe without any optional equipment.
• A 350 cubic inch, 240/245 horsepower engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, removable body-color roof panel, and cloth seats were included in the base price.
• Refinements for 1988 included carpeted door sills, solution-dyed carpet, improved “flow through” ventilation for coupes, and a lower, rearward relocation of the parking brake handle.
• Engine power remained at 240hp for 1988 models except for coupes with 3.07:1 axle ratios which had 245hp. The 5hp increase came from less restrictive mufflers which were deemed too loud for convertibles and 2.59:1 axle coupes.

Base Corvette Convertible (1YY67)

• The base price of the 1988 Corvette Convertible without any optional equipment.
• A 350 cubic inch, 240/245 horsepower engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, collapsable soft top, and cloth seats were included in the base price.
• Refinements for 1988 included carpeted door sills, solution-dyed carpet, and a lower, rearward relocation of the parking brake handle.

Power Passenger Seat (AC1)

• Optional, six-way, adjustable passenger seat.

Power Driver Seat (AC3)

• Optional, six-way, adjustable driver seat.

Sports Seat, Leather (AQ9)

• Special sport seats that featured inflatable lumbar support and power-adjusted side bolsters.

Base Seats, Leather (AR9)

• Leather cover option for the standard, base driver and passenger seats.

Callaway Twin Turbo (not GM installed) (B2K)

• Addition of Callaway Twin Turbos to the existing L98 engine.
• This option generated a specific equipment build with standard engines at the Corvette assembly plant. The cars were then drop-shipped to Callaway’s Connecticut shop for installation of Callaway-modified twin-turbo engines.
• This is not a factory installed option. The Callaway Corvette could be ordered through participating Chevrolet dealers. Fully assembled Corvettes were then shipped from the Bowling Green Corvette plant to Callaway Engineering in Old Lyme,
• Connecticut, where it received engine (and other) modifications.
• The 1988 Callaway Corvette had performance ratings of 382 horsepower and 562 lb.-ft torque.
• Automatic transmissions (reworked truck Turbo Hydramatic 400s) were available for $6500.00
• Either Z51 or Z52 suspensions could be specified. Later production with Z52 had Z51’s larger front brakes, less restrictive mufflers, longer air dams, and steering coolers because option B2K triggered these through Special Equipment Option Z5G.
• Full Chevrolet warranty applied except for powertrain which was covered by Callaway for twelve months or 12,000 miles.

Radiator Boost Fan (B4P)

• An oscillating fan placed in front of the radiator that is used to push air through the radiator

Dual Removable Roof Panels (coupe) (C2L)

• Included both a tinted, transparent glass top and a painted top.

Removable Roof Panels, blue tint (coupe) (24S)

• Blue tinted removable glass top.

Removable Roof Panels, bronze tint (coupe) (64S)

• Bronze tinted removable glass top.

Electronic Air Conditioning Control (C68)

• Air conditioning system electronic control unit.

Twin Remote Heated Mirrors (convertible) (DL8)

• Driver and passenger side heated rear view mirrors.
• This option was only available for Corvette convertibles.
• The heated mirrors were included with the heated rear window in the Z6A defogger option for coupes.

Illuminated Driver Vanity Mirror (D74)

• The driver side sun visor included a lighted vanity mirror.

Delco-Belstein Shock Absorbers (FG3)

• Gas shock absorbers with valving revised for improved ride.
• The FG3 option offered the Z51’s upgraded shocks without buying the full Z51 suspension package.
• A joint venture between AC-Delco and premium shock manufacturer Bilstein, these stiffer shocks offered a firmer ride and improved handling characteristics.

Performance Axle Ratio (G92)

• Optional performance axle ratio of 3.07:1.
• Was only offered when the Corvette was ordered with an automatic transmission.
• The actual “Performance Axle Ratio” varied from year to year. The G92 Option was available when ordering either the Corvette or the Camaro throughout the 1980’s and early ’90’s.

Engine Oil Cooler (KC4)

• Internal cooler used to cool internal components of the automobile’s internal combustion engine.

4-Speed Manual Transmission (MM4)

• Optional manual transmission that was offered as a zero dollar upgrade.
• A “4+3”, 4 speed manual transmission that was originally developed and built by Doug Nash Company.
• The “4+3” transmission had overdrives in the top three gears for improved fuel economy.
• Rear axle gear ratios for manual transmission models was 3.07:1.

California Emission Requirements (NN5)

• Revised emission/exhaust components to meet California Emission standards

Radio Delete (UL5)

• Optional removal of any stereo components from the Corvette.

Stereo System, Delco-Bose (UU8)

• Delco Bose AM/FM stereo radio with cassette.

Heavy-Duty Radiator (V01)

• Optional, three (3) core aluminum radiator.
• Includes larger diameter transmission cooler.

35th Special Edition Package (coupe) (Z01)

• A thirty fifth anniversary special edition package for the 1988 Corvette.
• It featured a two-tone exterior of white with black roof bow, white leather seats and steering wheel, special interior and exterior accents, a console-mounted anniversary plaque, special emblems and other distinguishing features.
• Sales totaled 2,050 units.
• This option included the following options: AC3, AQ9, 24S, C68, D74, Z52 and Z6A. Not available with convertible.

Performance Handling Package (coupe) (Z51)

• Heavy Duty Steering and Suspension Upgrade for improved handling.
• This option had newly styled 17 x 9.5-inch wheels with twelve cooling slots, and P275 / 40ZR17 tires.
• This option had higher spring rates and finned power steering cooler as before, but in 1988 it also received larger front brake rotors and calipers.
• It was limited to manual transmission coupes.
• This option included the following options: B4P, FG3, KC4, V01, heavy duty suspension, 17×9.5 wheels, and fast steering ratio.

Sport Handling Package (Z52)

• Combination of the Z51 Handling Package with the softer suspension of base models.
• This option had newly styled 17 x 9.5-inch wheels with twelve cooling slots, and P275 / 40ZR17 tires.
• This option included the radiator boost fan, Bilstein shock absorbers, engine oil cooler, heavy-duty radiator, 17×9.5-inch wheels with twelve cooling slots, faster 13:1 steering ratio, larger front stabilizer bar, and the convertible-inspired structural improvements for coupes.
• This option was available for both convertibles and coupes, equipped with either the automatic or manual transmission.
• This option included the following options: B4P, FG3, and KC4, 17 x 9.5 wheels and fast steering.

Rear Window + Side Mirror Defoggers (coupe) (Z6A)

• Components equipped with heating elements (wire) for defogging.
• The C4 Corvette used vertically run wire through it’s rear window to achieve proper and timely defogging

1988 Corvette Recalls

Recall 06e043000

Make: Chevrolet
Model: Corvette
Model Year: 1987
Manufacturer: Honeywell International, Inc.
Mfr’s Report Date: May 19, 2006
Nhtsa Campaign Id Number: 06e043000 N/a
Nhtsa Action Number: N/a
Component: Fuel System, Gasoline
Potential Number Of Units Affected: 88303

Summary

Certain Replacement Fuel Filters, Fram Brand Name P/n G3727, With Date Codes X52911 Through X60801 Sequentially Or X600141 And A Mexico Country Or Origin Marking On The Fuel Filter Housing Manufactured From October 18, 2005, Through March 21, 2006, Sold For Use On The Vehicles Listed Above And On Certain School Buses. (To See The School Bus Engine Sizes, Click On “Document Search” And Then “Bus Applications”). The Connector On The Fuel Filter Was Not Manufactured To Honeywell’s Specification. As A Result, The O-ring May Not Seat Correctly On The Fuel Line.

Consequence

This Condition May Cause An Inadequate Seal At The Connection, Potentially Leading To A Fuel Leak. In The Presence Of An Ignition Source, A Fire Could Occur.

Remedy

Honeywell Will Notify Owners And Replace The Fuel Filters Free Of Charge. The Recall Began On October 18, 2006. Owners May Contact Fram Customer Service At 1-800-890-2075 (Option 1).

Notes

This Recall Only Pertains To Aftermarket Fram Fuel Filters And Has No Relation To Any Original Equipment Installed On The Vehicles Listed. Customers May Contact The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Vehicle Safety Hotline At 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); Or Go To http://www.safercar.gov.

Recall 88v017000

Make: Chevrolet
Model: Corvette
Model Year: 1988
Manufacturer: General Motors Corp.
Mfr’s Report Date: Feb 05, 1988
Nhtsa Campaign Id Number: 88v017000
Nhtsa Action Number: N/a
Component: Wheels:center Section
Potential Number Of Units Affected: 4901

Summary

Missing Weld That Attaches Wheel Center To The Rim Could Allow Wheel Center To Separate From The Rim.

Consequence

This Could Result In Partial Loss Of Steering Control and Brakes, Loss Of Tire Air Pressure, And Sudden Change In Vehicle Direction,which Could Result In Crash Without Prior Warning.

Remedy

Replace Wheels With Missing Welds.

Notes

System: Wheel Welds.vehicle Description: Passenger Cars Equipped With 17 Inch Wheels.

Recall 90v032000 Pe90032

Make: Chevrolet
Model: Corvette
Model Year: 1988
Manufacturer: General Motors Corp.
Mfr’s Report Date: Feb 05, 1990
Nhtsa Campaign Id Number: 90v032000 Pe90032
Nhtsa Action Number: Pe90032
Component: Suspension:rear:springs:leaf Spring Assembly
Potential Number Of Units Affected: 45969

Summary

Rear Wheel Tie Rod Assembly May Fatigue And Could Fracture At The Inboard Bearing Due To High Inner Joint Rocking Torque.

Consequence

Fracture In This Assembly Could Result In Loss Of Vehicle Control And A Crash Without Prior Warning.

Remedy

Replace Faulty Tie Rod Assemblies.

Notes

System: Rear Wheel Tie Rods. Vehicle Description: Passenger Cars.

Recall 91v143000 Ea90033

Make: Chevrolet
Model: Corvette
Model Year: 1986
Manufacturer: General Motors Corp.
Mfr’s Report Date: Aug 26, 1991
Nhtsa Campaign Id Number: 91v143000 Ea90033
Nhtsa Action Number: Ea90033
Component: Seat Belts:front:anchorage
Potential Number Of Units Affected: 231833

Summary

Under Certain Vehicle Operations And Occupant Usage Conditions, The Safety Belts Can Lockup Or Jam In The Safety Belt Retractor.

Consequence

If Lockup Occurs, It Is Impossible To Pull Belt Out Of the Retractor. The Occupant Of A Seat With An Unusable Safety Belt Is subject To Increased Risk Of Injury Or Death In The Event Of A Sudden Stop Or accident.

Remedy

Replace The Safety Belts If The Lockup Occurs.

Notes

System: Safety Belts.vehicle Description: Passenger Cars.

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1988 Corvette Service Bulletins

Service Bulletin 01697

Make: Chevrolet
Model: Corvette
Model Year: 1988
Manufacturer: General Motors Corp.
Service Bulletin Number: 01697
Date Of Bulletin: Jan 01, 2004
Nhtsa Item Number: 10006297
Component: Equipment:electrical

Summary

No Serial Data Communications Using The Tech 1 With A 1986 Or Newer Camaro, Firebird Or Corvette With A 5.0 Or 5.7 Litre Engine. Sit Bulletin 1450640. *tt

Service Bulletin 9313110

Make: Chevrolet
Model: Corvette
Model Year: 1988
Manufacturer: General Motors Corp.
Service Bulletin Number: 9313110
Date Of Bulletin: Mar 01, 1993
Nhtsa Item Number: 39547
Component: Visibility:glass, Side/rear

Summary

Rear Lift Window Hard To Open/hinge Loose To Glass. *tw

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1988 Corvette Common Issues

The following list of common issues is intended for individual reference only, and may not reflect the specific issues of every 1988 Corvette. This information comes from a variety of sources including the NHTSA Defects Reports pages. While the intent of this page is to identify the common issues pertaining to the 1988 Corvette, it is not an all-inclusive list and should be used for reference only.

Mechanical Issues

Engine

The throttle linkage is known to stick, causing the throttle body to remain open. This creates a potentially serious issue in that it can cause the car to accelerate uncontrollably at ignition, resulting in damage to vehicle and possible driver/passenger injury.

Transmission (Automatic)

The transmission will erratically engage into overdrive, despite overdrive being “locked out” manually.

Transmission (Manual)

The transmission is difficult to shift into overdrive.

Fuel Injection System

At start up, a strong odor of gasoline is present coming from the exhaust system. The odor also permeates the interior of the car.
Although number of reported occurrences is uncertain,it has been documented that the fuel injection manifold line leaked gasoline in a constant flow due to a ruptured injection line. This resulted in the vehicle catching fire.

Braking System

Braking system on 1988 Corvette has been known to fail completely during normal operation. The common problem is that the brake pedal itself depresses completely to the floorboard with no brake response. Probable cause is a defective master cylinder or a leak in the brake system.

Rear Tie Rod Assembly

The rear tie rod assembly is known to fail due either to design or the material used during manufacturing. In either case, the rear tie rod breaks, causing the right rear wheel to pull the car off road to the right. This malfunction can occur without warning, and often while during vehicle operation.

This incident occurred with enough regularity that it resulted in GM issuing a recall campaign.

This same problem is known to exist in 1989 Corvette models as well.

Rear Stabilizer Bar

Rear stabilizer bar cracks/fractures causing control problems while vehicle is in motion.

Electrical Issues

Electric Wiring Issue (General)

Electrical wiring in car is known to have a direct short, which can cause electrical fire.

Erratic electrical shorts manifesting through the stereo, flashers, speakers, the entire dashboard panel, the ignition lock, the light under the hood, the light switch, the starter motor, etc. The entire electrical system is known to present potential shorts and is a common source of failure in the early C4 Corvettes.

Electronic Control Unit

Internal VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System) key-read issue prevents car from starting, even after multiple attempts, rendering the Corvette useless for as much as 15 minutes between attempts. Usually requires replacement of the ignition switch module.
The computer has intermittent difficulty reading VATS key during normal vehicle operation which can cause the Corvette to stall and remain inoperable for several minutes.

Cruise Control

The cruise control malfunctions between 35-70 miles per hour. It causes sudden acceleration and may occur without warning at any given time.

Exterior Issues

Headlights

Headlight motors are known to fail, preventing headlights from engaging/disengaging.

Fiberglass Body/Seals

There are a number of fiberglass body panel components that are known to fail. These include faulty hood seals, leaky roof seals and deteriorating firewalls.

Doors/Door Hinges

Both the driver and passenger doors are known to exhibit erratic vibration.

Interior Issues

Driver/Passenger Windows

Windows known to have a persistent rattle. Common corrections include replacing the window regulators. Despite this, the windows may continue to rattle when not fully raised.

Driver/Passenger Seat

Smoke emanating from under driver/passenger seat has been repeatedly reported. The source of the smoke is an electrical short in the power seat drives.

The electrical wiring harness under the seats is prone to electrical shorts and can cause fire/overheating. This defective design can also cause the power seats to function erratically or to fail completely.

1988 Corvette Maintenance Schedule

Maintenance Schedule

Schedule 1

Follow Schedule 1 if your car is mainly operated under one or more of the following conditions:.

• When most trips are less than 4 miles (6 kilometers)
• When most trips are less than 10 miles (16 kilometers) and outside temperatures remain below freezing.
• Idling for extended periods and/or low-speed operation such as found in delivery, police, rental or taxi operation.
• Towing a trailer.
• Operating in dusty areas.

Schedule 2

Follow Schedule 2 only if none of the driving conditions specified in Schedule 1 apply.

1988 Corvette Dealers Sales Brochure

Download this 1988 Corvette Dealers Sales Brochure for a quick look at the features of the car.