Why Are Corvette Z06 and ZR1 Models Suddenly Off the Market?
If you’ve been eyeing a new Corvette Z06 or ZR1, you might’ve noticed a sudden freeze at dealerships. Here’s the scoop: General Motors has issued a stop-sale and recall for all 2023–2026 Z06 and 2025–2026 ZR1 models. The reason? A fire hazard linked to the cars’ fuel filler system and cooling fans. It’s a rare but serious issue that’s put these high-performance Chevys in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons.
What’s the Actual Safety Risk With the Fuel Filler?
Let’s break down what’s happening under the hood. According to GM’s recall notice (N252514930), the problem starts if excess gasoline spills into the filter pocket during refueling. In these specific Corvettes, the left-side cooling fan can blow fuel vapors or droplets toward the engine—an ignition source. If fuel meets a spark, you get a fire risk. Not exactly the kind of excitement you want from your dream car.
This isn’t just a theoretical concern. While there haven’t been widespread reports of fires, GM isn’t taking any chances. The company’s own statement points out that malfunctioning gas station pumps can make the issue worse, but the underlying design is what’s under scrutiny.
Are All Corvette Models Affected by This Recall?
Here’s some good news for Stingray and E-Ray owners: you’re in the clear. The recall only targets Z06 and ZR1 models, thanks to a unique setup around the fuel filler and cooling fans. Even Z51-equipped Stingrays, which have fans near the filler, use a different configuration that doesn’t pose the same risk. So if you’re driving anything other than a Z06 or ZR1, you can breathe easy.
How Are Dealers and Owners Responding?
Dealers have been placed under a strict stop-sale order. That means no new Z06 or ZR1 can leave the lot until GM rolls out a fix. Corvette forums are buzzing with stories of buyers getting calls from dealers, letting them know their cars are on hold—no keys, no delivery, not even a test drive.
For those who already have their cars, GM is urging extra caution at the pump. The advice? Always insert the nozzle fully, shut off the engine while refueling, and never top off after the pump clicks off. These are solid habits for any car, but they’re especially critical here. Until a permanent fix is available, these steps help minimize the risk.
What’s GM Doing to Fix the Problem?
GM’s engineers are working on a new insert or shield that will divert any spilled fuel away from the danger zone. The catch? Replacement parts aren’t available yet. In the meantime, the company is prioritizing customer safety and keeping communication lines open with both dealers and owners.
It’s worth noting that recalls like this aren’t uncommon in the auto industry, especially as cars get more complex. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were over 1,000 vehicle recalls in the US in 2023 alone, affecting millions of cars. The key is how quickly and transparently manufacturers respond—and so far, GM seems to be moving with urgency.
Is This a Sign of Bigger Problems for Corvette?
Let’s keep things in perspective. The Z06 and ZR1 are at the cutting edge of performance, packing advanced cooling and fueling systems to handle their monster engines. Sometimes, pushing the envelope means running into unexpected issues. While this recall is a headache for buyers and dealers alike, it’s not a sign that the Corvette brand is in trouble. In fact, GM’s willingness to halt sales until a fix is ready shows a commitment to safety over short-term profits.
What Should Current Owners Do Right Now?
If you’re already driving a Z06 or ZR1 from the affected years, don’t panic. Follow GM’s refueling guidelines to the letter, and keep an eye out for recall notices in your mailbox or email. You can also check your vehicle’s status using your VIN on GM’s official recall website. And if you’re waiting for delivery, stay in touch with your dealer—they’ll have the latest updates as soon as the fix is available.
The big takeaway? Corvette ownership isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week—like double-checking your refueling habits—and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end.