IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2013 Chevrolet Camaro

We've identified 3 known issues that can affect the 2013 Chevrolet Camaro. 1 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

3
Known Issues
1
Serious
2
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

Ignition Key Accidental Rotation and Power Loss (Recall R/2014/150)

SeriousElectrics & Electronics

On 2012–2014 Camaros, the original switchblade-style ignition key and fob assembly can be inadvertently bumped by the driver's knee when negotiating pedals or adjusting seating position. Bumping the key rotates the ignition switch out of the 'Run' position into 'Accessory' while driving, causing sudden engine stalling, loss of power steering and brake servo assistance, and disabling airbag deployment in a collision.

Est. Repair Cost: £0–£150
Warning Signs:

Engine abruptly cuts out while driving when the driver's knee contacts the ignition key fob, Sudden loss of hydraulic power steering assistance and hard brake pedal feel, Dashboard instrument cluster turns off and switches to accessory mode while in motion, Official DVSA safety recall campaign R/2014/150 recorded as unaddressed on the vehicle record

What to Inspect:
  • Check the key design: the recall replaces the integrated folding switchblade key with a separate flat key blade and separate fob
  • Check the vehicle registration against the official GOV.UK vehicle recall database for outstanding safety campaigns
  • Inspect the ignition barrel for positive, firm detent resistance between the Accessory, Run, and Start positions
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Heater Core Matrix Leak and Coolant Odour

ModerateCooling System

The cabin heater core matrix installed within the interior HVAC blower unit can develop hairline cracks in its aluminium tube seams and plastic tanks. When pressurized engine coolant circulates through the heater core, antifreeze seeps into the heater housing, causing oily condensation on the inside of the windscreen, sweet-smelling cabin air, and dampness under the front footwell carpets. Replacement requires a very labour-intensive full dashboard removal.

Est. Repair Cost: £650–£1,250
Warning Signs:

Persistent oily film forming on the inside of the windscreen when operating the demister, Strong sweet smell of hot coolant circulating through the cabin air vents, Damp or sticky carpet and underlay in the passenger or driver footwell, Gradual loss of coolant from the expansion tank without any visible leak under the bonnet

What to Inspect:
  • Feel deep beneath the passenger and driver footwell carpet underlay for damp antifreeze residues
  • Turn the HVAC blower to full heat and demist, observing whether the windscreen fogs up with an oily sheen
  • Pressure-test the engine cooling system while cold, inspecting the cabin condensation drain tube for coolant drips
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Automatic Gearbox Slow and Jerky

ModerateGearbox & Transmission

The Camaro's six-speed automatic gearbox is slow and jerky in its responses, with hesitant gearchanges that are most noticeable in everyday town driving. Auto Express criticised the automatic transmission for being slow and jerky, recommending the steering-wheel paddles for sharper shifts. Combined with the car's size and left-hand-drive-only layout, a sluggish gearbox makes the Camaro a restrictive daily driver on UK roads.

Est. Repair Cost: £250–£600
Warning Signs:

Slow or hesitant gearchanges, Jerky automatic transmission response, Delayed shifts in town driving, Sharper response using the paddles

What to Inspect:
  • Drive in town and note shift smoothness
  • Test shifts using the steering-wheel paddles
  • Check for stored transmission fault codes
  • Ask about automatic gearbox service history
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Buying Tips for 2013 Chevrolet Camaro

  • Confirm that the official GM ignition switch and key recall (DVSA R/2014/150) has been carried out to prevent accidental engine shut-off
  • Inspect the rear tyres, brake discs, and suspension bushings for evidence of aggressive track-day or burnout abuse
  • On Convertible models, cycle the power-folding fabric roof through multiple operations to verify smooth latching and water seals
  • Check that all electrical accessories, head-up display, and Boston Acoustics/MyLink audio systems work without glitches
  • Be prepared for high UK running costs, including top-tier Vehicle Excise Duty (road tax), group 45+ insurance, and high-octane fuel consumption
20122014
Check a 2013 Chevrolet Camaro by Registration