Getting to Know Your 2021 Corvette Performance Features

Review this Quick Reference Guide for an overview of some of the performance features of your Chevrolet Corvette. Some optional equipment described in this guide may not be included in your vehicle. More information can be found in your Owner's Manual and at my.chevrolet.com. For easy reference, keep this guide with your Owner's Manual in your glove box.

Certain restrictions, precautions, and safety procedures apply to your vehicle. Please read your Owner's Manual for complete instructions.

Instrument Panel Performance Features

Manual Shift Paddles

Customizable Instrument Cluster

Driver Information Center

Engine Start/Stop Button (on instrument panel)

Performance Data RecorderF

Head-Up Display Controls

Z-Mode Button

Driver Information Center Controls

Transmission Shift Controls

Traction Control & StabiliTrak Off/Front Lift SystemF/Curb View CameraF Buttons

Driver Mode Control

Tachometer Redline
The tachometer displays the engine speed in revolutions per minute (RPM). If the engine is operated with the RPMs in the red warning area at the high end of the tachometer, vehicle damage may occur. Do not operate the engine with the RPMs past the redline on the tachometer. The redline is lower when the engine is cold as well as during the first 500 mile break-in period.

Vehicle Messages
Messages displayed on the Driver Information Center (DIC) indicate the status of the vehicle. Some messages can be cleared by pressing the DIC thumbwheel control on the steering wheel; other messages that require immediate action cannot be cleared until that action is performed.

Read your Owner's Manual to learn about the information being relayed by the lights and gauges of the instrument cluster. See Introduction in your Owner's Manual.

Instrument Cluster/Driver Information Center

The Driver Information Center (DIC) on the instrument cluster displays a variety of vehicle messages and system information. Use the controls on the right side of the steering wheel to view the main menus on the right side of the cluster:

DIC Controls

Press the [▶] or [◀] button to move between the display zones.

Rotate the thumbwheel up or down to move through the menus.

Press the thumbwheel to open a menu, or to select or reset an item.

Info Tiles

A number of different info tiles showing the operation of various systems can be selected for display on the left side of the instrument cluster. Four tiles are available with the Track display theme and two tiles are available with all other display themes.

  1. Use the DIC controls to open the Options menu.
  2. Scroll to Info Tiles Selection. Press the thumbwheel to enter the menu.
  3. Scroll through the available Info Tiles. Press the thumbwheel to select a tile. It will appear on the instrument cluster.

See Instruments and Controls in your Owner's Manual.

Instrument Cluster/Driver Information Center (Continued)

Trip Computer

Performance Menu

Maintenance Menu

Options Menu

Reconfigurable Instrument Cluster
The instrument cluster features 6 display configurations: Sport, Tour, Track, Weather, MyMode, and Z-Mode. The style of the instrument cluster will change depending on the display theme.

  1. Use the DIC controls to open the Options menu.
  2. Scroll to Display Design. Press the thumbwheel to enter the menu.
  3. Scroll through the themes. Press the thumbwheel to select the desired theme.

Each configuration has preset information shown that is linked to the selected Driver Mode Control setting. Display other information using the Info Tiles Selection option. See Instruments and Controls in your Owner's Manual.

Head-Up Display (HUD)

The Head-Up Display (HUD) projects some operating information on the windshield. Temporary information, such as audio selections and navigation maneuvers, will also be displayed. The HUD controls are located on the left side of the instrument panel.

HUD Position
Lift up or press down to adjust the position of the image. It cannot be adjusted side-to-side.

INFO
Press to select from 3 display views: Tour, Sport, or Track.

Brightness
Lift up to brighten or press down to dim the display. Hold down to turn off the display.

Rotation Option
To adjust the angle of the HUD, use the DIC controls to view Options > HUD Rotation and select Adjust Mode. Rotate the DIC thumbwheel to adjust the angle. Select OK to save the setting. See Instruments and Controls in your Owner's Manual.

Electric Parking Brake

To apply the parking brake, press the [Parking Brake] switch on the left side of the instrument panel.

To release the parking brake, turn on the ignition, press the brake pedal, and then press the [P] switch.

Note: The parking brake will release automatically if the vehicle is running, placed into gear, and an attempt is made to drive. See Driving and Operating in your Owner's Manual.

Buckle to Drive

Buckle to Drive prevents the vehicle from shifting out of Park if the engine is running, the brake pedal is pressed, and the driver's or front passenger's seat belt is not buckled. Buckle the seat belt to shift out of Park. If the seat belt remains unbuckled, the vehicle can be shifted out of Park once the Driver Information Center message turns off after several seconds. Shifting from Park is prevented once each ignition cycle.

To turn off or on again, go to Settings > Vehicle > Buckle to Drive. See Seats and Restraints in your Owner's Manual

Dual Clutch Transmission

The Dual Clutch Transmission provides an extremely connected feel with very fast shift times for maximum performance. The transmission is electronically controlled using the shift switches located on the center console. The selected gear position illuminates in red on the shift switch.

Manual Mode
The Dual Clutch Transmission can be shifted manually using the paddles behind the steering wheel.

With the transmission in Drive, press the Manual Mode ([M]) button to shift manually. Pull the left [downshift] steering wheel paddle to downshift and the right [upshift] steering wheel paddle to upshift. The current gear is displayed on the instrument cluster and HUDF. The transmission will hold the current gear until a change is requested. Pull the Drive ([D]) switch to return to Drive.

To engage temporary manual paddle shifts, pull either the left [downshift] or right [upshift] steering wheel paddle with the transmission in Drive ([D]). The transmission will return to automatic shifting after approximately 6 seconds of cruising at steady speeds and without any manual shifts or by pulling and holding the right paddle for more than 1 second. Automatic shifting also will return when the vehicle stops.

To downshift to the lowest gear possible for the current vehicle speed, pull and briefly hold the left [downshift] steering wheel paddle.

If vehicle speed is too fast or too slow for the requested gear, the shift will not occur.

Double Paddle Declutch
Double Paddle Declutch allows the vehicle to temporarily disconnect the engine from the wheels, similar to shifting to Neutral.

Pull and hold both the left [downshift] and right [upshift] steering wheel paddles at the same time to activate Double Paddle Declutch. The gear position indicator on the center console will flash red and the gear position indicator on the instrument cluster will turn gray. Release both paddles to exit Double Paddle Declutch. See Driving and Operating in your Owner's Manual.

Driver Mode Control

The Driver Mode Control system can provide enhanced performance for different driving conditions by automatically adjusting the steering, throttle progression, shift mode, braking response, suspensionF, traction control, engine sound, instrument cluster theme, and other calibrations (if equipped) in real time. The modes are displayed on the Driver Information Center.

Rotate the Driver Mode Control knob on the center console to select the desired mode:

The mode features vary. Not all vehicles have all features. Allow a few seconds for the changes to be activated before the current mode is displayed.

Driver Mode Customization
The MyMode and Z-Mode settings can be customized in the Settings menu on the infotainment screen.

Go to Settings > Vehicle > MyMode or Z-Mode to change the engine sound, steering, suspensionF, powertrain, and brake response settings. See Driving and Operating in your Owner's Manual.

Driver Mode Control Attributes

The multiple modes available through the Driver Mode Control change the settings of various vehicle sub-systems to optimize driving performance. The following chart is an overview of the Driver Mode attributes for each mode.

ModesMyModeWeatherTour (default)SportTrackZ-Mode
Cluster DisplayTour (default), Sport, Track, WeatherWeatherTourSportTrackTour, Sport (default), Track, Weather
HUD Layout DisplayFTour (default), Sport, Track, WeatherTourTourSportTrackTour, Sport (default), Track, Weather
Informational TitlesTour (default), Sport, Track, WeatherWeatherTourSportTrackTour, Sport (default), Track, Weather
PowertrainNormalWeatherNormalSportTrackNormal, Sport, Track (default), Weather
Throttle ProgressionNormalWeatherNormalNormalTrackNormal, Sport, Track (default), Weather
Transmission Shift ModeNormalWeatherNormalSportTrackNormal, Sport, Track (default), Weather
Active Fuel ManagementEnabled (In 4th–8th gear for mLSD vehicles)Enabled (In 4th–8th gear for mLSD vehicles)Enabled (In 4th–8th gear)Enabled (In 5th–8th gear)DisableTour, Sport, Track (default), Weather
Traction Control and ESCNormalWeatherNormalNormalTrackNormal, Sport, Track (default), Weather
Competitive Driving Mode or PTMF AvailabilityUnavailableUnavailableUnavailableCompetitive Driving Mode AvailablePTM AvailablePTM Available (if Powertrain setting is set to Track)
Engine SoundStealth, Tour (Default), Sport, TrackFStealthTourSportTrackStealth, Tour, Sport, Track (Default)
SteeringTour (Default), Sport, TrackTourTourSportTrackTour, Sport (Default), Track
SuspensionFTour (Default), Sport, TrackTourTourSportTrackTour, Sport (Default), Track
Brake ResponseTour (Default), Sport, TrackTourTourSportTrackTour, Sport (default), Track

See Driving and Operating in your Owner's Manual.

High-Performance Driving Features

High-performance driving features are for use at a closed racetrack and are not intended for public roads. It is the driver's responsibility to operate the vehicle in a safe manner. Read your Owner's Manual for important feature limitations and information.

Traction Control/Electronic Stability Control
The traction control system limits wheelspin and the StabiliTrak electronic stability control (ESC) system assists with directional control of the vehicle in difficult driving conditions. Both systems turn on automatically every time the vehicle is started.

Press the [Traction Control/ESC OFF] button, located on the center console, once to turn off traction control.

Press and hold the [Traction Control/ESC OFF] button to turn off both traction control and ESC.

Press the [Traction Control/ESC OFF] button again to turn on traction control and ESC.

Competitive Driving Mode
Competitive Driving Mode allows full engine power while electronic stability control helps maintain directional control of the vehicle.

When in Sport or Track mode, press the [Traction Control/ESC OFF] button twice to activate Competitive Driving Mode. The Traction Control Off and ESC Off lights will illuminate on the instrument cluster.

Press the [Traction Control/ESC OFF] button again to turn off Competitive Driving Mode.

Performance Traction Management (PTM)F
PTM offers 5 modes of operation, all designed to provide consistent performance when cornering in a variety of track conditions.

When in Track mode, press the [Traction Control/ESC OFF] button twice to activate PTM. The Traction Control Off and ESC Off lights will illuminate on the instrument cluster.

Rotate the Driver Mode Control selector to scroll through each PTM mode on the instrument cluster.

Press the [Traction Control/ESC OFF] button again to turn off PTM. See Driving and Operating in your Owner's Manual.

High-Performance Driving Features (Continued)

PTM ModesF

Launch Control
Launch Control, available when Competitive Driving Mode or PTM is selected, is a form of traction control that manages tire spin while launching the vehicle to help achieve high levels of acceleration in a straight line.

With the vehicle not moving and the wheels pointed straight, press the brake pedal very firmly to the floor, rapidly press the accelerator pedal to wide open throttle, and then release the brake pedal while fully pressing the accelerator pedal. The system initially limits engine speed and manages wheel slip. See Driving and Operating in your Owner's Manual.

Dry Sump Oil Level Inspection
To check the oil level, run the engine to operating temperature. With the engine running at idle, check the oil level on the dipstick located on top of the external oil tank.

Note: Overfilling the oil tank may lead to an oil leak or engine damage.

The oil and filter should be changed when indicated by the engine oil life system. A “Change Engine Oil Soon” message will be displayed on the Driver Information Center. Oil and filter change intervals are based on a combination of factors, including engine revolutions, temperature and miles driven. Reset the engine oil life system every time the oil is changed.

Engine Compartment Access (Convertible Model)F
To raise the tonneau cover to the service position:

  1. With the vehicle in Park, press and release the [Lock] button on the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter.
  2. Immediately press and hold the [RKE Transmitter Button] on the RKE transmitter.

Service Covers
The Corvette has several service covers underhood and in the engine compartment that must be opened in order to access certain components. Make sure that all covers are properly secured after performing any service checks. See Vehicle Care in your Owner's Manual.

High-Performance Driving Features (Continued)

Transmission Fluid
The Dual Clutch Transmission fluid and filter should be changed when indicated by the transmission fluid life system. A “Change Transmission Fluid Soon” message will be displayed on the Driver Information Center. Fluid and filter change intervals are based on a combination of factors, including temperature and miles driven. Fluid should be changed after every 24 hours of track use. Reset the transmission fluid life system every time the fluid is changed. The transmission filter also must be changed at the first oil change interval. Two extra liters of transmission fluid is recommended for track use.

Run-Flat Tires
The run-flat tires eliminate the need for a spare tire. The tire design enables safe function during and after a loss of pressure for some distance at a moderate speed. Driving only a short distance with a loss of pressure increases the chance that the tire can be repaired. Contact Roadside Assistance for the nearest run-flat tire servicing facility.

Summer TiresF
Your vehicle may be equipped with high-performance summer tires, which have a special tread and compound that are optimized for maximum dry and wet road performance. The special tread and compound of the tires will have decreased performance in cold climates and on ice and snow.

Winter or all-season tires are recommended for the vehicle if driving at temperatures below approximately 40°F (5°C) or on ice- and snow-covered roads.

Tire Temperature
The Tire Status page under the Performance menu on the Driver Information Center shows individual tire pressures and overall temperature as either Cold, Cool, Normal, Warm, or Hot. A Normal temperature is typical for normal driving and a Warm temperature is typical for aggressive driving.

Tire Pressure Monitor
The [Low Tire Pressure] warning light on the instrument cluster illuminates when one or more of the vehicle's tires is significantly underinflated. Fill the tires to the proper tire pressures listed on the Tire and Loading Information label, located below the driver's door latch. Current tire pressures can be viewed on the Driver Information Center.

Note: Refer to your Owner's Manual for information about normal monthly tire maintenance.

Tire Fill Alert
With the ignition On or in Accessory mode, the Tire Fill Alert will provide visual and audible alerts when inflating a tire. When the recommended tire pressure is reached, the horn sounds and the turn signal changes from flashing to a solid light. See Vehicle Care in your Owner's Manual.

High-Performance Driving Features (Continued)

Road Variations
The wide tires of the Corvette provide excellent grip and road feel; however, the wide design may be susceptible to grooves, wear patterns, and the crown on some roads.

Brake Dust
The high-performance brake materials and large size of the brakes may result in a fine dust coating the outer surface of the wheels. Wash the wheels with regular soap and water to remove the dust. Automatic car washes are not recommended. See Vehicle Care in your Owner's Manual.

Low Ground Clearance

Front Lift SystemF
The Front Lift System will lift the front of the vehicle when entering a driveway, driving over curbs or speed bumps, and pulling onto ramps or a trailer. The system features a two-position lift actuator that will hydraulically raise the front of the vehicle to provide approximately 2 inches of increased clearance in approximately 3 seconds. The system can be operated at speeds up to 24 MPH.

Press the [Front Lift System] button on the center console to raise or lower the vehicle.

Note: The Front Lift System will not raise the vehicle with the door, hood, or trunk open, and it will automatically lower the vehicle at speeds over 24 MPH or when the vehicle is turned off.

Remember Location
The front height of the vehicle can be raised automatically at up to 1,000 locations using GPS navigation.

To turn the Location-Based Front Lift System on or off, go to Settings > Vehicle > Ride Height.

To select a location, after the [Front Lift System OFF] button is pressed, select “Remember” on the Driver Information Center (DIC) by pressing the [◀] button on the DIC controls.

After passing the programmed location, the vehicle will lower automatically when speed exceeds 24 MPH or if the [▶] button is pressed. Note: Some Front Lift System pump noise is normal and may be heard during operation. See Driving and Operating in your Owner's Manual.

Performance Data Recorder (PDR)

The Performance Data Recorder (PDR) enables you to record high-definition video of your driving experiences on or off the track - capturing video, audio and vehicle performance data.

  1. To use the system, insert an exFAT formatted SD card, Class 10 required, 16 GB or larger recommended, into the card reader in the glove box.
  2. Touch the PDR icon on the infotainment screen to access the menu.
  3. Touch the Video Overlay button to select one of four video overlays.
  4. With an overlay selected, touch the Start Recording button to begin recording.
  5. Touch the Stop Recording button to stop the recording session.
  6. Touch the Recordings button to view recorded sessions.

Video playback is not available while the vehicle is in motion.

Video Overlays

Available Cosworth Toolbox software enables recorded sessions to be transferred to a personal computer. Visit chevrolet.com for more information and to download the software.

Recording Options
Select the Settings tab to change the audio settings. Audio Recording allows audio to be recorded along with video.

The Automatic Recording – While in Valet Mode Only setting records video when in valet mode. Audio is not recorded. See Infotainment System in your Owner's Manual.

Driver Assistance Features

Safety or driver assistance features are not a substitute for the driver's responsibility to operate the vehicle in a safe manner. The driver should remain attentive to traffic, surroundings and road conditions at all times. Read your Owner's Manual for important feature limitations and information.

Side Blind Zone AlertF
While driving, the system displays a warning symbol on the left or right side mirror when a vehicle is detected in that side blind zone area. The symbol flashes if a turn signal is activated when a vehicle has been detected on the same side.

To turn on or off, go to Settings > Vehicle > Collision/Detection Systems > Side Blind Zone Alert.

Rear Cross Traffic AlertF
When in Reverse, the system warns of detected cross-traffic approaching in either direction by displaying a red alert on the infotainment screen and sounding beeps on the side of the detected vehicle.

To turn on or off, go to Settings > Vehicle > Collision/Detection Systems > Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

Rear Park Assist
During low-speed parking maneuvers, the system provides “distance to closest object” information on the Driver Information Center and a beep sounds. When an object is very close, 5 beeps sound.

To turn on or off, go to Settings > Vehicle > Collision/Detection Systems > Park Assist.

Rear Vision Camera
When the vehicle is in Reverse, a view of the area directly behind the vehicle displays on the infotainment screen. Vehicle speed must be below 8 mph.

Curb View CameraF
The Curb View Camera displays a view of the area in front of the vehicle, including a top down image and left and right images, on the infotainment screen when the vehicle is shifted from Reverse to Drive. Vehicle speed must be below 8 mph. Camera view buttons are at the bottom of the screen.

Press the [FRONT Camera] button on the center console or touch the Camera icon on the infotainment screen to also activate the front cameras. See Driving and Operating in your Owner's Manual.

Driver Assistance Features (Continued)

Rear Camera MirrorF
The Rear Camera Mirror provides a wider, less obstructed field of view than a traditional mirror to assist when driving, changing lanes and checking traffic conditions.

A. On/Off
Pull or push the lever at the bottom of the mirror to turn the video display on or off.

B. Selection Control
Press and release the button to select the brightness, tilt or zoom setting.

C. < > Adjustment Controls
Press and release either button to adjust the feature setting. Note: If there is glare from the sun or headlamps, adjust the angle of the mirror. See Keys, Doors and Windows in your Owner's Manual.

Advanced Theft DeterrentF
Theft-deterrent features may include an inclination sensor and intrusion sensor. These features are armed when the vehicle is locked using the Remote Keyless Entry transmitter or an interior door lock button.

The inclination sensor can activate the alarm if it senses movement of the vehicle, such as a change in vehicle orientation.

The intrusion sensor monitors the vehicle interior and can activate the alarm if it senses an unauthorized entry into the vehicle's interior.

To turn the systems on or off, press the [Sensors Disable OFF] button on the overhead console with the vehicle off. See Driving and Operating in your Owner's Manual.

Car Wash Guidelines
Automatic car washes are not recommended. They may cause damage to the vehicle, wheels, tires, ground effects and undercarriage. To preserve the vehicle's finish, hand-wash the vehicle while out of direct sunlight. See Vehicle Care in your Owner's Manual.

Track Events

High-performance features of your Corvette are intended for use only on closed tracks by experienced and qualified drivers.

Before participating in track events or competitive driving, it is recommended to follow all service procedures. Refer to your Owner's Manual for information about procedures that should be performed prior to each track event and before driving again on public roads. See Driving and Operating in your Owner's Manual.

Roadside Assistance

1-800-CHEV-USA (1-800-243-8872)

TTY Users: 1-888-889-2438

As the owner of a new Chevrolet, you are automatically enrolled in the Chevrolet Roadside Assistance program for up to 5 years/60,000 miles, whichever occurs first, at no expense to you. Chevrolet's Roadside Assistance toll-free number is staffed by a team of trained advisors who are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, to contact a service provider for light services (fuel delivery, jump-starts, flat tire and lock-outs) or make arrangements to tow your vehicle to the nearest Chevrolet dealer for any repairs.

OnStar Roadside Assistance
If you have a current OnStar Safety & Security Plan, press the blue OnStar button or red Emergency button to get the help you need. An OnStar advisor will use GPS technology to pinpoint your vehicle location and contact the nearest service provider.

To learn more about OnStar services, press the blue OnStar button, visit onstar.com, call 1-888-4-ONSTAR (1-888-466-7827), or refer to your Owner's Manual.

We recommend always using ACDelco or GM Genuine Parts.

Certain restrictions, precautions and safety procedures apply to your vehicle. Please read your Owner's Manual for complete instructions. All information contained in this guide is based on the latest information available at the time of printing and is subject to change without notice. Copyright 2021 General Motors. All rights reserved.

PDF preview unavailable. Download the PDF instead.

2021-chevrolet-corvette-performance-reference-guide Adobe InDesign CS6 (Macintosh) Adobe PDF Library 10.0.1

Related Documents

Preview 2006 Chevrolet Corvette: Z06, Coupe & Convertible Features and Specifications
Explore the 2006 Chevrolet Corvette, including the high-performance Z06 model with its LS7 engine, the LS2-powered Coupe and Convertible, and details on transmissions, suspension, and technology.
Preview 2004 Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual - Features, Operation & Safety Guide
This comprehensive owner's manual provides essential information for operating and maintaining your 2004 Chevrolet Corvette. Discover detailed explanations of vehicle features, controls, safety systems, driving procedures, and maintenance schedules to enhance your driving experience.
Preview 2012 Chevrolet Corvette Owner Manual - Features & Operation Guide
Comprehensive guide for the 2012 Chevrolet Corvette, covering operation, maintenance, safety features, infotainment, and more. Essential reading for owners.
Preview 2006 Chevrolet Corvette: Performance, Design, and Technology
Explore the 2006 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe and Convertible, featuring the powerful LS2 and LS7 engines, advanced technology, and iconic design. Discover performance highlights, interior features, and specifications.
Preview 2007 Chevrolet Corvette Navigation System Manual
A comprehensive guide to the 2007 Chevrolet Corvette Navigation System, covering features, controls, voice recognition, and system operation. Learn how to set destinations, store locations, and utilize the navigation and audio functions.
Preview C8 Corvette Dual-Clutch Transmission Issues: Causes, Owner Experiences, and GM's Response
Explore the reported transmission problems in the 2020-2023 Chevrolet C8 Corvette, detailing owner accounts, Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs), recalls, and insights from Tremec and GM.
Preview 1986 Chevrolet Corvette Valuation Report | Hagerty
Detailed vehicle valuation report for the 1986 Chevrolet Corvette, including condition ratings, market value adjustments, model description, equipment, and historical sales data from Hagerty.
Preview 1988 Chevrolet Corvette Valuation Report | Hagerty
Detailed valuation report for the 1988 Chevrolet Corvette, including condition classifications, market value adjustments, and historical sales data from Hagerty.