How to Properly Break-In Your New 2014 Corvette Stingray

Photo Credit: Mike Furman @ Criswell Corvette

So you just took delivery of your new 2014 Corvette Stingray and now you got questions about how to properly break-in the 455/460 hp LT1 V8. With more Corvette Stingrays being delivered daily to their new owners, we’ve been asked the break-in procedure question more than a couple of times. So we’ve checked out the Owners Manual and have the recommended new vehicle break-in procedures straight from General Motors.

We’ve all seen the videos from some of the tuners showing new Stingrays on the dyno, burnouts, quarter mile runs and even a top speed run where the Stingray hits 175 mph with only 215 miles on the odometer. According to GM, these practices are not recommended until the Corvette Stingray goes through the break-in period.

GM has the following recommendations for 200, 500 and 1500 miles. They say that following these guidelines is recommended as parts have a break-in period and performance will be better in the long run.

For the first 200 Miles (322 km):

• To break in new tires, drive at moderate speeds and avoid hard cornering for the first 200 miles (322 km).
• New brake linings also need a break- in period. Avoid making hard stops during the first 200 miles (322 km). This is recommended every time brake linings are replaced.

For the first 500 Miles (800 km):

• Avoid full throttle starts and abrupt stop.
• Do not exceed 4000 rpm.
• Avoid driving at any one constant speed, fast or slow, including the use of cruise control.
• Avoid downshifting to brake or slow the vehicle when the engine speed will exceed 4000 rpm.
• Do not let the engine labor. Never lug the engine. With a manual transmission, shift to the next lower gear. This rule applies at all times, not just during the break-in period.

For the first 1500 miles (2414 km):

• Do not participate in track events, sport driving schools, or similar activities during the first 1500 miles (2414 km).
• Check engine oil with every refueling and add if necessary. Oil and fuel consumption may be higher than normal during the first 1500 miles (2414 km).

Click here to read the Corvette Stingray’s owner manual and download the “Getting to Know Your 2014 Corvette Stingray” quick reference guide.

Photo Credit: Mike Furman @ Criswell Corvette

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Download the “Getting to Know Your 2014 Corvette” Quick Reference Guide and Owner’s Manual
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