LS1TECH - Camaro and Firebird Forum Discussion

Camaro and Firebird: General Information and Recommended Maintenance Schedule

Your Camaro or Firebird requires regular maintenance that you'll need to follow closely to achieve the best performance possible.

By Charlie Gaston - February 19, 2016

This article applies to the Camaro and Firebird (1990-2015).

When properly maintained, it's reasonable to expect a Chevrolet Camaro and Firebird to reach 200,000 miles of travel before any major engine repair work is needed. To do this, you'll need to change your engine oil annually for normal road use and follow your regular maintenance schedule. As for all other mechanical and electrical maintenance work you might need through the years, keep one rule of thumb in mind: complete all preventative work early and always monitor your vehicle for leaks, wear and tear, and general component failure. Do all of this, and your car is sure to see miles of travel with minimum upkeep costs.

General Information about Maintenance

Cooling System

When it comes to the cooling system in the Camaro and the Firebird, you'll want to flush all existing coolant fluid every four years or 100,000 miles. However, it's highly recommended that you stay away from chemical flushing products and kits. When adding a new round of coolant to your reservoir tank, mix in water for an equal 50/50 mix.

Swollen coolant hose
Figure 1. Make sure to check for swollen coolant hoses, too.

Hydraulic Brake and Clutch System

To keep both your hydraulic brake system and hydraulic clutch system in good working order, it's highly recommended that you use Delco Supreme II Brake Fluid (GM part #12377967) every two years or 25,000 miles and hydraulic clutch fluid (GM part #12345347) every year or 15,000 miles. Flush both systems as needed on an annual or bi-annual basis.

Homemade brake bleeding system
Figure 2. Some owners make their own brake bleeders.

Maintenance Beyond 100,000 Miles

Generally speaking, you will want to keep an eye out for oil leaks, failure or slowing of window motors, and malfunctioning sensors (e.g., mass air flow sensor). If a sensor does become dirty, clean it using a Q-tip and rubbing alcohol. Do not wet it entirely.

Have maintenance work performed once you reach the 100,000-mile mark
Figure 3. Have maintenance work performed once you reach the 100,000-mile mark.

Trusted Aftermarket Replacement Products by Brand

  • Camaro and Firebird owners turn to Royal Purple when replacing radiator fluid, transmission fluid, rear differential fluid, and engine oil.
  • Camaro and Firebird owners overwhelmingly choose K&N for their replace air filter parts.
  • Mopar Combustion Chamber Cleaner is also a trusted brand when it comes to the Camaro and Firebird. It is a motor treatment product for improved gas mileage.

Regular Maintenance

  • Change transmission fluid every 15,000 miles
  • Lubricate your rear axle every 30,000 miles
  • Change engine oil every 12 months
  • Rotate tires every 6,000 to 7,500 miles and change every 30,000 miles
  • Replace air filter every 15,000 miles
  • Inspect your belts regularly and change every 60,000 miles
  • Change your power steering fluid every 50,000 miles
  • Lubricate your key lock cylinders once per year

Common Questions

What is the metal tag affixed to the rear of my transmission case?

It identifies your car's model year and broadcast code.

How do I identify a 1994 Firebird Southern California Edition (SCE)?

Look for the special SCE decal, located on the pillar and behind the door glass), as well as the white and silver wheels, which also feature special SCE wheel caps. The SCE also contains a specially integrated rear spoiler.

When is specialized maintenance required on the Camaro or the Firebird?

Generally speaking, specialized maintenance is only required on a Camaro after a special modification has been added to the vehicle. In cases where the car will not be used for normal road use, some specialized maintenance may be required.

Common Issues

Burst Radiator Hose

It's best to replace a radiator hose before it begins to split or bursts, which is most likely to occur around the 5-year mark.

Faulty 02 Sensor

An 02 sensor could fail and not trigger the check engine warning light in your Camaro/Firebird. Keep an eye on your 02 sensor and replace it as needed. It is mounted in the exhaust manifold. A new sensor will typically run you around $120. If you have a mechanic change the sensor, expect to shell out an additional $260 in labor costs.

Brake Failure

When it comes to the Camaro and the Firebird, it's important to replace your brakes as they become faulty or worn (preferably prior to this point), not by a specific mileage point. Drain your brake fluid as needed, and be sure not to dry out the master cylinder in the process.

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