Chevrolet Camaro 2010-2015: General Information and Recommended Maintenance Schedule

The fifth generation Camaro is larger and more powerful than ever. You can continue to enjoy the car even as the mileage adds up by staying on top of its recommended maintenance intervals.

By Kate Halse - February 26, 2016
Contributors: JUICED1

This article applies to the Chevrolet Camaro (2010-2015).

The fifth generation Camaro offers a rewarding combination of power, style, and performance. It also comes with plenty of modern technology. If you're thinking of keeping your Camaro for years to come, you'll want to ensure that you take good care of the vehicle. Even newer and lower mileage vehicles require maintenance such as oil changes, tire rotation, and ensuring that there aren't any cracks or leaks under the hood. Staying on top of your Camaro's maintenance early on in its life will ensure that it continues to run strong as it ages. Let's take a closer look at what your Camaro needs at specific intervals.

Maintenance I and II

In the chart below, services listed under Maintenance I should be performed at each oil change. Services for Maintenance II should be performed if Maintenance I was conducted during the last oil change or if it's been at least 10 months since the "Change Engine Oil Soon" message was displayed, or the vehicle was last serviced. Maintenance II also includes all services listed under Maintenance I.

Maintenance II schedule for Camaro
Figure 1. Maintenance I and II schedules.

Oil Changes

Chevrolet recommends following the vehicle's computer system to determine when to change the oil and filter. This system gathers information about the engine revolutions and temperature rather than miles covered. The oil change interval will vary from one Camaro to the next based on driving habits and conditions.

Once the system determines that the oil needs to be changed, you'll see a "Change Engine Oil Soon" message. Once this message appears, Chevrolet recommends changing the oil within the next 600 miles. It's possible that the oil may not need to be changed for a year if driving conditions are optimal. The system needs to be reset after each oil change to ensure its accuracy.

Chevrolet Camaro oil change
Figure 2. Chevrolet Camaro oil change.

Engine Coolant

Coolant fluid level should always be between the MIN and MAX lines. If the coolant is low, there may be a leak in places such as the water pump, heater hoses, radiator, or elsewhere. If there doesn't appear to be a leak but the level is still low, check to see if the electric engine cooling fans are running. This requires turning the engine on.

To check the coolant level, park the vehicle on a level surface and turn it off. Pull the dipstick out slowly. If the engine is cold, the coolant level should at least reach the MIN level. If the engine has reached a normal operating temperature, the level should fall between the half full and MAX markings.

Check engine coolant level and fill as necessary
Figure 3. Check engine coolant level and fill as necessary.

Tires

Your Camaro likely has an on-board Tire Pressure Monitoring System that will alert you to a low or flat tire. However, you should still check your tires at least once a month to ensure that they are properly inflated. Having tires that are under- or over-inflated can increase the risk of punctures, flats, and even accidents. Measure the air pressure when the tires are cold. Refer to the vehicle-specific Tire and Loading Information label to see the appropriate inflation number for your Camaro. Don't forget to check the spare tire as well.

Tire rotation should be performed every 5,000 to 8,000 miles as long as the vehicle has the same size tire on all four wheel positions. Rotating the tires promotes a uniform wear and optimal vehicle performance.

Frequently check to ensure tires are properly inflated.
Figure 4. Frequently check to ensure tires are properly inflated.

Common Questions

Why is the 5th Gen Camaro so Heavy?

One of the most commonly asked questions is why the 5th generation Camaro is so heavy. Owners agree that the car sits on a large platform and has larger, heavier wheels than any previous Camaro. It also comes loaded with safety features.

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