TroubleAtlas Score
CHEVROLET CAPRICE (1965–1996) — Verified Specs, Fluids & OBD2
Built 1965–1996 · all production years covered on this single page
5.0L V8 305 TBI • Gasoline
© Wikimedia Commons CC BY-SA
TroubleAtlas Score
An independent value score for the Chevrolet Caprice (1965–1996) — reliability, safety, cost, parts, upkeep and documentation. Owing nothing to the manufacturer.
Scorecard · each voice 0–10
Reliabilityn/a
Safety & recallsn/a
Repair cost3.5
Parts & repairability3.4
Maintenance & durabilityn/a
Documentation & support7.6
Independent · Verified · Never for sale
Every figure on this Chevrolet Caprice (1965–1996) page is aggregated and cross-checked against more than 6.6 million real workshop operations, NHTSA records and OEM technical sources — and updated continuously. No invented estimates.
The Chevrolet Caprice (1965–1996) uses ACDelco dexos1 5W-30 engine oil. Its battery is group 78 (BCI), rated at 600A cold-cranking amps. It is powered by a 5.0L V8 305 TBI engine. Its OEM tyre size is 215/55 R16. Use the sections below for verified fluids, battery, OEM tyres, the maintenance schedule, recommended parts and the most commonly reported OBD2 fault codes for this vehicle.
Common problems
Common repairs
Fluids & lubricants
Battery
Fault codes (OBD2)
Dashboard lights
Parts comparator
Accessories & tools
Tyres
Recalls & TSB
Complaints
Workshops nearby
COMMON PROBLEMS
Engine overheatingFREQUENT
Engine temperature over limits — check coolant level, thermostat and radiator.
Related codes: P0217
Oil pressure sensor: low signalFREQUENT
ECU detects insufficient oil pressure — check oil level and sensor.
Related codes: P0522
Insufficient oil pressureFREQUENT
Oil pressure below critical threshold — stop the engine and check immediately.
Related codes: P0524
Engine control module (PCM) faultFREQUENT
Faulty ECU processor — requires specialist workshop diagnosis.
Related codes: P0606
Throttle actuatorFREQUENT
Throttle actuator motor circuit open — loss of throttle response.
Related codes: P2100
COMMON REPAIRS
Front brake pads
Difficulty: Easy
0.8h
€56 – €72
Rear brake pads
Difficulty: Easy
0.9h
€63 – €81
Engine oil change
Difficulty: Easy
0.3h
€21 – €27
ABS Module
Difficulty: Medium
2.0h
€140 – €180
AVERAGE INDICATIVE COSTS
Prices may vary by area and workshop.
Full service
€ 120 – € 200
Full brake service
€ 180 – € 300
Spark plug replacement
€ 80 – € 140
Electronic diagnosis
€ 40 – € 70
OFFICIAL LABOUR TIMES (OLP)
Standard labour hours from a database of 6.6M+ real shop operations, with an indicative labour-cost estimate for your country.
Brakes8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| ABS Module | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| ABS Pump | 2.5h | € 112–€ 187 |
| ABS Tone Ring | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| ABS Wheel Speed Sensor - Front | 0.8h | € 36–€ 60 |
| ABS Wheel Speed Sensor - Rear | 0.8h | € 36–€ 60 |
| Brake Bleed - All Four | 1.0h | € 45–€ 75 |
| Brake Booster | 2.5h | € 112–€ 187 |
| Brake Booster Check Valve | 0.3h | € 13–€ 22 |
Cooling8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Coolant Bypass Pipe | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Coolant Flush | 1.0h | € 45–€ 75 |
| Coolant Reservoir | 0.5h | € 22–€ 37 |
| Coolant Temperature Sensor | 0.5h | € 22–€ 37 |
| Cooling Fan Assembly | 1.0h | € 45–€ 75 |
| Cooling Fan Clutch | 1.0h | € 45–€ 75 |
| Cooling Fan Motor | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Cooling Fan Relay | 0.3h | € 13–€ 22 |
Electrical8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Airbag - Driver | 1.0h | € 45–€ 75 |
| Airbag - Passenger | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Airbag - Side | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| Airbag Module/Computer | 1.0h | € 45–€ 75 |
| Alternator | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Alternator Belt | 0.5h | € 22–€ 37 |
| Amplifier | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Antenna | 0.5h | € 22–€ 37 |
Engine8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Camshaft Position Sensor | 1.0h | € 45–€ 75 |
| Camshaft R&R | 8.0h | € 360–€ 600 |
| Connecting Rod Bearings | 15.0h | € 675–€ 1125 |
| Crankshaft Position Sensor | 1.0h | € 45–€ 75 |
| Crankshaft R&R | 20.0h | € 900–€ 1500 |
| Cylinder Head R&R | 6.0h | € 270–€ 450 |
| Cylinder Head Resurface | 8.0h | € 360–€ 600 |
| Engine Mount - Front | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
Exhaust8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Air Injection Check Valve | 0.8h | € 36–€ 60 |
| Catalytic Converter - California | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Catalytic Converter - Direct Fit | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Catalytic Converter - Universal | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| Downpipe | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| EGR Cooler | 3.0h | € 135–€ 225 |
| EGR Tube | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| EGR Valve | 1.0h | € 45–€ 75 |
Fuel system8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Charcoal Canister | 1.0h | € 45–€ 75 |
| EVAP Purge Valve | 0.8h | € 36–€ 60 |
| EVAP Vent Valve | 0.8h | € 36–€ 60 |
| Fuel Cap | 0.1h | € 4–€ 7 |
| Fuel Filler Neck | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Fuel Filter | 0.5h | € 22–€ 37 |
| Fuel Filter - In-Tank | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| Fuel Injector - Single | 1.0h | € 45–€ 75 |
HVAC8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| AC Accumulator | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| AC Clutch Coil | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| AC Compressor | 2.5h | € 112–€ 187 |
| AC Compressor Clutch | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| AC Compressor Oil Add | 0.5h | € 22–€ 37 |
| AC Condenser | 2.5h | € 112–€ 187 |
| AC Evaporator | 6.0h | € 270–€ 450 |
| AC Expansion Valve (TXV) | 4.0h | € 180–€ 300 |
Steering8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Center Link/Drag Link | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Electric Power Steering Module | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Electric Power Steering Motor | 2.5h | € 112–€ 187 |
| Idler Arm | 1.0h | € 45–€ 75 |
| Pitman Arm | 1.2h | € 54–€ 90 |
| Power Steering Fluid Flush | 0.5h | € 22–€ 37 |
| Power Steering Gear Box | 3.5h | € 157–€ 262 |
| Power Steering Hose - High Pressure | 1.0h | € 45–€ 75 |
Suspension8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Air Line | 1.0h | € 45–€ 75 |
| Air Spring/Air Bag | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Air Suspension Compressor | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Air Suspension Height Sensor | 1.0h | € 45–€ 75 |
| Air Suspension Valve Block | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| Ball Joint - Lower | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Ball Joint - Upper | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Ball Joints - Upper and Lower | 3.0h | € 135–€ 225 |
Transmission8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Kickdown Cable | 0.8h | € 36–€ 60 |
| Neutral Safety Switch | 1.0h | € 45–€ 75 |
| Overdrive Solenoid | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| Shift Cable | 1.5h | € 67–€ 112 |
| Shift Linkage | 1.0h | € 45–€ 75 |
| Shift Solenoid - Single | 4.3h | € 193–€ 322 |
| Shift Solenoids - All | 9.4h | € 423–€ 705 |
| Torque Converter | 7.2h | € 324–€ 540 |
WORKSHOP LABOUR RATES BY COUNTRY
Average independent-workshop hourly labour rates, to estimate repair costs in your country.
🇩🇪Germany€95/h
🇪🇸Spain€55/h
🇫🇷France€75/h
🇮🇹Italy€45/h
🇬🇧UK£80/h
🇺🇸USA$120/h
Reference rate
€45/h
Source: Eurostat 2024
💧 FLUIDS & LUBRICANTS
📋 RECALLS & TSB (49)
NHTSA 96V020000
Suspension › Rear
Date: 31/01/1996
THE REAR LOWER CONTROL ARM CAN CRACK AT THE REAR STABILIZER BAR ATTACHMENT.
NHTSA 96V019000
Suspension › Front › Control Arm › Lower Ball Joint
Date: 30/01/1996
DEFECTIVE LOWER CONTROL ARM BALL JOINT ATTACHMENT NUTS WERE NOT PROPERLY TORQUED AND CAN LOOSEN.
NHTSA 96V018000
Suspension › Front › Control Arm › Lower Ball Joint
Date: 30/01/1996
DEFECTIVE LOWER CONTROL ARM BALL JOINT ATTACHMENT NUTS WERE NOT PROPERLY TORQUED AND CAN LOOSEN.
NHTSA 71V235000
Engine And Engine Cooling › Engine
Date: 29/12/1971
THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT A SEPARATED MOTOR MOUNT MAY ALLOW THE ENGINE TO LIFT, WHICH MAY AFFECT THE THROTTLE LINKAGE, MOMENTARILY INCREASING THROTTLE, POSSIBLY TO FULL THROTTLE.
NHTSA 91V186000
Latches/Locks/Linkages › Hood › Latch
Date: 29/10/1991
SECONDARY HOOD LATCH ASSEMBLIES CAN CORRODE, CAUSING A HIGH LATCH RELEASE EFFORT AND POSSIBLY PREVENTING THE HOOD FROM LATCHING PROPERLY WHEN IT IS CLOSED.
NHTSA 69V030000
Engine And Engine Cooling › Exhaust System › Manifold/Header/Muffler/Tail Pipe
Date: 28/02/1969
EXHAUST EMISSIONS (CARBON MONOXIDE) MAY ENTER THE INTERIOR OF THE VEHICLE WHEN THE EXHAUST PIPE IS SUBSTANTIALLY OUT THE DESIGN POSITION, DETERIORATED FROM USE, OR WHEN AN OPENING IN THE BODY DEVELOPS NEAR THE EXHAUST OUTLET AND, AT THE SAME TIME, A NEGATIVE AIR PRESSURE OCCURS I…
NHTSA 73V250000
Suspension › Front › Control Arm › Upper Arm
Date: 27/12/1973
NHTSA 87V168000
Power Train › Automatic Transmission › Lever And Linkage › Column Shift
Date: 26/10/1987
MANUAL VALVE LINK IN THE TRANSMISSION MAY HAVE BEEN IMPROPERLY FORMED.
NHTSA 71V125000
Tires › Tread/Belt
Date: 26/07/1971
NHTSA 94V210000
Fuel System, Gasoline › Storage › Tank Assembly › Mounting
Date: 25/10/1994
THE FUEL TANK ATTACHMENT STRAP FASTENERS WERE NOT PROPERLY TIGHTENED. THE FASTENERS CAN COMPLETELY DETACH, EVENTUALLY ALLOWING THE FUEL TANK TO SAG AND THE BOTTOM OF THE TANK TO STRIKE THE ROADWAY.
NHTSA 80V125000
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Pedals And Linkages
Date: 25/09/1980
THE INVOLVED VEHICLES MAY HAVE BEEN ASSEMBLED WITH A BRAKE PEDAL SUPPORT BRACKET WHICH WAS DESIGNED FOR USE IN DIESEL ENGINE VEHICLES. THE INCORRECT BRACKET MAY CAUSE THE SERVICE BRAKES TO REMAIN PARTIALLY APPLIED, RESULTING IN BRAKE OVERHEATING AND REDUCED BRAKING EFFECTIVENESS.
NHTSA 97V217000
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip
Date: 24/11/1997
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE ANTILOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS) MODULATOR CAN CORRODE AND LEAK FLUID FROM THE FRONT BRAKE CIRCUIT.
NHTSA 07E088000
Equipment
Date: 24/10/2007
CERTAIN HONEYWELL FRAM RACING BRAND HP4 AND HP8 OIL FILTERS THAT WERE MANUFACTURED FROM MAY 25, 2006, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 14, 2007, AND SOLD FOR USE AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR VEHICLES LIST ABOVE. THE AFFECTED FILTERS ARE MARKED WITH A DATE CODE A61451 THROUGH A72571 SEQUENTIALL…
NHTSA 92V089000
Wheels
Date: 24/06/1992
THE STEEL WHEELS EXHIBIT FATIGUE CRACKING AROUND THE CIRCUMFERENCE OF THE WHEEL LUG NUT MOUNTING SURFACE DUE TO WHEEL BENDING CAUSED BY FREQUENT MISUSE OF TIRE MOUNTING EQUIPMENT, LUG NUT OVERTORQUING, AND THE UNUSUAL OPERATING CONDITIONS EXPERIENCED BY POLICE VEHICLES.
NHTSA 95V082000
Vehicle Speed Control › Springs
Date: 24/04/1995
THESE VEHICLES FAIL TO CONFORM TO FMVSS NO. 124, "ACCELERATOR CONTROL SYSTEMS." AT LOW TEMPERATURES, EXCESSIVE FRICTION CAN OCCUR IN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL ASSEMBLY.
NHTSA 73V013000
Structure › Frame And Members › Underbody Shields
Date: 24/01/1973
THE POSSIBILITY EXISTS THAT DRIVING ON UNPAVED ROAD SURFACES, PARTICULARLY ROADS WHICH ARE HEAVILY GRAVELED AND WHICH ARE EXTREMELY WAVY OR FILLED WITH CHUCKHOLES, AT SPEEDS WHICH CAUSE THE CAR TO PITCH EXCESSIVELY, THE FRONT CROSSMEMBER MAY SCOOP UP LOOSE STONES OR GRAVEL AND CO…
NHTSA 67V098000
Steering › Linkages › Arm › Idler And Attachment
Date: 23/10/1967
NHTSA 06E026000
Exterior Lighting
Date: 23/03/2006
CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108,…
NHTSA 94V049000
Engine And Engine Cooling › Cooling System › Hoses/Lines/Piping/Fittings
Date: 21/03/1994
THE ENGINE OIL COOLER INLET HOSE MAY HAVE BEEN INSTALLED TOO CLOSE TO THE STEERING GEAR CAUSING CHAFING. THE CHAFING CAN EVENTUALLY WEAR THROUGH THE HOSE'S PROTECTIVE SLEEVE RESULTING IN ENGINE OIL LEAKING ONTO THE ENGINE.
NHTSA 71V121000
Equipment › Mechanical › Accessory Scissor/Screw/Bottle Jack/Lift
Date: 20/07/1971
NHTSA 69V020000
Tires
Date: 20/02/1969
NHTSA 75V214000
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Differential Proportional Valve
Date: 19/12/1975
NHTSA 73V244000
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Hoses, Lines/Piping, And Fittings
Date: 19/12/1973
NHTSA 85V153000
Electrical System › 12V/24V/48V Battery › Cables
Date: 19/11/1985
THE POSITIVE BATTERY CABLE MAY CONTACT THE UPPER CONTROL ARM OR EXHAUST MANIFOLD SHIELD AND EVENTUALLY WEAR THROUGH THE INSULATION AND GROUND THE CABLE. …
NHTSA 85V151000
Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Hoses, Lines/Piping, And Fittings
Date: 19/11/1985
THE FUEL FEED AND FUEL RETURN PIPE ASSEMBLIES INCLUDES A HOSE WHICH MAY CONTACT THE POINTED END OF THE RADIATOR SHROUD ATTACHING SCREW. THIS COULD CAUSE A GASOLINE LEAK. …
NHTSA 72V185000
Seats
Date: 19/07/1972
NHTSA 06E043000
Fuel System, Gasoline
Date: 19/05/2006
CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 18, 2005, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2006, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LI…
NHTSA 93V010000
Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery
Date: 19/01/1993
THE ENGINE MOUNTED FUEL FEED AND RETURN PIPES MAY FRACTURE DUE TO CONTACT WITH THE ENGINE FRAME DURING OPERATION.
NHTSA 06E065000
Exterior Lighting
Date: 17/07/2006
CERTAIN AJ MOTORSPORT COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE D…
NHTSA 95V221000
Power Train › Automatic Transmission
Date: 16/11/1995
THESE VEHICLES WERE PRODUCED WITH AN IMPROPERLY ADJUSTED TRANSMISSION SHIFT CONTROL LINKAGE. THIS DOES NOT MEET WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 114, "THEFT PROTECTION."
NHTSA 77V200000
Wheels › Lugs/Nuts/Bolts/Studs
Date: 16/11/1977
THE REAR WHEEL MOUNTING BOLTS ON THE AFFECTED VEHICLES, ARE BRITTLE AND THEREFORE MAY FRACTURE. THIS BRITTLENESS IS DUE TO IMPROPER HEAT TREATMENT DURING MANUFACTURE. IF THE BOLTS BREAK, THE TIRE AND WHEEL ASSEMBLY MAY SEPARATE FROM THE VEHICLE.
NHTSA 89V102000
Vehicle Speed Control
Date: 16/06/1989
A SMALL NYLON BUSHING IN THE CRUISE CONTROL SERVO BAIL MAY SLIP OUT OF PLACE, CAUSING INTERMITTENT AND UNEXPECTED INCREASES IN ENGINE SPEED OR DIESELING (ENGINE RUN ON WITH IGNITION OFF).
NHTSA 94V076000
Wheels › Lugs/Nuts/Bolts/Studs
Date: 16/04/1994
PAINT ON THE WHEEL MOUNTING SURFACES CAN ACT AS A SHIM BETWEEN THE WHEEL AND THE ROTOR/DRUM. AS THE VEHICLE IS DRIVEN, THE WHEEL IMBEDS INTO THE PAINT, LOOSENING THE LUG NUT AND CAUSING A LOSS OF CLAMP LOAD.
NHTSA 80V135000
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Hoses, Lines/Piping, And Fittings
Date: 15/10/1980
THE INVOLVED VEHICLES MAY HAVE INSUFFICIENT CLEARANCE BETWEEN THE FRONT BRAKE PIPE AND THE ENGINE OIL PAN. THIS CONDITION COULD CAUSE THE BRAKE PIPE TO CONTACT THE LEFT HAND FRONT EDGE OF THE OIL PAN, RESULTING IN WEAR AND, EVENTUALLY, DAMAGE TO THE BRAKE PIPE. THIS COULD LEAD TO…
NHTSA 74V027000
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Power Assist › Vacuum
Date: 15/02/1974
NHTSA 80V132000
Equipment › Other › Labels
Date: 14/10/1980
VEHICLES MAY NOT CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS". THE TIRE RIM SIZE WAS OMITTED ON THE EXISTING LABEL.
NHTSA 79V247000
Seat Belts › Front › Anchorage
Date: 13/11/1979
THE HEADS MAY BREAK OFF THE FRONT OUTBOARD SEAT BELT ANCHOR BOLTS DURING NORMAL VEHICLE OPERATION EVEN UNDER NO LOAD CONDITIONS. THIS IS DUE TO THE COMBINATION OF BOLTS USED, HIGH INSTALLATION TORQUE AND ARRANGEMENT OF THE BODY ANCHORAGE.
NHTSA 09E025000
Exterior Lighting › Headlights
Date: 11/05/2009
DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS…
NHTSA 96V245000
Wheels › Lugs/Nuts/Bolts/Studs
Date: 10/12/1996
THE WHEEL LUG NUTS WERE NOT TIGHTENED TO THE PROPER SPECIFICATION DURING ASSEMBLY.
NHTSA 69V091000
Structure › Frame And Members › Underbody Shields
Date: 09/07/1969
NHTSA 93V018000
Electrical System › Wiring › Fuses And Circuit Breakers
Date: 09/02/1993
SYSTEM: ELECTRICAL.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SEQ 9C1 POLICE CARS IN CORROSION AREAS OF THE US AND CANADA ONLY. NOTE: VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF: CONNECTICUT, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, MAINE, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEWJERSEY, NEW YORK, …
NHTSA 76V132000
Steering › Steering Wheel/Handle Bar
Date: 07/09/1976
NHTSA 09E012000
Exterior Lighting
Date: 07/04/2009
SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS…
NHTSA 79V142000
Exterior Lighting › Brake Lights › Switch
Date: 06/06/1979
ON THE INVOLVED VEHICLES THE BRAKE STOPLIGHT AND CRUISE CONTROL SWITCH WHICH IS OPERATED BY THE BRAKE PEDAL MAY HAVE BEEN ASSEMBLED WITH AN INCORRECT LUBRICANT ON THE ACTUATING PLUNGER. THIS CAN CAUSE THE REAR BRAKE STOPLIGHTS TO BECOME INOPERATIVE AND THE CRUISE CONTROL, IF ACTI…
NHTSA 95V215000
Air Bags
Date: 03/11/1995
THESE VEHICLES WERE SHIPPED WITH BOTH THE SUPPLEMENTAL INFLATABLE RESTRAINT CAUTION LABEL AND A ROOF RACK CAUTION LABEL INSTALLED ON THE SAME SIDE OF THE SUN VISOR. THIS DOES NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO.208, "OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION."
NHTSA 76V175000
Exterior Lighting › Turn Signal › Switch
Date: 03/11/1976
NHTSA 82V012000
Fuel System, Gasoline › Fuel Injection System
Date: 03/01/1982
UNDER CERTAIN VEHICLE OPERATING CONDITIONS, THE GOVERNOR WEIGHT RETAINER IN THE INJECTION PUMP MAY FAIL. THE THROTTLE VALVE COULD STICK, PREVENTING RETURN TO IDLE AND SHUT DOWN OF THE ENGINE BY THE DRIVER.
NHTSA 79V161000
Latches/Locks/Linkages › Doors › Latch
Date: 02/07/1979
A CHILD COULD OPEN THE REAR SIDE COMPARTMENT DOOR AND ENTER THIS COMPARTMENT. THE CHILD COULD BECOME ENTRAPPED IF THE DOOR WERE TO CLOSE, AS IT CANNOT BE UNLATCHED FROM THE INSIDE.
NHTSA 92V094000
Seat Belts
Date: 01/07/1992
THE SHOULDER BELT GUIDE LOOP PLASTIC COVERING MAY CRACK AND EXPOSE THE STEEL SUB-PLATE.
COMMON OBD2 CODES TO CHECK
P0420
P0420
Powertrain
P0171
P0171
Powertrain
P0300
P0300
Powertrain
P0441
EVAP Incorrect Purge Flow
Powertrain
P0128
P0128
Powertrain
P0455
P0455
Powertrain
P0700
P0700
Transmission
P0507
Idle Air Control System RPM Higher Than Expected
Powertrain
P0174
System Too Lean Bank 2
Powertrain
All documented fault codes for this vehicle
The most documented diagnostic codes for this model, by system and severity. Tap a code for the full guide.
P1884
powertrain
LOWP1875
powertrain
MODERATEP1870
powertrain
HIGHP1860
powertrain
MODERATEP1812
powertrain
CRITICALP1810
powertrain
HIGHP1632
powertrain
HIGHP1629
powertrain
HIGHP1626
powertrain
HIGHP1599
powertrain
MODERATEP1554
powertrain
MODERATEP1517
powertrain
HIGHP1515
powertrain
HIGHP1514
powertrain
HIGHP1483
powertrain
HIGHP1404
powertrain
MODERATEP1380
powertrain
MODERATEP1370
powertrain
MODERATEP1258
powertrain
CRITICALP1190
powertrain
MODERATE
DASHBOARD WARNING LIGHTS — UNIVERSAL GUIDE
53 warning lights classified by urgency. Appears on your vehicle? Check the urgency level.
Show all dashboard warning lights
🔴 IMMEDIATE STOP — pull over
Oil Pressure WarningEngine
Engine Temperature WarningCooling
Brake System WarningBrakes
Immobilizer / Key FaultSecurity
🟠 WARNING — check soon
Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) / Check EngineEngine
Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)Emissions
Battery / Charging SystemElectrical
Low Fuel WarningFuel
ABS WarningBrakes
Brake Pad Wear IndicatorBrakes
Electronic Parking Brake (EPB)Brakes
Power Steering WarningSteering
ESC / Stability Control FaultChassis
Tire Pressure Warning (TPMS)Chassis
Transmission Temperature WarningTransmission
Transmission / Gearbox FaultTransmission
Airbag / SRS WarningActive safety
EGR / Exhaust Gas Recirculation FaultEmissions
Catalytic Converter / Emissions FaultEmissions
AdBlue / DEF Level LowEmissions
Coolant Level LowCooling
Hybrid / EV System WarningHybrid
EV Charge System FaultHybrid
12V Battery (Hybrid/EV Auxiliary)Hybrid
Suspension Fault / Air SuspensionSuspension
CAN Bus / Network Communication FaultNetwork
Water in Fuel FilterFuel
Diesel Injector FaultFuel
Steering Angle Sensor FaultSteering
Turbo / Boost Pressure FaultEngine
Regenerative Braking Fault (Hybrid/EV)Hybrid
🟡 MONITOR
Fuel Cap / Evap SystemEmissions
4WD / AWD SystemDrivetrain
Bulb Failure WarningLighting
Headlight Range / Leveling FaultLighting
Service / Maintenance DueMaintenance
A/C System FaultHvac
Clutch Wear WarningTransmission
Cruise Control / ACC FaultADAS
🔵 INFORMATION
Engine Temperature Low (Blue)Cooling
Glow Plug / Diesel PreheatEngine
Traction Control / ESC OffChassis
Seatbelt ReminderActive safety
Rear Fog Light IndicatorLighting
Lane Departure / LDWS WarningADAS
Forward Collision Warning (FCW/AEB)ADAS
Blind Spot Monitor FaultADAS
Rear Parking Sensor / Camera FaultADAS
Windshield Washer Fluid LowMaintenance
Door Open WarningBody
Hood / Trunk Open WarningBody
Gear Shift Indicator (Manual)Transmission
Sport / Performance Mode ActiveTransmission
REPORTED COMPLAINTS & PROBLEMS (NHTSA)
703 owner complaints filed with the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the Chevrolet Caprice across model years 1965–1996. These are real, verified reports submitted by vehicle owners.
79 crash reports 30 fires 58 injuries 3 deaths
Complaints by model year (most reported first)
Model year 1994151
Model year 1991134
Model year 199297
Model year 199588
Model year 199665
Model year 199363
Model year 198633
Model year 198919
Most reported components (all years)
Service Brakes127
Hydraulic124
Electrical System102
Vehicle Speed Control67
Suspension51
Engine And Engine Cooling49
Sample reports
DIFFICULTY LOCATING HORN BUTTONS WHEN NECESSARY. *AK (MY 1994)
WIRING CONNECTIONS IN THE TILT-STEERING WHEEL TOO TIGHT AND PULL OUT WHEN TURNING VEHICLE, CAUSING TURN SIGNAL AND BRAKE LIGHTS TO FAIL. (MY 1988)
RIGHT AND LEFT REAR DOOR STRIKER PLATE LATCH CRACKED AROUND MOUNTING AREA. (MY 1995)
WINDSHIELD CRACKED. *SD (OTHER VEHICLE ON 601094) (MY 1994)
Source: NHTSA complaints database (U.S. data.gov). Figures cover production years 1965–1996.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Chevrolet Caprice have any safety recalls?
Yes — 49 official NHTSA recall campaign(s) affect this model, mainly: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:MANIFOLD/HEADER/MUFFLER/TAIL PIPE, STEERING:LINKAGES:ARM:IDLER AND ATTACHMENT, ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE. Check the recalls section for your exact year/VIN.
What does fault code P0300 mean on the Chevrolet Caprice?
Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected This code is among the most documented for this model — tap it in the OBD2 section for the full step-by-step guide.
What does fault code P0128 mean on the Chevrolet Caprice?
Coolant temperature below thermostat regulating temperature — thermostat stuck open or faulty This code is among the most documented for this model — tap it in the OBD2 section for the full step-by-step guide.
What does fault code P0011 mean on the Chevrolet Caprice?
A Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 1) This code is among the most documented for this model — tap it in the OBD2 section for the full step-by-step guide.
Are engine problems common on the Chevrolet Caprice?
Yes — 67 of 538 real owner reports filed with NHTSA mention the engine. One owner reported: “HAD CHANGED FROM GAS ENGINE TO DIESEL. THIS CAUSED THE CRANKSHAFT TO CRACK AND BREAK. TAKEN VEHICLE TO DEALER. *AK…” See the owner-reported complaints section below for more.
Are electrical problems common on the Chevrolet Caprice?
Yes — 70 of 538 real owner reports filed with NHTSA mention the electrical. One owner reported: “ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE CAUSED BY THE ELECTRICAL WIRING CATCHING FIRE. *AK…” See the owner-reported complaints section below for more.
Are brakes problems common on the Chevrolet Caprice?
Yes — 106 of 538 real owner reports filed with NHTSA mention the brakes. One owner reported: “VEHICLE SURGED FORWARD. BRAKES WERE NOT WORKING, AND VEHICLE JUMPED INTO CRUISE CONTROL WITHOUT CONSUMER EVEN TOUCHING THE BUTTON. ALMOST REARENDED ANOTHER CAR. *AK *ML…” See the owner-reported complaints section below for more.
What tyres does the Chevrolet Caprice (1965–1996) use?
The original OEM tyre size for the Chevrolet Caprice (1965–1996) is 215/55 R16. Compatible alternative sizes: ["225/70R15", "225/75R15", "235/70R15", "245/45R19", "215/75R15"]. See the Tyres section on this page to compare offers from the main suppliers.
What is the right battery for the Chevrolet Caprice (1965–1996)?
The battery specified for the Chevrolet Caprice (1965–1996) is group 78 (BCI), with a cold cranking rating of 770A. See the Battery section on this page for the main cross-references between brands.
What engine oil should I use on the Chevrolet Caprice (1965–1996)?
The engine oil specification for the Chevrolet Caprice (1965–1996) is ACDelco dexos1 5W-30. Always use the viscosity grade approved by the manufacturer: a different oil can reduce engine protection and void the warranty. Check the change interval in the Maintenance section.
Which OBD2 fault codes are commonly documented for the Chevrolet Caprice (1965–1996)?
Commonly documented OBD2 codes across many vehicles include: P0420, P0300, P0171. Find the full description, likely causes and estimated repair costs in the OBD2 Codes section on this page.
How often should the Chevrolet Caprice (1965–1996) be serviced?
Routine maintenance for the Chevrolet Caprice (1965–1996) typically includes an oil change every 6,000–9,000 miles (10,000–15,000 km), an air filter every 12,000–18,000 miles (20,000–30,000 km) and a brake inspection every 12,000 miles (20,000 km). Check the full plan with specific intervals in the Scheduled Maintenance section on this page.
Have a specific fault code on your Chevrolet Caprice (1965–1996)? Search the code in the OBD2 section of this page or use the full TroubleAtlas DTC database. Need tyres? Compare prices and compatible sizes in the TroubleAtlas comparator.