Last updated: 2026-04-20

2018 Chevrolet Camaro Reliability Report
The 2018 Chevrolet Camaro scores 71/100 ("Good"). With 2 recalls and 75 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
2
Complaints
75
Complaint Rate
14.7per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$585
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,600–$4,600
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues to Watch
- STEERING (15)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (14)
- POWER TRAIN (14)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2018 is year 3 of the Sixth generation (2016–2024).
- Redesigned for the 2016 model year.
- Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
- A refresh arrives in 2019.
- 6th generation Camaro (US).
What this means for buyers
Well into the generation cycle — most design and manufacturing issues should be resolved by now.
2016: Sixth generation (2016–2024) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2018: This Model Year
2018 is year 3 of the Sixth generation (2016–2024).
2019: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
Should You Buy the 2018 Chevrolet Camaro?
At 71/100, the 2018 Chevrolet Camaro lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2018 is year 3 of the Sixth generation (2016–2024).
Owners log 75 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.
Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to steering (15). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.
Compared to the 2019 Chevrolet Camaro, which scored 3 points higher.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +Infrequent unscheduled repairs
- +Low recall count
- +Below-average complaint rate for Sedan
Cons
- −Above-average repair costs for its class
- −STEERING issues reported (15 complaints)
- −ELECTRICAL SYSTEM issues reported (14 complaints)
Compare 2018 Chevrolet Camaro With

2018 Ford Mustang
Reliability: 65/100

2018 Dodge Challenger
Reliability: 72/100

2018 BMW 4-Series
Reliability: 54/100

2018 Porsche 911
Reliability: 64/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 2 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- STEERING (15)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (14)
Recall Overview
2
recalls on record
The 2018 Chevrolet Camaro carries 2 recalls — a low count. Authorized dealers repair any open recall free of charge, regardless of warranty status.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
14.7
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 24.9
Safety Incidents
5
Crashes
4
Fires
5
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2018 Chevrolet Camaro Recall Details
2 recalls have been issued for the 2018 Chevrolet Camaro. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
STEERING
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Cadillac CTS, 2017-2018 Cadillac ATS, Chevrolet Camaro, and Chevrolet Corvette vehicles. The electric power steering (EPS) assist may fail.
Consequence
A loss of power steering assist can require greater steering effort, especially at low speeds, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the power steering gear assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 15, 2025. Owners may contact Cadilac customer service at 1-800-333-4223 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N252497020.
AIR BAGS
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2017-2021 Chevrolet Camaro vehicles. The plastic "Camaro" emblem, located on the steering wheel air bag cover, may separate during deployment of the frontal driver air bag.
Consequence
In the event of a crash, plastic pieces of emblem may act as projectiles from deployment of the driver air bag can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy
GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the frontal driver side air bag module, free of charge. The recall began April 14, 2021. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N212327220.
Buying a used 2018 Chevrolet Camaro? Check its history first
Every 2018 Chevrolet Camaro has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2018 Chevrolet Camaro NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 8.3%
Safety Technologies
Chevrolet CamaroRepair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
3.5Maintenance rating: 3.5 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$585
vs $526 avg for midsize cars
vs $652 avg for all vehicles
Repair Frequency
0.2
unscheduled repair visits per year
Severe Repair Probability
17%
chance of a major repair
Annual Cost Comparison
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
MPG & Annual Running Costs
Gas
15–25 MPG
Running cost: $3,200–$5,200/yr
Fuel + repair
13–22 city / 20–31 hwy MPG
Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2018 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Camaro 3.6L 6-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 19 | 29 | 23 | $2,600 |
| Camaro 2.0L 4-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 22 | 31 | 25 | $2,750 |
| Camaro 2.0L 4-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Manual 6-spd | 20 | 30 | 23 | $3,000 |
| Camaro 3.6L 6-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Manual 6-spd | 16 | 28 | 20 | $3,000 |
| Camaro 6.2L 8-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 17 | 27 | 20 | $3,450 |
| Camaro 6.2L 8-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Manual 6-spd | 16 | 25 | 19 | $3,650 |
| Camaro 6.2L 8-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Manual 6-spd | 14 | 20 | 16 | $4,300 |
| Camaro 6.2L 8-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S10) | 13 | 21 | 15 | $4,600 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2018 Chevrolet Camaro.
Inspect power steering for stiffness or difficulty turning
Check for oil pressure warnings or signs of oil pump failure
Test drive to detect transmission shudder or rough shifting
Examine trunk for water intrusion and electrical component damage
Verify rear glass window integrity on convertible models
Ensure airbags are functional and check for any warning lights
2018 Chevrolet Camaro Common Problems by Component
75 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
STEERING
15 complaintsOwners report frequent issues with the power steering system in the 2018 Chevrolet Camaro, with multiple complaints describing a sudden loss of power steering assist. Symptoms typically include a stiff steering wheel that is difficult to turn, often occurring mid-turn or at low speeds, and in some cases accompanied by warning messages like "service power steering." These issues are reported at various mileages, with some occurring as early as 18,000 miles and others beyond 90,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, with several owners noting near-crashes or loss of control, particularly when the steering fails unexpectedly. Complaints also highlight frustration with recalls not covering all affected vehicles, despite experiencing similar issues to those described in recall notices for other model years.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
14 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report that the 2018 Chevrolet Camaro frequently experiences issues related to water intrusion in the trunk, leading to electrical failures. Complaints often describe moisture seeping into the battery compartment and fuse box, causing the vehicle to shut off unexpectedly and, in some cases, resulting in smoke or potential fire hazards. Symptoms noted by owners include non-functional electronics, such as USB ports and side object detection modules, as well as ignition problems where the vehicle fails to turn off or start. These issues are often linked to manufacturing defects in the trunk's drainage system, with multiple reports occurring around 41,000 to 67,000 miles. Safety implications include the risk of electrical fires and sudden vehicle shutdowns while driving.
POWER TRAIN
14 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2018 Chevrolet Camaro frequently report issues related to the transmission, particularly shuddering and rough shifting. Symptoms commonly described include a sensation akin to driving over rumble strips, grinding noises during gear shifts, and violent shifts when starting or slowing down. Technical Service Bulletin 18-NA-355 is mentioned by several owners, indicating a known issue with transmission fluid that requires flushing and replacement. Complaints often arise around 26,000 miles, but some note issues starting as early as 4,000 miles. Safety concerns are highlighted by reports of unintended acceleration and braking, and one incident involves a crash with an injury due to stalling in traffic. These issues may affect reliability and safety, which prospective buyers should consider.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (8 complaints)
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
8 complaintsOwners report multiple issues with the 2018 Chevrolet Camaro, most notably concerning the convertible top's rear glass window separating from the fabric. This issue is frequently noted at various mileages, with some instances occurring shortly after purchase and others after several years, leading to potential safety risks if the glass detaches while driving. Additionally, several complaints mention a persistent "shift to park" warning despite the vehicle being in park, causing inconvenience and potential safety concerns if the vehicle moves unexpectedly. Transmission shudder is also noted, with owners describing a shaking sensation while driving that persists despite maintenance efforts. These issues could pose safety hazards and may result in costly repairs, particularly for the convertible top, which often requires full replacement rather than repair.
ENGINE (6 complaints)
ENGINE
6 complaintsOwners of the 2018 Chevrolet Camaro frequently report issues with the oil pump, with multiple complaints describing pump failures leading to engine damage. Typical symptoms include a sudden drop in oil pressure, often to zero, and subsequent engine failure, sometimes requiring engine replacement. These issues are noted at relatively low mileage, around 11,000 to 18,600 miles. Safety implications are significant, as some owners mention the potential for engine failure to cause a crash. Additionally, one report highlights a problem with the torque management system in manual transmission models, which can cut engine power unexpectedly, posing a risk when merging into traffic.
AIR BAGS (4 complaints)
AIR BAGS
4 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2018 Chevrolet Camaro report issues primarily related to airbag functionality and fire incidents. Complaints frequently mention non-deployment of airbags during accidents, with one report indicating that the driver's airbag did not deploy in a hit-and-run crash, resulting in an injury. Another owner describes a situation where the vehicle was sold with non-functioning airbags, which were confirmed by a service center. Fire-related incidents include a phone charger catching fire, leading to a vehicle fire. These issues are reported at various times, with no specific mileage patterns noted. Safety implications include crashes and fires, highlighting potential risks for prospective buyers.
VISIBILITY/WIPER (4 complaints)
VISIBILITY/WIPER
4 complaintsOwners of the 2018 Chevrolet Camaro frequently report issues with the vehicle's defroster system and convertible top. Many describe the defroster creating condensation on the inside of the windshield instead of clearing it, which requires manual wiping while driving and is noted as a potential safety concern. Additionally, complaints about the rear glass separating from the convertible top due to a manufacturing defect are common, with some owners mentioning this occurs around 32,000 miles. These issues are reported to persist despite attempts at dealer repairs, and multiple owners express dissatisfaction with the manufacturer's response.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (4 complaints)
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
4 complaintsOwners report issues with the fuel propulsion system on the 2018 Chevrolet Camaro, primarily involving the fuel pump and fuel line components. Common symptoms described include a complete loss of engine power, difficulty starting, engine sputtering, hesitation, and decreased fuel economy. Some owners note hearing a high-pitched whining noise from the fuel tank and experiencing fuel leaks due to faulty welds, which can pose a fire risk if fuel contacts the exhaust. Complaints often arise within two years of purchase, with mileage unspecified but generally under typical usage patterns. These issues may result in costly repairs and potential safety hazards associated with fuel leaks and engine failure.
SUSPENSION (2 complaints)
SUSPENSION
2 complaintsOwners of the 2018 Chevrolet Camaro report issues related to the suspension, specifically involving steering and stability problems. Complaints frequently mention that hitting potholes or bumps at highway speeds can result in significant handling difficulties, such as veering across lanes. One owner describes a situation where the vehicle's frame broke after encountering a small pothole, leading to steering and stability challenges. Another owner reports that their vehicle has been in service for an extended period without resolution, with the stability control light activating and causing erratic lane changes. These issues often occur shortly after purchase, as evidenced by a complaint filed within the first year of ownership, and may pose safety risks due to potential loss of control.
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) (2 complaints)
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
2 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report issues with the electronic stability control in the 2018 Chevrolet Camaro, with both complaints involving crashes and injuries. Common symptoms include the vehicle unexpectedly accelerating and the rear tires locking up, leading to loss of vehicle control. In one instance, the car flipped after leaving the highway, while another report describes the brakes becoming unresponsive and the car spinning out. These incidents highlight significant safety implications, with both complaints suggesting a failure in the stability control and braking systems during freeway driving. Potential buyers should be aware of these reported issues and the associated risks of loss of control and accidents.
When Do 2018 Chevrolet Camaro Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Chevrolet Camaro Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Chevrolet Camaro Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Chevrolet Camaro year is 2023 with a reliability score of 81/100, rated excellent. Other strong picks include 2024 (77/100) and 2022 (75/100).
Chevrolet Camaro Years to Avoid
No Chevrolet Camaro years are statistical outliers in our data.
All model years score consistently well. The Chevrolet Camaro maintains one of the highest industry standards for long-term durability across its entire production span.
Chevrolet Camaro Reliability Score Trend
Chevrolet Camaro reliability has improved in recent years, with newer models scoring an average of 78/100 compared to 72/100 for older years.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 71/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 74/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 71/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 75/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 81/100 | Excellent |
| 2024 | 77/100 | Good |
Chevrolet Camaro Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2018 Chevrolet Camaro reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2018 Chevrolet Camaro?
How many recalls does the 2018 Chevrolet Camaro have?
Is the 2018 Chevrolet Camaro expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2018 Chevrolet Camaro without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
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How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
Get notified when new recalls or reliability data is added for the Chevrolet Camaro.
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