2017 Chevrolet SS

2017 Chevrolet SS

Overview

The 2017 Chevrolet SS, a rear-wheel-drive performance sedan, was the final iteration of this Australian-engineered muscle car for the North American market. It was celebrated for its potent V8 engine, refined handling, and understated yet aggressive styling. While generally considered a robust vehicle, like any performance-oriented car, it has specific areas that owners and technicians have noted. This analysis focuses on documented technical reliability concerns beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential issues across its powertrain, chassis, and other key systems. The SS aimed to blend everyday usability with track-capable performance, and its reliability reflects this dual nature.

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Engine

6.2L LS3 V8

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: N/A

Transmission

6-Speed Manual (MGM)

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: N/A

6-Speed Automatic (6L80/6L90)

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: N/A

Suspension

Performance Tuned Suspension

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: N/A

Electrical

Infotainment System

Infotainment Glitches

• Symptoms: Occasional freezing, unresponsiveness, or connectivity issues with Bluetooth or Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.
• Solution: Software updates, system resets, or potential replacement of the head unit.
• Cost: $500 - $1500

Battery Drain

Intermittent Battery Drain

• Symptoms: Premature battery discharge, especially when the vehicle is parked for extended periods. Can be linked to parasitic draw from various modules.
• Solution: Diagnosis to identify the source of the parasitic draw, which may involve checking modules, wiring, or aftermarket accessories. Replacement of faulty components.
• Cost: $150 - $600

Exterior

Paint and Body Panels

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: N/A

Interior

Seat Upholstery

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: N/A

Interior Trim

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: N/A

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Summary Verdict

The 2017 Chevrolet SS is generally regarded as a reliable performance sedan, particularly concerning its robust LS3 V8 engine and well-engineered transmissions. The core mechanical components have proven durable. However, like many vehicles of its era, some owners have reported issues with the infotainment system, experiencing glitches or connectivity problems that may require software updates or component replacement. Additionally, intermittent battery drain has been noted, necessitating thorough diagnosis to pinpoint and resolve the parasitic draw. Beyond these specific electrical concerns, the suspension, exterior, and interior components have largely held up well, with no widespread critical failures reported. Overall, the SS offers a strong reliability record for its performance class, with most potential issues being electrical in nature.