[2023CamaroSS]

I have found a 2023 SS (2SS, 6-speed) that I plan on purchasing tomorrow, after I do a hands on inspection. The car has less than 5K miles, so I’m pretty pumped to see it. I haven’t owned a Camaro since a ‘99 SS I had back in the 2000’s, so I am wondering if there is anything I need to be on alert to look for during the inspection? Thanks for any advice.

[Bumbleboy92]

If it’s the red one in AL, know it’s not GM CPO but rather ‘Ford CPO’ even though it’s advertised as Certified it’s not backed by GM. The carfax listed has the window sticker, while unfortunate that they have it priced just above MSRP, the reality seems to be normal pricing in today’s Camaro market.

[speedyink1]

Congrats! What color? Pics when you get them!


If it's the 6 speed all you need to look out for is the usual stuff. Nothing out of the ordinary to really look out for, just signs it's been beat on, weird vibrations/sounds etc. Make sure you get to take it on the highway to get a good sense at all reasonable speeds.

[bishopts]

Originally Posted by 2023CamaroSS

I have found a 2023 SS (2SS, 6-speed) that I plan on purchasing tomorrow, after I do a hands on inspection. The car has less than 5K miles, so I’m pretty pumped to see it. I haven’t owned a Camaro since a ‘99 SS I had back in the 2000’s, so I am wondering if there is anything I need to be on alert to look for during the inspection? Thanks for any advice.

Dont turn the traction contol off for at least a month.
The transmission may feel kinda clunky when its cold. Not grindy, just clunky.

[arpad_m]

Hi and welcome to the forums. You have chosen well, the SS with the M6 is a very solid car, many times better than your 1999 SS, and it'll give you a ton of fun As a cherry on top, the 2SS has many amenities and safety enhancements over the 1SS, you'll love the blind spot monitor, the bigger screen, the heated and cooled seats, the digital rearview mirror, the heads-up display and I could keep going.

Here's what Grok thinks, I just copied its answer verbatim because it's pretty good as-is. Some of these items are overkill or not applicable to such a low mileage car, but good to be aware of in general anyway. The absolute best thing to do would be to take a mechanic friend with you who has experience with the platform, but I understand it may not be possible.


A 2023 Chevrolet Camaro SS with a manual transmission is a late-model sixth-generation example (the final years before discontinuation), powered by the naturally aspirated 6.2L LT1 V8 (455 hp) paired with the Tremec TR-6060 6-speed manual. These cars are generally reliable when properly maintained, with relatively few widespread issues compared to earlier sixth-gen models. However, as a high-performance rear-wheel-drive sports car—often driven aggressively—pre-purchase inspection is critical.
Always get a professional pre-purchase inspection (PPI) from a mechanic experienced with GM performance cars (ideally a Chevrolet dealer or specialist shop), plus a vehicle history report (Carfax/AutoCheck) to check for accidents, title issues, service records, and any unreported damage.
Here are the most important inspection items, with emphasis on the manual transmission and common Camaro SS concerns:
General/Overall Condition

• Service history and maintenance records — Verify regular oil changes (every 5,000–7,500 miles or per the manual), transmission fluid checks (manual uses specific Dexron-VI or equivalent; fluid should be clean, not burnt/dark), and coolant/fluid levels. Look for documented track days or aggressive use.
• Mileage and usage — Low-mileage examples (<20,000–30,000 miles) are common for 2023 models, but confirm no signs of abuse (e.g., burnouts, launches).
• Accident/body damage — Check for frame/unibody damage, poor paintwork, misaligned panels, or aftermarket repairs (common on performance cars).
• Tires and wheels — Inspect for uneven wear (indicating alignment/suspension issues), curb rash, or mismatched tires. The SS often has summer performance tires that wear quickly.
• Recalls and TSBs — No major widespread recalls for 2023 SS models, but confirm none pending via NHTSA or dealer.

Engine (LT1 V8)

• Oil consumption/leaks — Check for leaks around valve covers, rear main seal, or oil filter housing. Minor consumption is normal on LT1 engines, but excessive is a red flag.
• Cooling system — Inspect hoses, radiator, and coolant condition (no contamination). Overheating is rare but can occur from neglected maintenance.
• Misfires or rough idle — Rare on low-mileage 2023s, but test drive for any hesitation.
• Exhaust — Listen for leaks or aftermarket mods (common); stock exhaust should be quiet at idle.

Manual Transmission & Drivetrain (Tremec TR-6060)

• Clutch feel and engagement — Test for smooth engagement, no slipping (especially under load), grabbing, or chatter. Check pedal feel (not too soft/spongy) and free play. Clutch wear is the #1 manual-specific concern on used performance cars—expect replacement around 30,000–60,000 miles if driven hard.
• Shifting quality — Shifts should be precise and smooth. Some notchy feel in cold 2nd gear is normal (fluid warms up), but grinding, difficulty engaging 1st/2nd/reverse when hot, or synchro issues are problems. Avoid cars with "notchy" cold shifts that don't improve.
• Transmission fluid — Should be clean and at proper level (no burnt smell). Fluid changes aren't "lifetime" on these—many owners change it early.
• Clutch hydraulics — Check master/slave cylinder for leaks (shared reservoir with brakes sometimes). No leaks or spongy pedal.
• Driveshaft/u-joints/differential — Listen for clunks/vibrations on acceleration/deceleration. Check for leaks at diff or axles.

Suspension, Brakes & Steering

• Brakes — Brembo brakes on SS are strong but wear fast with spirited driving. Check pad thickness, rotor condition (warping/grooving), and fluid (should be clear, not dark).
• Suspension/alignment — Inspect bushings, ball joints, shocks/struts (Magnetic Ride if equipped), and control arms for wear. Test for clunks over bumps or pulling during drives.
• Steering — Should feel tight; check for play or vibrations.

Interior & Electronics

• Seats/interior wear — Check for excessive wear (bolsters common on performance seats), especially if used for track days.
• Infotainment/electronics — Test screen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, backup camera, and all gauges/lights.
• A/C system — One of the more common complaints across recent Camaros—verify it blows cold (compressor engagement, no odd noises).

Test Drive Tips

• Drive in varied conditions (city, highway, spirited acceleration).
• Listen for unusual noises (rattles, whines from transmission at idle/neutral).
• Perform multiple clutch engagements and shifts (including quick shifts and downshifts).
• Check for vibrations or shudder under hard acceleration.

Overall, 2023 models have very few reported widespread problems (unlike some earlier sixth-gen or automatic-equipped versions). The manual transmission is robust when not abused, but clutch life is the biggest variable. A well-maintained example should be a reliable, fun car—focus on signs of abuse or neglected maintenance. If possible, have the PPI include a lift inspection and borescope of the engine if mileage is higher. Good luck with the hunt!

[Junction65]

Originally Posted by Bumbleboy92

If it’s the red one in AL, know it’s not GM CPO but rather ‘Ford CPO’ even though it’s advertised as Certified it’s not backed by GM. The carfax listed has the window sticker, while unfortunate that they have it priced just above MSRP, the reality seems to be normal pricing in today’s Camaro market.

Great point. In addition, given that the Ford dealership did the certification meaning they probably put it on a lift, one should check underneath to make sure they didn't lift the vehicle using incorrect lift points and do some damage.

[2023CamaroSS]

Thanks for all the input guys. Yes, it is the red one in Alabama at the Ford dealership. It is as close to a new car as a used car can get, it checked out very well. The price was a little high, but there just aren’t that many left in this condition, and I plan on keeping it awhile.

[bishopts]

Originally Posted by 2023CamaroSS

Thanks for all the input guys. Yes, it is the red one in Alabama at the Ford dealership. It is as close to a new car as a used car can get, it checked out very well. The price was a little high, but there just aren’t that many left in this condition, and I plan on keeping it awhile.

Congratulations on your purchase!

[JT6Speed]

Originally Posted by 2023CamaroSS

Thanks for all the input guys. Yes, it is the red one in Alabama at the Ford dealership. It is as close to a new car as a used car can get, it checked out very well. The price was a little high, but there just aren’t that many left in this condition, and I plan on keeping it awhile.

Nice, I like the radiant red with polished aluminum wheels.

[Ray3768]

Beautiful! That's similar to the spec I tried to order for MY2023...never got an allocation.

That smile on your face will become permanent. It actually starts to hurt. Be sure to occasionally driver a lesser car. It temporarily reverses the permagrin and eases the pain. Of course, then you'll be dying to drive it again, and the cycle repeats itself.

In all seriousness, it is a car you will want to drive. I love going to work. I love coming home from work. I love running some errands. Oh yeah!

-Ray

[texSSin]

Very nice!

[speedyink1]

Beautiful car!


As someone else said, you are going to love the car. I just look at my car and it makes me smile. Getting to drive it no matter where I'm going is always a pleasure. Then you'll hit some good fun corners at higher speeds and you'll REALLY be smiling! Just amazing driving cars.


I upgraded to mine from a '96 Trans Am, so I know pretty well the kind of improvement the 6th gen is

[beowulf556]

Congrats, welcome back to the fam

[Bumbleboy92]

Originally Posted by 2023CamaroSS

Thanks for all the input guys. Yes, it is the red one in Alabama at the Ford dealership. It is as close to a new car as a used car can get, it checked out very well. The price was a little high, but there just aren’t that many left in this condition, and I plan on keeping it awhile.

Very nice, little fun fact about your wheels is that style are forged. Originally for the LT 1LE package but after a few years and the LT 1LE being dropped they added it as an extra cost wheel option.

These were the only way to get forged rims on a non-1LE car from factory