Reliability of F55 (aka MSRC)

[DavidM]

I am quite seriously contemplating the purchase of my very first Corvette ... a 2003 Coupe with A4 tranny (I can't physically drive a stick). There are two cars available that are good possibilities: one with standard FE4 suspension; the second with F55 and performance axle. (Z51 is my leading choice, but none are available in the car color I want, and time for 0% financing is running out.)

The F55 package (Magnetic Selective Ride Control) is very appealing, especially with what has been said here and in the press, but since it is brand new technology, I wonder about its reliability. Can anyone tell me if the reported problem rate is particularly high for vehicles so equipped? For those who have personal experience with this package, do you like it? Do you think it was worth the money? Any other thoughts?

Thanks a lot!

[c4c5specialist]

Hi there,
Well, first, suspension options abound in coupe and convertible. However, FE4 is only equipped on ZO6, and is not available on the other models. Z51 would be the closest handling suspension to this, to give the best road feel.
F55 is truly a cutting edge system, functioning at 2/10ths of a second updating rate, to give absolute control under all handling condition. It will give you the finest grip to all kinds of road conditions. However, cornering will NOT be as precise as Z51. Z51 is more a firm ride, but still enjoyable IMO.
FE1 is the standard suspension, and is still very capable in its own right.
F55 from a service standpoint, has been excellent, with no service issues so far in my dealership, with 17 cars in my service stable.
Allthebest, c4c5

[DavidM]

Thanks so much for the reply; I appreciate the information.

(I did MEAN to type FE1 in my original append - I know that's the base suspension on the non-Z06 and non-50th models - I guess I just mistyped.)

I'm heavily leaning toward the F55 equipped car. Seems like that will provide great CONTROL (my wife will probably like the tour setting while I'm sure I'll prefer the sport setting), and as mentioned in another thread, I can always add the FE4 (yes, I do mean that this time) antisway bars to get near-Z51 cornering.

[cavettefan]

Go with the F55! You won't regret it. If you are concerned about long-term reliability, get a GM Protection Plan Major Guard extended warranty.