by VIN, Year, Make, Model by License Plate

1986 Chevrolet Camaro Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

Rating: 0.00
Based on 0 Owner Reviews
Jovan | September 30, 2025
The 1986 Chevrolet Camaro represents the third generation of this iconic American pony car, built on the F-body platform. Introduced in 1982, this generation ran until 1992, featuring a sleek, aerodynamic hatchback coupe body style. Key trims included the base Sport Coupe, the luxury-oriented Berlinetta, and the performance-focused Z28 and IROC-Z. New, prices ranged from roughly $9,000 to $17,000. It stood out for its aggressive styling, available powerful V8 engines, and strong aftermarket support, embodying the spirit of 1980s American muscle.
The Good

The 1986 Camaro offers emotional appeal with its iconic '80s aggressive styling, the thrill of available V8 power, and a strong sense of American muscle heritage. Practically, it boasts readily available and affordable parts, simple mechanics for many repairs, and a strong value proposition as an attainable classic. Performance-oriented trims provide engaging handling and respectable acceleration for their era.

The Bad

Potential buyers should watch out for rust, especially around the T-top seals, wheel wells, and floorboards. Electrical gremlins, such as issues with power windows, dash lights, and relays, are common. The interior plastics are prone to cracking, and base engines can feel underpowered. Some carburetor issues on LG4 V8s and aging suspension components are also frequently reported concerns.

1986 Chevrolet Camaro: Quick Overview

The 1986 Chevrolet Camaro offered a range of engine options to cater to different performance desires:

  • 2.5L "Iron Duke" L4: This standard engine produced around 88-92 horsepower and 122-132 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy was its primary advantage, typically in the 22-28 MPG range highway. 0-60 MPH times were a leisurely 12-14 seconds.
  • 2.8L V6 (LB8): Offering a step up, this V6 delivered approximately 135 horsepower and 165 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy for the V6 was generally around 18-24 MPG highway. 0-60 MPH times improved to the 9-10 second range.
  • 5.0L LG4 V8 (4-barrel carburetor): This carbureted V8 was a popular choice, producing about 155-165 horsepower and 245-255 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy typically ranged from 15-20 MPG highway. 0-60 MPH times were in the 8-9 second range.
  • 5.0L L69 V8 (H.O. 4-barrel carburetor, "High Output"): Available in previous years, but phased out or extremely limited for 1986, if found, it offered around 190 horsepower and stronger torque, achieving 0-60 MPH in under 8 seconds.
  • 5.0L LB9 V8 (TPI - Tuned Port Injection): This advanced fuel-injected V8, primarily found in the IROC-Z and Z28, was the performance king for 1986, generating 190 horsepower and 285 lb-ft of torque. It offered improved drivability and better throttle response. 0-60 MPH times could be as quick as 7 seconds. Fuel economy was similar to the LG4.
Towing capacity for most Camaros was minimal, typically not exceeding 1,000-1,500 pounds, as it was not designed for towing.
Trim-level features varied significantly:
  • Sport Coupe: The base model, featuring steel wheels, cloth bucket seats, and minimal power accessories.
  • Berlinetta: Positioned as the luxury-sport model, it included unique digital instrumentation, a premium sound system with a graphic equalizer, power accessories, and softer suspension tuning.
  • Z28: The performance trim, adding ground effects, specific alloy wheels, stiffer suspension, and standard V8 engines (LG4 or LB9).
  • IROC-Z: The top-tier performance model, building on the Z28 with even stiffer suspension, larger wheels and tires, unique exterior badging, and often equipped with the potent TPI V8. Optional features across trims included T-tops, air conditioning, cruise control, power windows, and power door locks.

1986 Chevrolet Camaro Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 1986
Make Chevrolet
Model Camaro
Trim -
Style -
Type Coupe
Category Compact Car
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City VAN NUYS
Dimensions
Doors 2-Door
Curb Weight -
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine 2BBL
Engine Size 2.8L
Engine Cylinders 6
Transmission 4-Speed Automatic
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds 4-Speed
Drivetrain Rear-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) -
Invoice Price -
Delivery Charges -

Vehicle History Report

Vehicle
Specifications
Ownership
History
All History
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
Check
Accident
Check
Theft
Check
Open Lien
Check
Past Sale
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Odometer
Check
Market Price
Analysis

What Problems Does the 1986 Chevrolet Camaro Have?

The 1986 Chevrolet Camaro, like many third-generation F-bodies, is known for several recurring issues that prospective owners should be aware of. Perhaps the most pervasive long-term concern is rust. Areas prone to rust include the floorboards, frame rails near suspension mounts, rear wheel wells, and critically, around the T-top seals. Leaking T-tops are a notorious problem, allowing water intrusion that can lead to significant interior and structural rust. Electrical problems are also very common; these can manifest as malfunctioning power windows, flickering dash lights, faulty gauge clusters, issues with wiring harnesses, and failing relays for various accessories like the fuel pump or headlights. These often stem from aging wiring and poor grounds.

Mechanically, models equipped with the 5.0L LG4 carbureted V8 can experience issues with the computer-controlled carburetor system, leading to rough idling, poor performance, or difficulty starting. Vacuum lines throughout the engine bay are prone to cracking due to age, causing vacuum leaks that affect engine performance and emissions. The TPI (Tuned Port Injection) systems on the LB9 V8 are generally robust but can suffer from aging fuel injectors, sensors (like the Mass Air Flow sensor), or a failing fuel pump. Suspension components, such as bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends, will undoubtedly be worn after decades of service, leading to sloppy handling.

Interior degradation is another frequent complaint. Headliners commonly sag, dashboards crack from sun exposure, and plastic trim pieces can become brittle and break. Door hinges often wear out, causing doors to sag. While specific widespread recalls for the 1986 model year are less frequent decades later, general safety bulletins from the era might have addressed issues like brake light switch functionality or seat belt retractors. Long-term reliability depends heavily on prior maintenance; neglected examples will certainly present a myriad of these problems. Addressing rust, electrical issues, and worn suspension is key to ensuring a reliable third-gen Camaro.

How long will the 1986 Chevrolet Camaro last?

The average mileage or years of service for a 1986 Chevrolet Camaro varies wildly depending on owner data and maintenance habits. Well-maintained examples, particularly those with the robust V8 engines, can easily surpass 150,000 to 200,000 miles and still be on the road, often serving as cherished weekend cruisers. Many others, however, became neglected project cars that rarely saw beyond 100,000 miles before requiring significant work or being parked indefinitely. Long-term durability of the core drivetrain, especially the V8 engines and manual transmissions, is generally good. However, weaknesses over time predominantly revolve around the body and interior. Rust, particularly with T-top cars, is a relentless enemy. Electrical systems become increasingly finicky, and interior plastics and fabrics degrade. Suspension components will require replacement, and all rubber seals and bushings will have hardened and cracked. Consistent rust prevention, electrical troubleshooting, and replacing worn out interior components are crucial for long-term enjoyment and reliability.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 1986 Chevrolet Camaro's built-in technology and features were representative of its era, predating many modern conveniences. For tech, the most advanced offering was the Tuned Port Injection (TPI) system on the 5.0L LB9 V8, providing electronic fuel delivery for better performance and efficiency compared to carbureted models. The Berlinetta trim offered a distinctive digital dashboard and an overhead console with trip computer functions, which was quite advanced for the time. Entertainment systems were relatively basic: a standard AM/FM stereo was common, with optional upgrades including a cassette player and, in higher trims like the Berlinetta, a more sophisticated sound system with a graphic equalizer and a power antenna. Standard features generally included analog gauges, a speedometer, tachometer, and basic warning lights. Power steering and power brakes were standard across all trims, providing fundamental driver assistance.

Driver-assistance features as we know them today (e.g., ABS, traction control, stability control) simply did not exist. Cruise control was an optional convenience feature for highway driving. Other optional amenities included power windows, power door locks, air conditioning, a rear window defogger, and intermittent windshield wipers. T-tops were a popular optional feature, offering an open-air driving experience.

Safety features were rudimentary by modern standards. The 1986 Camaro was equipped with standard lap and shoulder seatbelts for all occupants, an energy-absorbing steering column, and safety glass. There were no airbags offered in the 1986 model year. Antilock braking systems (ABS) and traction control were not available. Specific crash-test ratings from independent organizations like NHTSA or IIHS in the way they are conducted today are not available for vehicles of this vintage. Safety largely relied on the vehicle's structure and the use of seatbelts. Owners should understand that its passive safety features are far less comprehensive than those found in any modern vehicle.

What Colors Options are Available?

We’re working on this section!
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.

1986 Chevrolet Camaro Prices and Market Value

When new, the 1986 Chevrolet Camaro had a wide price range. A base Sport Coupe could start around $9,000, while a well-equipped Z28 or top-tier IROC-Z with the TPI V8 could push upwards of $17,000. Like most mass-produced cars, these vehicles experienced significant depreciation in the decades following their original purchase, making them very affordable used cars for a long period. However, as an '80s classic, the market has matured. Current used market prices are highly variable. A project car or base model in rough condition might fetch $3,000-$6,000. A clean, running driver can range from $8,000 to $15,000. Pristine, low-mileage IROC-Z models with desirable options and the TPI V8 can command $20,000 or even significantly more. Factors affecting resale value include the trim level (IROC-Z and Z28 are most sought after), engine choice (TPI V8 is king), condition (rust-free is paramount), originality, maintenance records, and whether it has T-tops.

1986 Chevrolet Camaro Cost of Ownership

Owning a 1986 Chevrolet Camaro can be a mixed bag in terms of cost. Insurance may be surprisingly economical if you opt for a classic car policy, assuming it's not a daily driver. Fuel costs vary; the I4 and V6 engines offer decent economy (20+ MPG), but the popular V8s are thirstier, typically yielding 15-20 MPG. Maintenance and repair parts are generally inexpensive and widely available, benefiting from a large aftermarket and shared GM components. However, specialized repairs, rust remediation, or electrical troubleshooting can incur significant labor costs. Long-term ownership isn't necessarily "economical" like a modern compact car, but it's not prohibitively "costly" either, especially if you're handy and can perform some DIY work. Neglecting maintenance or buying a rusty example will quickly make it expensive to own.

1986 Chevrolet Camaro Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity -
City Mileage 0 mpg
Highway Mileage 0 miles/gallon

1986 Chevrolet Camaro Recalls & Defects

Parking Brake:conventional
Recall date 1991-04-11
Recall no. 91v055000
Source NHTSA
Summary Parking Brake Adjuster Fails TO Operate and DO NOT Work After Brake PAD Wear.
Consequence Parking Brakes Will NOT Completely Hold A Parked Vehiclewhen Parked ON A Slope, Causing Unintended Vehicle Rollaway Which Could Resultin A Vehicle Accident.
Remedy Replace Nonfunctioning Parking Brake Adjusters.
Notes System: Parking Brake.vehicle Description: Passenger Cars; Firebirds and Camaros With Manualtransmissions and Rear Disk Brakes and Fieros With Manual Transmissions.
Seat Belts:front:buckle Assembly
Recall date 1990-05-14
Recall no. 90v105000
Source NHTSA
Summary Plastic Components OF Seat Belt Buckle Assemblies DO NOT Contain AN Ultra Violet Stabilizer, and Exposure TO Direct Sunlight and Elevated Interior Temperatures Could Weaken THE Plastic Components.
Consequence This Could Result IN Breakage OF Plastic Components Whichcould Prevent Buckle From Latching and Protecting Occupant IN A Sudden Stop Oraccident.
Remedy Replace or Repair Seat Belt Buckle.
Notes System: Seat Belt Buckle.vehicle Description: Passenger Cars.
Exterior Lighting:headlights:switch
Recall date 1986-04-28
Recall no. 86v056000
Source NHTSA
Summary THE Push-Pull Headlight Switch MAY Have Electrical Contacts Which Allow AN Intermittent Headlight Circuit Causing Headlight TO Flicker or Suddenly GO Out. Consequence OF Defect: Sudden Loss OF THE Headlights Under Severe Weather or Nighttime Driving Conditions Could Reduce Driver Visibility Which Might Result IN A Vehicle Crash Without Prior Warning. Note: Also, SEE Nhtsa Campaign Number 86v131000.
Consequence
Remedy Replace Headlight Switch AS Necessary.
Notes System: Headlight Switch. Vehicle Description: Passenger Cars, Trucks and Vans.
Exterior Lighting:headlights:switch
Recall date 1986-09-19
Recall no. 86v131000
Source NHTSA
Summary THE Push Pull Headlight Switch MAY Have Electrical Contacts Which Allow AN Intermittent Headlight Circuit Causing Headlight TO Flicker or Suddenly GO Out. Consequence OF Defect: Sudden Loss OF THE Headlights Under Severe Weather or Nighttime Driving Conditions Could Reduce Driver Visibility Which Might Result IN A Vehicle Crash Without Prior Warning.
Consequence
Remedy Replace Headlight Switch AS Necessary.
Notes System: Headlight Switch. Vehicle Description: Passenger Cars and Trucks/ Vans.
Fuel System, Gasoline
Recall date 2006-05-19
Recall no. 06e043000
Source NHTSA
Summary 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 Listed Above and ON Certain School Buses. (TO SEE THE School Bus Engine Sizes, Click ON "document Search" and Then "bus Applications"). THE Connector ON THE Fuel Filter WAS NOT Manufactured TO Honeywell's Specification. AS A Result, THE O-Ring MAY NOT Seat Correctly ON THE Fuel Line.
Consequence This Condition MAY Cause AN Inadequate Seal AT THE Connection, Potentially Leading TO A Fuel Leak. IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source, A Fire Could Occur.
Remedy Honeywell Will Notify Owners and Replace THE Fuel Filters Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON October 18, 2006. Owners MAY Contact Fram Customer Service AT 1-800-890-2075 (Option 1).
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Fram Fuel Filters and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON THE Vehicles Listed.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting
Recall date 2006-03-23
Recall no. 06e026000
Source NHTSA
Summary 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, Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment.
Consequence Without THE Amber Reflectors, THE Vehicle Will BE Poorly Illuminated, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash Without Warning.
Remedy Pro-A Motors Will Notify Owners and Offer TO Repurchase THE Lamps. THE Recall Began ON April 3, 2006. Owners MAY Contact Pro-A Motors AT 323-838-2988.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Pro-A Motors Aftermarket Lamps and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON THE Listed Passenger Vehicles.for More Information ON THE Lamp Model Numbers, Click ON Document Search and View Document Titled "lamp Model Numbers."customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Equipment
Recall date 2007-10-24
Recall no. 07e088000
Source NHTSA
Summary 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 Sequentially. THE Date Code and Part Number Appear ON THE Filter Housing. Fram Racing HP4 and HP8 OIL Filters NOT Bearing A Date Code IN This Range ARE NOT Affected BY This Recall. THE Gasket OF THE OIL Filter Becomes More Pliable Under High Temperatures and Pressures.
Consequence This Condition MAY Cause Inadequate Sealing and Loss OF Engine Oil, Possibly Resulting IN A Fire.
Remedy Honeywell Will Replace THE Affected OIL Filters Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began During November 2007. Owners CAN Contact Fram Customer Service Toll-Free AT 1-800-890-2075.
Notes Customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.

1986 Chevrolet Camaro Insurance

Insurance for a 1986 Chevrolet Camaro is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Coupe with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 1986 Chevrolet Camaro Compare to Other Coupe?

The 1986 Chevrolet Camaro competed fiercely with several rivals, primarily the Ford Mustang, its direct and perennial foe, and its platform mate, the Pontiac Firebird/Trans Am. Other contenders from Japan included the Toyota Supra and Nissan 300ZX, offering a different philosophy.

Performance: The Camaro (especially IROC-Z with TPI V8) stacked up well against the Fox Body Mustang GT (5.0L) in terms of raw straight-line acceleration and V8 rumble. Both offered strong performance for their price point. The Firebird Trans Am/GTA often shared the same performance powertrains, making it an equally potent alternative. Japanese rivals like the Supra (Mk3 introduced in '86) and 300ZX offered more refined, often turbocharged six-cylinder power, delivering excellent handling and a more grand touring feel, but arguably lacked the raw, visceral punch of the American V8s.

Features: The Camaro, particularly in base trims, was simpler. The Berlinetta offered more luxury features, but the Pontiac Firebird Trans Am and especially the GTA often boasted more upscale interiors and unique tech like steering wheel-mounted radio controls. Japanese competitors, like the Supra and 300ZX, generally had more advanced standard features, better fit and finish, and often more sophisticated suspensions and optional electronics for their time.

Reliability: This is a common point of contention. While American V8s are often praised for their simplicity and robustness, the overall build quality and electrical systems of 1980s F-bodies (Camaro/Firebird) could be problematic. Japanese rivals from Toyota and Nissan generally held a reputation for superior long-term reliability and fewer electrical gremlins, though parts for them might be harder to source today. Fox Body Mustangs shared similar domestic reliability characteristics to the Camaro.

Price: New, all these vehicles were competitively priced within the sporty coupe segment. On the used market today, values vary by condition, rarity, and trim. Top-tier performance models from all brands, like the Camaro IROC-Z, Mustang GT, and Supra Turbo, command higher prices.

Alternatives: For a similar American muscle car experience, the 1986 Ford Mustang GT is the most direct and excellent alternative. For a slightly different aesthetic and often more luxury-oriented features on the same F-body platform, consider the 1986 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am or GTA. If a more refined, technologically advanced, and potentially more reliable sports coupe is desired, the Toyota Supra (Mk3) or Nissan 300ZX (Z31) are strong Japanese alternatives, though they offer a different driving character.

Final Verdict: Is the 1986 Chevrolet Camaro a Good Coupe?

The 1986 Chevrolet Camaro is ideal for enthusiasts seeking an authentic slice of 1980s American muscle car culture. It's perfect for those who appreciate its iconic styling, available V8 performance, and the strong sense of nostalgia it evokes. This vehicle is definitely worth buying for the right individual, but under specific conditions. Focus on finding a well-maintained, rust-free example, ideally a Z28 or IROC-Z equipped with the Tuned Port Injection (TPI) 5.0L V8 for the best performance and future collectability. Avoid neglected projects unless you have significant mechanical skills and a budget for extensive restoration, especially rust repair and electrical work. It serves wonderfully as a weekend cruiser, a car show participant, or even a classic daily driver if you're prepared for the quirks and maintenance of an older vehicle. It offers accessible classic car ownership and a fun, engaging driving experience, making it a rewarding purchase for the right buyer.

1986 Chevrolet Camaro Owner Reviews

0.00
Consumer Rating, Based on 0 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
Cancel
Thank You for Your Review!

We truly appreciate the time and effort you took to share your experience with us.

Uh oh!

Something went wrong, please try again later.

Author Image
Jovan

Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.