Are Camaros safe in crashes?

In general, modern Camaros are reasonably safe for their class, with solid crashworthiness in independent testing, though safety varies by model year and trim. Check the exact ratings for the year you’re considering from NHTSA and IIHS.

This article examines how crash safety is evaluated, how Camaro safety has evolved across generations, and practical steps to verify the safety of a specific Camaro you may own or consider buying.

How crash tests measure safety

Automotive safety ratings come from independent agencies that simulate crashes and evaluate how vehicles protect occupants, how well restraint systems perform, and whether crash-avoidance features are available. The two most influential sources in the United States are NHTSA and IIHS.

• NHTSA uses a 5-star overall rating derived from frontal, side, rollover tests and field performance; the rating can vary by year and configuration.


• IIHS conducts multiple tests, including moderate overlap frontal, small overlap frontal, side impact, roof strength, and head restraints; ratings are labeled Good, Acceptable, Marginal, or Poor for each test, and Overall ratings depend on results across tests.


• Additional safety features such as automatic emergency braking (AEB), forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist can influence overall safety performance and are more commonly included or available on newer models or higher trims.

In practice, these test results provide a standardized snapshot of a vehicle’s crashworthiness; real-world safety also depends on factors like maintenance, airbags deployment, and repair history after a crash.

Safety by Camaro generation

Fifth generation (2010-2015)

The fifth-generation Camaro introduced improved chassis rigidity and modern occupant protection compared with earlier generations. It carries multiple airbags and a reinforced structure aimed at improving crash outcomes. Independent test results vary by year and trim, and while some configurations performed well in frontal and side tests, the Camaro did not typically secure a top safety designation across the entire generation.

Sixth generation (2016-2024)

The sixth generation brought further structural enhancements and more available safety features, with forward-looking options like enhanced crash-avoidance packages in higher trims. Overall crashworthiness for the Camaro in this era is generally considered competitive within the sports coupe segment, though you should verify the exact year’s NHTSA/IIHS ratings for a precise picture.

How to verify safety for a specific Camaro

To assess the crash safety of a particular Camaro you’re considering or own, follow these steps:

1. Look up that model year’s NHTSA overall and subratings on SaferCar.gov and check the official test results for the Camaro’s configuration.


2. Check IIHS status for the Camaro year and trim on iihs.org, noting if it earned Good, Acceptable, Marginal, or Poor on the relevant tests.


3. Search for any open recalls and ensure they are addressed by a dealer or repair shop before driving.


4. Review the safety feature list for that trim, noting whether automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and side airbags are included.


5. Consider the car’s maintenance and crash repair history, especially for older models, as improper repairs can affect crash performance.

By checking these official sources and the vehicle’s history, you’ll get a clear picture of the Camaro’s crash safety for your specific year and trim.

Summary

Camaro crash safety is generally solid for a muscle car, especially in the modern sixth generation, but precise ratings depend on the exact model year, trim level, and available safety equipment. Always consult NHTSA and IIHS ratings for the specific car and verify any recalls and safety features before purchase or use.

What car brand is #1 in safety?

What Car Brand Is #1 in Safety? Volvo is our pick for the safest car brand in the United States for 2025. The company continues to intensify its focus on pedestrian safety, driver-assist programming, side-impact protection, and overall structural durability.

What type of car is safest in a crash?

The safest car in a crash is typically a larger, heavier vehicle, but safety depends on a vehicle's crashworthiness and crash prevention ratings, with top honors going to models that have received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award. While models like the Volvo XC90, Tesla Model 3, and Genesis G90 are frequently cited for their strong performance, the "safest" can vary by year and specific IIHS criteria, so checking the latest ratings is best.
 
Safest cars by category

• SUVs: The Volvo XC90, Kia EV9, and Subaru Forester are frequently listed as top performers. 
• Sedans: Models like the Honda Civic, Honda Accord, Hyundai IONIQ 6, and Toyota Camry receive high marks. 
• Luxury Sedans: The Genesis G90 and the BMW i5 (5 Series) are often highlighted for their safety ratings. 

Key safety features to look for

• Crashworthiness: This is how well a vehicle protects its occupants in a crash. Features like a high-strength steel frame, energy-absorbing crumple zones, and a rigid safety cage are key. 
• Crash Prevention: These are features that help avoid a crash altogether. Examples include automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. 
• Size and Weight: Generally, larger, heavier vehicles offer better protection in a collision with a smaller vehicle. 

How to choose the safest car for you

1. Check the latest ratings: The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) provides "Top Safety Pick" and "Top Safety Pick+" awards, with "Top Safety Pick+" being the highest honor. 
2. Consider crash prevention technology: Look for vehicles with advanced driver-assistance systems to help you avoid accidents in the first place. 
3. Prioritize size for safety: If possible, choose a larger vehicle for better protection in a crash. 
4. Read reviews: Check out reputable sources like Consumer Reports and others that test vehicles for safety. 

Is a Chevy Camaro a safe car?

Chevrolet Camaro Earns Top Crash Test Rating. 5 Stars in all crash categories is pretty darn good. Problem with the old ratings system is that too many vehicles were getting top ratings, so the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration made the standards tougher. The Chevrolet Camaro still earned top safety honors ...

What is the crash rating of the Chevy Camaro?

five out of five stars
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gave the 2024 Chevrolet Camaro an overall safety rating of five out of five stars, with five stars in the side crash and rollover tests and four stars in the frontal crash test.