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Do Chevy Impalas hold their value?

Generally, Chevy Impalas depreciate like other mass-market sedans, with modest value retention for newer models and notable potential for classic-era versions among collectors.

Understanding value retention in the modern Impala (2014–2020)

From 2014 to 2020, the Impala competed in a crowded field of mid-size sedans. While roomy and comfortable, its resale value is influenced by overall market trends for family sedans, fleet rotations, and the fact that Chevrolet ended the model after the 2020 season—reducing new-vehicle supply and affecting used-car demand dynamics.

Resale value for modern Impalas is influenced by several market and vehicle-specific factors:

Mileage and maintenance history

Overall vehicle condition and wear

Trim level and equipment (LTZ models typically fetch higher prices)

Ownership history (single-owner vs. fleet/rental use)

Age and model year as depreciation accrues

Color, options, and market demand in your region

Accident history and title status

In short, the better-maintained and lower-mileage examples, especially higher trims, tend to hold value relatively better within the modern Impala lineup. But as a mainstream sedan, it generally does not retain value as strongly as some compact luxury rivals or SUVs with strong demand.

Classic Impalas and collector value

Vintage Impalas from the 1960s and 1970s can be desirable among collectors, with value fluctuating by year, body style, and originality. In general, rarer variants and well-preserved examples fetch higher prices than common, driver-grade cars.

What collectors look for

Collectors weigh these factors when pricing a classic Impala:

Year and body style (two-door vs. four-door, hardtop, convertible)

Originality and matching numbers on the engine and drivetrain

Condition and quality of any restoration

Documentation, including build sheets, manuals, and provenance

Factory options and rarity (SS packages, notable trim, rare colors)

Overall presentation and authenticity of parts and details

Top-dollar classics tend to be those that are numbers-matching, have thorough documentation, and feature desirable options or body styles, backed by careful, period-correct restoration.

How to maximize resale value if you own an Impala

Whether you're selling a late-model Impala or a classic, these practical steps can help maintain or improve value.

Keep thorough service records and maintain a clean title to reassure buyers.

Minimize unnecessary mileage and address mechanical issues promptly to avoid hits to value.

Choose trims and options that are in demand but not overly customized for resale appeal.

Store the car properly and protect the interior and exterior from damage.

Invest in professional detailing and gather documentation (maintenance, repairs, receipts) for listings.

In sum, the best value outcomes come from ongoing maintenance, transparent documentation, and presenting the car in good condition to buyers.

Summary

For modern Impalas (2014–2020), value retention is modest compared with niche or premium models, though well-kept examples and higher trims perform relatively better. Chevrolet discontinued the Impala after 2020, which affects new-vehicle supply and can influence used-market dynamics. Classic Impalas from the 1960s and 1970s can command substantial premiums when they are rare, authentic, and well restored. If you’re evaluating an Impala for purchase or sale, assess mileage, maintenance history, and trim level for newer models, or originality, documentation, and condition for classics to gauge likely resale value.

Do Chevy Impalas last long?

Yes, Chevy Impalas can last a long time, especially newer models, with many owners reporting over 200,000200 comma 000200,000 miles with proper maintenance. Reliability varies by model year, with the 2015-2019 generations being particularly solid, while older models may have issues like transmission problems or electrical issues that are less common in the newer generations. Overall, the Impala has a good reputation for longevity, with an average lifespan of around 135,000135 comma 000135,000 miles and many anecdotal reports of much higher mileage.

Model year differences

2015-2019: These are considered among the most reliable models, with many reporting they have few issues and can last for 250,000250 comma 000250,000 miles or more.
Older models (pre-2014): These can be hit-or-miss. While some have had great experiences, others have encountered more significant issues like transmission failures or electrical problems.
Early 2000s models: Some specific engines, like the 3.9L, had some known issues like timing chains, but other engines, like the 3.5L, are known to be very reliable.

Factors affecting longevity

Maintenance: Regular maintenance, especially oil changes, is crucial for engine longevity and can help you achieve higher mileage.
Transmission: The automatic transmissions in some models, especially older ones, can be a weak point, so it's important to check their condition if you're buying a used one.
Driving conditions: Highway driving is generally less stressful on a car than city driving, so cars that spend more time on the highway tend to last longer.
Common issues: Regardless of the model year, some common issues to be aware of include oil leaks, blend door actuator failures, and door lock problems. However, these are often minor and not major mechanical problems that would end the car's life.

How to make your Impala last longer

Perform regular oil changes and fluid checks.
Address any warning lights or unusual noises promptly.
Check for any recalls on your specific model year.
Perform a transmission service, especially if the car is mostly driven in the city.
Keep an eye out for potential issues like oil leaks or electrical problems.

Does the Impala have good resale value?

A 2020 Chevrolet Impala has depreciated $10,745 or 44% in the last 3 years and has a current resale value of $13,539 and trade-in value of $11,794. The 2020 Chevrolet Impala is in the 75-100% percentile for depreciation among all 2020 Sedans.

What year to stay away from Chevy Impala?

Years to avoid for the Chevy Impala include 2000–2008, especially the early 2000s, due to widespread transmission and engine issues, such as oil leaks and faulty head gaskets. Other problematic years are 2014–2015, which had multiple recalls for faulty brakes, airbags, and power steering. Additionally, the 2001 model year was particularly bad due to significant transmission and intake manifold problems.
Problematic model years

2000–2008: This period is widely considered to have the most significant issues, especially with the 3.4L V6 engine and automatic transmissions.
- 2001: Had over 1,000 complaints and 10 recalls, with major problems in the transmission and intake manifold gasket.
- 2004–2008: Known for mechanical issues and transmission problems like stuttering and jerking.
2014–2015: These years were marked by numerous recalls, including issues with parking brakes, airbags, and the power steering control module.

Common problems by year

Model Year	Common Problems
2000–2005	Excessive oil consumption, faulty head gaskets, transmission issues (e.g., faulty solenoids), and intake manifold leaks.
2006–2013	Excessive oil consumption and engine problems are common. Some models experience issues with power steering control modules, and others suffer from a crumbling wiring loom.
2014–2015	Parking brake failures, malfunctioning airbags, and problems with the power steering control module.
2018–2019	Single recall for poor rear brake performance.

2009–2020: These are generally good model years, with some owners reporting good reliability and low ownership costs, especially for the 2015 model.
2006–2011: Some models from these years may have issues with door locks, blend door actuators, and oil leaks.

What is the common problem with Chevy Impala?

Common problems with the Chevy Impala include transmission issues like failure and erratic shifting, particularly in older models, as well as engine concerns such as oil consumption and leaks from the intake manifold gasket. Other frequent complaints involve power steering leaks, steering system noises, and various electronics problems, including with the power locks and instrument panel.
Engine and fuel system

Oil consumption: Some models are known to burn excessive oil, which can be caused by worn piston rings or faulty valve seals.
Oil leaks: Leaks from the intake manifold gasket are a known issue.
Check Engine light: The "Check Engine" light can come on due to a loose gas cap or faulty mass air flow sensor.
Fuel gauge issues: Some owners report a fluctuating or inaccurate fuel gauge.

This video explains some of the common problems with Chevy Impalas: 55sCars of QueensYouTube · May 27, 2021
Transmission and drivetrain

Transmission failure/slipping: This is a very common problem, especially in models from the early to mid-2000s.
Erratic shifting: The transmission pressure control solenoid can fail, causing shifting problems.
Shifter issues: The ignition key can become stuck if the shifter fails.

Steering and suspension

Power steering leaks: Leaks in the high-pressure power steering hose can occur.
Steering noises: A clunking noise from the upper intermediate steering shaft is a common complaint.

Electrical and other issues

Power locks: Power lock actuators can fail.
Heater problems: The heater system can experience issues.
Instrument panel problems: The speedometer and other gauges may work erratically.
Security system fault: Some models have issues with the security system causing the engine to stall after starting.
Body and interior: Wind noise, leaks around seals and weatherstripping, and problems with windows, locks, and latches have been reported.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.