How many quarts of transmission fluid does a Chevy Impala have?
There isn’t a single universal number for the Chevrolet Impala’s transmission fluid capacity. The exact amount depends on the model year and the transmission type. In general, you should expect roughly 11–14 quarts for a full transmission fluid service, with newer, six‑speed automatics tending toward the higher end of that range.
What factors determine the capacity?
Several variables affect the total transmission fluid capacity and the amount you need to drain and refill during a service. The list below outlines the key considerations you should keep in mind.
- Transmission model and year: Older Impalas used different 4‑speed automatics (and related fluid capacities) than newer, more modern six‑speed units.
- Service method: A simple pan drain and filter change typically uses less fluid than a full flush that replaces nearly all fluid, including the torque converter.
- Torque converter and cooler lines: Fluid stored in the torque converter and cooler loop adds to the total system capacity.
These factors help explain why the exact quarts required can vary from one Impala to another, even within the same generation.
Capacity by generation and transmission
Older Impalas (pre-2014) with 4‑speed automatics
In this era, the total transmission fluid capacity for a complete service is typically in the 11–12 quart range. Pan drops with filter changes generally involve about 6–7 quarts, with the remainder needed to reach the proper full level when refilling through the dipstick or fill plug.
- Total system capacity: approximately 11–12 quarts
- Common service scenario: pan drop + filter change ≈ 6–7 quarts; refill to full
- Notes: exact figure depends on the specific 4‑speed unit used in the model year
For these earlier models, owners and mechanics typically rely on the pan capacity plus the additional required to reach the correct dipstick reading during refill.
Modern Impalas (2014–2020) with 6‑speed automatics
Most later Impalas with six‑speed automatics have a larger total capacity, often cited around 13–14 quarts for a full change that includes the torque converter and cooler circuit.
- Total system capacity: approximately 13–14 quarts
- Common service scenario: complete fill (pan drain + torque converter/line replacement in a full flush)
- Notes: actual needs vary with transmission model (e.g., 6L45/6L50/6L80 family), so consult the exact spec for your year
If you’re performing a thorough service on a newer Impala, plan for roughly 13–14 quarts to ensure the system is fully replenished.
How to verify the exact capacity for your specific car
To ensure accuracy for your particular Impala, use these steps to confirm the correct fluid capacity before starting a service.
- Check the owner’s manual for the precise transmission fluid capacity listed for your model year and transmission type.
- Look up the official GM service information or your vehicle’s service manual (or a trusted automotive database) for the exact figure for the 4‑speed vs 6‑speed transmission in your car.
- Ask a Chevrolet dealer or a qualified mechanic with access to GM’s service data if you’re unsure, especially for unique trim levels or regional specifications.
Knowing the exact capacity helps prevent underfilling or overfilling, which can affect shifting performance and transmission longevity.
Practical tips for transmission fluid changes
When planning a transmission fluid service, keep these tips in mind to achieve the best results and avoid mistakes.
- Use the correct type of fluid recommended by Chevrolet for your model year and transmission family.
- If performing a full flush, anticipate needing more than the pan capacity, typically toward the 13–14 quart range for many six‑speed units.
- After a fill, run the vehicle through the gears with the engine at idle and bring it to operating temperature before rechecking the dipstick for a final level.
Following manufacturer guidance and using the right fluid helps maintain transmission performance and longevity.
Summary
In short, a Chevy Impala does not have a single fixed transmission fluid capacity. Older models with 4‑speed automatics generally require about 11–12 quarts for a full service, while newer six‑speed units commonly call for around 13–14 quarts. Always verify the exact figure for your year and transmission type in the owner’s manual or a trusted service resource to ensure an accurate fill.
How much transmission fluid goes in a 2012 Chevy Impala?
The 2012 Impala's 6T70 automatic transmission has a total capacity of 9.5 quarts (about 9 liters), but the initial fill capacity is 5.3 quarts. The correct fluid is DEXRON-VI automatic transmission fluid.
This video shows how to change the transmission fluid in a 2012 Chevrolet Impala: 55sMattDIYYouTube · Mar 18, 2021
- Total capacity: 9.5 quarts (about 9 liters)
- Initial fill capacity: 5.3 quarts
- Fluid type: DEXRON-VI Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
How many quarts of transmission fluid do I need for a 2006 Chevy Impala?
Below for this transmission filter that I used in addition to the O-ring. It does come with a replacement gasket. But I would suggest reusing your original gasket if it's still in good condition.
How many quarts of transmission fluid do I need for a drain and fill?
For a standard transmission fluid drain and fill, you'll typically need 3 to 5 quarts, but you should always measure the amount you drained and refill with the same amount to start, then check the level using the dipstick after running the engine. The exact amount varies by vehicle, and it's crucial to check the owner's manual or look up specifications for your specific make and model, as a drain and fill will not replace all the old fluid.
How to determine the right amount
- Drain the old fluid: Let the old fluid drain completely.
- Measure the drained fluid: Measure how much fluid was drained. This is your starting point for refilling.
- Refill with the measured amount: Put the same amount of new, correct transmission fluid back into the transmission. Using a funnel can help with this process.
- Start the engine: Start the vehicle and let it run for a few minutes, shifting through all the gears (Park, Reverse, Neutral, Drive) while holding the brake. This circulates the new fluid.
- Check the level: Turn the engine off and check the fluid level with the dipstick. Add more fluid in small increments if the level is low, or drain a small amount if it's too high.
- Re-check: Repeat the process of running the engine and checking the dipstick until the fluid level is correct according to the dipstick's hash marks for a "hot" reading.
Important considerations
- A drain and fill is different from a full transmission flush, which requires significantly more fluid (10-12 quarts or more) because it aims to replace all the fluid, including what's in the torque converter.
- You should always use the specific type of transmission fluid recommended by your vehicle's manufacturer to avoid damage.
- Some vehicles, like certain Land Rovers, do not have a dipstick and require a fluid extractor to add new fluid. Consult your owner's manual to be certain.
How many quarts of transmission fluid does an impala take?
Automatic Transmission Fluid
7.4 quarts Initial Fill.
