How much coolant does a 2008 Chevy Impala take per?
The 2008 Impala’s cooling system capacity depends on the engine. In general, the 3.5L/3.9L V6 versions hold about 7.5–9 quarts, while the 5.3L V8 in the SS trims takes roughly 12–14 quarts. All figures assume a full system fill with Dex-Cool coolant.
This article breaks down the capacities by engine option and provides practical guidance for refilling and maintaining the cooling system. It aims to help owners perform flushes, fills, and routine maintenance safely and accurately.
Coolant capacities by engine
The following ranges reflect a complete fill of the cooling system, including the radiator and heater core. Individual vehicles may vary slightly based on options and cooling-system configurations.
- 3.5L V6 (and similar 3.9L V6 variants used in some trims): approximately 7.5–9 quarts (7.1–8.5 liters).
- 5.3L V8 (Impala SS): approximately 12–14 quarts (11.4–13.3 liters).
Note: Exact capacity can vary by model year, trim, and equipment. For precise figures, consult the owner's manual or GM service data for your VIN.
How to refill and bleed the cooling system
When performing a coolant change or refill, follow these steps to ensure proper fill and to minimize air pockets in the system.
- Ensure the engine is completely cool before opening any coolant ports or reservoir caps.
- Use Dex-Cool coolant and mix it with distilled water to a 50/50 ratio unless your manual specifies a different mixture.
- Fill the reservoir with the premixed coolant until it reaches the "Full" line; if you’ve drained the radiator separately, fill the radiator to about 1/2 inch below the cap opening before starting the engine.
- Start the engine with the radiator cap off (or the reservoir cap loosely in place, depending on the procedure) and set the heater to maximum hot; allow the thermostat to open and the coolant to circulate.
- Watch for air bubbles and keep topping off the reservoir as the level falls; continue until the system stabilizes and there are no more air pockets.
- Turn the engine off, wait a few minutes, recheck the level, and top off if necessary. Replace the cap securely and recheck the level after the engine cools.
These steps help ensure a proper fill and reduce the risk of overheating due to trapped air.
Maintenance notes: coolant type and replacement intervals
Dex-Cool is a longer-life, orange coolant designed for GM vehicles. Do not mix Dex-Cool with other coolant types, and follow the replacement interval in the owner's manual. In many GM applications, Dex-Cool is intended to last about 5 years or 150,000 miles, but conditions vary. If in doubt, have a professional perform a coolant flush and refill using the correct spec for your vehicle.
Summary
The 2008 Chevy Impala’s coolant capacity hinges on the engine: about 7.5–9 quarts for the 3.5L/3.9L V6 and around 12–14 quarts for the 5.3L V8. Use Dex-Cool in a 50/50 mix with distilled water, and verify exact figures in the owner’s manual or GM service data. Proper refilling and bleeding are essential to prevent overheating.
