Is the 2020 Chevy Impala a reliable car?
The 2020 Chevrolet Impala is generally considered a solid, reliable choice within the full-size sedan segment. As a used car, its reliability largely hinges on maintenance history and mileage. Notably, 2020 was the model’s final year of production, which means buyers should pay close attention to wear and service records when assessing value and future reliability.
Below we examine what reliability means for the 2020 Impala, how its powertrains hold up with proper care, what ownership data suggests, and practical steps to evaluate a used example before purchase.
Overview and final-year context
The 2020 Impala offered two engine choices—the economical 2.5-liter four-cylinder and the more powerful 3.6-liter V6—paired with a traditional front-wheel-drive setup. As Chevrolet’s large four-door sedan, it prioritizes interior space, ride comfort, and highway confidence. In reliability terms, it follows GM’s mainstream engineering: generally dependable with regular maintenance, but like any used car, outcomes vary based on how well the vehicle has been cared for and how many miles it has accumulated. Being the final model year, some parts and service considerations are specific to a retirement a key model might face in the used market, such as parts availability and resale dynamics.
Powertrains and reliability
The Impala’s two engines are straightforward and durable when properly serviced. The four-cylinder is designed for efficiency, while the V6 delivers stronger acceleration and smoother highway cruising. Transmission behavior tends to reflect GM’s mainstream automatics, with routine fluid changes and timely maintenance helping to minimize performance problems. Overall, there are no widespread, model-year-specific reliability red flags for the 2020 car when it has been well maintained.
What owners report and independent reviews
Independent reviews emphasize the Impala’s spacious cabin, comfortable seating, and solid highway manners. Owner feedback for the 2020 model year commonly notes good reliability for a large sedan when maintenance is up to date, with occasional reports of electrical or infotainment quirks—issues that are not unique to the Impala and are often resolved with software updates or a service visit. In aggregate, the 2020 Impala tends to be viewed as a dependable option within its class, especially if the vehicle has a documented service history.
Maintenance costs and ownership considerations
Reliability is reinforced by predictable maintenance needs and accessible parts. The 2020 Impala uses widely available GM parts, and routine maintenance tasks (oil changes, filter replacements, brake service, tire rotations) align with other mid- to full-size sedans. The V6 variant can incur higher maintenance costs over time due to fuel and component wear, but overall ownership costs are reasonable for a used full-size sedan. Mileage, driving style, and service frequency are the most influential factors in long-term reliability.
What to check when buying a used 2020 Impala
Before purchasing a used Impala, use the following checklist to gauge potential reliability and future upkeep needs.
- Maintenance history and service records, including any recalls addressed
- Thorough test drive to assess engine smoothness, transmission shifts, and throttle response
- Electrical system and infotainment operation (screen responsiveness, absence of warning lights)
- Brakes, steering, and suspension for alignment, noises, or vibration
- Underbody and engine bay for oil leaks, rust, or obvious wear
- Vehicle history report for prior accidents, flood damage, and odometer accuracy
A careful review of these items will help you determine whether a particular 2020 Impala is likely to be reliable in the coming years.
Safety, recalls, and ownership considerations
As with many mass-market vehicles, the Impala has experienced recalls over its production run. For a 2020 model, verify that all open recalls have been completed and review the latest safety campaigns. A clean recall history—paired with regular maintenance—typically correlates with more dependable ownership experiences. It’s worth confirming that safety systems and components have been inspected and updated as recommended by Chevrolet and the service technicians.
Bottom line
The 2020 Chevy Impala delivers a comfortable, spacious, and generally reliable option in the full-size sedan category. Its reliability profile aligns with other GM large sedans from the era, provided the vehicle has received consistent maintenance and a record of timely service. For prospective buyers, a thorough pre-purchase inspection and a complete service history are essential to maximizing long-term reliability and value in the used market.
Summary
In summary, the 2020 Impala stands up well as a reliable, comfortable, and practical full-size sedan, particularly for families or those who prioritize interior space. The final-year nature of the model makes a full maintenance history especially important when assessing used examples. With careful buying decisions and diligent upkeep, the 2020 Impala can be a dependable addition to a used-car lineup.
Is the Chevy Impala a dependable car?
Chevrolet Impala Reliability Rating Breakdown. The Chevrolet Impala Reliability Rating is 4.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 5th out of 12 for fullsize cars. The average annual repair cost is $568 which means it has average ownership costs.
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. |
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Other considerations
- 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.
Is the 2020 Impala reliable?
The 2020 Chevy Impala is considered a reliable full-size sedan, with an average reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5.0. It has low frequency and average severity for repairs, though common issues include transmission problems, starter motor failures, and power lock issues. The car also received high marks for safety from organizations like the IIHS and NHTSA.
You can watch this video to learn more about the 2020 Chevy Impala Premier: 54sKB CarsYouTube · Jan 14, 2020
Reliability and costs
- Overall rating: 4.0 out of 5.0, ranking it 5th out of 12 for full-size cars.
- Average repair cost: $568 per year, which is about average for its class.
- Frequency of repairs: Low.
- Major repairs: Uncommon.
Common problems
Transmission failure, Starter motor failure, Power lock and cylinder issues, Excessive oil consumption, and Heater issues.
This video discusses the reliability of a used 2020 Chevy Impala: 49sArik YeoYouTube · Feb 26, 2022
Safety and ratings
- Overall safety rating: 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
- Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS): Named a Top Safety Pick.
- Crash test ratings: Received "Good" ratings in most categories, with "Acceptable" in the small overlap front driver test.
- Headlight rating: Received a "Poor" rating for its standard headlights.
What is the most common problem with the 2020 Chevy Impala?
Common Problems with the 2020 Chevrolet Impala
- Headlights Problems: “The contact rented a 2020 Chevrolet Impala.
- Electrical System Problems: “The air conditioner tube was off inside the vehicle and caused massive leaking in the carpets.
- Steering Problems: “The contact owns a 2020 Chevrolet Impala.
- Air Bags Issues:
