Is the Impala a reliable car?

Overall, the Chevrolet Impala is a reasonably reliable full-size sedan, especially in its later generations. Reliability varies by model year and maintenance history, so prospective buyers should review the specific year and service records. Note that GM ended production of the Impala after 2020, so current models are all pre-owned with reliability data drawn from the used market.

Reliability overview

This article examines how reliability has evolved across the Impala’s generations, what current owners and surveys say, and how to assess a used model before purchase.

Modern-era Impalas (2014–2020)

In the sixth and final generation, the Impala is generally seen as a solid, comfortable runner in the full-size segment. It benefits from later GM engineering, a spacious interior, and a calm ride. Reported issues tend to be infrequent and manageable with standard maintenance, with occasional electrical glitches or software updates noted by some owners rather than widespread defects.

• Overall reliability ratings for 2014–2020 models tend to fall within the average range for full-size sedans in major surveys.


• Major, systemic defects are not commonly reported; when problems occur, they are often tied to electrical systems, infotainment, or transmission software rather than chronic mechanical failures.

In practice, the modern Impala’s reliability is generally regarded as solid for daily driving, provided the vehicle has a documented maintenance history and reasonable mileage.

Earlier-era Impalas (2000–2013)

The fifth generation (2000–2013) offered strong value in a roomy, classic full-size package. Reliability is good on well-maintained examples, but older units can show wear typical of high-mileage vehicles, including transmission wear, electrical aging, and suspension components. Comprehensive maintenance history becomes increasingly important for these models.

• Reliability varies more by individual vehicle history due to age and miles.


• Transmission and electrical components are common wear points on higher-mileage examples if maintenance has been inconsistent.

For buyers, a thoroughly inspected late-model example from this era with complete service records can still be a dependable choice, but the risk of aging-related issues rises with mileage.

Buying considerations for used Impalas

Before you buy a used Impala, use these checks to gauge condition and anticipate potential repairs.

• Request full maintenance records, including fluids, timing/drive components, and any recalls or firmware updates.


• Have a trusted mechanic inspect the transmission, brakes, suspension, and engine for signs of wear, leaks, or timing-related issues.


• Test-drive to evaluate smoothness of shifting, braking response, steering alignment, and any unusual noises or vibrations.


• Check electrical systems, including lights, climate control, and infotainment, for intermittent faults.

A careful pre-purchase inspection and clean maintenance history can help identify models with a lower likelihood of expensive repairs.

Cost of ownership and maintenance expectations

Owning an Impala typically places it in the mid-range for maintenance costs within the full-size sedan class. Expect regular maintenance (oil changes, brakes, tires) to form the ongoing budget, with higher costs if aging components require replacement. Because GM ended production in 2020, parts availability for older models remains good, but some repairs may fall on the higher end of typical ownership costs if high-mileage or age-related issues arise.

• Fuel economy is generally reasonable for a full-size sedan, with variations based on the engine and transmission chosen in a given model year.


• Insurance costs are typically average for a mid-size-to-full-size sedan, influenced by driver history and miles driven.


• Depreciation is steepest for older model years, but well-maintained examples can retain value in the used market.


• Common maintenance items to budget for include tires, brakes, fluid services, and potential electrical/software updates.

Overall, the Impala offers predictable ownership costs for a family-friendly full-size sedan, especially when buyers select a well-documented, low-mileage example and maintain it regularly.

Summary

The Impala remains a practical and comfortable choice in the used full-size sedan market. Its reliability is generally solid, particularly in the 2014–2020 models, while older, high-mileage examples require careful inspection and maintenance history review. Because production ended in 2020, prospective buyers should focus on the condition and service history of available used units, and load up on a thorough pre-purchase inspection to minimize the risk of aging-related issues. In the right hands, the Impala can be a dependable, spacious, and economical daily driver.

How long do Chevy Impalas last?

Chevy Impalas can last for 135,000 to 150,000 miles on average, with many owners achieving over 200,000 to 300,000 miles, and some even exceeding 400,000 miles with proper maintenance. The key to achieving a long lifespan is consistent and timely maintenance, particularly oil changes. 
Factors influencing lifespan

• Maintenance: Regular oil changes, especially for the 3.6L engine, are crucial for its longevity. Addressing issues like minor transmission problems or excessive oil consumption early can also help. 
• Engine: Different engine options have varying reputations. While some 3.6L engines have been reported to have hiccups, many owners have seen them last to 300,000 miles or more with proper care. The 3.8L and 3.5L versions are also frequently cited as having long lifespans. 
• Driving habits: How the car is driven and its environment can impact its lifespan. For example, a car driven for city commutes may last longer than one used for constant long-distance highway driving. 

What to expect

• Average lifespan: Around 135,000 miles or 8.7 years, according to iSeeCars.com. 
• Good condition: With good maintenance, a lifespan of 150,000 miles is achievable, according to CarParts.com. 
• High-mileage examples: Many owners report reaching over 200,000 miles with minimal issues. Some have even reached 300,000, 400,000, or more miles on the original engine and transmission. 

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. 

What year is Impala most reliable?

Look for Newer Models: Stick with 2015 or newer Impalas, as these tend to be the most reliable. Get a Vehicle History Report: Always check the vehicle history to see if the car has been in any accidents or had major repairs. Take It for a Test Drive: Don't skip the test drive.

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.