What size rims do Impalas have?
There isn’t a single rim size for the Chevrolet Impala. Across its generations, wheel diameters have varied, with 18-inch rims being the most common in modern models, and smaller or larger sizes appearing depending on year and trim. To know the exact size for a specific car, check the door placard, owner’s manual, or the vehicle’s VIN/build sheet.
The following article outlines typical rim sizes by era and provides practical tips for verifying the correct size on your Impala, from newer sedans to older classics.
Modern Impalas (2014–2020)
In the modern, sixth-generation era, 18-inch rims are the standard and most widely seen size, with variations based on trim and optional packages. Some higher trims offered 19-inch wheels, and 20-inch wheels were rarely factory-installed and more common as aftermarket or special-edition options.
- 18-inch wheels are the default in most trims (e.g., LT and LTZ) for the 2014–2020 Impala.
- 19-inch wheels were available on certain trims or packages depending on the year.
- 20-inch wheels appeared mainly on special editions or aftermarket configurations rather than as a routine factory option.
In short, if you’re looking at a late-model Impala, expect 18-inch rims as the standard setup, with 19-inch options on some trims and limited 20-inch factory availability. Always verify the exact size for a given vehicle via the placard or dealer records.
Earlier Generations
Wheel sizes changed more across older Impalas as design trends and options evolved. Across decades, rims have ranged from compact to mid-sized diameters, with common sizes clustering around 14–18 inches depending on year, trim, and market. To determine the exact size for a specific vintage Impala, refer to the vehicle’s door placard or original build documentation.
- 1960s–1980s: many base models used smaller rims, typically in the 14–16-inch range, with higher trims offering larger alloys as options.
- 1990s–early 2000s: wheel sizes commonly fell in the 15–17-inch range, varying by trim and package.
- Mid-2000s: higher trims sometimes offered 17–18-inch wheels, while base models leaned toward smaller sizes.
Conclusion: The historical range is broad; for any specific classic or older Impala, verify the exact size from the car’s documentation or manufacturer specifications.
How to Verify the Exact Rim Size on Your Impala
When shopping for replacements or upgrades, use these practical checks to confirm the wheel size for your vehicle:
- Inspect the tire sidewall for the size code (for example, P235/50R18); the number after the "R" indicates the wheel diameter in inches.
- Look at the door jamb placard on the driver’s door frame for a wheel size designation (often shown as a numeric value like 18 x 7.5J).
- Consult the owner’s manual or the vehicle’s build sheet/VIN for the original equipment wheel size.
- If needed, contact a Chevrolet dealer with your VIN to confirm the exact factory wheel size for your car.
Conclusion: Verifying the precise size helps ensure proper fit, braking clearance, and accurate speedometer readings when replacing wheels or tires.
Summary
The Impala does not conform to a single wheel size. Modern models typically wear 18-inch rims, with 19-inch options available on some trims and limited 20-inch configurations in rare cases. Older Impalas used smaller diameters, generally ranging from the mid-teens to mid-20s in extreme cases across generations. To be certain, always check the door placard, owner’s manual, or dealer records for the exact rim size on your specific vehicle.
