History/Description:This generation of Chevrolet Impala has now been replaced by an all-new-for-2014 model, meaning it's transitioned fully into used-car territory.
All models were 4-door, front-wheel drive and fitted with an automatic transmission. Six- or 8-cylinder engines were available, with up to 303 horsepower. A 3.5L V6 generated 211 horsepower, and a 3.9L V6 generated 233.
Feature content included a range of upscale touches including a self-dimming rearview mirror, heated leather seating, automatic climate control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, satellite radio, and Bluetooth functionality.
Common Issues About A Used Chevrolet Impala:Numerous owners reported premature wear from the factory brakes and tires. Though this will largely be a function of driving habits and locale, be sure to inspect the condition and remaining life of both components ahead of your purchase.
Numerous owners have reported trouble with the transmission "slipping," perhaps especially when changing from reverse to drive. Ensure that's not the case with the transmission in the Impala you're considering.
Be sure to "feel" for any signs of slippage or hard shifting, which could indicate a problem with a pump or solenoid within the transmission or the computer control module that runs it. Note that many models in the used market will still have a good portion of Chevrolet's lengthy powertrain warranty remaining. Having a computer scan of the used Impala's PCM is highly advised, as it may reveal potential issues with the transmission or other components.
Intermittent power steering assist could be caused by a misaligned harmonic balancer, which also drives the power steering pump. This is a relatively easy fix.
On models with the 3.5L engine, be sure to check for oil and coolant leaks, particularly caused by leaky gaskets. A check of numerous posts on owner's forums shows that this engine may leak from its oil pan gasket, crank seals, crossover coolant pipes, and oil filter adapter. Some of these leaks will be easy for a mechanic to spot and fix. Some won't.
All models were 4-door, front-wheel drive and fitted with an automatic transmission. Six- or 8-cylinder engines were available, with up to 303 horsepower. A 3.5L V6 generated 211 horsepower, and a 3.9L V6 generated 233.
Feature content included a range of upscale touches including a self-dimming rearview mirror, heated leather seating, automatic climate control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, satellite radio, and Bluetooth functionality.
 |
| Photo: Matthieu Lambert |
Common Issues About A Used Chevrolet Impala:Numerous owners reported premature wear from the factory brakes and tires. Though this will largely be a function of driving habits and locale, be sure to inspect the condition and remaining life of both components ahead of your purchase.
Numerous owners have reported trouble with the transmission "slipping," perhaps especially when changing from reverse to drive. Ensure that's not the case with the transmission in the Impala you're considering.
Be sure to "feel" for any signs of slippage or hard shifting, which could indicate a problem with a pump or solenoid within the transmission or the computer control module that runs it. Note that many models in the used market will still have a good portion of Chevrolet's lengthy powertrain warranty remaining. Having a computer scan of the used Impala's PCM is highly advised, as it may reveal potential issues with the transmission or other components.
Intermittent power steering assist could be caused by a misaligned harmonic balancer, which also drives the power steering pump. This is a relatively easy fix.
On models with the 3.5L engine, be sure to check for oil and coolant leaks, particularly caused by leaky gaskets. A check of numerous posts on owner's forums shows that this engine may leak from its oil pan gasket, crank seals, crossover coolant pipes, and oil filter adapter. Some of these leaks will be easy for a mechanic to spot and fix. Some won't.
 |
| Photo: Matthieu Lambert |
Article Gallery