The rise of SUVs has forced the Chevy Impala out of production after 10 generations. However, these vehicles still pack quite the punch and have lots to offer if you're in the market for a new car. Before you make your decision, it's wise to know some of the Chevy Impala's common issues and evaluate its overall reliability.

Chevy Impala Reliability Ratings

For many years, the Chevy Impala has been a go-to ride for many drivers. Of course, every car has its issues. However, this passenger sedan offers a convenient balance of comfort and safety. Most models with more problems are older or reach higher mileage than those without them.

In fact, newer Chevy Impalas receive high reliability ratings from some of the industry's top websites, including Kelley Blue Book (KBB) and RepairPal. The 2020 model, for example, offers ample cabin and trunk space, enhanced driver-assist safety features, a useful infotainment center and impressive interior conveniences. Because of this, the experts at KBB rated the car a 4.5 out of 5, while RepairPal rated it a 4 out of 5.

The Chevy Impala's Common Problems

Take a look at some of the most frequent problems Chevy Impalas are known to have.

Transmission

Many early 2000s Chevy Impala transmissions are known to fail as they approach 100,000 miles. Drivers have reported heavy jerking and hesitation accompanied with loud noises before their transmission failed completely. Premature wear or leaking fluid lines are often the culprit. Impala transmission pressure control solenoids often fail prematurely, making it extremely difficult and unpredictable to shift gears.

If you catch the problem early enough, a simple patch-up might be all you need. However, if the problem is left unchecked for a while, you might be looking at a complex repair or replacement of the solenoid or even the entire transmission. These projects could cost anywhere from $500 to over $3,000.

Oil

Chevy Impalas tend to use excessive amounts of oil, requiring more to be added quite regularly. Rather than oil leaking out of their systems, most Impalas have been seen to burn oil, going through it much quicker than other vehicles. Impalas that are approaching or have exceeded the 100,000-mile mark are extremely susceptible to burning oil.

Some owners report using about a quart of oil in a thousand miles, while others report oil not even showing up on the dipstick within a couple of weeks of adding oil. Since most oil changes happen between 5,000 to 7,500 miles, the increased oil consumption begins to eat a hole in owners' pockets.

Some professionals say this phenomenon is due to a design flaw, and others believe that replacing the oil pan will resolve the problem.

Intake Manifold Gasket

General Motors recalled many vehicles manufactured between 1995 and 2004 due to defective regulators and intake manifolds, but the Chevy Impala slipped through the cracks. These faulty components resulted in multiple class action suits, one of which saw more than $900,000 paid to roughly 5,800 Impala owners.

The issue many Chevy Impalas encounter is caused by premature degradation in the plastic components of the intake manifold gasket through a poor reaction with their standard Dex-Cool coolant. This damage allows coolant to leak and mix with oil, hurting the engine's overall condition. These Chevy Impala problems have an increased likelihood of causing motors to overheat and catch fire. Owners experiencing problems generally must replace their intake manifold gasket — or their entire engine in extreme cases, which comes with a hefty price tag.

There was never a recall for these vehicles, so those that are drivable are still on the road. However, General Motors has since updated the material used in the intake manifold gasket from plastic to steel, ensuring it doesn't negatively react with their Dex-Cool coolant.

Speed Sensors

Chevy Impalas are known for having jumpy speedometers, moving between speeds quickly and inconsistently. Sometimes, their speedometers stop working completely. This problem often links to their speed sensors, which can go bad or be unable to send signals successfully due to damaged or loose wires and connections.

When this happens, vehicles can experience a hesitation when accelerating, an inability to use cruise control and poor gear shifting. Speed sensors often play a role in the operation of the anti-lock brakes and traction control. So, when something goes wrong with the device, this will trigger the speed sensors' respective lights and also impact their performance.

Maintaining and replacing older speed sensors is essential to keep your speedometer, traction control and anti-lock braking systems in working conditions. It's wise to replace your sensors as they pass 100,000 miles and approach 150,000 miles.

Passlock

The Passlock system disables fuel distribution to the engine when the wrong bitted key is used. It is designed to prevent thefts in any of the Chevy Impala models, as well as General Motors' full line of vehicles. However, these systems within older Impalas are famous for having issues. In many instances, owners have been locked out of their cars, experienced flashing engine and security lights, and not noticed any cranking when attempting to start the vehicle.

Resetting your vehicle computer or using a bypass module could help in the short term. Usually, owners need to check the condition of their Passlock sensor, replace their body control module or install a new ignition switch to fix the problem. Depending on the fix, it can usually cost upward of $500.

Headlights

A very common problem with Chevy Impalas manufactured after 2014 involves their headlights. In a design overhaul, General Motors attempted to improve its lights. However, these changes shortened the distance they cover, decreasing the overall visibility they provide.

These designs also don't allow for proper ventilation, which allows condensation to build up. Too much condensation can cloud the housing unit, further reducing your headlights' performance. At the same time, some mechanics have remedied the condensation issue by drilling a small hole in the side of a headlight to allow water to drain. However, replacements might be necessary when problems are caused by faulty wires, blown fuses or bad bulbs. You can usually get to the bottom of the issue using an OBD-II scanner.

Shop Chevy Impala Parts at StockWise Auto

When it's time for replacements or repairs on your Chevy Impala, StockWise Auto is the first place you should look. We have created one of the largest inventories of aftermarket and OEM auto parts and equipment and are ready to supply you with everything you need to fix your vehicle. When you input your Chevy Impala's production year, we can display hundreds of components offering the perfect fit.

Take advantage of some of the most affordable products on the market and purchase your Chevy Impala parts today! Feel free to contact our team members online to learn more about what StockWise Auto can do for you.