Chevrolet Impala Problems: 4 Issues Every Owner Should Know
2000-2020 model years · Based on 0+ owner reports · Last updated March 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 0+ owner reports, the 2000-2020 Chevrolet Impala has 4 documented known issues, with 3 rated critical by the Au7o research team. The most serious are 4-Speed Automatic Transmission Failure (4T65E) ($1,500-$3,500 repair), Passlock Security System No-Start Condition ($150-$600 repair) and 4T65E Automatic Transmission Failure ($1,500-$4,000 repair). Across all issues, repair costs range from $150 to $4,000. Full technical analysis and DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
All 4 Known Issues
The 2006-2013 Impala uses the GM 4T65E 4-speed automatic transmission which is known for internal failures between 100,000-150,000 miles. The most common failure is the 1-2 accumulator piston crack, the pressure control solenoid wear, and the input drum sprag clutch failure. Hard or delayed shifts, slipping, and complete failure are all documented. The 4T65E is also used in many other GM front-wheel-drive vehicles of this era.
Common Symptoms
- Hard or delayed 1-2 shift
- Transmission slipping on acceleration
- Shudder when shifting gears
- No reverse or delayed reverse engagement
- Check engine light with P0741, P0742 (TCC codes)
- Transmission overheating warning
How to Fix
Rebuild the 4T65E with updated accumulator piston, pressure control solenoid, and sprag clutch. A remanufactured transmission is often more cost-effective than a rebuild. Sonnax offers updated internal components for rebuilders. Regular transmission fluid changes every 30,000 miles with Dexron VI significantly extend transmission life.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
- UpgradeSonnax 34994-01K accumulator piston kit - updated design that fixes the cracking issue (Sonnax #34994-01K)
- TipChange transmission fluid every 30k miles with Dexron VI - the 4T65E is reliable with regular fluid changes but fails when neglected
The 4T65E transmission in 2006-2013 Impalas develops slipping, shuddering, and premature failure. The torque converter clutch wears rapidly, and the 258mm torque converter is prone to warped TCC apply pistons. The problem is especially severe in SS models with the 5.3L LS4 V8, as the transmission was designed for V6 power. Many transmissions fail before 100,000 miles.
Common Symptoms
- Transmission slipping during acceleration
- Shuddering at highway speeds (TCC failure)
- Harsh or delayed 1-2 shift (slip-bang)
- Complete loss of movement after driving
- Transmission works briefly after engine restart
How to Fix
The Passlock anti-theft system causes intermittent no-start conditions where the security light flashes and the fuel pump is disabled. The ignition lock cylinder contains a Hall-effect sensor that reads a resistance value; when contacts wear or corrode, the BCM detects a mismatch and locks out fuel delivery. The problem typically worsens progressively from occasional to daily. 225+ complaints were filed for the 2002 model year alone.
Common Symptoms
- Security/theft light flashing on dashboard
- Engine cranks but will not start
- No-start condition occurs more frequently over time
- Car starts after waiting 10+ minutes
- SECURITY telltale illuminated
How to Fix
The 2014-2020 Impala uses an electric power steering system with a motor mounted on the steering column. The motor can fail, causing loss of power steering assist (steering becomes very heavy). The steering control module can also lose communication, triggering warnings. GM issued a recall for some model years.
Common Symptoms
- POWER STEERING or SERVICE STEERING warning
- Steering suddenly becomes heavy
- Intermittent power steering assist
- Clunking noise from steering column
How to Fix
Replace the electric power steering motor/column assembly. Remanufactured units available from Cardone. Recall coverage may apply - check with dealer.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
- TipCheck if your VIN is covered under the EPS recall before paying for repair
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Chevrolet Impala problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 0+ owner reports, the 2000-2020 Chevrolet Impala has 4 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: 4-Speed Automatic Transmission Failure (4T65E), Passlock Security System No-Start Condition, 4T65E Automatic Transmission Failure. Of these, 3 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Chevrolet Impala reliable?
The 2000-2020 Chevrolet Impala has 4 known issues documented across 0+ owner reports. 3 issues are rated critical: 4-Speed Automatic Transmission Failure (4T65E) and Passlock Security System No-Start Condition and 4T65E Automatic Transmission Failure. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Chevrolet Impala problems?
Repair costs for known Chevrolet Impala issues range from $150 to $4,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, 4-Speed Automatic Transmission Failure (4T65E), typically costs $1,500-$3,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What year Chevrolet Impala is the most reliable?
Reliability varies across model years of the Chevrolet Impala. Based on owner reports, issues are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 2000-2020 Chevrolet Impala with 4 documented issues from 0+ owner reports.
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