What are the most common Chevrolet Impala problems?
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2003 Chevrolet Impala has 5 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Intake Manifold Gasket Leak (3.4L/3.8L V6), Front Valve Cover Oil Leak Fire Hazard — 3.8L V6 Impala (Recall 09V116000), 4T65-E Transmission Failure and Hard Shifts. Of these, 5 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Chevrolet Impala reliable?
The 2003 Chevrolet Impala has 5 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 5 issues are rated critical: Intake Manifold Gasket Leak (3.4L/3.8L V6) and Front Valve Cover Oil Leak Fire Hazard — 3.8L V6 Impala (Recall 09V116000) and 4T65-E Transmission Failure and Hard Shifts and Ignition Switch Failure and Recall (NHTSA 14V-394) and Passlock Security System No-Start Condition. 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 $0 to $3,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Intake Manifold Gasket Leak (3.4L/3.8L V6), typically costs $300-$1,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2000-2005 Chevrolet Impala Intake Manifold Gasket Leak (3.4L/3.8L V6)?
The 3.4L and 3.8L V6 engines in 2000-2005 Impalas use Dex-Cool compatible intake manifold gaskets that deteriorate over time, causing coolant to leak externally or internally into the oil. External leaks appear as dried orange coolant trails on the engine block. Internal leaks co… Repairs typically run $300-$1,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2000-2003 Chevrolet Impala Front Valve Cover Oil Leak Fire Hazard — 3.8L V6 Impala (Recall 09V116000)?
GM recall 09V116000 covers 2000-2003 Chevrolet Impalas built with the 3.8L naturally aspirated V6. The problem is not the oil leak itself but where the oil ends up: under hard braking, drops of engine oil can be deposited on the exhaust manifold. If the manifold is hot enough and… Severity: high.
What is the 2000-2013 Chevrolet Impala 4T65-E Transmission Failure and Hard Shifts?
The 4T65-E automatic transmission used in the 2000-2013 Impala is one of the most failure-prone GM transmissions. Common failures include the 1-2 accumulator piston cracking (causing harsh 1-2 shift), pressure control solenoid failure (erratic shifts and slipping), and the forwar… Repairs typically run $200-$3,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2003-2006 Chevrolet Impala Ignition Switch Failure and Recall (NHTSA 14V-394)?
The 2003-2006 Impala was included in the massive GM ignition switch recall affecting millions of vehicles. The ignition switch has a weak detent spring that allows the key to slip from the "Run" position to the "Accessory" or "Off" position while driving. When this happens, the e… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.
What is the 2000-2005 Chevrolet Impala Passlock Security System No-Start Condition?
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… Repairs typically run $150-$600. Severity: high.
