How Long Do Chevy Impalas Last? The Scoop on Vehicle Lifespan
Chevy Impala by Alexander-93 - CC-BY-SA-4.0
The Chevrolet Impala is one of our generation’s most iconic full-size sedans. From being the vehicle of choice for police officers and NASCAR drivers to being celebrated by rappers like Ice Cube, the Impala has quite the legacy. It has seen various transformations since its inception in 1958, from being a stylish yacht in the 1960s to a drag strip-ready vehicle in the 1990s. The final version of the Impala was a competent full-size sedan.
However, as with many sedans over the past years, the rapidly changing automotive market and declining popularity of sedans have caused GM to discontinue the Impala. Due to GM’s new commitment to electric cars and their strategy to transform their operations, the final model of this iconic nameplate rolled off the production line one last time on February 27th, 2020.
Regardless, full-size sedans still have a place in the market – and a used Impala is a great way to fill that niche. With its discontinuation, you’ll have no choice but to shop around the used car market for a pre-owned Impala. If you’re interested in this full-size sedan, you probably ask how long do Chevy Impalas last.
Today, we check out the longevity of the Chevy Impala, how many miles it can go, and if it’s a good long-term investment for used car buyers. Let’s take a look.
Just How Reliable is the Chevy Impala?
How long do Chevy Impalas last? Let’s first check out its long-term reliability. Reliable vehicles generally require less frequent and less costly repairs. For Impala owners, a reliable car translates to fewer trips to the mechanic and lower maintenance costs over the vehicle’s lifespan, and it can remain on the road for a longer time.
The full-size car segment is a relatively competitive segment with plenty of reliable models. Fortunately, the Impala has certainly held its own in the segment in terms of reliability. RepairPal says the Impala has a reliability score of 4.0 out of 5.0, making it the 5th most reliable full-size car out of 12 models. Plus, its average annual repair cost of $568 puts it slightly below the average for full-size sedans. On the other hand, the Impala netted a score of 61.7 from WithClutch, which is considered very reliable by the website.
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On the other hand, users from various forums have also shared their experiences with the Impala. Owners from the Impala forums generally perceive the car as a reliable vehicle – particularly the models with a 3.8L engine. One user chimed in about their experience with a 2002 base Impala purchased with only 32,000 miles on it and found it to be very reliable.
As always, remember that not all Impala models are reliable. In fact, some Impala model years are best avoided due to the high number of complaints and known reliability woes. For example, the 2003 Impala is one of the least reliable years due to major issues like transmission slippage and intake manifold gasket failure.
How Many Miles Can a Chevy Impala Last?
It’s a good thing that the Chevy Impala’s reliability has translated well for its life expectancy. Although there’s really no accurate way to gauge the lifespan of your Impala, many owners have shared their vehicle’s lifespan. Based on available data and owner reports, the Chevy Impala can last up to between 160,000 and 200,000 miles.
Once again, folks from the Impala forums confirm these numbers. Generally, many users emphasize that the longevity of the Impala largely depends on how well the car is maintained. The sentiment “take care of your car, and it will take care of you” is echoed by several members. One person reported that their 2001 Impala reached 200k miles with only minor maintenance, like changing shocks and a thermostat. Meanwhile, another shared that a 2003 Impala with a 3.4 engine surpassed 250,000 miles with regular maintenance. Lastly, another owner of a 2000 Impala LS stated it had 171,600 miles and only required a radiator and power steering pump replacement in their ownership.
However, before you can hope to reach such high mileage, the common denominator from these reports is proper care and maintenance. Proper care and attention to potential issues can significantly extend your vehicle’s life.
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How Many Miles are Too Many for a Used Chevy Impala?
Despite the Impala’s potential for a long lifespan, please don’t take it as a green light for you to finalize that deal on a high-mileage unit. Below is a quick breakdown of what you can expect from a used Chevy Impala based on the current mileage:
- Below 50,000 miles: Impalas in this range are almost brand-new. However, it doesn’t mean that it was treated right, so look for signs of wear and tear and exterior blemishes. Also, check the warranty status, as this can provide added peace of mind.
- 50,000 to 100,000 miles: At this range, the Impala should be due for some significant maintenance jobs, including the timing belt or major fluid changes. Ensure these have been done, or factor them into your budget.
- Over 100,000 miles: We’re in the high mileage range. While many Impalas can run well beyond this mileage, it won’t hurt to be cautious. Have a trusted mechanic inspect the vehicle, focusing on the engine, transmission, and suspension. With higher mileage, you have more room to negotiate on price.
Overall, when considering a used Chevy Impala, it’s crucial to look beyond just the mileage. A well-maintained older model with higher miles might be better than a newer, low-mileage model that hasn’t been cared for.
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Is a Chevy Impala a Worthy Investment?
How long do Chevy Impalas last? We hope this guide has answered your burning questions about this car’s longevity. The Impala is one of the best affordable large cars in the segment. It has potent engine options, a cavernous interior and cargo, and a balanced, comfortable handling. When looking at a used Impala, look past the mileage and ensure it’s been adequately taken care of.
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