2004 Chevrolet Impala

Introduction:

The 2004 Chevrolet Impala is a full-size sedan that offers a comfortable and spacious interior. Available engine options include a 3.4L V6 and a 3.8L V6, while transmission options include a 4-speed automatic and a 5-speed automatic. The 3.4L V6 produces 180 horsepower and 205 lb-ft of torque, while the 3.8L V6 produces 205 horsepower and 230 lb-ft of torque.

Owners praise the Impala’s roomy interior, comfortable ride, and affordable price. However, complaints revolve around its mediocre fuel economy, outdated design, and lack of features.

Engine

3.4L V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, rough engine idle, decreased power
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine noise, decreased power, Check Engine light
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $900+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.8L V6

• Oil Leak from Valve Cover Gaskets
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil dripping from the engine, visible gasket damage
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, decreased power, Check Engine light
  • Solution: Replace the EGR valve
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Shift Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping, delayed or harsh shifts
  • Solution: Replace the shift solenoid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping, overheating, shuddering, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Control Module (TCM) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission shifting problems, Check Engine light, limp mode
  • Solution: Replace the TCM
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Differential Pinion Seal Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the rear of the transmission, humming noise
  • Solution: Replace the differential pinion seal
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Noisy suspension, poor handling, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace the front struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+ per strut
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough ride, instability over bumps, reduced braking performance
  • Solution: Replace the rear shock absorbers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per shock absorber
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery not charging, Check Engine light
  • Solution: Replace the alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Discharge
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, slow cranking, loss of electrical power
  • Solution: Diagnose the cause of the battery discharge and repair the issue
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Variable, depending on the cause
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Power Window Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to operate the power windows
  • Solution: Repair or replace the window motor, switch, or wiring
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: No air flow from the HVAC system
  • Solution: Replace the blower motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handles snapping off
  • Solution: Replace the door handles
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per handle
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rust on Body Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Corrosion on the fenders, doors, or trunk lid
  • Solution: Repair or replace the affected body panels
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Variable, depending on the extent of the damage
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2004 Chevrolet Impala has a mix of minor and moderate issues across different components. Engine issues, such as intake manifold gasket failure and timing chain tensioner failure, can be costly to repair. Transmission problems, like shift solenoid failure and torque converter failure, are also common and can lead to expensive repairs. Electrical issues, such as alternator failure and battery discharge, are less severe but can still be inconvenient. Interior and exterior issues, while less costly, can affect the comfort and appearance of the vehicle. Overall, the reliability and repair costs for the 2004 Chevrolet Impala are average for its class, with some issues being more common than others.