2006 Chevrolet Chevy

The 2006 Chevrolet Chevy, specifically the Impala, was a popular full-size sedan known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and value for money. Available engine options included a 3.5L V6 (211 hp, 214 lb-ft torque) and a 3.9L V6 (242 hp, 240 lb-ft torque). Both were paired with a 4T65E 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciated the Impala’s reliability and fuel efficiency for its size, but common complaints centered around some specific mechanical and electrical issues that emerged as the cars aged.

Engine

3.5L V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks externally from the intake manifold gasket area. Can lead to overheating and loss of coolant.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor
  • Description/Symptoms: Causes the engine to run rough, stall, or have poor fuel economy. The check engine light will typically illuminate.
  • Solution: Replace the MAF sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

3.9L V6

• Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine runs rough, hesitates, or has reduced power. Check engine light illuminates with codes related to VVT.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty VVT solenoid(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks externally from the valve cover gasket. Can lead to burning oil smell and low oil level.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $450
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4T65E 4-Speed Automatic (Used with both 3.5L and 3.9L)

• Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations during light throttle acceleration at highway speeds. Can trigger diagnostic trouble codes.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the transmission torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Hard or Erratic Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh upshifts or downshifts, slipping between gears, or failure to shift at all.
  • Solution: Often requires a transmission rebuild or replacement if the problem is severe. Could potentially be a faulty shift solenoid or pressure switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+ (solenoid); $1500 - $3500+ (rebuild/replace)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially over bumps. Reduced ride quality.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600 (per axle)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Coil Spring Sagging/Broken
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sits lower than normal. Reduced ride quality and handling.
  • Solution: Replace the rear coil springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Body Control Module (BCM) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent problems with power windows, door locks, security system, or interior lighting.
  • Solution: Diagnose the BCM and either repair or replace it.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ignition Switch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle stalls, refuses to start, or accessories malfunction.
  • Solution: Replace the ignition switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Rocker Panels and Quarter Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust develops on the lower portions of the body, especially in areas prone to salt exposure.
  • Solution: Repair or replace rusted panels, followed by paint and bodywork.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ (depending on severity and repair method)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks develop in the dashboard, particularly in vehicles exposed to high temperatures and sunlight.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard or use a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2006 Chevrolet Impala, while generally a reliable vehicle, does suffer from some common issues as it ages. Engine issues such as intake manifold gasket and VVT solenoid failures, along with transmission problems like TCC failure, can be costly to repair. Electrical issues and suspension wear are also prevalent. The severity of these issues varies, but addressing them promptly can prevent further damage and maintain the vehicle’s reliability and value. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others, like transmission rebuilds or significant body rust repair, can be quite costly.