2006 Chevrolet Impala

The 2006 Chevrolet Impala is a popular full-size sedan known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and relatively affordable price point. Engine options include a 3.5L V6 (211 hp, 214 lb-ft of torque) and a 3.9L V6 (242 hp, 242 lb-ft of torque), both paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. A 3.5L V6 FlexFuel option was also available. Owners appreciate the car’s reliability and smooth ride, but common complaints include issues with the electrical system and some drivetrain components.

Engine

3.5L V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine overheating, coolant loss, white smoke from the exhaust, rough running engine.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor
  • Description/Symptoms: Poor fuel economy, rough idle, stalling, and the check engine light may illuminate.
  • Solution: Replace the MAF sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

3.9L V6

• Valve Lifter Noise/Failure (AFM Related)
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking or tapping noise from the engine, especially at idle or low speeds. Can lead to misfires and reduced engine performance due to the Active Fuel Management (AFM) system.
  • Solution: Replace faulty valve lifters. AFM Disabling kits can prevent failure from occurring again.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (4T65E)

• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: Shaking or shuddering sensation, particularly when the transmission is shifting or under light acceleration. Often most noticeable between 30-45 mph.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and/or torque converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ for fluid flush. $800 - $1500+ for torque converter replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Hard or Erratic Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Delayed, harsh, or unpredictable gear changes. Can be caused by worn valve body components.
  • Solution: Valve body replacement or transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+ for valve body. $2000 - $4000+ for rebuild.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ (for both sides)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Coil Spring Sag/Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sits low in the rear, especially when loaded. Spring breakage can cause a clunking or popping noise.
  • Solution: Replace the rear coil springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ (for both sides)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Instrument Panel Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges (speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, etc.) malfunction, flicker, or stop working altogether.
  • Solution: Replace or repair the instrument panel cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: Recall #07V023000: Instrument Panel Lighting
• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows become slow, noisy, or stop working entirely.
  • Solution: Replace the power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per window.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Passlock Security System Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle will not start, and the security light flashes. This is due to a failure in the Passlock anti-theft system.
  • Solution: Passlock relearn procedure or replacement of the Passlock sensor. In some cases, more extensive electrical diagnostics may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: The exterior door handles, particularly on the driver’s side, are prone to breaking.
  • Solution: Replace the broken door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The headliner fabric begins to detach from the roof and sag down.
  • Solution: Replace the headliner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2006 Chevrolet Impala presents a mix of potential issues. Engine and transmission problems, while not universally experienced, can be costly, especially for the 3.9L engine with AFM and the 4T65E transmission. Electrical issues, particularly with the instrument panel and Passlock system, are also common and frustrating. Suspension and interior concerns add to the overall ownership experience. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others can lead to significant expenses, making careful inspection and maintenance essential for prospective buyers.