Post
Research the Car Logo

2015 Chevrolet Impala

The 2015 Chevrolet Impala marked a significant redesign for the model, offering a more stylish and refined full-size sedan experience. Engine options for the 2015 Impala included a 2.5L Inline-4 producing 196 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, a 3.6L V6 generating 305 horsepower and 264 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.4L Inline-4 with eAssist technology providing 182 horsepower and 172 lb-ft of torque. All engines were paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally praised the Impala for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and updated styling. Criticisms often focused on the infotainment system, particularly earlier versions, and some reports of reliability issues with specific components.

Engine

2.5L Inline-4

  • Excessive Oil Consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than normal oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Symptoms may include a low oil light illuminating, engine knocking, or visible blue smoke from the exhaust.
    • Solution: The fix may involve replacing the piston rings or, in severe cases, replacing the entire engine.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

3.6L V6

  • Timing Chain Wear/Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The 3.6L V6, can experience premature timing chain wear. Symptoms include a rough idle, engine misfires, a check engine light, and a rattling noise from the engine.
    • Solution: The timing chains, tensioners, and guides need to be replaced.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000
    • Recalls: None Found

2.4L Inline-4 with eAssist

  • eAssist System Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The eAssist system, which provides mild hybrid functionality, can experience failures. Common symptoms include a check engine light, reduced power, and erratic operation of the start/stop system.
    • Solution: Diagnosis and repair may involve replacing the Belt Alternator Starter (BAS) unit, battery pack, or associated control modules.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $4,000
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (All Engines)

  • Harsh Shifting/Slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported harsh or erratic shifting, particularly between certain gears. Slipping during gear changes or a delay in engagement can also occur.
    • Solution: The issues might stem from a faulty valve body or worn solenoids within the transmission. A software update might resolve some issues, but more serious problems may require a valve body replacement or a full transmission rebuild.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Premature Strut/Shock Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Owners have noted premature wear or failure of the front struts and rear shocks. Symptoms include excessive bouncing, poor handling, and clunking noises over bumps.
    • Solution: Replacement of the struts and/or shocks is necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,200
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Infotainment System Glitches
    • Description/Symptoms: The MyLink infotainment system has been reported to experience glitches, including freezing, unresponsive touchscreens, and Bluetooth connectivity issues.
    • Solution: A software update may resolve some problems. In more severe cases, the infotainment unit might need to be replaced.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (Software Update) - $1,500 (Replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Battery Drain Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced unexpected battery drain, especially when the vehicle is left unused for extended periods.
    • Solution: This issue is often traced to parasitic drain from aftermarket accessories or a failing battery. A thorough electrical system check can identify the source of the drain, followed by repair or battery replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Headlight Condensation
    • Description/Symptoms: Condensation can build up inside the headlight housings.
    • Solution: Some owners have attempted to seal the headlight housings better, while others opt for replacing the entire headlight assembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $1,000
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Air Conditioning Problems
    • Description/Symptoms: Reports of the A/C system blowing warm air or failing to cool effectively.
    • Solution: Repair may involve recharging the refrigerant, replacing the compressor, condenser, or other components of the A/C system.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2015 Chevrolet Impala has a mix of common issues. Engine problems, particularly with the 3.6L V6 timing chain and excessive oil consumption on the 2.5L I4, can be costly to repair. Transmission issues, along with electrical glitches and suspension wear, also contribute to potential maintenance expenses. While some issues are minor, others can be quite severe, potentially leading to repair bills in the thousands of dollars.

This post is licensed under CC BY 4.0 by the author.