2016 Chevrolet Impala
Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints associated with the 2016 Chevrolet Impala, categorized by component, engine and transmission option. The 2016 Chevrolet Impala is a full-size sedan that offers a comfortable ride and spacious interior. Engine options include a 2.5L inline-4 producing 196 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque, a 3.6L V6 producing 305 hp and 264 lb-ft of torque, and a mild-hybrid 2.4L inline-4 “eAssist” engine. All engines are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Impala for its smooth ride, roomy cabin, and user-friendly infotainment system. Common complaints include some reliability concerns and occasionally lackluster fuel economy, particularly with the V6 engine.
Engine
2.5L Inline-4
- Excessive Oil Consumption
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than expected oil consumption between oil changes. Symptoms include needing to add oil frequently, blue smoke from the exhaust, and a low oil level warning light.
- Solution: Monitor oil levels frequently and address any leaks or other potential causes of oil loss. If consumption is excessive, a dealer may recommend an oil consumption test and potentially engine repairs or replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5000+ (depending on the extent of the issue)
- Recalls: None Found
- Purge Solenoid Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The Purge Solenoid can fail causing a check engine light. The engine may also run rough.
- Solution: Replace the Purge Solenoid.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$300
- Recalls: None Found
3.6L V6
- Timing Chain Wear/Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced premature timing chain wear, leading to engine misfires, rough idling, and potential engine damage. A check engine light will typically illuminate.
- Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, guides, and tensioners is required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Excessive Oil Consumption
- Description/Symptoms: Similar to the 2.5L, some V6 owners report higher than expected oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs.
- Solution: Monitor oil levels and address any leaks or obvious causes of oil loss. If consumption is excessive, a dealer may perform an oil consumption test and recommend engine repairs or replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5000+ (depending on the extent of the issue)
- Recalls: None Found
2.4L Inline-4 “eAssist”
- No Issues Found
Transmission
6-Speed Automatic (All Engines)
- Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported rough or jerky shifting, particularly between certain gears. Hesitation when accelerating is also a common complaint.
- Solution: In some cases, a transmission fluid flush and software update may resolve the issue. More severe cases may require valve body replacement or a full transmission rebuild/replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid flush/software) - $4,000+ (transmission replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Torque Converter Shudder
- Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration felt at highway speeds, especially during light acceleration, can indicate a failing torque converter.
- Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Premature wear or failure of struts and shock absorbers can lead to a bouncy or unstable ride, excessive body roll in corners, and clunking noises.
- Solution: Replacement of the affected struts or shock absorbers.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per strut/shock, depending on location and labor.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Infotainment System Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The MyLink infotainment system can experience glitches such as freezing, slow response times, Bluetooth connectivity problems, and screen blackouts.
- Solution: Try performing a system reset. A software update from the dealer may also resolve the issue. In some cases, the infotainment unit may need replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (reset/update) - $1,000+ (unit replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the battery draining quickly, especially if the vehicle sits for an extended period.
- Solution: Check for parasitic draws, ensure the battery is in good condition, and consider replacing the battery if necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ (battery replacement), additional cost for parasitic draw diagnosis/repair.
- Recalls: None Found
- Power Window/Door Lock Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: Power windows may fail to operate correctly, or door locks may become unresponsive.
- Solution: Replacing the window motor or door lock actuator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150-$400+ depending on the component.
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Headlight Condensation
- Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housings.
- Solution: Depending on the severity, drilling small drain holes may help. Otherwise, headlight replacement is the typical solution.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $500+ per headlight (replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Seat Heater Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The seat heaters may stop working.
- Solution: Check the seat heater wiring harness and connectors for damage. Replacing the seat heater element is often the fix.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Cracked Dashboard
- Description/Symptoms: The dashboard can crack, particularly in warmer climates
- Solution: Replacing the dashboard.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2016 Chevrolet Impala is generally a reliable car, but it has some common issues that potential buyers should be aware of. Engine problems, particularly oil consumption and timing chain wear in the V6, can be costly to repair. Transmission issues can also be expensive. Electrical problems, such as infotainment system glitches, are generally less severe but can be annoying. Addressing these potential issues early can help maintain the vehicle’s reliability and longevity. The severity of the issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical repairs. Repair costs can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the specific problem and the extent of the damage.