This page covers 2 recalls, 258 owner complaints, NHTSA crash-test ratings and EPA fuel economy for the 2012 Chevrolet Impala.
22 mpg combined
10.7 L/100km
Large Cars
Fuel economy data from fueleconomy.gov (EPA / U.S. Dept. of Energy). Annual cost based on 15,000 mi/yr at 55% city driving and current fuel prices. MPG is U.S. gallons; L/100km converted. Ranges reflect the 2 tested variants for this model year.
4/5 Overall
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating
Electrical and steering issues dominate what owners of the 2012 Impala report. On the electrical side, owners describe a range of problems including faulty control modules, intermittent warning lights, recurring trouble codes, and components like the throttle body or transmission control module losing communication with the engine. Steering complaints center on the wheel seizing or becoming very difficult to turn while driving, often without any warning light appearing beforehand. Engine reports, the third most common category, include misfires, stalling while in motion, and camshaft position sensor codes that return even after servicing. Some owners also mention repeated failures of stability and traction control components, requiring multiple repairs to the same system.
258
Total Complaints
20
Crash-Related
5
Fire-Related
12
With Injuries
By System
The 2012 Chevrolet Impala has two recalls, the more serious being a fire risk on certain vehicles where a misrouted power steering hose can contact the catalytic converter, melt, and spill fluid onto the hot exhaust, igniting an engine compartment fire.
The second recall affects police package vehicles only: the front lower control arms can fracture, causing sudden loss of steering and directional control and raising the risk of a crash.
At a glance
What can fail
The front lower control arms may fracture, potentially affecting steering and suspension stability.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace both front lower control arms at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
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Ratings from NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).
Complaints are owner-reported and reflect individual experiences, not confirmed defects. They are distinct from recalls. Data sourced from the national vehicle safety complaint database. See trending complaints →
At a glance
What can fail
The upper power steering hose may be routed too close to the catalytic converter. Engine heat can melt the hose.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect the hose routing and correct it if needed at no charge.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
