The 2011 Chevrolet Impala is a large sedan available from $7,183 to $10,585. Serious problems with higher mileage examples make this a car buyers should avoid.
- A roomy cabin with seating for up to 6 people.
- Fuel economy is good for a full size sedan.
- More cargo space than other sedans on the market.
- The interior materials are very cheap for its class.
- Mechanical problems including transmission failures are common.
- Handling is poor and it feels floaty to drive.
2011 Chevrolet Impala: Quick Overview
- No major changes for the 2011 Impala, with a complete redesign for the 2014 model year.
- Reliability is below average for a large sedan.
- Two engines are available. Both are V6, but the one found in the LTZ model is more powerful.
- The Impala ranks 2nd out of 9 large sedans in fuel economy, with a combined rating of up to 23 miles per gallon.
- Safety is average for its class, earning a 4-star rating in government crash tests.
- The 2011 Impala is a comfortable large sedan, but poor reliability and a lack of technology make this a car that shoppers should avoid. There are better, longer lasting full size sedans on the market.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Problems Does the 2011 Chevrolet Impala Have?
The 2011 model year is for the Impala has fewer problems compared to other years based on the number of complaints. However, it still has more problems than its competitors. Transmission failures are the most common problem reported by owners and typically happen around 95,000 miles. If you test drive a used Impala, make sure it shifts smoothly between gears and listen for any noises coming from the transmission. Owners have also reported the engine losing power, and in some cases, a computer failure causes it. Loud ticking noises from the A/C system are also common. Usually the source of the problem is a broken blend door actuator.
There are 2 recalls affecting the 2011 Impala, lower than average for a car its age. The first recall is for the lower control arms in the suspension breaking. Second is for the ignition switch turning off suddenly, which will lead to a loss of power and increase the risk of an accident.
What are the Prices, Models & Specs?
A used 2011 Chevy Impala is more affordable than other large sedans, and available from $7,183 to $10,585 depending on the mileage and trims, including LS, LT, and LTZ. When new, it had a retail price of $24,495 to $30,035. The Impala depreciates faster than average, losing 50% of its value in the first 5 years.
- The base Impala is the LS Standard features include cloth seating, 17-inch wheels, 6-way power adjustable seats, remote keyless entry, OnStar, and an AM/FM/CD stereo system with an AUX input.
- Above that is the LT. Additions include illuminated vanity mirrors, dual-zone climate control, fog lights, remote engine start, and Bluetooth connectivity.
- At the top of the lineup is the LTZ. Luxury features are heated leather seats, an upgraded sport-tuned suspension, larger 18-inch wheels, and a Bose stereo system.
How Long Will the 2011 Chevrolet Impala Last?
Based on ownership data, a 2011 Chevrolet Impala should be able to last 150,000 miles with proper care. It is lower than the industry average of 200,000 miles, primarily because of transmission failures. Repair Pal estimates it will cost $580 per year to maintain an Impala, average for its class.
It is very reliable. Other than regular maintenance, the only thing I have done is replace the battery and replace a 20.00 piece for the heat and air.
Kinda. The transmission completely locked up after we had it 1 week. The alternator, starter have also been replaced since I've had it. Also it had an ignition switch problem that was also fixed my recall.
The car is very reliable except for transmission problems in its history. I had my own transmission fail and need to be replaced recently.
The only problem I am having with my vehicle is that my locks quit working. I cannot unlock any of my door besides the driver door with either my key fob or from inside the vehicle. I have to pull the unlock the doors from the inside by pulling up the locks.
Yes my 2011 Chevrolet impala lt retail is very reliable I have never been stuck anywhere it is very dependable I have not had any problems except having to change the belt.
Yes it very reliable I haven't had any problem with it at all. I've had the car for over a year and it's still in perfect condition as when I purchased it.
Its reliable but the transmission slips and had recently spent $700 in the last 2 months and going to half to spend another $300 for new tires.
Yes, minor issues. Cosmetic issues from being rear-ended, also there's been a power steering leak that will require new lines.
What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?
Technology is below average in the 2011 Impala, missing features such as navigation that are found in other full size sedans.
- Base technology includes a stereo system with AM/FM/CD playback, a 3.5mm AUX input jack, and OnStar.
- Upgrades include a Bose stereo system for better sound, and Bluetooth connectivity.
- For safety, there are 6 airbags, antilock disc brakes, and a traction control system.
What Engine Options are Available?
The 2011 Chevrolet Impala engines include two decent options: 3.5L V6, and more powerful 3.9L V6. Performance is weak in the 2011 Chevy Impala. The most powerful version is still slow for its class and goes from 0 to 60 in 7.8 seconds
- The base engine is found in the LS and LT models, it’s a 3.5L V6 with 211 horsepower.
- An upgraded 3.9L V6 making 230 horsepower is in the LTZ model.
What Colors Options are Available?
How Big is the Impala?
The 2011 Chevy Impala is a large, full size sedan, similar in size to other vehicles in its class. Passenger space is very good in the Impala, and it can seat up to 6 people with the front bench seat configuration. Cargo space is excellent as well, with 18.6 cubic feet of room in the trunk, enough space for five suitcases.
How Does the 2011 Chevrolet Impala Compare to Other Cars?
Based on owner reviews, the 2011 Impala ranks 7th out of 9 large cars, putting it near the bottom of the pack. Leading the large car class is the Toyota Avalon, which is one of the longest lasting choices. The Impala has more passenger room, but the interior quality is better in the Toyota. Overall, the Avalon is the better car with significantly fewer problems than the Chevy.
Another rival to the Impala is the Ford Taurus, one of the most powerful large cars in this price range. Technology and reliability are both better in the Taurus, but cargo space is better in the Chevy. The Impala has a smoother suspension, but the weaker engines make it less enjoyable to drive. Comparing the two, the Taurus is the better choice.
Final Verdict: Is the 2011 Chevrolet Impala a Good Car?
Based on ownership data, we can say that, no, the 2011 Impala is not a good car. Some benefits include a comfortable ride and excellent cargo space. The negatives outweigh the benefits, though, with common transmission failures, and a poor quality interior. Overall, the Impala is a car that buyers should skip.
