The 2012 Chevrolet Impala is a large sedan with a price range of $7,798 to $11,193. A very stripped-down interior and old-fashioned driving feel are reasons to avoid the Impala.
2012 Chevrolet Impala: Quick Overview
- New features for the 2012 model year include a new V6 engine, 16-inch wheels, as well as revised steering and suspension components.
- Reliability ratings are great, according to J.D. Power, with fewer complaints than the outgoing 2011 model.
- One engine is available, offering good power for a sedan.
- Fuel economy is great, tying for 2nd place out of 8 large sedans with a combined rating of up to 22 miles per gallon.
- Safety ratings are average for the class, getting 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests.
- The 2012 Chevy Impala ranks 6th out of 8 large sedans based on owner reviews. Overall, the Impala is too outdated to recommend over the more modern choices on the market.
Expert Ratings
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Problems Does the 2012 Chevrolet Impala Have?
The 2012 Chevy Impala has an average number of problems compared to other large sedans in the same price range. There are a similar number of complaints as the newer 2013 model.
Air conditioning and heater problems are the most common issues. A knocking noise from the glove box area is usually a sign of a blend door actuator failure. Replacing the actuator assembly costs about $300 depending on local labor rates.
The traction control light turning on is another issue owners mention. When the light stays on, there’s usually a problem with a sensor or wiring harness. A further diagnosis of the problem is necessary to find the source, and repairs can cost $100 to $400.
Transmission problems, including excessive noise and slipping between gears are also brought up by owners. If there’s more noise than normal, checking and replacing the fluid is usually the first step in diagnosing the problem.
There are 3 recalls, which is better than other large sedans on the market. The recalls include the power steering hose, lower control arms, and the ignition switch turns off. Most serious is the ignition switch since the car turning off randomly can lead to a crash.
What are the Prices, Models & Specs?
The 2012 Chevrolet Impala is more affordable than other large sedans, with a price range of $7,798 to $11,193, depending on the model and mileage. When new, the price range was $25,760 to $30,300. Depreciation is faster than average, dropping about 50% in value over the first 5 years.
- LS is the entry-level model with 16-inch alloy wheels, cloth seating, keyless entry, cruise control, OnStar, and a 6-speaker AM/FM/CD stereo system with Bluetooth, AUX, and satellite radio.
- LT is next in the lineup and adds 17-inch alloy wheels, a remote start system, a spoiler, dual-zone climate control, and folding back seats.
- LTZ is the flagship version with 18-inch wheels, leather seating, heated front seats, and an 8-speaker Bose stereo system.
How Long Will the 2012 Chevrolet Impala Last?
A properly cared for 2012 Chevrolet Impala will last about 150,000 miles, which is shorter than some other full size cars. Regular annual maintenance prices are average for the class. Repair Pal estimates the costs to be about $586 per year.
It has had its fair share of issues. The area where the wheel connects wore out within the first 30,000 miles, but the warranty covered it. The air conditioning & heater stopped working at about 60,000 miles. The windows make a loud squealing noise when rolling up & the fan control actuator has gone out twice in short period. It is reliable in the sense that it's my workhorse, I put a lot of miles on it & sure it has issues though. I average $1,000 in repairs a year.
Yes, the car has problems I listed those problems in the last question. It needs a few repairs and then it would be as good as new.
It is reliable. It has had problems in the past. But I didn't buy the vehicle new either. I have had to replace the alternator, and an air filter.
I have had the usual routine stuff done for it and the only expensive fix that I didn't see coming was the cost of replacing a headlight (cannot just replace the bulbs). Car runs reliably.
It is for the most part reliable. It had issues about a month ago where it would not get much power even when flooring it but that turned out to be just a loose hose which I thought I checked.
It is reliable. I had to have a pressure fan replaced and repaired in it is all. It was a noise maker but the mechanic said it would not harm my car. Made a clicking sound. Other than that I have it on a maintenance routine. It is more expensive for the oils though.
It is very reliable. I have never had an issue with it of any kind. It has perfect handling, just a good overall car.
Very reliable and trustworthy vehicle maintenance is a very simple task not like previous cars I have owned.
What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?
Technology is very weak in the 2012 Impala, missing features found on other cars.
- Base technology includes OnStar, and an AM/FM/CD stereo system with satellite radio, Bluetooth connectivity, an AUX input, and 6 speakers.
- Upgrades include a more powerful Bose 8-speaker stereo system.
- Standard safety features include anti lock brakes, airbags, OnStar crash alert, as well as traction and stability control.
What Engine Options are Available?
Only one engine is available in the 2012 Impala, and is a 3.6L V6 with 300 horsepower. Performance is great for the class and price, taking only 6.6 seconds to go 0 to 60 miles per hour.
What Color Options are Available?
How Big is the Impala?
The 2012 Chevrolet Impala is a large 4-door sedan with more room than some of the competitors. There’s seating for up to 6 people with the optional front bench seat, which is rare for a sedan. Passenger room is excellent, with plenty of legroom in the back seats to fit adults. There’s also a large trunk with 18.6 cubic feet of room, enough space to fit 5 suitcases.
How Does the 2012 Chevrolet Impala Compare to Other Cars?
Ranking 6th out of 8 full size cars, based on owner reviews, the 2012 Chevy Impala is near the bottom of the class.
In first place is the more expensive Hyundai Genesis. Where the Hyundai stands out is with a more luxurious interior, better fuel-efficiency, and higher reliability ratings. The Chevy offers more power on the base model, and a roomier cabin. Overall, the Genesis is a better choice since you get a lot more for your money.
A close competitor is the Ford Taurus, which is also more costly. The Taurus is a more comfortable sedan with a softer suspension, and offers all-wheel-drive, which is missing on the Chevy. Where the Impala comes out ahead is with more passenger room, and better fuel-economy. Overall, the Taurus is a better choice since there are more standard features.
Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Chevrolet Impala a Good Car?
No, the 2012 Chevrolet Impala is not a good car, based on information from 482 verified owner reviews and 19 government and automotive websites. The positives include excellent passenger room for the class, and a powerful V6 engine. Downsides are lower reliability ratings, and worse technology than the competition. Overall, the 2012 Impala is a car buyers should skip since there are more up-to-date cars available.
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