Au7o mascotAu7o
Known IssuesTest Hub demo
  1. Au7o
  2. /
  3. Known Issues
  4. /
  5. Chevrolet
  6. /
  7. Impala
Chevrolet · Known Issues

2000 Chevrolet Impala Problems: 5 Known Issues

2000 model year · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated September 2026

Share:@au7o.io

2000 · All trims · All engines

Choose the year and equipment for your written issues and visual request.

Known IssuesMotorcycle IssuesDTC LookupDrivePricingAboutTermsPrivacyCookiesConsentData rightsCopyrightFeedback
Share:@au7o.io

Vehicle data and repair guidance on this site are compiled with AI assistance and may contain errors. Always verify with your service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data protection representation

DataRep representative in the United KingdomDataRep representative in the European Union
Au7o · 2026
Built for DIY mechanics. Privacy-first.
Explore free Hub demo
No email neededHow interest is saved

Interest applies to the selected vehicle and configuration; it is not a reservation. Voting stores a first-party identifier for up to 180 days to prevent repeat votes. No account or email is needed. Clearing cookies or using another device may count separately. Privacy

Visual coming soon

Your interest helps us choose what to build next.

Visual Known Issues · Coming soon

$4.99/month plus taxes at launch · No payment today

Preview the XT6 example
Issue summary

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2000 Chevrolet Impala has 5 documented known issues, with 5 rated critical. The most serious are Leaking Fuel Pressure Regulator on 3800 V6 (L36) — Recall 04V090000, Passlock Security System No-Start Condition ($150-$600 repair), Intake Manifold Gasket Leak (3.4L/3.8L V6) ($300-$1,000 repair), Front Valve Cover Oil Leak Fire Hazard — 3.8L V6 Impala (Recall 09V116000) and 4T65-E Transmission Failure and Hard Shifts ($200-$3,500 repair). Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $150 to $3,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • Impala Engine2
  • Impala Fuel System1
  • Impala Electrical1
  • Impala Transmission1
  • Recalls6
  • FAQ
Get Started
Back to top

In This Article

  • Engine2
  • Fuel System1
  • Electrical1
  • Transmission1
  • Recalls6
  • FAQ
  • All 5 Known Issues

    Filter:
    ALL YEARS202020192018201720162015201420132012201120102009200820072006200520042003200220012000

    On the 2000-2005 Chevrolet Impala, the 3.4L and 3.8L V6 engines in 2000-2005 Impalas use Dex-Cool compatible intake manifold gaskets that deteriorate over time, causing coolant to leak externally or internally into the oil. External leaks appear as dried orange coolant trails on the engine block. Internal leaks contaminate the engine oil with coolant, turning it into a milky sludge that can destroy the engine bearings. This was one of the most widespread GM engine problems of the era and led to multiple class-action lawsuits.

    This issue also affects: Buick LeSabre, Buick Park Avenue, Buick Encore GX

    Common Symptoms

    • Orange/pink coolant leaking on engine block
    • Milky or chocolate-milk colored oil on dipstick
    • Coolant level dropping with no visible external leak
    • White smoke from exhaust
    • Overheating at idle
    • Sweet coolant smell from engine bay

    How to Fix

    Replace both intake manifold gaskets with the updated Fel-Pro design (not the original GM plastic gaskets). Parts cost $30-$80 for a quality gasket set. Labor is 4-6 hours ($400-$700) due to the need to remove the upper and lower intake manifolds, fuel rail, and wiring. If coolant has mixed with oil (milky dipstick), perform multiple oil changes in rapid succession to flush the contamination. Check the oil frequently after repair to ensure no internal damage occurred.

    Typical repair cost:$300 - $1,000

    Research This Issue

    GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
    Community Reported
    High Confidence

    On the 2000-2003 Chevrolet Impala, gM recall 09V116000 covers 2000-2003 Chevrolet Impalas built with the 3.8L naturally aspirated V6. The problem is not the oil leak itself but where the oil ends up: under hard braking, drops of engine oil can be deposited on the exhaust manifold. If the manifold is hot enough and the oil makes its way below the heat shield, it can ignite into a small flame that may spread to the plastic spark plug wire channel and beyond, increasing the risk of an engine compartment fire. Impalas of these years fitted with other engines are outside the campaign, so confirm the engine before assuming your car is affected. The recall population NHTSA reports — 1,497,516 vehicles — is the campaign-wide total covering every GM model in the recall.

    Common Symptoms

    • Burning oil smell after hard braking or hard stops
    • Smoke from the engine compartment
    • Visible oil on or near the exhaust manifold and front valve cover

    How to Fix

    The remedy is free at a Chevrolet dealer: replacement of the engine's front valve cover and front valve cover gasket with improved-design parts, plus removal of the engine's plastic cover and the plastic oil fill tube extension. Look up your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls first — this is a long-standing campaign and many cars were already repaired, but any Impala still showing it open is entitled to the work at no charge. GM's Chevrolet owner line for the campaign was 1-800-630-2438.

    Research This Issue

    GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
    Community Reported
    High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

    On the 2000 Chevrolet Impala, nHTSA lists the 2000 Impala in this recall when it left the factory with the 3800 V6 (L36) and one of the suspect Delphi fuel pressure regulators. Those regulators leak far more often than they should. On the Impala the leaked fuel does not simply drip away — it is drawn into the intake manifold through a vacuum line. Should the engine be cranked and fail to start, the fuel sitting in the manifold can be lit by a mistimed spark and backfire. NHTSA's stated consequence is a ruptured intake manifold, which can in turn displace a fuel line and pull an injector out of its bore, leaking fuel with a possibility of fire. Owner notification went out in phased mailings beginning June 30, 2004, with a second phase on September 30, 2004. Across every model in the campaign, 910,873 vehicles were involved.

    This issue also affects: Buick Envision, Chevrolet Blazer, Chevrolet Monte Carlo

    Common Symptoms

    • Engine cranks but does not start
    • Backfire while cranking
    • Fuel smell in the engine compartment
    • Fuel seepage at the pressure regulator

    How to Fix

    The fix is a replacement fuel pressure regulator with an improved diaphragm, installed free by a Chevrolet dealer under recall 04V090000. Recall repairs do not expire, so a 2000 Impala that never had the work done is still entitled to it. Look up your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to confirm the campaign is still open on your car before calling for an appointment.

    Find a Chevrolet dealer

    Choose to share your location for this search, or enter an area below. Your search location is sent to Google to find dealers.

    Open Chevrolet dealer map in Google Maps ↗

    Call to confirm they service Chevrolet vehicles and check your VIN, recall eligibility, parts availability, and appointment options.

    Research This Issue

    GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
    Community Reported
    Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

    On the 2000-2005 Chevrolet Impala, the Passlock anti-theft system causes intermittent no-start conditions where the security light flashes and the fuel pump is disabled. The ignition lock cylinder contains a Hall-effect sensor that reads a resistance value; when contacts wear or corrode, the BCM detects a mismatch and locks out fuel delivery. The problem typically worsens progressively from occasional to daily. 225+ complaints were filed for the 2002 model year alone.

    This issue also affects: Chevrolet Corvette, Chevrolet Colorado, Chevrolet HHR

    Common Symptoms

    • Security/theft light flashing on dashboard
    • Engine cranks but will not start
    • No-start condition occurs more frequently over time
    • Car starts after waiting 10+ minutes
    • SECURITY telltale illuminated

    How to Fix

    Typical repair cost:$150 - $600

    Research This Issue

    GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
    Community Reported
    Medium Confidence

    On the 2000-2013 Chevrolet Impala 3.8L Supercharged, the 4T65-E automatic transmission used in the 2000-2013 Impala is one of the most failure-prone GM transmissions. Common failures include the 1-2 accumulator piston cracking (causing harsh 1-2 shift), pressure control solenoid failure (erratic shifts and slipping), and the forward clutch hub cracking (complete loss of forward gears). The 3.8L supercharged models are especially hard on the 4T65-E due to higher torque output. Many 4T65-E transmissions fail between 80,000-120,000 miles.

    This issue also affects: Buick Enclave, Buick Encore GX, Buick Regal

    Common Symptoms

    • Harsh or banging 1-2 shift
    • Transmission slipping under acceleration
    • Loss of 3rd or 4th gear
    • Delayed engagement when shifting to Drive
    • Check engine light with transmission codes
    • Burnt fluid smell from dipstick

    How to Fix

    For early-stage issues (harsh shifts, slipping), a fluid change with ACDelco DEXRON VI and a pressure control solenoid replacement ($200-$400) may resolve the problem. Once the transmission is slipping badly or has lost a gear, a rebuild ($2,000-$3,000) or remanufactured transmission ($2,500-$3,500 installed) is required. When rebuilding, upgrade the 1-2 accumulator piston to the updated design and install a TransGo shift kit ($50) for improved durability. Change fluid every 30,000 miles to maximize the life of this transmission.

    Typical repair cost:$200 - $3,500

    Research This Issue

    GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
    Community Reported
    Medium Confidence
    NHTSA Recalls6 recalls

    ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION

    This defect can affect the safe operation of the airbag system. Until this recall is performed, customers should remove all items from their key rings, leaving only the ignition key. The key fob (if applicable), should also be removed from the key ring. General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2005-2009 Buick LaCrosse, 2006-2011 Buick Lucerne, 2000-2005 Cadillac DeVille, 2006-2011 Cadillac DTS, 2006-2014 Chevrolet Impala, and 2006-2007 Chevrolet Monte Carlo vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the weight on the key ring and road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position, turning off the engine.

    Campaign #14V35500023/06/2014

    AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION

    General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2009-2010 Chevrolet Impala vehicles manufactured April 25, 2008 through February 16, 2010. The front passenger seat frame may contact and damage the wires of the passenger presence sensor module.

    Campaign #16V50700005/07/2016

    SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER ARM

    General Motors (GM) is recalling certain model year 2008-2012 Chevrolet Impala police vehicles because the front lower control arms may fracture. This safety recall does not include non-police Chevrolet Impala vehicles.

    Campaign #12V37700003/08/2012

    SEAT BELTS:FRONT:ANCHORAGE

    GM IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2009-2010 CHEVROLET IMPALAS FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 210, "SEAT BELT ASSEMBLY ANCHORAGES." THE FRONT SAFETY BELT WEBBING MAY NOT HAVE BEEN PROPERLY SECURED TO THE LAP BELT ANCHOR PRETENSIONER MOUNTED TO THE SIDE OF THE SEAT NEAREST THE DOOR.

    Campaign #10V48000013/10/2010

    STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST:HOSE, PIPING, AND CONNECTIONS

    GM IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 CHEVROLET IMPALA VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM APRIL 19, 2011, THROUGH JULY 29, 2011. THE UPPER POWER STEERING HOSE MAY HAVE BEEN MISROUTED SO THAT IT CAN COME IN CLOSE PROXIMITY TO AND/OR CONTACT THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER. WITH THE ENGINE ON, HEAT FROM THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER MAY MELT THE POWER STEERING HOSE.

    Campaign #11V39800005/08/2011

    + 1 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov

    Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

    🔧
    A mechanic who knows YOUR exact car
    Answers tuned to your year, make, model & trim — not generic advice. Save your garage so it always has the right context.
    Get ahead of Chevrolet Impala problems — free
    Leave your email and we'll alert you the moment there's a new recall or known issue for your Chevrolet Impala. Free, no account needed.

    Don't see your problem? Describe your symptoms to get a diagnosis, or get a full repair guide.

    Other Chevrolet Models

    Chevrolet Silverado 150078Chevrolet Corvette59Chevrolet Equinox58Chevrolet Malibu44Chevrolet Camaro40Chevrolet Traverse37

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What are the most common Chevrolet Impala problems?

    According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2000 Chevrolet Impala has 5 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Leaking Fuel Pressure Regulator on 3800 V6 (L36) — Recall 04V090000, Passlock Security System No-Start Condition, Intake Manifold Gasket Leak (3.4L/3.8L V6). Of these, 5 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

    Is the Chevrolet Impala reliable?

    The 2000 Chevrolet Impala has 5 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 5 issues are rated critical: Leaking Fuel Pressure Regulator on 3800 V6 (L36) — Recall 04V090000 and Passlock Security System No-Start Condition and Intake Manifold Gasket Leak (3.4L/3.8L V6) and Front Valve Cover Oil Leak Fire Hazard — 3.8L V6 Impala (Recall 09V116000) and 4T65-E Transmission Failure and Hard Shifts. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

    How much does it cost to fix common Chevrolet Impala problems?

    Repair costs for known Chevrolet Impala issues range from $150 to $3,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

    What is the 2000 Chevrolet Impala Leaking Fuel Pressure Regulator on 3800 V6 (L36) — Recall 04V090000?

    NHTSA lists the 2000 Impala in this recall when it left the factory with the 3800 V6 (L36) and one of the suspect Delphi fuel pressure regulators. Those regulators leak far more often than they should. On the Impala the leaked fuel does not simply drip away — it is drawn into the… Severity: high.

    What is the 2000-2005 Chevrolet Impala Passlock Security System No-Start Condition?

    The Passlock anti-theft system causes intermittent no-start conditions where the security light flashes and the fuel pump is disabled. The ignition lock cylinder contains a Hall-effect sensor that reads a resistance value; when contacts wear or corrode, the BCM detects a mismatch… Repairs typically run $150-$600. Severity: high.

    What is the 2000-2005 Chevrolet Impala Intake Manifold Gasket Leak (3.4L/3.8L V6)?

    The 3.4L and 3.8L V6 engines in 2000-2005 Impalas use Dex-Cool compatible intake manifold gaskets that deteriorate over time, causing coolant to leak externally or internally into the oil. External leaks appear as dried orange coolant trails on the engine block. Internal leaks co… Repairs typically run $300-$1,000. Severity: high.

    What is the 2000-2003 Chevrolet Impala Front Valve Cover Oil Leak Fire Hazard — 3.8L V6 Impala (Recall 09V116000)?

    GM recall 09V116000 covers 2000-2003 Chevrolet Impalas built with the 3.8L naturally aspirated V6. The problem is not the oil leak itself but where the oil ends up: under hard braking, drops of engine oil can be deposited on the exhaust manifold. If the manifold is hot enough and… Severity: high.

    What is the 2000-2013 Chevrolet Impala 4T65-E Transmission Failure and Hard Shifts?

    The 4T65-E automatic transmission used in the 2000-2013 Impala is one of the most failure-prone GM transmissions. Common failures include the 1-2 accumulator piston cracking (causing harsh 1-2 shift), pressure control solenoid failure (erratic shifts and slipping), and the forwar… Repairs typically run $200-$3,500. Severity: high.

    Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

    Data compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, automotive forums, and AI-assisted research. No aggregated owner-report counts available for this vehicle yet.