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Chevrolet · Known Issues

2010 Chevrolet Impala Problems: 10 Known Issues

2010 model year · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2010 Chevrolet Impala has 10 documented known issues, with 3 rated critical. The most serious are Reduced Engine Power / Service StabiliTrak from Throttle Body Failure ($100-$450 repair), Key Ring / Key Head Ignition Recall 14V355000 (2006-2014 Impala) and 4T65-E Transmission Failure and Hard Shifts ($200-$3,500 repair). Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $30 to $3,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • Impala Electrical4
  • Impala Transmission1
  • Impala Fuel System1
  • Impala Brakes1
  • Impala Cooling1
  • Impala Steering1
  • Impala HVAC1
  • Recalls1
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Electrical4
  • Transmission1
  • Fuel System1
  • Brakes1
Cooling
1
  • Steering1
  • HVAC1
  • Recalls1
  • FAQ
  • All 10 Known Issues

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    On the 2006-2016 Chevrolet Impala, impalas frequently throw a cluster of warnings at once — 'Engine Power Reduced,' 'Service StabiliTrak,' and 'Service Traction Control' — that are usually one underlying drive-by-wire fault rather than three separate failures. The most common root cause is the electronic throttle body actuator (or the dual throttle-position sensors inside it) going out of range; the accelerator pedal position sensors can also disagree. Because the ECM cross-checks these dual sensors, any disagreement forces the car into limp-home mode with drastically reduced power. Carbon buildup on the throttle plate aggravates it, especially in cold weather.

    This issue also affects: Buick Regal, Chevrolet Cobalt, Chevrolet Equinox

    Common Symptoms

    • 'Engine Power Reduced' message with limp-home mode
    • 'Service StabiliTrak' and 'Service Traction Control' lights together
    • Sudden loss of acceleration
    • Rough or surging idle, worse in cold weather
    • Intermittent recovery after key cycle

    How to Fix

    Scan for throttle/pedal DTCs before replacing parts. Start by cleaning the throttle body (a frequent cause, cheap fix). If codes/symptoms persist, replace the electronic throttle body assembly (ACDelco 12670981 fits the 2012-2013 3.6L; verify the correct unit for your engine/year). Some 3.6L applications require a relearn/idle relearn after replacement. If the pedal sensors are at fault, replace the accelerator pedal position sensor assembly.

    Typical repair cost:$100 - $450

    Research This Issue

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    Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 2026

    On the 2006-2014 Chevrolet Impala, the Impala has the widest year span of any vehicle in GM recall 14V355000 - 2006 through 2014. The problem is not the key turning itself off on its own; it is the load hanging from it. NHTSA's record states that the weight on the key ring, combined with road conditions or some other jarring event, may cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position. Two things follow from that. First, the air bag system: with the key out of run the air bags may not deploy in a crash. Second, the driver loses engine power and, with it, power steering and power braking. GM's interim instruction to Impala owners was to drive with only the ignition key on the ring and the fob removed.

    Common Symptoms

    • Engine shuts off while driving
    • Key moves out of run over bumps or on rough roads
    • Loss of power steering assist
    • Loss of power brake assist

    How to Fix

    Chevrolet dealers perform the recall for free. The dealer provides two key rings and installs an insert in the key slot or a cover over the key head on all ignition keys for the car, so key-ring weight can no longer pull the switch out of run. Owner notification began September 23, 2014. Because this campaign spans nine model years of Impala, and because a used car may have been sold before the work was done, verify with your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls or call Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 and reference GM recall 14299.

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    High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

    On the 2006-2013 Chevrolet Impala, these Impala gauge clusters use small stepper motors to drive each needle, and GM's era-wide stepper-motor defect makes them fail prematurely. Typically one gauge sticks or reads wildly wrong first (speedometer stuck at 60 while parked, fuel pegged on full, temperature slammed to the red on a cold engine, or a stuck tachometer), then others follow over time. It starts intermittent and progressively worsens, and can be a safety concern when the speedometer is inaccurate.

    This issue also affects: Buick Regal, Chevrolet Equinox, Chevrolet Express

    Common Symptoms

    • Speedometer reads wrong / stuck while parked
    • Fuel or temperature gauge stuck or pegged
    • Tachometer stuck or erratic
    • Needles sweep or drop to zero randomly
    • One gauge fails, then others follow

    How to Fix

    The most recommended fix is to send the original cluster to a specialty repair shop that replaces the failed stepper motors (and burnt bulbs) — because it's your original unit, the mileage and VIN stay correct and no reprogramming is needed on reinstall. Alternatively, install a replacement/rebuilt cluster, which then requires programming to the vehicle's VIN and mileage. DIY stepper-motor kits (e.g., X27.168 motors) exist for the experienced.

    Typical repair cost:$100 - $500

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    Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 2026

    On the 2006-2020 Chevrolet Impala, the power window regulators in the 2006-2020 Impala fail frequently, causing windows to fall into the door, move slowly, or stop working entirely. The cable-style regulator uses thin steel cables that fray and break, or the motor gears strip. The driver window is the most commonly affected due to highest usage. In cold weather, ice can bind the window in the channel and burn out the motor when the switch is pressed. Some owners report windows falling into the door with a loud clunk.

    Common Symptoms

    • Window falls into the door suddenly
    • Window moves slowly or stops partway
    • Grinding or clicking noise when operating window
    • Window switch clicks but window does not move
    • Window operates intermittently

    How to Fix

    Replace the window regulator assembly ($60-$150 for parts) — always replace the regulator and motor as a unit since the motor is often damaged by a failed regulator. Labor is 1-2 hours per window ($100-$250). The door panel must be removed for access. Buy a quality aftermarket regulator (Dorman is widely available) or OEM ACDelco. In cold weather, never force a frozen window — use the defroster to warm the door seal before attempting to operate the window.

    Typical repair cost:$100 - $400

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    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

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    Medium Confidence

    On the 2006-2013 Chevrolet Impala, the in-tank fuel level sensor (part of the sending unit on the fuel pump module) is a common failure on the Impala. The sensor's small metal contact 'teeth' wear against the resistor card as the float arm moves, and the arm itself can stick or bind. The result is a gauge that reads inaccurately or swings erratically between full and empty, often unrelated to actual fuel level. This can leave owners stranded by a gauge that shows fuel remaining when the tank is near empty.

    This issue also affects: Buick Regal, Chevrolet Equinox, Chevrolet Express

    Common Symptoms

    • Fuel gauge fluctuates between full and empty
    • Gauge stuck on full or empty
    • Reading doesn't match actual fuel level
    • Low-fuel light behaves erratically
    • Gauge jumps when turning or braking

    How to Fix

    Distinguish sender vs. gauge: an erratic/fluctuating needle points to the fuel level sensor/sending unit, while a gauge that won't rest at E (key off) or reach F (full tank) points to the gauge/cluster. On many Impalas the sender is reachable through an access cover in the trunk floor without dropping the tank. Replace the fuel level sensor or the complete fuel pump/sender module. A GM-approved fuel system cleaner can help if deposits on the sender are the cause.

    Typical repair cost:$150 - $500

    Research This Issue

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    Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 2026

    On the 2006-2013 Chevrolet Impala, the 2006-2013 Impala is notorious for internal breaks in the front ABS wheel-speed-sensor wiring harness. The factory routes and clamps the harness such that steering movement repeatedly flexes the wire; the copper conductors fracture inside the insulation while the outer jacket looks perfectly intact, making it hard to spot. The result is intermittent ABS, traction control, and StabiliTrak warnings — often appearing or clearing when the wheel is turned. Left front (C0035) is the most common, but both sides fail.

    This issue also affects: Buick Regal, Chevrolet Avalanche, Chevrolet Equinox

    Common Symptoms

    • Intermittent ABS, Traction Control, and StabiliTrak warning lights
    • Warnings appear/clear when turning the steering wheel
    • Speedometer or ABS dropout at low speed
    • No visible damage to wire insulation

    How to Fix

    Confirm with a continuity/wiggle test from the EBCM connector to the wheel-speed sensor while flexing the harness at the wheel — the break is usually near where the harness is clamped. GM offers side-specific and year-specific repair pigtails to splice in rather than replacing the entire harness; aftermarket replacement harnesses (e.g., for 2006-2013 Impala) are also available. Repair or replace the affected front harness/pigtail.

    Typical repair cost:$90 - $350

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    Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 2026

    On the 2006-2013 Chevrolet Impala, the 3.5L and 3.9L 'high value' V6s develop two common coolant leaks. First, the water pump leaks from its weep hole as the internal seal wears — often visible as coolant sprayed across the serpentine belt and accessories. Second, the cast-aluminum coolant crossover pipe on the right side of the engine (which links the front and rear cylinder heads) uses a gasket at each end that hardens and leaks over time, showing up as coolant near the back of the engine or the head/belt area. Either can cause gradual coolant loss and overheating if ignored.

    This issue also affects: Buick Encore GX, Cadillac Allante, Cadillac Catera

    Common Symptoms

    • Coolant drip from water pump weep hole
    • Coolant sprayed across belt/accessories
    • Sweet smell and low coolant level
    • Coolant residue at rear/right of engine
    • Rising temperature gauge / overheating

    How to Fix

    Pressure-test the cooling system to pinpoint the source. A weep-hole drip or coolant flung by the belt means the water pump — replace it (and the belt if soaked). Coolant at the rear/right of the engine points to the crossover pipe gaskets — replace both crossover gaskets. Refill with the correct Dex-Cool and bleed the system. Do not keep driving with a suspected bad water pump; overheating these aluminum engines risks head-gasket damage.

    What you need to fix it

    Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

    • Engine Water Pump
      Cross-refWPGM-604V

      Fitment confirmed against the ShowMeTheParts catalog for this vehicle's year and engine.

      eBay

    As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

    Typical repair cost:$250 - $900

    Research This Issue

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    Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 2026

    On the 2006-2020 Chevrolet Impala, the intermediate steering shaft on the 2006-2020 Impala develops a clunk or pop felt through the steering wheel when turning, especially at low speeds and when going over bumps. The intermediate shaft connects the steering column to the steering gear and uses a slip joint that loses its lubrication over time, causing a binding and releasing action that creates the clunk. The noise is most noticeable when turning while going over speed bumps or entering driveways. GM issued TSB 08-02-32-007 for this issue.

    This issue also affects: GMC Sierra 1500

    Common Symptoms

    • Clunk or pop felt in steering wheel when turning
    • Noise when turning over bumps or uneven surfaces
    • Steering feels notchy or catches during turns
    • Clunk most noticeable at low speeds
    • Pop when going from left to right turn

    How to Fix

    The intermediate shaft can be temporarily improved by injecting lithium grease into the slip joint through a small hole drilled in the shaft boot. The permanent fix is replacement of the intermediate steering shaft with the updated GM design ($150-$300 for parts, $100-$200 labor). The updated shaft has improved lubrication retention. Some owners apply grease every 6-12 months as a cheaper maintenance approach rather than full replacement.

    Typical repair cost:$30 - $500

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    Medium Confidence

    On the 2006-2016 Chevrolet Impala, a repetitive clicking or knocking sound from behind the dash — often constant, sometimes only when the car is running or turned off — is a classic Impala blend door actuator failure. The plastic gears inside the small actuator motor strip out, so the actuator can no longer position the blend door. On dual-zone systems there are separate left and right actuators; a stuck door means one side blows hot while the other blows cold, or the temperature won't respond to the setting.

    This issue also affects: Buick Regal, Chevrolet Equinox, Chevrolet Express

    Common Symptoms

    • Repetitive clicking/knocking behind the dash
    • One side blows hot, the other cold (dual-zone)
    • Temperature doesn't change with setting
    • Air comes from wrong vents
    • Clicking continues after engine off

    How to Fix

    Locate the clicking actuator (temperature/blend, mode, or recirc — the Dorman 604-108 covers common Impala blend-door applications). Replace the failed actuator; pulling its fuse only silences the clicking temporarily and is not a fix. Many Impala actuators self-calibrate on install: set temperature to full hot or cold, reconnect the battery, cycle the key on, and let the motors auto-calibrate.

    Typical repair cost:$100 - $400

    Research This Issue

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    Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 2026
    NHTSA Recalls1 recall

    SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER

    General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Chevrolet Equinox, Impala, Cruze, Volt and Bolt EV vehicles, GMC Terrain vehicles, Buick Lacrosse and Regal vehicles, Cadillac XTS and XTS Professional vehicles and 2018 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles. The rear brake caliper pistons may have an insufficient coating causing gas pockets to form, potentially reducing rear brake performance.

    Campaign #18V57600030/08/2018

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

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    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 2010 Chevrolet Impala has 10 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Reduced Engine Power / Service StabiliTrak from Throttle Body Failure, Key Ring / Key Head Ignition Recall 14V355000 (2006-2014 Impala), 4T65-E Transmission Failure and Hard Shifts. Of these, 3 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

    Is the Chevrolet Impala reliable?

    The 2010 Chevrolet Impala has 10 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 3 issues are rated critical: Reduced Engine Power / Service StabiliTrak from Throttle Body Failure and Key Ring / Key Head Ignition Recall 14V355000 (2006-2014 Impala) 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 $30 to $3,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Reduced Engine Power / Service StabiliTrak from Throttle Body Failure, typically costs $100-$450 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

    What is the 2006-2016 Chevrolet Impala Reduced Engine Power / Service StabiliTrak from Throttle Body Failure?

    Impalas frequently throw a cluster of warnings at once — 'Engine Power Reduced,' 'Service StabiliTrak,' and 'Service Traction Control' — that are usually one underlying drive-by-wire fault rather than three separate failures. The most common root cause is the electronic throttle… Repairs typically run $100-$450. Severity: high.

    What is the 2006-2014 Chevrolet Impala Key Ring / Key Head Ignition Recall 14V355000 (2006-2014 Impala)?

    The Impala has the widest year span of any vehicle in GM recall 14V355000 - 2006 through 2014. The problem is not the key turning itself off on its own; it is the load hanging from it. NHTSA's record states that the weight on the key ring, combined with road conditions or some ot… 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.

    What is the 2006-2013 Chevrolet Impala Erratic Fuel Gauge from Faulty Fuel Level Sensor / Sending Unit?

    The in-tank fuel level sensor (part of the sending unit on the fuel pump module) is a common failure on the Impala. The sensor's small metal contact 'teeth' wear against the resistor card as the float arm moves, and the arm itself can stick or bind. The result is a gauge that rea… Repairs typically run $150-$500. Severity: medium.

    What is the 2006-2013 Chevrolet Impala Front ABS Wheel Speed Sensor Wiring Harness Failure (C0035)?

    The 2006-2013 Impala is notorious for internal breaks in the front ABS wheel-speed-sensor wiring harness. The factory routes and clamps the harness such that steering movement repeatedly flexes the wire; the copper conductors fracture inside the insulation while the outer jacket… Repairs typically run $90-$350. Severity: medium.

    What is the 2006-2013 Chevrolet Impala Water Pump and Coolant Crossover Pipe Gasket Leaks (3.5L/3.9L)?

    The 3.5L and 3.9L 'high value' V6s develop two common coolant leaks. First, the water pump leaks from its weep hole as the internal seal wears — often visible as coolant sprayed across the serpentine belt and accessories. Second, the cast-aluminum coolant crossover pipe on the ri… Repairs typically run $250-$900. Severity: medium.

    What is the 2006-2013 Chevrolet Impala Instrument Cluster Stepper Motor Gauge Failure?

    These Impala gauge clusters use small stepper motors to drive each needle, and GM's era-wide stepper-motor defect makes them fail prematurely. Typically one gauge sticks or reads wildly wrong first (speedometer stuck at 60 while parked, fuel pegged on full, temperature slammed to… Repairs typically run $100-$500. Severity: medium.

    What is the 2006-2020 Chevrolet Impala Steering Intermediate Shaft Clunk?

    The intermediate steering shaft on the 2006-2020 Impala develops a clunk or pop felt through the steering wheel when turning, especially at low speeds and when going over bumps. The intermediate shaft connects the steering column to the steering gear and uses a slip joint that lo… Repairs typically run $30-$500. Severity: low.

    What is the 2006-2020 Chevrolet Impala Power Window Regulator and Motor Failure?

    The power window regulators in the 2006-2020 Impala fail frequently, causing windows to fall into the door, move slowly, or stop working entirely. The cable-style regulator uses thin steel cables that fray and break, or the motor gears strip. The driver window is the most commonl… Repairs typically run $100-$400. Severity: low.

    What is the 2006-2016 Chevrolet Impala HVAC Blend Door Actuator Clicking and Uneven Cabin Temperature?

    A repetitive clicking or knocking sound from behind the dash — often constant, sometimes only when the car is running or turned off — is a classic Impala blend door actuator failure. The plastic gears inside the small actuator motor strip out, so the actuator can no longer positi… Repairs typically run $100-$400. Severity: low.

    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.