# Chevrolet Impala 2006–2013 Pre-Purchase Checklist

Canonical: https://carcasefile.com/vehicles/chevrolet-impala-2006-2013/checklist/

> Printable pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2006–2013 Chevrolet Impala: the generation-specific checks that separate a good one from someone else's problem.

Case file · CHEVROLET-IMPALA-2006-2013 · Field document

# Chevrolet Impala 2006–2013 · Pre-purchase checklist

Bring this to the inspection. Every check below is specific to this generation's documented failure modes, not generic used-car advice.

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Check 01

Confirm the GM ignition-switch recall (NHTSA 14V355000 / GM 14299, covers 2006–2013 Impala) was completed by VIN. Until it is, only the ignition key, nothing else, should be on the key ring.

Check 02

On 3.5L/3.9L V6 cars, check coolant level and look/smell for a leak at the lower intake manifold. Slow coolant loss with no obvious puddle is the classic 'wet gasket' tell.

Check 03

Drive it through every gear and feel for a hard, delayed, or slipping 2–3 shift; a scan for code P1811 is a strong signal the 4T65E needs a rebuild, not just fluid.

Check 04

Cold-start the car after it's sat 2+ hours and listen for a lifter tick that fades over a few minutes. That points to AFM lifter wear, mostly on 2007–2009 3.9L cars.

Check 05

Test every power door lock individually from both the switch and the fob; a single door that won't lock/unlock points to a failed actuator.

Check 06

Turn the wheel lock-to-lock at low speed and listen for a clunk from the steering column, a known intermediate-shaft wear issue.

Check 07

On an SS, ask for transmission service records specifically; the 4T65E-HD behind the 5.3L V8 has a thinner torque margin than the V6 cars.

Check 08

Prefer 2012–2013 cars with the 3.6L V6 and 6-speed automatic if you can find one. It sidesteps the 4T65E and wet-gasket issues entirely.

Walk-away signals

2006–2008 (highest complaint volume for transmission slipping and engine issues) · 5.3L V8 SS with 4T65E-HD: verify transmission service history closely

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