What are the most common problems with the 2013 Chevrolet Impala?

The **Electronic Stability Control (ESC)** system is the most frequent complaint, with owners reporting warnings like 'Service Stabilitrak' and 'Traction Control', often accompanied by unintended braking or power reduction.

How many recalls does the 2013 Chevrolet Impala have?

The 2013 Chevrolet Impala currently has 1 recall on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2013 Chevrolet Impala a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. The **Electronic Stability Control (ESC)** system is the most frequent complaint, with owners reporting warnings like 'Service Stabilitrak' and 'Traction Control', often accompanied by unintended braking or power reduction. Electrical system issues are also common, potentially linked to the ESC problems, and include reports of airbag non-deployment. A recall for the **ignition switch** was issued due to potential engine shut-off; verify this has been addressed. Tire failures, specifically sidewall separation, have been reported, particularly with Goodyear Eagle LS2 tires. Despite a 4-star overall safety rating, the prevalence of ESC and electrical issues warrants careful pre-purchase inspection. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2013 Chevrolet Impala?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2013 Chevrolet Impala.

2013 Chevrolet Impala Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026Ryan Davis

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

The Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system is the most frequent complaint, with owners reporting warnings like 'Service Stabilitrak' and 'Traction Control', often accompanied by unintended braking or power reduction.
Electrical system issues are also common, potentially linked to the ESC problems, and include reports of airbag non-deployment.
A recall for the ignition switch was issued due to potential engine shut-off; verify this has been addressed.
Tire failures, specifically sidewall separation, have been reported, particularly with Goodyear Eagle LS2 tires.

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Overview

2013 Chevrolet Impala

The 2013 Chevrolet Impala offers a spacious interior and comfortable ride, making it a practical choice for daily commuting. However, used car shoppers should be aware of its below-average reliability rating, largely driven by persistent problems with the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system. While it achieved solid safety scores, potential buyers need to prioritize thorough inspections of its electrical and braking components.

Critical Failure Risk

The ESC system, often displayed as 'Service Stabilitrak' or 'Traction Control', can malfunction, leading to unintended braking, power reduction, or grinding noises. This is frequently linked to issues with wheel speed sensors, ABS modules, or wiring harnesses.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$1,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls1

Service Bulletins0

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

466

Electronic Stability Control (esc)108

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing space and comfort over long-term mechanical certainty.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience with minimal repair risk.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2013 Chevrolet Impala Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Regular
Seating Capacity: 5
Transmission: Automatic 6-spd
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Sedan
EPA Combined MPG: 22

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Most Common Issues

1. ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)

Most reported

Usage: 108 reports

2. Braking System

Usage: 51 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Exhaust System

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist

Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)

Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context

Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it

Full specs and trim-level context

1 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2013 Chevrolet Impala reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2013 Chevrolet Impala is 8.2/10. Reliability score is 8.2/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 466.

How practical is the 2013 Chevrolet Impala for daily use?

Practicality score is 5.7/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 22 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 527 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2013 Chevrolet Impala?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2013 Chevrolet Impala is 7.2/10. Overall score is 7.2/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.4/10. Practicality 5.7/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2013 Chevrolet Impala?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Exhaust System at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Electronic Stability Control (ESC) System (typical at 40,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1,500).

What engine is in the 2013 Chevrolet Impala?

Engine specs list 6 • 3.6.

What transmission does the 2013 Chevrolet Impala use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Chevrolet Impala, transmission is Automatic 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2013 Chevrolet Impala?

EPA combined estimate is 22 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2013 Chevrolet Impala?

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

How many people fit in a 2013 Chevrolet Impala?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Chevrolet Impala, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2013 Chevrolet Impala?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Chevrolet Impala, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2013 Chevrolet Impala use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Chevrolet Impala, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 6-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2013 Chevrolet Impala?

NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 4/5 • Rollover 4/5.

What are the most common electronic stability control (esc) problems on the 2013 Chevrolet Impala?

Top complaint category: electronic stability control (esc) (108 reports, 23.2% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2013 Chevrolet Impala?

This model year has 1 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2013 Chevrolet Impala?

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2013 Toyota Avalon and 2013 Ford Fusion.