What are the most common problems with the 2016 Chevrolet Impala?

Below-average reliability is the primary concern, driven by numerous electrical and safety system complaints.

How many recalls does the 2016 Chevrolet Impala have?

The 2016 Chevrolet Impala currently has 0 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2016 Chevrolet Impala a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. Below-average reliability is the primary concern, driven by numerous electrical and safety system complaints. Inspect the **airbag system** and **electrical components** rigorously; these are the most frequently cited issues. While no recalls are active, 173 complaints highlight potential systemic problems. The 3.6L V6 engine delivers 21 MPG combined, but engine complaints are also notable. A 5-star overall safety rating is a strong point, but specific system failures reported by owners are concerning. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2016 Chevrolet Impala?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2016 Chevrolet Impala.

2016 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

Below-average reliability is the primary concern, driven by numerous electrical and safety system complaints.
Inspect the airbag system and electrical components rigorously; these are the most frequently cited issues.
While no recalls are active, 173 complaints highlight potential systemic problems.
The 3.6L V6 engine delivers 21 MPG combined, but engine complaints are also notable.

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Overview

2016 Chevrolet Impala

The 2016 Chevrolet Impala offers a comfortable ride and a spacious interior, but its below-average reliability verdict warrants careful consideration for used car shoppers. While it boasts a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating, a high volume of consumer complaints, particularly concerning the electrical system, engine, and airbags, signals potential ownership challenges. The 3.6L V6 engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission provides adequate power, achieving a combined EPA-estimated 21 MPG. However, the prevalence of reported issues, including critical failures like power steering loss and airbag non-deployment, suggests a need for diligent pre-purchase inspection.

Critical Failure Risk

Owners report a range of electrical issues, from intermittent power loss to malfunctioning sensors and modules. These can affect various vehicle functions, including lighting, infotainment, and critical safety systems.

Early detection can help you avoid a $300-$2,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0

Service Bulletins0

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

173

Electrical System30

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

Buyers prioritizing comfort and a smooth ride over long-term mechanical certainty.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers seeking a dependable, trouble-free vehicle with a strong reliability record.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2016 Chevrolet Impala Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Regular
Transmission: Automatic (S6)
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Sedan
EPA Combined MPG: 21

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Most Common Issues

1. Electrical System

Most reported

Usage: 30 reports

2. ENGINE

Usage: 19 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 and Inspection - Multi-Point Inspection

Est. shop cost: $80 - $150

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

Full safety recall details

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FAQ

Is the 2016 Chevrolet Impala reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Chevrolet Impala is 9.0/10. Reliability score is 9.0/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 173.

How practical is the 2016 Chevrolet Impala for daily use?

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 21 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2016 Chevrolet Impala?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 Chevrolet Impala is 7.5/10. Overall score is 7.5/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.4/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2016 Chevrolet Impala?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Multi-Point Inspection at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Electrical System (BCM, Wiring) (typical at 65,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $1,500).

What engine is in the 2016 Chevrolet Impala?

Engine specs list 6 • 3.6.

What transmission does the 2016 Chevrolet Impala use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Chevrolet Impala, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2016 Chevrolet Impala?

EPA combined estimate is 21 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2016 Chevrolet Impala?

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

What body style is the 2016 Chevrolet Impala?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Chevrolet Impala, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2016 Chevrolet Impala use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Chevrolet Impala, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2016 Chevrolet Impala?

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

What are the most common electrical system problems on the 2016 Chevrolet Impala?

Top complaint category: electrical system (30 reports, 17.3% of complaints).

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2016 Chevrolet Impala?

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2016 Toyota Avalon and 2016 Ford Fusion.